'Allison Pataki so vividly depicts the world of the Habsburg court, you'll feel the silk of Sisi's gowns under your very fingers as you eagerly turn the pages of THE ACCIDENTAL EMPRESS. Pataki’s fully drawn ACCIDENTAL EMPRESS is an indelible portrayal-not only of one of the most complicated and misunderstood Habsburgs, but of a turbulent royal marriage during a tumultuous era. A splendid saga sure to capture the heart.' 'The Accidental Empress is a stunning masterpiece of imagination, enriched with lavish historical detail.

A heart wrenching, beautiful story, rich with historical detail and political intrigue. “I felt as if I’d been transported to Austria in this powerful and sweeping novel. 'The Accidental Empress is a tale of royal love we don't know but should, and who better to share it with us than the supremely gifted and entertaining historical novelist, Allison Pataki. 'A love match alters the course of history.Pataki deserves kudos for choosing her subject matter well-Sisi's life is ideal fictional fodder.' - Kirkus Reviews

'This novel is captivating, absorbing, and beautifully told-I can't wait for the sequel!' With Patakis rich period detail and cast of complex, bewitching characters, The Accidental Empress offers 'another absolutely compelling story' (Mary Higgins Clark) with this glimpse into one of historys most intriguing royal families, shedding new light on the glittering Hapsburg Empire and its most mesmerizing, most beloved 'Fairy Queen.' Thrust onto the throne of Europes most treacherous imperial court, Sisi upsets political and familial loyalties in her quest to win, and keep, the love of her emperor, her people, and of the world.

Franz Joseph reneges on his earlier proposal and declares his intention to marry Sisi instead. But shortly after her arrival at court, Sisi finds herself in an unexpected dilemma: she has inadvertently fallen for and won the heart of her sisters groom. With his empire stretching from Austria to Russia, from Germany to Italy, Emperor Franz Joseph is young, rich, and ready to marry.įifteen-year-old Elisabeth, 'Sisi,' Duchess of Bavaria, travels to the Habsburg Court with her older sister, who is betrothed to the young emperor. The year is 1853, and the Habsburgs are Europes most powerful ruling family. NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER Discover the 'captivating, absorbing, and beautifully told' (Kathleen Grissom) love story of Sisi, the Austro-Hungarian empress and wife of Emperor Franz Joseph-perfect for fans of the Netflix series The Empress!

The accidental empress reviews