Stories of her arrogance and extravagance fanned the flames of revolution. But did Marie Antoinette really deserve her reputation?

Alexandre Dumas seeks to find an answer in "The Countess de Charny: The Execution of King Louis XVI". It’s an epic dramatisation of the French Revolution, with Marie at its centre. Around her, Dumas weaves a tapestry of romance and politics, taking in characters from every rung of 18th century French society. It all builds to the royal family’s grisly end, as first Louis XVI, and then his queen, are sent to the guillotine.

Picking up where "Taking the Bastille: Ange Pitou" left off, this fast-paced read brings history to vivid life. It's also makes a great companion piece to the movie "Marie Antoinette" with Kirsten Dunst. Alexandre Dumas (1802 - 1870) was a hugely popular 19th century French writer. Born of mixed French and Haitian heritage, Dumas first rose to prominence in Paris as a playwright, but later gained international fame with his historical fiction. Often co-authored with other writers, these stories wove together swashbuckling adventure, romance, and real events from France’s past. Among the best known are "The Three Musketeers", and its sequels "Twenty Years After", and "Le Vicomte de Bragelonne: Ten Years Later". Set across four decades, this trilogy follows the rise of the dashing D’Artagnan—from hot-headed soldier to trusted captain under Louis XIV. Dumas’ other novels include "The Count of Monte Cristo" and "The Black Tulip". His works have been adapted into more than 200 movies, including The Man in the Iron Mask starring Leonardo DiCaprio.