Book Talk:
Sisi is the wild and free second daughter of a noble man. She loves nothing more than riding horses, running through the woods, and exploring the world around her.Growing up far away from the intrigues of the Hapsburg Court in Vienna, Sisi has experienced a childhood unlike any other noblewoman of her time. Allowed to spend her time as she wished, with only minimal attention to courtly manners and tutors, Sisi is utterly at peace and contented with who she is, and unaware that anything like court politics is looming over her head and about to affect her in a very real way, very quickly.
The news comes one beautiful afternoon that her older sister, Helene, has been promised in marriage to the Emperor of Austria. A man she met once, years ago, when they were children. A man who also happens to be her first cousin.
Their mother packs the girls up and heads off to Austria in order to introduce Helene to her fiance and introduce the girls to court life.
Upon arrival in Austria, things take a turn for the unexpected.
The Emperor, Hans, feels no connection whatsoever to his intended, but instead finds himself irresistibly drawn to the younger sister, Sisi. Sisi also feels the unexpected connection with the dashing young emperor.
Standing up to his mother, Hans does the unthinkable and breaks his engagement to Helene and announces his intention to marry the love of his life, Sisi.
The unexpected, wild, and untamed young girl is thrust into the limelight of the Hapsburg court, and immediately surrounded by the intrigue, protocols, and subterfuge that control her every waking moment.
Can Sisi manage to break free from the intrigue and become her own woman and master of her own fate?
Can she finally defeat the machinations of the powerful Empress, the mother of Hans?
Has she truly captured the heart and mind of her husband, the Emperor?
Bettina's Note:
This is a fascinating tale, based upon the real life of the Empress Elizabeth (Sisi), of Austria. She was beloved by her people, and considered to be one of the great beauties of her time. For the history buffs out there, note that this story takes place AFTER the American Civil War, and puts us in the years leading up to World War 1. This particular story leaves off in the late 19th century. The author has announced a sequel, which will take us through WW1. Fascinating, fascinating look at one of the "grandest" royal families of their time.
I debated long and hard about putting this book on the YA blog, but I feel that this is a good match for high school students looking for a new challenge. There are adult themes in the book, so use your own discretion when deciding whether or not to recommend this book.
Age Level: This book is cataloged as an adult book. I believe that this book is appropriate for older students, 10th (maybe), 11th & 12th graders.
Author's Web Site: http://allisonpataki.com/about/
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