Hi, I've been looking aroung for the title of a book I read a few years back.

The title possibly has EMPRESS IT in.
Set in historical/regency period. Possibly Spain/Italy.
STory of two women.
One is older, has repeated affairs. One with a Matador? Visits the Kings court.
Second story is about her ward. Carriage accident, meets blue eyed stranger. He takes on many disguises but is actually a outlaw.. some kind of leader. She recognises his blue eyes through all the disguises. He publicy pretends to be a dandy. One route to a bull fight she is entrusted with finding shoes for his friend, helps him take care of/smuggle someone and then rescues the hero from prison. They marry. Near the end there is a fire or explosion at a party. She falls pregnant also near the end.

THank you!