The Exchange of Princesses

Set in the courts of 18th century France and Spain, The Exchange of Princesses reveals the tragic fate of two young royal brides caught in a web of political intrigue.

In The Exchange of Princesses, Chantal Thomas weaves a captivating narrative set against the backdrop of the French and Spanish courts in the eighteenth century. The story revolves around the fateful decisions made by Philippe d’Orléans, the regent of France, whose life of indulgence has left him with a gangrenous heart. In a bid to strengthen political ties and secure his own power, he orchestrates a marriage between his eleven-year-old son, Louis XV, and the four-year-old daughter of Philippe V of Spain. This arrangement sets off a chain of events that intertwine the lives of two young princesses, thrusting them into a world of courtly intrigue and perilous ambitions.

As the narrative unfolds, readers are introduced to Mlle de Montpensier, Orléans' own daughter, who is also destined for marriage to the Prince of Asturias. The exchange of these princesses in 1722 is meant to symbolize a new era of peace between France and Spain. However, the reality is far more complex, as the young brides find themselves navigating the treacherous waters of royal expectations and familial sacrifices. Through Thomas's lyrical prose, the innocence of childhood is starkly contrasted with the harsh realities of political machinations.

Ultimately, The Exchange of Princesses explores themes of power, sacrifice, and the unpredictability of fate. The novel invites readers to reflect on how the ambitions of a few can profoundly impact the lives of many, especially those who are the most vulnerable. It is a poignant reminder of the often unseen consequences of history's grand designs.