Once called the greatest charlatan of his age, the Marquis was a fascinating Victorian 'renaissance man'. Born to an artistic family, he became a renowned poet and adventurer. A crack shot and excellent swordsman, the Marquis fought duels and has a series of high-profile love affairs. He joined Garibaldi during the unification of Italy and claimed an affair with the Queen of Naples. Louisa Tussaud (of the famous waxworks family) risked her reputation for him as they set out on an extravagant journey across Europe. In New York, he met wealthy widow and newspaper proprietor Mrs Leslie and their on-off affair lasted over twenty years. The charismatic Marquis made friends and enemies in equal measure. Accomplished orator, story teller and dandy, he cut a swathe through high society in London and New York. But his colourful life held a secret: who was the real Marquis de Leuville?

Once called the greatest charlatan of his age, the Marquis was a fascinating Victorian 'renaissance man'. Born to an artistic family, he became a renowned poet and adventurer. A crack shot and excellent swordsman, the Marquis fought duels and has a series of high-profile love affairs. He joined Garibaldi during the unification of Italy and claimed an affair with the Queen of Naples. Louisa Tussaud (of the famous waxworks family) risked her reputation for him as they set out on an extravagant journey across Europe. In New York, he met wealthy widow and newspaper proprietor Mrs Leslie and their on-off affair lasted over twenty years. The charismatic Marquis made friends and enemies in equal measure. Accomplished orator, story teller and dandy, he cut a swathe through high society in London and New York. But his colourful life held a secret: who was the real Marquis de Leuville?