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To Crown with Liberty
New Orleans, 1795. In the wake of the French Revolution’s Reign of Terror, Alix de Morainville Carpentier—a former lady-in-waiting to Marie Antoinette, now married to her gardener—seeks peace and security in the Spanish colony of Louisiana. But her journey into the man-eating swamp called Attakapas reopens the wounds of her old life in France. Alix is forced to reckon with the choices that saved her life at the cost of her honor—and perhaps her soul.
In revolutionary France, the Old World is dying; the quest for liberty, fraternity, and equality has become a nightmare where the price of dissent is blood. In the wilderness of Spanish Louisiana, a new civilization is beginning to emerge—but in this budding New World, the slave trade perpetuates the systems of oppression that sparked the revolution. Caught between old and new, scarred by trauma and grief, will Alix ever find a home where she can truly be free?
To Crown with Liberty is a historical novel based on riveting legends from George Washington Cable’s Strange True Stories of Louisiana (1888).
In revolutionary France, the Old World is dying; the quest for liberty, fraternity, and equality has become a nightmare where the price of dissent is blood. In the wilderness of Spanish Louisiana, a new civilization is beginning to emerge—but in this budding New World, the slave trade perpetuates the systems of oppression that sparked the revolution. Caught between old and new, scarred by trauma and grief, will Alix ever find a home where she can truly be free?
To Crown with Liberty is a historical novel based on riveting legends from George Washington Cable’s Strange True Stories of Louisiana (1888).
324 pages, Paperback
First published May 1, 2024
About the author
Karen Ullo
3 books91 followersKaren Ullo is the award-winning author of Jennifer the Damned, Cinder Allia, and To Crown with Liberty. She's the editorial director of Chrism Press and holds a MFA in Screenwriting from the University of Southern California. She lives in Baton Rouge, Louisiana with her husband and two teenage sons.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
Did Not Finish
July 24, 2026DNF at 80%
The FMC is so infuriating. She gets weak-kneed or passes out at the drop of a hat- it is absolutely ridiculous how often this happens.
I was questioning myself whether to DNF pretty early on for various reasons (mainly for brushing the line of cheating) and then she full-on kisses someone she has feelings for while being married to another man she loves.
She is not a likeable character. In both timelines, she is interested in another man than the one she's married to....once a cheater always a cheater?
There is also some of the stupidest decisions ive ever read in a book around the 80% mark, I fail to see how people actually would have done those things.
The FMC is so infuriating. She gets weak-kneed or passes out at the drop of a hat- it is absolutely ridiculous how often this happens.
I was questioning myself whether to DNF pretty early on for various reasons (mainly for brushing the line of cheating) and then she full-on kisses someone she has feelings for while being married to another man she loves.
She is not a likeable character. In both timelines, she is interested in another man than the one she's married to....once a cheater always a cheater?
There is also some of the stupidest decisions ive ever read in a book around the 80% mark, I fail to see how people actually would have done those things.
January 5, 2024
Wow. Just wow. It is clear how much research went into the development of the book. The interweaving of the storylines, vastly different settings, and the seamless mixing of history and fiction was masterfully done. It made my heart ache, raised my anxiety level to 10, but I couldn’t stop reading. And I love a happy ending. So amazing. I am grateful for the opportunity to read this book before it is published and I cannot wait for my physical copy to arrive.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 29, 2024
To Crown with Liberty is a well-written split-time historical novel rich with detail. Set in France during the Revolution's Reign of Terror and the undeveloped swamps and budding farms of Spanish Louisiana, both timelines follow former lady-in-waiting to Marie Antoinette, the noble Alix de Morainville Carpentier, who must make peace with the violence of the revolution and the harshness of life in Attakpas swamp and how she has fulfilled her obligations as a daughter, wife, friend, citizen, and faithful Catholic.
Karen Ullo's writing is always a pleasure to read, and the story is personal and compelling, which brings life to the history in a way that is not only memorable and understandable, but relatable to present struggles involving liberty, loyalty, principles, and fidelity to God.
Having re-read the classic Gone with the Wind back-to-back with To Crown with Liberty, I was surprised at the similarities - not in character but in theme. Both portray a way of life erased by violent revolution or war, and the difficult choices made by those caught in its midst. Characters must choose between honor and capitulation, often a life-and-death decision.
To Crown with Liberty, while not the saga of Gone with the Wind, succeeds in a way that the American Civil War novel lacks, and that is in the role of personal faith. Many of the characters of To Crown with Liberty demonstrate courage and conviction that is lacking in nearly every character in Gone with the Wind.
Both novels also provide much for the reader to contemplate about personal freedom and human dignity, each depicting human slavery and contrasting it with cultures that give lip-service to freedom yet, in practice, dehumanize.
To Crown with Liberty also includes elements of romance, suspense, betrayal, and familial and fraternal love and friendship. There's a lot there for the reader to enjoy.
Karen Ullo's writing is always a pleasure to read, and the story is personal and compelling, which brings life to the history in a way that is not only memorable and understandable, but relatable to present struggles involving liberty, loyalty, principles, and fidelity to God.
Having re-read the classic Gone with the Wind back-to-back with To Crown with Liberty, I was surprised at the similarities - not in character but in theme. Both portray a way of life erased by violent revolution or war, and the difficult choices made by those caught in its midst. Characters must choose between honor and capitulation, often a life-and-death decision.
To Crown with Liberty, while not the saga of Gone with the Wind, succeeds in a way that the American Civil War novel lacks, and that is in the role of personal faith. Many of the characters of To Crown with Liberty demonstrate courage and conviction that is lacking in nearly every character in Gone with the Wind.
Both novels also provide much for the reader to contemplate about personal freedom and human dignity, each depicting human slavery and contrasting it with cultures that give lip-service to freedom yet, in practice, dehumanize.
To Crown with Liberty also includes elements of romance, suspense, betrayal, and familial and fraternal love and friendship. There's a lot there for the reader to enjoy.
August 9, 2025
I was looking to read a new historic fiction, and after having worked through most of the widely popular WWII novels, I wanted something different. The French Revolution is complicated, but Ullo was able to tell the story in a manner anyone could follow (and could still learn a lot from!). The two timelines work really well here too. Sometimes in such books I find myself eventually skimming through one timeline to get back to the other, but each story holds its own in this case. I also really enjoyed how the author handled religion. It was a realistic depiction of Catholicism in France at the time without being overtly preachy.
This book absolutely stands with the more mainstream works of historical fiction, and it definitely deserves more attention!
This book absolutely stands with the more mainstream works of historical fiction, and it definitely deserves more attention!
July 7, 2024
While people say you shouldn’t judge a book by its cover, in the case of the novel To Crown with Liberty by Karen Ullo, the striking cover is the ideal introduction to the haunting, beautiful, and well-written story of the life of Alix de Morainville Carpentier, a former lady-in-waiting to Marie Antoinette, who escaped the horrors of the French Revolution to start a new life in the back country of the Spanish colony of Louisiana in the New World.
The story has a split timeline, beginning in 1795, and dropping back to the years 1771 through 1792, as readers discover Alix’s life in France leading up to the revolution. For people whose knowledge about that time in European history is sparse, this is a wonderful introduction to the political landscape in that era. There have been tragedies in every age of history, but the French Revolution was particularly grim. It’s hard to imagine how much time the author spent studying this topic to be able to present it in such a concise fashion that hits the key points.
Each chapter is only a few pages long, but that works well for this novel. In the earlier timeline, as a member of the nobility and a practicing Catholic, we know grave misfortune is coming Alix’s way. She faced unbearable tragedy in those years. Switching to the 1795 storyline was a welcome reprieve from witnessing the fall of France through her eyes. It was one sad thing after another.
Not that life in the New World was much easier. Alix may not have been facing blood-thirsty revolutionists, but, between the hurricanes, stifling heat, humidity, fires, mosquitos, venomous snakes, alligators, and witnessing the horrors of the human slave trade, she was constantly battling something. Add to that, survivors’ guilt and remorse over her actions in France.
Her faith and her beloved husband helped her through the most turbulent times in her life. The strength women and men of old possessed to create new lives for themselves as the United States was being formed is unbelievable. My thanks to Karen Ullo for writing this fascinating and heart-wrenching novel. Once I was immersed in it, I couldn’t put it down. And weeks after finishing it, the story has stayed with me. This was truly a masterpiece.
The story has a split timeline, beginning in 1795, and dropping back to the years 1771 through 1792, as readers discover Alix’s life in France leading up to the revolution. For people whose knowledge about that time in European history is sparse, this is a wonderful introduction to the political landscape in that era. There have been tragedies in every age of history, but the French Revolution was particularly grim. It’s hard to imagine how much time the author spent studying this topic to be able to present it in such a concise fashion that hits the key points.
Each chapter is only a few pages long, but that works well for this novel. In the earlier timeline, as a member of the nobility and a practicing Catholic, we know grave misfortune is coming Alix’s way. She faced unbearable tragedy in those years. Switching to the 1795 storyline was a welcome reprieve from witnessing the fall of France through her eyes. It was one sad thing after another.
Not that life in the New World was much easier. Alix may not have been facing blood-thirsty revolutionists, but, between the hurricanes, stifling heat, humidity, fires, mosquitos, venomous snakes, alligators, and witnessing the horrors of the human slave trade, she was constantly battling something. Add to that, survivors’ guilt and remorse over her actions in France.
Her faith and her beloved husband helped her through the most turbulent times in her life. The strength women and men of old possessed to create new lives for themselves as the United States was being formed is unbelievable. My thanks to Karen Ullo for writing this fascinating and heart-wrenching novel. Once I was immersed in it, I couldn’t put it down. And weeks after finishing it, the story has stayed with me. This was truly a masterpiece.
August 30, 2024
To Crown with Liberty was truly an impressive, timely, and refreshing read. It follows the French noblewoman Alix de Morainville both in her past, detailing her life in late 18th century France as a courtier through the tumult of the French Revolution, and in her present situation of braving the 18th century frontier of Louisiana as a French refugee. Both timelines are packed with enlightening historical perspectives, questions of morality, philosophy, society, and politics, engaging internal and external character conflict, romance, friendship, family, and the truth of the Catholic faith.
I cannot stress enough how much I enjoyed this book. Firstly, seeing history play out through the eyes of a fictional character really helped me understand the troubles and triumphs of that time period. I learned about the French Revolution and early America in my history class last year, but the insight from a real human perspective in that time period was immensely helpful in understanding it. I was blown away by the breadth of historical detail covered; it felt like the characters could be real people in the past. The writing was absolutely excellent! The imagery and symbolism were beautiful, and the prose was deep, fluid, and highly engaging. The plot was very elaborate and exceedingly well-constructed, but I never felt lost or confused in it. And, most importantly, the Catholic faith permeated every page and character, covering many topics such as martyrdom, slavery, the dignity of human life, marriage, forgiveness, and trust. I leaned so much.
Karen Ullo is truly an extremely talented author. There are so many other things I loved about this book that I couldn’t mention here for the sake of space. I am anxious to read Ullo’s other books. I would recommend To Crown with Liberty to any Catholic interested in history and questions of morality and faith.
I cannot stress enough how much I enjoyed this book. Firstly, seeing history play out through the eyes of a fictional character really helped me understand the troubles and triumphs of that time period. I learned about the French Revolution and early America in my history class last year, but the insight from a real human perspective in that time period was immensely helpful in understanding it. I was blown away by the breadth of historical detail covered; it felt like the characters could be real people in the past. The writing was absolutely excellent! The imagery and symbolism were beautiful, and the prose was deep, fluid, and highly engaging. The plot was very elaborate and exceedingly well-constructed, but I never felt lost or confused in it. And, most importantly, the Catholic faith permeated every page and character, covering many topics such as martyrdom, slavery, the dignity of human life, marriage, forgiveness, and trust. I leaned so much.
Karen Ullo is truly an extremely talented author. There are so many other things I loved about this book that I couldn’t mention here for the sake of space. I am anxious to read Ullo’s other books. I would recommend To Crown with Liberty to any Catholic interested in history and questions of morality and faith.
February 15, 2026
As a Britophile, whose primary reading tends to involve historical goings-on in England and Scotland, I appreciated getting the chance this book gave me to learn more about the workings of 18th century French society, culture, politics, and religion, as well as the Franco-Spanish mixed culture found in Louisiana. The love that the author has for her chosen settings radiates throughout the chapters, and there is a great deal of attention to detail as we follow the heroine through the turmoil of revolution into the uncertainty of exile. The debates surrounding traditional theologies and enlightenment philosophies that rocked the status quo are explored deftly through interactions that feel in keeping with the discussions that must have been held in salons during that period. The author also manages to include various historical figures in unique ways, including Louis XVI, Marie Antionette, the Marquis de Lafayette, and Thomas Jefferson. The finale is a fascinating arc involving the transformation of characters and places, as well, as Louisiana, after being part of the domain of multiple kings, becomes part of the republican empire of the United States. Of course, as a fellow Catholic author, I also deeply appreciate the living faith that effects the culture, and the individuals imbued by it, even as the revolutionary fervor turns violently anti-religious and the blood of the martyrs flows free. We are still left with the hope that it is enriching, both where it is shed, and to the farthest corner of the world, where the seed of the faith sprouts anew.
May 6, 2024
If you're looking for authentically Catholic historical fiction, To Crown with Liberty is the book you need to have on your bookshelf. This well-researched, beautifully written tale by Karen Ullo follows Alix de Morainville Carpentier, a former lady-in-waiting to Marie Antoinette, across two timelines.
Not only does this book deal with historical realities, it confronts spiritual ones as well, raising questions of the impact of violence and darkness on the soul as well as the body. There are also lots of wonderful period details, and beautiful descriptions of Alix's emotions and innermost thoughts. I loved getting to know her and unraveling the details of her painful and mysterious past.
Another wonderful thing about this book is the substantial back matter that helps separate fact from legend in the source material that inspired the book and identifies all the historical figures that appear in the book for easy reference.
I truly can't recommend this novel highly enough. I'm very picky about historical fiction, but could not put this one down. Alix is a character who will stick with me for a long time.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to provide a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
Not only does this book deal with historical realities, it confronts spiritual ones as well, raising questions of the impact of violence and darkness on the soul as well as the body. There are also lots of wonderful period details, and beautiful descriptions of Alix's emotions and innermost thoughts. I loved getting to know her and unraveling the details of her painful and mysterious past.
Another wonderful thing about this book is the substantial back matter that helps separate fact from legend in the source material that inspired the book and identifies all the historical figures that appear in the book for easy reference.
I truly can't recommend this novel highly enough. I'm very picky about historical fiction, but could not put this one down. Alix is a character who will stick with me for a long time.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to provide a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
April 16, 2024
Ullo's magnificent handling of storytelling makes "To Crown with Liberty" read like a movie. Paris and Louisiana have smell, color and feeling; smoke, sweat and mosquitoes; beautiful dresses and luxury, as well as suffering and death. Historically well researched, it immerses us in the streets of Paris before and during the French Revolution, and in colonial Louisiana at the end of the 18th century. Human, deep and complex fictional characters interact with real historical figures like Thomas Jefferson and Queen Marie Antoinette. The story of Alix de Moranville captures and intrigues, and shows a view of an already well known story like the French Revolution, from another angle, and that is the triumph of "To Crown with Liberty."
May 4, 2026
This was an incredible work of historical fiction! The author clearly did her research and is knowledgeable on the subject. The story was both compelling and thought-provoking. I could hardly put this one down. Ullo handled the two timelines flawlessly and the story unfolded so seamlessly. The characters were richly drawn, and I loved the descriptions and detail that were included. As noted, Ullo did her research, and I appreciated how faithful this was to real historical events. Beyond being entertained, I felt like I truly learned a lot from this book. The book was full of trauma, but it never felt melodramatic. A couple of the historic figure cameos felt like a little too much, and I think once in the story Alix annoyed me, but those minor flaws are so minimal to my overall impression of this book. I genuinely and wholeheartedly recommend this one!
July 8, 2025
This book was on a recommended reading list. I wasn't expecting to enjoy it too much as the French Revolution is not a topic of interest, but I figured what the heck, let's read it. I was pleasantly surprised to find that I really enjoyed it. The writing was very well done, and it kept me hooked, needing to know Alix's story and the path that got her to where she was in 1795.
July 6, 2026
Cannot recommend this book enough. Love the contrast of colonials in Louisiana and bougouise in France. The perfect historical fiction novel. And perhaps my favorite part, there is no smut! Imagine that? A completely heartfelt historical fiction romance that is just as exciting to read without all the dirty details.
July 1, 2025
Is this my favorite read of the year? It just may be! Within the first few chapters alone, I cried, my heart swooned, and then I cried again. Several scenes will forever haunt me, including the hasty confessions before the September massacres. A perfect book.
January 15, 2026
WOW. Exceptional work of historical fiction. This was a rare glimpse at the reality and tragedy of the French "revolution," especially the buildup to it, its aftermath, and some specific connections to America. Dual timeline between an aristocratic young woman growing up in and around Paris in the 1780s and her new life navigating wild Louisiana in the late 1790s. Left me in tears.
May 28, 2024
I really enjoyed this novel by Karen Ullo. It is a story that weaves past and present. Pre and Post revolutionary France as well as the tale of immigrants trying to forge a new life in the Louisiana Territory.
While the view is past and present, I wouldn't consider this a split time.
It follows the aristocracy pre-French Revolution and some of the drawing room conversations. Our heroine, Alix is unloved by her mother owing to a difficult birth and subsequent birth injury, but much loved by the caretakers family. Until she comes of age and is sent away to a convent for schooling and then into an arranged marriage.
She witnesses life at the French court as a lady in waiting as well as the stirring of the revolution due to her husband's political leanings.
We watch the revolution rise and fall through her eyes and the effect on her family, friends, and other loved ones, the Royals, as well as the Church.
It is a tale of wrestling with faith and beliefs, sacrifice and loss. Alix eventually comes to terms with her past, acknowledging her inner strength and finds peace in her future.
I received a complimentary copy this book from the publishers. I was not required to provide a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
May 20, 2024
Rich in historical and aesthetic details, To Crown with Liberty presents an intricate view into the French Revolution, with a particular depth into the Catholic viewpoint not often presented in fiction. Karen Ullo brings a cast of flawed people, both on the side of the aristocracy and the commoner, and shows how they overcome the terror of the Revolution and a past that haunts them. The characters present several realistic viewpoints, even if their reactions aren't always the most sensational or literature-worthy. For example, Alix has a reputation for repeatedly freaking out and fainting during stressful situations. In the world of literature, this is often seen as a character flaw; in real life, this is deeply relatable to anyone who has ever suffered anxiety. On the opposite end, she makes many courageous decisions out of love for her husband despite her feelings of fear and inadequacy. I also found the love triangle between Alix, Abner, and Joseph to be incredibly well done and appreciated how both Abner and Joseph found the strength to love Alix in their own ways while remaining true to their morals.
May 23, 2024
A very interesting read!
This was my first novel by Karen Ullo and one of the reasons I signed up for the launch team was because I find the French Revolution interesting. It is well written and the storyline kept you reading. It has a split timeline and it took me some time to get used to it, but once I made sure to check the date and location at the top of each chapter I got into the story.
It is well-researched and I learned a lot about the French Revolution. I was aware that it is a Catholic novel, but I did not expect as much Catholic jargon and although it does fit in with the historical setting, as a Protestant, a lot of it went completely over my head.
I would recommend this book to anyone interested in historical fiction, especially the French Revolution, and I feel that it is a well-written, excellently researched, and well-thought-out novel with a beautiful story and interesting characters.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book, but the views and opinions are my own.
This was my first novel by Karen Ullo and one of the reasons I signed up for the launch team was because I find the French Revolution interesting. It is well written and the storyline kept you reading. It has a split timeline and it took me some time to get used to it, but once I made sure to check the date and location at the top of each chapter I got into the story.
It is well-researched and I learned a lot about the French Revolution. I was aware that it is a Catholic novel, but I did not expect as much Catholic jargon and although it does fit in with the historical setting, as a Protestant, a lot of it went completely over my head.
I would recommend this book to anyone interested in historical fiction, especially the French Revolution, and I feel that it is a well-written, excellently researched, and well-thought-out novel with a beautiful story and interesting characters.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book, but the views and opinions are my own.
May 31, 2024
I have never read a historical fiction novel set in the French revolution, so I was not quite sure what to expect. I tend to read historical fiction set around World War II, and tend to read a lot of history books about Catholics during the American revolution.
I was so surprised by how quickly I became engaged in this book and with these characters. I thoroughly enjoyed this novel. I am a slow reader, but this book has me so engaged that I finished this book more quickly than I expected. It was well written, engaging, and had just the right pacing for me to enjoy as a nightly respite from the chaos of my day.
The characters were interesting, and I wanted to see a happy ending for them, especially the main character of Alix.
I am so glad I had the chance to read this book, I really enjoyed it and had a book hangover for days!
I received a complimentary copy this book from the publishers. I was not required to provide a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
I was so surprised by how quickly I became engaged in this book and with these characters. I thoroughly enjoyed this novel. I am a slow reader, but this book has me so engaged that I finished this book more quickly than I expected. It was well written, engaging, and had just the right pacing for me to enjoy as a nightly respite from the chaos of my day.
The characters were interesting, and I wanted to see a happy ending for them, especially the main character of Alix.
I am so glad I had the chance to read this book, I really enjoyed it and had a book hangover for days!
I received a complimentary copy this book from the publishers. I was not required to provide a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
May 14, 2024
Where to begin? Karen Ullo’s To Crown With Liberty certainly defied my expectations. History, danger, sacrifice, love, war, and adventure all worked in harmony to create a story that held me spellbound. With the French Revolution as a backdrop, Ullo whisked me away to a time that caused my heart to ache and my head to spin. Her characters were true to life and entrenched themselves in my soul, telling a tale that I will not easily forget.
Redemption, faith, forgiveness and restoration fill the pages of this book. Ullo can certainly weave a story that resonates!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to provide a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
Redemption, faith, forgiveness and restoration fill the pages of this book. Ullo can certainly weave a story that resonates!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to provide a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
June 8, 2024
I have never read a Karen Ullo novel before and this knocked my socks off! Her writing is immensely descriptive and lyrical. I've studied the French Revolution but this was the first historical fiction novel that truly made me 'feel' the anguish and terror that such a revolution wrought upon its people. There is a small amount of romance but it is not the main focus of the novel. Rather the heroine's journey from a life of privilege to what it means to stay alive and maintain your faith and dignity during an inhuman period. For anyone interested in the French Revolution I highly recommend this novel. Ullo will truly transport you and evoke a depth of emotion not always achieved by authors.
Disclaimer: I requested an ARC from the publisher and author. All opinions are my own.
Disclaimer: I requested an ARC from the publisher and author. All opinions are my own.
May 28, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Full of rich and heartbreaking history, this story takes the reader from the halls of Versailles to the swamps of early Louisiana.
I love the way the author wove this story together, exploring events from the past side by side. The dual timeline was genius.
The characters were well-developed and, despite tragic circumstances, held onto their faith. If you enjoy historical fiction, this is a great read.
Thank you to Chrism Press for a complimentary copy of this book. The opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Full of rich and heartbreaking history, this story takes the reader from the halls of Versailles to the swamps of early Louisiana.
I love the way the author wove this story together, exploring events from the past side by side. The dual timeline was genius.
The characters were well-developed and, despite tragic circumstances, held onto their faith. If you enjoy historical fiction, this is a great read.
Thank you to Chrism Press for a complimentary copy of this book. The opinions expressed in this review are my own.
April 30, 2024
With lively, colourful writing skills, Ullo tactfully brings to life a dual-timeline story.
Following the life and experience of one woman, who lives through both the French Revolution, with its bloody Reign of Terror, and the struggles of life in the early days of the United States of America, Ullo crafts a multi-dimensional story, rich with various characters. The heroine, Alix de Morainville is a wonderfully complex character, haunted with visions of her past and guilt over things done or omitted. The supporting characters also serve as images of real sin and suffering, but also of hope, virtue, and beauty.
Ullo's writing is not one of clean, clear-cut answers. Her characters and their various situations are difficult, forming a novel that I would by no means recommend to a young audience. But there is a lot of good and real artistic taste present in the blend of light and dark, hope and despair, life and death throughout the novel. Whether amid the perils of angry French mobs or the dangers of Louisiana swamps, Alix's character is tested and formed through the difficulties she experience.
Thank goodness I waited until my Reading Week break to start this novel! Otherwise I am sure the fast-paced, enthralling story would have swept me up and completely distracted me from schoolwork! Once I did start reading, it only took a weekend to blow through the entire novel. Even the level of historical accuracy and detail was fantastic and left nothing wanting in my mind.
I highly recommend this novel for other college age readers - such as myself! - as well as older audiences. Anyone in search of a beautifully Catholic, historical, or just plain engaging work would much enjoy what Ullo has to offer in "To Crown With Liberty."
DISCLAIMER: I was provided with an complimentary copy of this novel in exchange for my honest review. All above thoughts and opinions are my own.
Following the life and experience of one woman, who lives through both the French Revolution, with its bloody Reign of Terror, and the struggles of life in the early days of the United States of America, Ullo crafts a multi-dimensional story, rich with various characters. The heroine, Alix de Morainville is a wonderfully complex character, haunted with visions of her past and guilt over things done or omitted. The supporting characters also serve as images of real sin and suffering, but also of hope, virtue, and beauty.
Ullo's writing is not one of clean, clear-cut answers. Her characters and their various situations are difficult, forming a novel that I would by no means recommend to a young audience. But there is a lot of good and real artistic taste present in the blend of light and dark, hope and despair, life and death throughout the novel. Whether amid the perils of angry French mobs or the dangers of Louisiana swamps, Alix's character is tested and formed through the difficulties she experience.
Thank goodness I waited until my Reading Week break to start this novel! Otherwise I am sure the fast-paced, enthralling story would have swept me up and completely distracted me from schoolwork! Once I did start reading, it only took a weekend to blow through the entire novel. Even the level of historical accuracy and detail was fantastic and left nothing wanting in my mind.
I highly recommend this novel for other college age readers - such as myself! - as well as older audiences. Anyone in search of a beautifully Catholic, historical, or just plain engaging work would much enjoy what Ullo has to offer in "To Crown With Liberty."
DISCLAIMER: I was provided with an complimentary copy of this novel in exchange for my honest review. All above thoughts and opinions are my own.
May 31, 2024
This book will stay with you long after you turn the last page. Before reading it I had only a cursory knowledge of the French Revolution, more the broad strokes of it than any of the finer details. I really appreciated how the author brought such historical detail to her story while keeping me completely immersed in the characters and their story. I also really appreciated the Catholic faith woven throughout the story as well, not only does it ring true historically but it added further depth to a somewhat heavy storyline.
The novel goes back and forth between just before the French Revolution, the years leading up to it, and the years after it was over when Alix and Joseph had fled to Louisiana. I appreciated seeing a story take place in a time period that not many stories feature. The author did a great job weaving it all together into a very compelling story. I kept turning the pages, needing to find out how it would all end.
I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves historical fiction. There is some romance involved, though is not the main focus of the story necessarily. The author paints the picture of how dark a time the French Revolution must have been for those living through it, without becoming overly graphic about it either.
I received a free advanced copy of the book from the publisher/author in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.
The novel goes back and forth between just before the French Revolution, the years leading up to it, and the years after it was over when Alix and Joseph had fled to Louisiana. I appreciated seeing a story take place in a time period that not many stories feature. The author did a great job weaving it all together into a very compelling story. I kept turning the pages, needing to find out how it would all end.
I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves historical fiction. There is some romance involved, though is not the main focus of the story necessarily. The author paints the picture of how dark a time the French Revolution must have been for those living through it, without becoming overly graphic about it either.
I received a free advanced copy of the book from the publisher/author in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.
May 23, 2024
An artfully written masterpiece! Mesmerizing and beautifully written, To Crown with Liberty filled a need for a read I didn't realize I had. Karen Ullo brings to life oft-forgotten places and time. I saw a gilded and tottering France, and a frightening frontier. I smelled the perfume and excrement of Versailles, the raw terror and stench of the Revolution, the fear of a new beginning in the swamps of Louisiana. Karen Ullo brought me into the life and heart of Alix. I felt her joy and despair, saw her crumbled dreams and hopes, and wished to weep with her. This book invoked a sense of longing for times and places I have never been and people I have never met. The dual timeline meshed perfectly as I watched Alix break and heal simultaneously as her old and new lives collided. To Crown with Liberty will bring you an experience you will not soon forget or wish to forget.
Content warning: Makes mention of marital intimacy, prostitution, leering gazes, several kisses-not detailed. One kiss and touch- semi-detailed.
Also of note, this book is published by Chrism Press. So if Catholicism isn't your cup of tea, this may not be for you.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to provide a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
Content warning: Makes mention of marital intimacy, prostitution, leering gazes, several kisses-not detailed. One kiss and touch- semi-detailed.
Also of note, this book is published by Chrism Press. So if Catholicism isn't your cup of tea, this may not be for you.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to provide a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
June 3, 2024
This is my 1st book by Karen Ullo and I was pleasantly impressed by her descriptive
writing. Based during the French Revolution and ending in Louisiana, it’s filled with gorgeous details, making you see the beauty of France, feel the terror of the revolution and the challenges of the journey into the untamed nature of Louisiana.
The Catholic historic detail also gave a sense of the importance in the French culture in the story. The gradual unveiling of the story is well done, keeping me engrossed in the book, wanting to know how she came to be where she currently was. While very sad and heartbreaking due to the time period, it also gave hope and healing with love and faith as the catalyst.
I would strongly recommend this book to those who are looking for well written book based during the French Revolution from a woman’s perspective with a faith based approach. It will keep you engrossed to the end, engaged with the characters and leave you with a hopeful end.
I received a complimentary copy this book from the publishers. I was not required to provide a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
writing. Based during the French Revolution and ending in Louisiana, it’s filled with gorgeous details, making you see the beauty of France, feel the terror of the revolution and the challenges of the journey into the untamed nature of Louisiana.
The Catholic historic detail also gave a sense of the importance in the French culture in the story. The gradual unveiling of the story is well done, keeping me engrossed in the book, wanting to know how she came to be where she currently was. While very sad and heartbreaking due to the time period, it also gave hope and healing with love and faith as the catalyst.
I would strongly recommend this book to those who are looking for well written book based during the French Revolution from a woman’s perspective with a faith based approach. It will keep you engrossed to the end, engaged with the characters and leave you with a hopeful end.
I received a complimentary copy this book from the publishers. I was not required to provide a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
March 14, 2024
With the dual settings of Paris during the French Revolution and Louisiana only a few years later, To Crown with Liberty by Karen Ullo brings to life two periods of European and American history I wasn't very familiar with. Alix de Morainville lives a charmed but complicated life as a lady-in-waiting to Marie Antoinette—and the author doesn't skimp on the details of palace intrigue as she spins a tale of forbidden love, danger, and fear as French government and society implode in scenes of unimaginable terror, anguish, violence, and loss. The story, told in split time, alternates between these scenes and a journey through the bayous of southern Louisiana as Alix and a party of settlers seek to make their way in an area of the South that depends on the slave trade and all the oppression that implies. Louisiana also holds the key to reconciliation for Alix, provided she can survive the trip and forgive herself for events and situations in Paris that she wasn't entirely responsible for. A beautifully written story I didn't want to see end. (ARC provided to members of the launch team)
May 18, 2024
Wow! This is an amazing book! It should be made into a movie, it's that good! There's intrigue, suspense, murder, espionage, and a sweet love story! The imagery is fantastic! I truly felt as if I was in Paris, wandering through the halls of the palace. I could also feel the heat of Louisiana.
The characters are written brilliantly! My favorite is Joseph. He's compassionate, loving, and gives of himself over and over. Alix suffered much heartache, but she grew and matured as a woman.
There are some difficult circumstances in the book. The murder situations are descriptive, there's abandonment issues, and a really intense accident that leads to death. I feel like these parts don't take away from the book; they are part of history. The theme of liberty rings true throughout the book! Liberty to be who you are meant to be, liberty to have freedom of religion, and liberty to live life free!
I was provided a complimentary copy of the book from the author/publisher via Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
The characters are written brilliantly! My favorite is Joseph. He's compassionate, loving, and gives of himself over and over. Alix suffered much heartache, but she grew and matured as a woman.
There are some difficult circumstances in the book. The murder situations are descriptive, there's abandonment issues, and a really intense accident that leads to death. I feel like these parts don't take away from the book; they are part of history. The theme of liberty rings true throughout the book! Liberty to be who you are meant to be, liberty to have freedom of religion, and liberty to live life free!
I was provided a complimentary copy of the book from the author/publisher via Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
March 7, 2024
To Crown with Liberty, written by Karen Ullo, is an intriguing story that offers readers a glimpse into the life of lady-in-waiting to Marie Antoinette and the destructive and demonic forces that uprooted the French government, the Church, and the moral structure of society. Karen Ullo's beautiful words transport the reader into a story that revolves around fear, grief, and love. The interplay between characters and a smooth connection of past and present events, transports the reader between Alix's past life in France, (the main character) and her present life in Louisiana.
The development and growth in maturity of the main character, Alix de Morainville Carpentier, is an uplifting story even though her pain is set against a deadly time in history - the Reign of Terror. This story is a must-read as it combines both an extensive historical perspective of the French Revolution, the woman's role during this time of history, and the importance of true love.
The development and growth in maturity of the main character, Alix de Morainville Carpentier, is an uplifting story even though her pain is set against a deadly time in history - the Reign of Terror. This story is a must-read as it combines both an extensive historical perspective of the French Revolution, the woman's role during this time of history, and the importance of true love.
May 29, 2024
This was a very interesting book. I liked how the author taught us about the French Revolution and what people went through at that time and then showed us what it would have been like for them as they tried to find a new home. I liked the characters in this story and I loved seeing their bravery as they tried to make a new home in Louisiana. I also liked how each chapter would jump between what was happening in France leading up to the Revolution and then what was happening in Louisiana years later as Alix remembered her former life and was trying to find her home. I thought the author did a good job of pulling on our emotions and teaching us about something that I did not know much about.
I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, and or authors. A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.
I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, and or authors. A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.
February 29, 2024
Beautiful story! Amazing research, rich with historical facts and beautifully descriptive details. You will love the strong (despite the fact that she thinks of herself as delicate) and spunky character of Alix! A beautiful story told by seamlessly weaving two timelines and two countries together in a way that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
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