An imperial lover

"An Imperial Lover" by Mary Imlay Taylor is a historical fiction where M. de Brousson finds himself entangled in the treacherous politics of early 18th-century Russia, specifically within the court of Czar Peter the Great. Returning to Moscow as a marshal with a critical diplomatic assignment, M. de Brousson also finds himself a witness to the changing social landscape brought about by the czar's reforms and to a personal drama involving his secretary, M. de Lambert, who is captivated by Najine Zotof. Najine's affection is divided between her feelings for M. de Lambert, and the unwanted attention from the czar, leading to romantic entanglements and setting the stage for conflicts fueled by jealousy and ambition within the Russian court. His mission and the romantic drama between M. de Lambert and Najine converge to form the core of the book's narrative, driving a story of power, love, and rivalry.