In Regency London, the only way for a woman to succeed is to beat men at their own game. So when Mary Anne Clarke seeks an escape from her squalid surroundings in Bowling Inn Alley, she ventures first into the scurrilous world of the pamphleteers. Her personal charms are such, however, that before long she comes to the notice of the Duke of York. With her taste for luxury and power, Mary Anne, now a royal mistress, must aim higher. Her lofty connections allow her to establish a thriving trade in military commissions, provoking a scandal that rocks the government - and brings personal disgrace. A vivid portrait of overweening ambition, MARY ANNE is set during the Napoleonic Wars and based on du Maurier's own great-great-grandmother.
Daphne Du Maurier
Daphne du Maurier was a British author known for her compelling and atmospheric novels and short stories. Her most notable works include "Rebecca," "My Cousin Rachel," and "Jamaica Inn," which often feature elements of suspense, mystery, and the supernatural. Du Maurier's writing style is characterized by its rich descriptions, complex characters, and ability to create a sense of tension and unease.
Du Maurier's impact on the literary genre of gothic fiction and psychological thrillers is significant, as she was able to blend elements of romance, suspense, and psychological depth in her works. "Rebecca," her most famous novel, is a classic of 20th-century literature and has been adapted into numerous films and stage productions. Overall, Du Maurier's contributions to literature continue to be celebrated for their enduring popularity and influence on modern storytelling.