Les Illusions Perdues books in order

Q: "How many books are in the Les Illusions Perdues series?"

"There are one books in the Les Illusions Perdues series."

Q: "What is the first book in the Les Illusions Perdues series?"

"The first book in the Les Illusions Perdues series is Two Poets. Lost illusions part 1, published in 2000."

Q: "What is Les Illusions Perdues about?"

"The novel follows Lucien de Rubempre, a young poet from the provinces who moves to Paris hoping for literary fame. He is gradually corrupted by the city's journalism industry and social climbing. The story is one of Balzac's most autobiographical works, drawing on his own early struggles as a writer."

Reading order

#	Title	Published	Author	Buy on Amazon
1	Two Poets. Lost illusions part 1	2000	Honore de Balzac	Buy

Les Illusions Perdues (Lost Illusions) is one of the key novels in Balzac’s La Comedie humaine. Two Poets, the first part, introduces Lucien de Rubempre and his friend David Sechard in the provincial town of Angouleme, before Lucien’s ambitions draw him to Paris.

The novel is often considered one of Balzac’s finest and most personal works. Lucien’s experiences in the Parisian literary and journalism worlds mirror Balzac’s own early career struggles, and the book offers a sharp critique of how talent is exploited and corrupted by commercial pressures. The story of a young man losing his illusions about art and success in the capital city has resonated with readers for nearly two centuries.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many books are in the Les Illusions Perdues series?

There are one books in the Les Illusions Perdues series.

What is the first book in the Les Illusions Perdues series?

The first book in the Les Illusions Perdues series is Two Poets. Lost illusions part 1, published in 2000.

What is Les Illusions Perdues about?

The novel follows Lucien de Rubempre, a young poet from the provinces who moves to Paris hoping for literary fame. He is gradually corrupted by the city’s journalism industry and social climbing. The story is one of Balzac’s most autobiographical works, drawing on his own early struggles as a writer.

Reading order#

Frequently Asked Questions

Reading order