Wow, this book is something else. After having read about Napoleon I thought it was best to read about the second most famous Frenchman from the Revolution (and onwards). First, the writing here is just superb, rhetoric is used to its fullest potential and the insights that Cooper brings are wondrously wrought. It puts Napoleon in a much harsher light than you would expect, and builds Talleyrand up as the true ideal man of the times. To be consistent is the lesson here, but at the same time to hedge your bets! Highly recommended if only for the writing.