this author is detailed in biographical depiction of Sarah Bernhardt. the story is well written and show the depth of Sarah's character and actions throughout her life, A tour de force and really this actress is ahead of her time . she gives a portrait of her performances and her personal life is intriguing . will read more from this author ( )

I have read every novel that C. W. Gortner has written. All of them are fantastic. The First Actress is no different. It tells the story of Sarah Bernhardt beginning with her childhood in Brittany as the daughter of a courtesan, her years at a convent school near Paris, her education at a theatrical school in Paris all the way to the end of her career as an actress.

The publisher's summary:

"Sarah's highly dramatic life starts when she returns to Paris after her convent schooling and is confronted by her mother's demand to follow in the family trade as a courtesan. To escape this fate, Sarah pursues a career onstage at the esteemed Comedy-Francaise, until her rebellious acting style leads to her scandalous dismissal. Only nineteen years old and unemployed, Sarah is forced to submit to her mother's wishes. But her seductive ease as a courtesan comes to an abrupt end when she discovers she is pregnant. Unwilling to give up her child, Sarah defies social condemnation and is cast adrift, penniless and alone.

With her striking beauty and innovative performances in a bohemian theater, Sarah catapults to unexpected success; suddenly, audiences clamor to see this controversial young actress. But her world is torn asunder by the brutal 1870 siege of Paris. Sarah refuses to abandon the ravaged city, nursing wounded soldiers and risking her life.

Her return to the Comedie and her tempestuous affair with her leading man plunge Sarah into a fierce quest for independence. Undeterred, she risks everything to become France's most acclaimed actress, enthralling audiences with her shocking portrayals of female and male characters. Sarah's daring talent and outrageous London engagement pave her path to worldwide celebrity, with sold-out tours in Europe and America."
Sarah was a drama queen's drama queen so I have a great affinity with her. Her love of pets is another aspect that we share. Personal similarities aside, Gortner presents an honest portrait of Sarah's life, showing both her positive and negative traits. He gives us an interesting view of the French system of acting as well. It was rather regimented at the time and our free-spirited heroine would never fit inside this world. She was a strong enough person to continue her career though.

I think many women today would admire her gutsiness to go after the life she envisioned for herself. While I had heard of her name, I did not know much about Sarah Bernhardt until I read this book. I believe most women today are unfamiliar with her also but would view her determination to rise above her circumstances as something to emulate. Unfortunately for Sarah, she had to become a courtesan to obtain the career she wanted. Although many women sleep their way to the top, I don't recommend it!

C. W. Gortner has a knack for portraying historical females in a new light. I loved his historical novels on Lucrezia Borgia, Catherine Medici, Juana of Castile and Maria Feodorovna. This Sarah Bernhardt novel joins this group of well researched and well written histories. ( )

Another fascinating look at a woman many have probably heard but did not really know much about her, Sarah Bernhardt, the iconic French actress. I was drawn in quickly to the story of her life as as the daughter of a courtesan and enjoyed the story throughout as she became of of the most celebrated actress of her time. I think anyone that enjoys historical fiction about strong women will enjoy this one very much.

Sarah, the daughter of a courtesan, feel very much unwanted and unloved. Her mother sends her away to a convent, unsure what to do with her daughter. Once she graduates, her mother tries to marry her off, but Sarah has a different idea. Instead, she wants to become an actress. Rebelling against the system, she wants to act her way, which gets her into trouble time after time.

Sarah was a very engaging and likeable character. She was realistic, flaws and all! The dynamic between Sarah and her mother felt relatable, and will resonate with many people. The book was well paced and engaging. Overall, well worth reading! ( )

Interesting novel about the life of the acclaimed actress, Sarah Bernhardt from her preteen years to her international acclaim as an actress. The fascinating "Curtain Call" [aka Afterword] told of her later life and some of those people with whom were important in her life. ( )