New York: Broadway Books, 2001. SIGNED first edition - SIGNED on the title page. A look at the West's first liberated women, free to choose their own lovers and command considerable respect and power. Muses and artists themselves, their liasons brought them influence and wealth. Among the women discussed in this book are Veronica Franco of 16th century Venice, Madame de Pompadour, La Belle Otero, Marion Davies, and many others. Illustrated.