"I know full well that the de Staël women are capable of remarkable things' Albertine smiled. 'Yes. Yes, perhaps we are, in a way."
-Saga Hillborn, The de Staël Escapades
☆☆☆☆
Saga does it again! A wonderfully written historical fiction now set in Napolean's France. With a wide cast of characters and many perspectives, it gives you a glance of what the de Staëls' life could have been. With adventure, romance and politics it makes for a great story. Thank you for Saga for letting me review an early copy and for working with me again!
The Plot
The plot follows the de Staël family on their journey across Europe trying to dethrone Napolean. The family travels to different royals across Europe to plead their case and have them join the cause to save France. I feel like there are two phases to the novel, with the journey across Europe making up the first half and the second being more of the fallout of their actions and life afterwards. The story is told through the point of view of multiple characters and gives us a look into their lives. I liked the story and the characters they met along the way. It had the inclusion of an LGTBQ+ storyline which isn't something you often see in fiction of this era but it was a great inclusion and helped characters develop.
The Characters
Based on a real family the De Staël family is definitely one to remember. With all big personalities, the cast of characters makes for a good read.
The leading lady Albertine is the daughter of Germaine de Staël. She had a great character arc with her finally being able to make her own choices away from her mother's shadow. I loved reading Albertine's perspective, she was a great lead for a modern woman in an otherwise male-dominated society. No spoilers her love interest is super sweet and he's great. The de Staël siblings are all incredibly different. With each having a different perspective and view on life.
The World
The world is so beautiful and detailed. Through the details, you could tell a large amount of research went into the novel to make it as good as it is. I could just picture classical music playing in the background of every scene.
This was a wonderful story that I'd recommend to all historical fiction lovers. With romance, drama and history this novel is everything you want. It is clear that a lot of research went into the novel and it pays off for an amazing story! Again thank you to Saga for letting me review your novel!
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TRIGGER WARNING :
Substance abuse, death, violence
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