The Lacemaker and the Princess

Kimberly Brubaker Bradley does an amazing job telling a princess tale. The writing style is gripping, the perspective real and thoughtful. This became my favorite book the moment I read the first chapter. It also gives you a glimpse into the court of France, and teaches you history without you knowing!

This novel is a historical set France starting in 1788. Details of the time period are skillfully woven into the story, and the problems Isabelle faces comes from the problems of the period. I'd recommend this book to anyone who enjoys historicals and is interested in the period. The pacing is very good, and the characters were engaging and interesting. There was no romance (so no sex or kissing), and I don't recall any cussing. I'd recommend this as "a good, clean fun" novel. Genre Review http://genrereviews.blogspot.com/

This book is delightful. Isabelle enjoys her friendship with a princess, awestruck by the magnificent clothing, food, and rooms inside Versailles. Eventually it dawns on Isabelle her life will never be that of a princess and she must choose between loyalty to royalty or to her mother. A great intro into the French Revolution, it makes the reader want to learn more about Marie Antoinette, Louis XVI, and their children. I loved it.

Isabelle and her family make lace in the town of Versailles. They're behind on their rent and work to keep up with the bills. If only they could get someone from the royal household wearing their lace, then they might stand a chance. When Isabelle delivers some lace to the palace, she purposely takes a wrong turn to view more of the castle. She bumps into Marie Antoinette, who introduces the young girl to her daughter. The princess and Isabelle become friends and Isabelle changes from the lacemaker to a member of the royal household each day she visits, only to return to reality when she leaves for the day. Problems at home force Isabelle to take over the family business and to live the life she's come to despise. Then she hears grumbling from the townsfolk and even her brother. There's talk of a revolution of change for the common people. Isabelle defends her friend without question, but soon she hears and sees things that make her mind whirl. Can friendship conquer family? This story addresses the question of loyalty and what happens when you're torn between two sides. An alternative look at the court of Marie Antoinette is also entertaining. THE LACEMAKER AND THE PRINCESS is a historical novel that fans of the new movie Marie Antoinette will enjoy. Reviewed by: Jennifer Rummel