This is an historical novel, not a bodice ripper, and Pataki does a fine job of creating a scaffold that adheres to the historical reality. Elizabeth of Bavaria marries Franz Joseph of Austria when she is barely 16. From day one she is in conflict with her mother-in-law Sophie. Elizabeth, of Sisi, as she was called had a temperament unsuited for the rigidity of the Viennese court. As the novel proceeds a war with Prussia reduces the size of Franz Joseph's empire and leads to a dual monarchy, the Austro-Hungarian empire. Sisi plays a role in getting her husband to grant Hungary considerable independence as she loves that country.

In a closing "interview" Pataki discusses precisely what she used the historical record, and where she diverged from it. It's a useful guide for any writer who hopes to pen historical fiction. There are as well questions for reading groups to consider. Acknowledgements include the historical works on which Pataki relied.

All in all, a fine read.