The extraordinary life of the most notorious adventuress of the Victorian era. How did an Irish Protestant girl, baptized Eliza Gilbert, transform herself into the most famous courtesan of the nineteenth century, attracting admirers and scandal wherever she went? This enthralling biography reveals the incredible true story of Lola Montez - who packed more adventure (and lovers) into her short life than any other woman of her time (or probably any other time). She captivated and ruined King Ludwig of Bavaria; at least one man was killed in a duel over her, another she horse-whipped; and she was not averse to shooting at her lovers in moments of anger. Her travels as an actress and dancer took her to four continents, and in her day racehorses and dances were named after her. Her meteoric life ended at the age of 41 in New York.