Review: "The Accidental Empress" by Allison Pataki

I read and enjoyed Allison Pataki’s first book, “The Traitor’s Wife,” so when I had the opportunity to read her new historical novel, “The Accidental Empress,” I jumped at the chance. I was not disappointed, I loved this book.

This is the fictional story of Empress Elizabeth of Austria. Elizabeth was not supposed to be the empress. She travels to Bad Ischl, the summer retreat of the Emperor Franz Joseph, as moral support for her sister, Helene, who is his arranged, chosen bride. Helene is very timid and shy while Elizabeth is outgoing and engaging and immediately catches the Emperor’s eye. They are attracted to each other and Emperor Franz defies his mother, the Archduchess Sophie and demands to marry Elizabeth. Even though Elizabeth is only 15 and Sophie has many misgivings, she relents and Elizabeth becomes the Empress. This follows her life until Franz Joseph and she are crowned Emperor and Empress of Hungary.

The author uses a very engaging, entertaining technique throughout her book. Before each section, you are flashed forward to Elizabeth’s thoughts at her coronation in Hungary. This method keeps you turning pages to discover how this young, ill-prepared girl becomes the love of the people of Hungary. Her life is filled with many trials and tribulations, most stemming from her meddling mother-in-law. This follows her journey to the strong woman that she becomes.

I very highly recommend this book to lovers of historical fiction. The writing style keeps you interested and you will fly through the pages. Ms. Pataki’s first book was good, this one is wonderful. After I completed the book, I was inspired to read more about Elizabeth and her life, which in my opinion, is what good historical fiction should inspire you to do.

I have requested and received this book for review from NetGalley.