“In the cookies of life, sisters are the chocolate chips.”

I love historical fiction because it blends history with good storytelling. Is it me or do we find more writers challenging the border between fiction and nonfiction these days? I just love it! As far as stories go, Antoinette’s Sister has it all—political unrest, royalty, the bond of sisterhood, love—this brand-new novel masterfully weaves all of the above into a hugely captivating story.

While most of us are familiar with the tragic story of Marie Antoinette, few will have heard of Antoinette’s sister Maria Carolina Charlotte or “Charlotte” as she boldly proclaimed herself in her teenage years. Charlotte and Antoinette are best friends. Both Habsburg archduchesses are obligated to leave home (and one another) to marry royalty from neighboring nations to secure Austria’s position in Europe. Sadly, Antoinette is given to the future King of France at 14 years of age and Charlotte must marry the weak and immature King Ferdinand IV of Naples.

Charlotte is a strong intelligent woman. She quickly realizes she must secure her position as Queen and Ruler of the Kingdom of the Two Sicilies. When the French Revolution begins and Antoinette is imprisoned, it’s Charlotte who works tirelessly to bring the Queen of France back to Austria before it’s too late. Way to go, sista. Way to go!

A solid 4 out of 5 stars with a caveat for my friends. I enjoyed learning about the “other sister”; historical family dynamics are always interesting to study. However, I can’t say I liked the author’s portrayal of Charlotte—I couldn’t quite get in her corner. I felt like the author didn’t blend the history and fiction as seamlessly as our friend Marie Benedict. But as one who dearly loves her sisters, I have to admire Charlotte’s tenacity.

Posted by Sharee