Wonderful writing and story

In looking for the perfect "vacation read" I unwittingly stumbled upon this lovely historical novel. It seemed incredibly well researched yet was such a page-turner - I couldn't put it down. It was refreshing to read a period novel about a complex female heroine that is both poignantly emotional and narratively riveting. Downloading the sequel now!

If you like historical fiction with romance and deceit…this is great!

This mediocre novel left out so much. There was too much of the Empress running up and down halls and too little of the facts of her life. I kept reading in hopes of real history being revealed but just found blah blah blah. If you want a bodice bursta, enjoy.

Being from Germany I was raised with stories of the Hapsburg monarchy according to my late mother my great great grandmother was a courtesan in the Austrian court being impregnated by a ruling monarch she was ushered out of court and sold off to a man that would marry her and raise her child. Now I don't know what is true or embellished but always thought I had royal blood in my veins, this novel kept me enthralled I could not put it down till it was over since I fall asleep reading most books this was one they kept me alert and interested a great reade.

The accidental empress is one of the most amazing books I've read in a long time. Sisi is so inspiring, loved it and wished it never had to end!

A quick and engaging read, well developed stories and characters. I loved learning about the daily life then. Historically very accurate and enlightening. Makes me think about our lives today on different levels. I wish the words were more beautifully crafted.

LOVED The Accidental Empress! Allison Pataki gives a voice to the fascinating women behind history's great events. Sisi and Franz Joseph have a complicated and influential love story that turn the tides in Europe. Made me begin research on my own family's Hungarian roots! Another page-turner from Allison.