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The Last Empress of France: The Rebellious Life of Eugénie de Montijo
The dramatic, untold story of Eugénie de Montijo, the woman who created haute couture, fought for women’s rights, opened France’s schools to girls and ruled the country as its last empress, yet today remains almost unknown.
Although a nineteenth-century woman, her almost twenty-first century outlook was key to the creation of modern France. Viewed frequently as a mere “ornament of the throne” of her husband, Emperor Napoléon III, this Spanish-born aristocrat proved to be almost as fiery as her red hair, fighting against institutional limitations, establishing innovations in childcare and women’s health, scientific research and education, battling anti-Semitism and “sex prejudice,” all the while displaying a political acumen so sharp that her husband gave her sole control of the government during his absences and consulted her daily when he was home. But the triumphs and glamour of her life were coupled with heartbreak and tragedy.
This first definitive American biography of Eugénie restores her far-reaching legacy to history.
Although a nineteenth-century woman, her almost twenty-first century outlook was key to the creation of modern France. Viewed frequently as a mere “ornament of the throne” of her husband, Emperor Napoléon III, this Spanish-born aristocrat proved to be almost as fiery as her red hair, fighting against institutional limitations, establishing innovations in childcare and women’s health, scientific research and education, battling anti-Semitism and “sex prejudice,” all the while displaying a political acumen so sharp that her husband gave her sole control of the government during his absences and consulted her daily when he was home. But the triumphs and glamour of her life were coupled with heartbreak and tragedy.
This first definitive American biography of Eugénie restores her far-reaching legacy to history.
336 pages, Hardcover
Published July 8, 2025
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384 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
September 6, 2025
The more I learn, the more I realize I know nothing. I knew nothing about ANY emperors/empresses of France, so this was all new to me.
This is a story of highs and lows of living, albeit on a REALLY high level of power and politics. So the highs were really high, which made the lows seems even lower. Also, if someone in a high position of power screws up, it's not just them that ends up being hurt. LOTS of people died from the poor decisions the last emperor and empress made. But lots of people were helped too, so 50/50 I guess.
The bit about her horrible childbirth was...wow. No C-sections back then, so she had a LOT of issues. Long time trying to give birth and it ended up BREAKING her PELVIS. Holy COW! That's INSANE to me!! Also insane that after that happening AND her bouncing back, that ANY man would think ANY woman is WEAKER than a man! OOF!
Interesting book, but I doubt I'll remember enough to get a Trivial Pursuit question about that time period/her correct. I'm not the best at remembering things though, so it's more me than the book I would say.
I did have to farf about a bit with the volume, but it wasn't too bad and I enjoyed the narrator's voice.
3, solid and interesting, stars.
My thanks to NetGalley and Harlequin Audio for an ALC to listen to and review.
This is a story of highs and lows of living, albeit on a REALLY high level of power and politics. So the highs were really high, which made the lows seems even lower. Also, if someone in a high position of power screws up, it's not just them that ends up being hurt. LOTS of people died from the poor decisions the last emperor and empress made. But lots of people were helped too, so 50/50 I guess.
The bit about her horrible childbirth was...wow. No C-sections back then, so she had a LOT of issues. Long time trying to give birth and it ended up BREAKING her PELVIS. Holy COW! That's INSANE to me!! Also insane that after that happening AND her bouncing back, that ANY man would think ANY woman is WEAKER than a man! OOF!
Interesting book, but I doubt I'll remember enough to get a Trivial Pursuit question about that time period/her correct. I'm not the best at remembering things though, so it's more me than the book I would say.
I did have to farf about a bit with the volume, but it wasn't too bad and I enjoyed the narrator's voice.
3, solid and interesting, stars.
My thanks to NetGalley and Harlequin Audio for an ALC to listen to and review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 20, 2025
Considering her importance (and quite frankly, her likability), we spend startlingly little time discussing Empress Eugénie as a significant historical figure.
Why? I’m sure the easy answer is the usual “because men,” but there has to be more to it than that, and I’m glad to see this exceptional woman finally getting the attention she deserves.
Certainly this is a biography in the strictest sense, but it is notably more readable and narrative-minded than most historical biography. The Empress herself obliged by being an unusually interesting subject, but credit the authors as well for writing a biography that reads like fiction.
To that end, it’s important to note that this book focuses on the best of the Empress (and really, the Bonapartes and their families in general). This is not to suggest that any of this is inaccurate, merely a warning that if you’re looking for a more critical examination of the Second Empire, look elsewhere.
Instead, this is a lovely and informative tribute to a remarkable woman who should be celebrated for the exceptional positive change she affected in France, especially for women and other marginalized groups.
This is a fascinating time period in French history and the Bonapartes are a fascinating family, but the authors of this book really brought something extra to the subject.
In all, an excellent read that is both fun and informative.
*I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.*
Why? I’m sure the easy answer is the usual “because men,” but there has to be more to it than that, and I’m glad to see this exceptional woman finally getting the attention she deserves.
Certainly this is a biography in the strictest sense, but it is notably more readable and narrative-minded than most historical biography. The Empress herself obliged by being an unusually interesting subject, but credit the authors as well for writing a biography that reads like fiction.
To that end, it’s important to note that this book focuses on the best of the Empress (and really, the Bonapartes and their families in general). This is not to suggest that any of this is inaccurate, merely a warning that if you’re looking for a more critical examination of the Second Empire, look elsewhere.
Instead, this is a lovely and informative tribute to a remarkable woman who should be celebrated for the exceptional positive change she affected in France, especially for women and other marginalized groups.
This is a fascinating time period in French history and the Bonapartes are a fascinating family, but the authors of this book really brought something extra to the subject.
In all, an excellent read that is both fun and informative.
*I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.*
July 4, 2025
3.25 stars
ARC Review
Empress Eugenie is not a historical figure I was familiar with prior to reading this book. I went into this book thinking I was going to get a riveting story of a rebellious and changemaker of a royal woman. Instead, I found myself mired in a deluge of historical data from this time period. Instead of focusing on Eugenie, the book centers on historical events around her, some chapters offering only brief insights into her influence and experiences. The first chapter and last few chapters were my favorite, due to them primarily focusing on Eugenie and actual incidents in her life.
My greatest complaint about this book were chapters 2-5 (approximately). Rather than tell Eugenie’s story in a chronological order, these chapters covered the same timeline, from marriage to the birth of her son, but each chapter focused on a different project Eugenie worked on during that time. There was only about her building a girl’s school and alienating people by overspending and nitpicking the architecture and design. A chapter was about her personal health struggles getting and staying pregnant and her pregnancy and difficult birth of her son. One focused on her starting a hospital. Another was about her interest in fashion and couture. While this is one method to tell a story, it made for a confusing reader experience. I kept expecting that the story would continue from the point the last chapter left off, only to find it started almost where the last one began. If the years or time period covered was highlighted at the beginning of that chapter, or when it changed, it would have helped with the comprehension of the sequence of events.
Aside from the confusing timeline during the earlier part of the book, the middle felt like it dragged on. This felt like more of a historical fact book, than a human nature story where one can feel a sense of connection with a person from the past. While I learned a great deal about this period of time in France, Spain, England and surrounding areas, I wasn’t drawn into this story enough to really feel any great emotion when tragic events took place.
This is a great book for someone looking for a greater understanding of this time period and the longstanding impact of Empress Eugenie. The authors did a great job recognizing Eugenie’s legacy by highlighting which buildings and services she put in place that are still in use today.
Thank you to Petie Kladstrup, Evelyne Resnick, NetGalley and Harlequin Trade Publishing | Hanover Square Press for an advanced copy of this eBook.
ARC Review
Empress Eugenie is not a historical figure I was familiar with prior to reading this book. I went into this book thinking I was going to get a riveting story of a rebellious and changemaker of a royal woman. Instead, I found myself mired in a deluge of historical data from this time period. Instead of focusing on Eugenie, the book centers on historical events around her, some chapters offering only brief insights into her influence and experiences. The first chapter and last few chapters were my favorite, due to them primarily focusing on Eugenie and actual incidents in her life.
My greatest complaint about this book were chapters 2-5 (approximately). Rather than tell Eugenie’s story in a chronological order, these chapters covered the same timeline, from marriage to the birth of her son, but each chapter focused on a different project Eugenie worked on during that time. There was only about her building a girl’s school and alienating people by overspending and nitpicking the architecture and design. A chapter was about her personal health struggles getting and staying pregnant and her pregnancy and difficult birth of her son. One focused on her starting a hospital. Another was about her interest in fashion and couture. While this is one method to tell a story, it made for a confusing reader experience. I kept expecting that the story would continue from the point the last chapter left off, only to find it started almost where the last one began. If the years or time period covered was highlighted at the beginning of that chapter, or when it changed, it would have helped with the comprehension of the sequence of events.
Aside from the confusing timeline during the earlier part of the book, the middle felt like it dragged on. This felt like more of a historical fact book, than a human nature story where one can feel a sense of connection with a person from the past. While I learned a great deal about this period of time in France, Spain, England and surrounding areas, I wasn’t drawn into this story enough to really feel any great emotion when tragic events took place.
This is a great book for someone looking for a greater understanding of this time period and the longstanding impact of Empress Eugenie. The authors did a great job recognizing Eugenie’s legacy by highlighting which buildings and services she put in place that are still in use today.
Thank you to Petie Kladstrup, Evelyne Resnick, NetGalley and Harlequin Trade Publishing | Hanover Square Press for an advanced copy of this eBook.
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July 6, 2025Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for an advanced reader copy
The Last Empress of France by Petie Kladstrup and Evelyne Resnick is a nonfiction about the life and rule of Empress Eugénie de Montijo, wife of Emperor Napoléon III. When Eugénie is chosen by the future Emperor to be his wife, the rest of his family and France is resistant to this Spanish-born woman being Empress, but her progressive attitudes helped shape the France that we know today.
Before reading this, I was unfamiliar with Eugénie and her husband. The only Napoléon I was familiar with was the first one and I learned quite a bit about his stances on women from this book and how Eugénie and her husband combatted that. It amazed me how little rights women had in France at that time because one ruler seemed to believe that women should only be wives and mothers and do nothing else yet provided very few safety nets. Eugénie, on the other hand, improved safety nets for women and helped to create the haute culture industry.
One thing I appreciated was the text’s acknowledgement of Queerness as a possibility without saying anything definitive. Many of Eugénie’s biographers have referred to her as ‘frigid’ based on what her contemporaries said, but the authors here suggest that asexuality or demisexuality are also possibilities because plenty of people close to the couple implied that there was romance and passion in their marriage, it just might not look like how we might expect in a heteronormative society.
The chapters are fairly short and they detail a lot about Eugénie, her marriage, and the things she did as well as the culture at the time and the long-term impact she had. Because of the length, I would say that this moves at a fairly brisk pace and is easily digestible while creating a lot of connections and helping to humanize Eugénie. I think it accomplishes what a biography should do: why is this figure important to the past and us now?
I would recommend this to fans of biographies about the French royal family and readers looking for nonfiction about nineteenth century France
The Last Empress of France by Petie Kladstrup and Evelyne Resnick is a nonfiction about the life and rule of Empress Eugénie de Montijo, wife of Emperor Napoléon III. When Eugénie is chosen by the future Emperor to be his wife, the rest of his family and France is resistant to this Spanish-born woman being Empress, but her progressive attitudes helped shape the France that we know today.
Before reading this, I was unfamiliar with Eugénie and her husband. The only Napoléon I was familiar with was the first one and I learned quite a bit about his stances on women from this book and how Eugénie and her husband combatted that. It amazed me how little rights women had in France at that time because one ruler seemed to believe that women should only be wives and mothers and do nothing else yet provided very few safety nets. Eugénie, on the other hand, improved safety nets for women and helped to create the haute culture industry.
One thing I appreciated was the text’s acknowledgement of Queerness as a possibility without saying anything definitive. Many of Eugénie’s biographers have referred to her as ‘frigid’ based on what her contemporaries said, but the authors here suggest that asexuality or demisexuality are also possibilities because plenty of people close to the couple implied that there was romance and passion in their marriage, it just might not look like how we might expect in a heteronormative society.
The chapters are fairly short and they detail a lot about Eugénie, her marriage, and the things she did as well as the culture at the time and the long-term impact she had. Because of the length, I would say that this moves at a fairly brisk pace and is easily digestible while creating a lot of connections and helping to humanize Eugénie. I think it accomplishes what a biography should do: why is this figure important to the past and us now?
I would recommend this to fans of biographies about the French royal family and readers looking for nonfiction about nineteenth century France
July 31, 2025
This biography is fabulous. The research is thorough, the subject herself is little known and fascinating this is detailed and well rounded. I read Desmond Seward's biography of Empress Eugenie a few years ago. I found it to be a slightly misogynistic view of Eugenie and a bit one note. More recently I read Nancy Goldstone's dual biography on Empress Eugenie & Empress Sisi titled Rebel Empresses. Goldstone's book was interesting but her background on Eugenie was obviously heavily sourced from Seward. I've also found Goldstone's biographies to be fun but not well researched and she tends to present fun conjecture as if it's historically established fact. So this biography definitely needed to be written.
I found the pacing perfect and the research offered was well cited. This definitely operates from a modern and more feminist viewpoint on Empress Eugenie. I greatly appreciated the viewpoints offered by the authors and found them mostly inline with modern intersectional feminist viewpoints. I do not think Eugenie held modern anti racist sentiments and felt that viewpoint was slightly exaggerated by the authors.
The narrator of this audiobook is Jilly Bond. I found Jilly's narration to be stilted in places. The subject matter was fascinating and the text was fairly well written and I'm disappointed the narration was somewhat dull. This offered wonderful research into Eugenie as well as the times she lived in and the major players in her story. I can not recommend this biography highly enough. I ended up purchasing a copy of this myself.
Thank you to Petie Kladstrup, Evelyne Resnick, Harlequin Audio, and NetGalley for the opportunity to listen to and review this audiobook. All opinions and viewpoints expressed in this review are my own.
I found the pacing perfect and the research offered was well cited. This definitely operates from a modern and more feminist viewpoint on Empress Eugenie. I greatly appreciated the viewpoints offered by the authors and found them mostly inline with modern intersectional feminist viewpoints. I do not think Eugenie held modern anti racist sentiments and felt that viewpoint was slightly exaggerated by the authors.
The narrator of this audiobook is Jilly Bond. I found Jilly's narration to be stilted in places. The subject matter was fascinating and the text was fairly well written and I'm disappointed the narration was somewhat dull. This offered wonderful research into Eugenie as well as the times she lived in and the major players in her story. I can not recommend this biography highly enough. I ended up purchasing a copy of this myself.
Thank you to Petie Kladstrup, Evelyne Resnick, Harlequin Audio, and NetGalley for the opportunity to listen to and review this audiobook. All opinions and viewpoints expressed in this review are my own.
June 7, 2025
Title: The Last Empress of France
Authors: Petie Kladstrup & Evelyne Resnick
Publisher: HTP Books
Release Date: July 8, 2025
Rating: 5 ⭐️
SYNOPSIS:
The untold story of Eugénie de Montijo, who rose from the daughter of a Spanish nobleman to the last Empress of France. An intrepid adventurer, the mother of haute couture, the champion of women’s rights, the mother and wife. A woman who by all means should have multiple chapters in our history books but is mostly forgotten.
REVIEW:
I devoured this brilliant narrative non-fiction in just under two days, a rarity for me with non-fiction! It usually doesn’t capture me as completely as The Last Empress of France did. WHAT A WOMAN! Y’all she is the reason for haute couture and Louis Vuitton! But that’s just the surface of her. When Haussmann was recreating Paris, she fought for a school for underprivileged girls, understanding that education and gainful employment would save the lives of so many. Her work with hospitals, with charity, with politics. I don’t understand how she isn’t a household name.
Kladstrup and Resnick drew Eugénie out from history and into a vivid and moving picture of an unstoppable force, filled with heart and passion. This is an unmissable biography. It has me wanting to learn everything I can not just about Eugénie but about Napoleon III as well. I don’t usually say this about non-fiction, but I’ll be reading this at least a second and third time so that I can really soak up everything about the last Empress of France. Thanks to the authors, she may be my new hyper-fixation.
Thank you htpbooks and netgalley for the ARC
Authors: Petie Kladstrup & Evelyne Resnick
Publisher: HTP Books
Release Date: July 8, 2025
Rating: 5 ⭐️
SYNOPSIS:
The untold story of Eugénie de Montijo, who rose from the daughter of a Spanish nobleman to the last Empress of France. An intrepid adventurer, the mother of haute couture, the champion of women’s rights, the mother and wife. A woman who by all means should have multiple chapters in our history books but is mostly forgotten.
REVIEW:
I devoured this brilliant narrative non-fiction in just under two days, a rarity for me with non-fiction! It usually doesn’t capture me as completely as The Last Empress of France did. WHAT A WOMAN! Y’all she is the reason for haute couture and Louis Vuitton! But that’s just the surface of her. When Haussmann was recreating Paris, she fought for a school for underprivileged girls, understanding that education and gainful employment would save the lives of so many. Her work with hospitals, with charity, with politics. I don’t understand how she isn’t a household name.
Kladstrup and Resnick drew Eugénie out from history and into a vivid and moving picture of an unstoppable force, filled with heart and passion. This is an unmissable biography. It has me wanting to learn everything I can not just about Eugénie but about Napoleon III as well. I don’t usually say this about non-fiction, but I’ll be reading this at least a second and third time so that I can really soak up everything about the last Empress of France. Thanks to the authors, she may be my new hyper-fixation.
Thank you htpbooks and netgalley for the ARC
August 7, 2025
I loved this book. Biographies and memoirs are always in my rotation, but sometimes I get bored or skim certain parts, this one kept me hooked the whole way through. The writing is super straightforward but still layered with the rich research and nuance you’d expect from a great historical biography.
Eugénie de Montijo was such a fascinating woman. I knew almost nothing about her going in, and by the end I was like: why aren’t we all talking about her more?! Her life touched politics, fashion, feminism, and power in a way that feels incredibly relevant.
Can't recommend this book enough.
Eugénie de Montijo was such a fascinating woman. I knew almost nothing about her going in, and by the end I was like: why aren’t we all talking about her more?! Her life touched politics, fashion, feminism, and power in a way that feels incredibly relevant.
Can't recommend this book enough.
October 10, 2025
I loved this book? The approach is a little bit girlboss-y, a little bit "reclaiming lost feminist heroes," but it was fascinating to learn more about Eugénie, despite how much I do know about the French Second Empire and her husband's political machinations. Plus, Eugénie is one of those Forrest Gump-style characters who outlives everyone she knows, and it's fascinating to see how she reacts to the people she encounters.
July 23, 2025
Eugenie is someone I’m thankful to have come across. I really knew nothing of her and what a life she led. Her friendship with Queen Victoria, her contribution to Tiffany blue, Louis Vuitton luggage- who knew?
Aside from that, this detailed and in-depth scope of her life and trials, love and loss, prejudice, deception, deep friendships, motherhood is harrowing insight into the life of royalty and all that comes with it.
Most notably is her ability of stay true to herself throughout her life, rarely backing down and often in control. A woman ahead of her time.
Aside from that, this detailed and in-depth scope of her life and trials, love and loss, prejudice, deception, deep friendships, motherhood is harrowing insight into the life of royalty and all that comes with it.
Most notably is her ability of stay true to herself throughout her life, rarely backing down and often in control. A woman ahead of her time.
October 22, 2025
The Last Empress of France is a biography that tells the life of Eugenie de Montijo, the wife of Napolean III. Overall, this was a really fascinating novel that tells the story of this Woman's unconventional and influential life. There is a highlight on her legacies and work with the poor. I found it to be an interesting and informative read about a fascinating historical figure I had never heard of, but untimely it's not the most memorable biography I have read.
Thank You to NetGalley and Harlequin Audio for an ARC Audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
Thank You to NetGalley and Harlequin Audio for an ARC Audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
June 12, 2025
This book is chockfull of information, my goodness! (Random but what even is the word "chockfull?" I have never typed or written that word before and that is a crazy word. Anywhooo...)
This really did have so much information in it, but I was kind of surprised how it didn't really feel like it focused on Eugenie all that much. It was kind of strange. A situation would be explained with so much detail but it would have nothing to do with Eugenie. Or if Eugenie was mentioned, it was an afterthought. There was this one section about Napoleon's health issues and Eugenie was not involved in that section at all, it had no relation to her. And then that section ended with something along the lines of "and that's when he finally told Eugenie." Okay, she never knew about it, so why is it in this book? It has nothing to do with anything?
Those moments were really weird for me.
But I definitely did learn a lot about this period of French (and European) history, I just wish there was more Eugenie. She really wasn't that involved in much, not the way I was expecting her to be. And that's not to insult her, I think that may be an error in writing style.
I found this writing style to be quite flat. And I find that to be common in non-fiction books, but this was done in a different way. It was just a flat linear telling, there was never any change of pace or crescendo.
Overall, this was a decent book. If you have a fascination in this period of history, definitely check it out. I think that I just prefer a little more pizazz and intrigue to the writing style of the non-fiction books I enjoy most.
Thanks to NetGalley for the audiobook ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review!
This really did have so much information in it, but I was kind of surprised how it didn't really feel like it focused on Eugenie all that much. It was kind of strange. A situation would be explained with so much detail but it would have nothing to do with Eugenie. Or if Eugenie was mentioned, it was an afterthought. There was this one section about Napoleon's health issues and Eugenie was not involved in that section at all, it had no relation to her. And then that section ended with something along the lines of "and that's when he finally told Eugenie." Okay, she never knew about it, so why is it in this book? It has nothing to do with anything?
Those moments were really weird for me.
But I definitely did learn a lot about this period of French (and European) history, I just wish there was more Eugenie. She really wasn't that involved in much, not the way I was expecting her to be. And that's not to insult her, I think that may be an error in writing style.
I found this writing style to be quite flat. And I find that to be common in non-fiction books, but this was done in a different way. It was just a flat linear telling, there was never any change of pace or crescendo.
Overall, this was a decent book. If you have a fascination in this period of history, definitely check it out. I think that I just prefer a little more pizazz and intrigue to the writing style of the non-fiction books I enjoy most.
Thanks to NetGalley for the audiobook ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review!
May 28, 2025
ARC review PUB DATE: July 8, 2025
The last Empress of France is a lively and interesting recount of the life of Eugénie de Montijo. Authors Petie Kladstrup and Evelyne Resnick masterfully transform a historical enumeration into an almost-novelization.
Thank you to Harlequin Trade Publishing for the Advance Review Copy.
The last Empress of France is a lively and interesting recount of the life of Eugénie de Montijo. Authors Petie Kladstrup and Evelyne Resnick masterfully transform a historical enumeration into an almost-novelization.
Thank you to Harlequin Trade Publishing for the Advance Review Copy.
April 29, 2025
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review. I really enjoyed this! I knew nothing about Eugénie de Montijo and she sounds like an.... interesting woman.
April 24, 2025
This was such a great book! It was so good that it read more like a story than a biography.
Empress Eugenie was a woman ahead of her time that lived an almost fairy tale like story. Growing up she was surrounded around people who cultivated her into the person she was. Eugenie was a force to be reckon with.
I could not put this book down! I didn’t even know that France had another empire after King Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette. So this book was informative and helped broaden my history knowledge.
Eugenie was a wild child of her generation with ideas that tended to clash with the French governing body at that time. She was a woman who refused to stay silent and stand in the shadows.
Empress Eugenie was a woman ahead of her time that lived an almost fairy tale like story. Growing up she was surrounded around people who cultivated her into the person she was. Eugenie was a force to be reckon with.
I could not put this book down! I didn’t even know that France had another empire after King Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette. So this book was informative and helped broaden my history knowledge.
Eugenie was a wild child of her generation with ideas that tended to clash with the French governing body at that time. She was a woman who refused to stay silent and stand in the shadows.
June 28, 2025
I rate this 4.5 out of 5.
I want to thank NetGalley and Harlequin Trade Publishing for an advanced copy of this book in exchange for review.
Eugénie de Montijo was not a historical figure on my radar until I picked up the recent dual biography (The Rebel Empresses) of her with Empress Elizabeth of Austria (aka Sisi) by Nancy Goldstone. After reading that work I became fascinated by Eugénie and started looking for work focused on her specifically. Luck for Kladstrup and Resnick delivered.
This book had everything that I love about biographical works. There is a clear reverence for the subject, but they do not shy away from the fact that she was indeed human and subject to mistakes and poor decisions. The scope of the work examined Eugénie as an Empress, but also as a wife, mother, and friend. In many ways, this work felt as if you were watching Eugénie's life unfold rather than simply reading words on the page. The authors use many sources to weave a vibrant and well-written portrait of Eugénie's life and her impact.
Eugénie's impact on culture and social programs throughout Europe was one of the most interesting parts of the book for me. It's clear that she had a thirst for knowledge and that she wanted to see women thrive in society. Her joy at Marie Currie's Nobel win and the development of several schools highlighted this. In many ways, I think this highlighted how some of her own experiences within the government impacted her approach to things.
I do wish that there had been just a little bit more about her involvement in the attempt to force European rule in Mexico. She played such a major role in that expedition and while Kladstrup and Resnick do not hide the fact that she was very involved and that it led to disastrous consequences it did feel as if the political interworkings of those events were a little less explored.
This book is a fascinating glimpse into a young Spanish noblewoman who rose to the heights of imperial power in France. Throughout the authors examine a woman who befriended artists, suffragists, and politicians, as well as Empress Elizabeth of Austria and Queen Victoria; a woman who had a deep interest in the life of Marie Antoinette and loved to sail; and a woman whose life was peppered with tragedy. Highly recommend.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Adult/minor relationship, Animal death, Death, Emotional abuse, Gun violence, Infidelity, Miscarriage, Misogyny, Racism, Toxic relationship, Violence, Xenophobia, Grief, Medical trauma, Suicide attempt, Death of a parent, Murder, Pregnancy, Cultural appropriation, Toxic friendship, Alcohol, Colonisation, War, Classism, Pandemic/Epidemic
The medical content involves not only the discussion of kidney stones but also the physical injury sustained by Eugénie during the birth of her son.
I want to thank NetGalley and Harlequin Trade Publishing for an advanced copy of this book in exchange for review.
Eugénie de Montijo was not a historical figure on my radar until I picked up the recent dual biography (The Rebel Empresses) of her with Empress Elizabeth of Austria (aka Sisi) by Nancy Goldstone. After reading that work I became fascinated by Eugénie and started looking for work focused on her specifically. Luck for Kladstrup and Resnick delivered.
This book had everything that I love about biographical works. There is a clear reverence for the subject, but they do not shy away from the fact that she was indeed human and subject to mistakes and poor decisions. The scope of the work examined Eugénie as an Empress, but also as a wife, mother, and friend. In many ways, this work felt as if you were watching Eugénie's life unfold rather than simply reading words on the page. The authors use many sources to weave a vibrant and well-written portrait of Eugénie's life and her impact.
Eugénie's impact on culture and social programs throughout Europe was one of the most interesting parts of the book for me. It's clear that she had a thirst for knowledge and that she wanted to see women thrive in society. Her joy at Marie Currie's Nobel win and the development of several schools highlighted this. In many ways, I think this highlighted how some of her own experiences within the government impacted her approach to things.
I do wish that there had been just a little bit more about her involvement in the attempt to force European rule in Mexico. She played such a major role in that expedition and while Kladstrup and Resnick do not hide the fact that she was very involved and that it led to disastrous consequences it did feel as if the political interworkings of those events were a little less explored.
This book is a fascinating glimpse into a young Spanish noblewoman who rose to the heights of imperial power in France. Throughout the authors examine a woman who befriended artists, suffragists, and politicians, as well as Empress Elizabeth of Austria and Queen Victoria; a woman who had a deep interest in the life of Marie Antoinette and loved to sail; and a woman whose life was peppered with tragedy. Highly recommend.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Adult/minor relationship, Animal death, Death, Emotional abuse, Gun violence, Infidelity, Miscarriage, Misogyny, Racism, Toxic relationship, Violence, Xenophobia, Grief, Medical trauma, Suicide attempt, Death of a parent, Murder, Pregnancy, Cultural appropriation, Toxic friendship, Alcohol, Colonisation, War, Classism, Pandemic/Epidemic
The medical content involves not only the discussion of kidney stones but also the physical injury sustained by Eugénie during the birth of her son.
June 21, 2025
Book Review: The Last Empress of France: The Rebellious Life of Eugénie de Montijo by Petie Kladstrup & Evelyne Resnick
Rating: 4.7/5
Initial Impressions
This biography shatters the reductive portrayal of Empress Eugénie as a decorative consort, instead presenting her as a visionary force in 19th-century France. Kladstrup and Resnick weave meticulous research with narrative flair, revealing a woman who defied gendered constraints to shape politics, culture, and social reform. The book’s greatest strength lies in its refusal to romanticize or villainize Eugénie—it embraces her contradictions (aristocrat and activist, traditionalist and trailblazer) with nuance.
Emotional Resonance & Reactions
Reading Eugénie’s story evoked alternating waves of admiration and frustration—admiration for her bold reforms (e.g., advancing women’s education, modernizing healthcare) and frustration at how history has sidelined her. The authors’ vivid prose—especially when describing her fiery clashes with Napoleon III’s conservative court—made her struggles feel immediate. However, the dense political sections occasionally slowed momentum, leaving me craving more personal anecdotes about her relationships or inner conflicts.
Strengths
-Revelatory Scholarship: The book unearths Eugénie’s overlooked contributions, from her role in creating haute couture to her advocacy for gender equality—a corrective to male-dominated historiography.
-Balanced Perspective: Neither hagiography nor critique, it acknowledges her flaws (e.g., colonialist leanings) while celebrating her triumphs.
-Cultural Context: Excellent analysis of how Eugénie’s Spanish heritage and feminist ideals clashed with French elitism, enriching understanding of her isolation.
Constructive Criticism
-Pacing Issues: Some chapters delve deeply into political minutiae (e.g., Franco-Prussian War) at the expense of Eugénie’s personal evolution.
-Visual Absence: Given Eugénie’s influence on fashion and art, the lack of images (e.g., portraits, fashion plates) feels like a missed opportunity.
-Comparative Scope: Brief comparisons to other European royal feminists (e.g., Queen Victoria) could have sharpened her uniqueness.
Final Verdict
The Last Empress of France is a vital rehabilitation of a misunderstood icon. While its academic rigor may daunt casual readers, its portrait of a woman who “looked forward when the world looked back” is profoundly inspiring. Eugénie’s legacy—like this book—deserves a place in the spotlight.
Thank you to the publisher and Edelweiss for the review copy.
Rating: 4.7/5 (A dazzling, overdue tribute to a ruler who redefined power on her own terms.)
Rating: 4.7/5
Initial Impressions
This biography shatters the reductive portrayal of Empress Eugénie as a decorative consort, instead presenting her as a visionary force in 19th-century France. Kladstrup and Resnick weave meticulous research with narrative flair, revealing a woman who defied gendered constraints to shape politics, culture, and social reform. The book’s greatest strength lies in its refusal to romanticize or villainize Eugénie—it embraces her contradictions (aristocrat and activist, traditionalist and trailblazer) with nuance.
Emotional Resonance & Reactions
Reading Eugénie’s story evoked alternating waves of admiration and frustration—admiration for her bold reforms (e.g., advancing women’s education, modernizing healthcare) and frustration at how history has sidelined her. The authors’ vivid prose—especially when describing her fiery clashes with Napoleon III’s conservative court—made her struggles feel immediate. However, the dense political sections occasionally slowed momentum, leaving me craving more personal anecdotes about her relationships or inner conflicts.
Strengths
-Revelatory Scholarship: The book unearths Eugénie’s overlooked contributions, from her role in creating haute couture to her advocacy for gender equality—a corrective to male-dominated historiography.
-Balanced Perspective: Neither hagiography nor critique, it acknowledges her flaws (e.g., colonialist leanings) while celebrating her triumphs.
-Cultural Context: Excellent analysis of how Eugénie’s Spanish heritage and feminist ideals clashed with French elitism, enriching understanding of her isolation.
Constructive Criticism
-Pacing Issues: Some chapters delve deeply into political minutiae (e.g., Franco-Prussian War) at the expense of Eugénie’s personal evolution.
-Visual Absence: Given Eugénie’s influence on fashion and art, the lack of images (e.g., portraits, fashion plates) feels like a missed opportunity.
-Comparative Scope: Brief comparisons to other European royal feminists (e.g., Queen Victoria) could have sharpened her uniqueness.
Final Verdict
The Last Empress of France is a vital rehabilitation of a misunderstood icon. While its academic rigor may daunt casual readers, its portrait of a woman who “looked forward when the world looked back” is profoundly inspiring. Eugénie’s legacy—like this book—deserves a place in the spotlight.
Thank you to the publisher and Edelweiss for the review copy.
Rating: 4.7/5 (A dazzling, overdue tribute to a ruler who redefined power on her own terms.)
July 27, 2025
Thank you for the opportunity to pre-read The Last Empress of France by Petie Kladstrup (with Evelyne Resnick)… what an extraordinary read!
I was absolutely blown away by this deep dive into the life of Eugénie de Montijo, a Spanish-born countess who became the last Empress of France and arguably one of history’s earliest feminists. This biography brought her fully to life… not just as a glamorous fixture at Napoleon III’s court, but as a passionate, visionary leader who argued for women’s rights, education, healthcare, and even climate-conscious urban design!
Eugénie emerges as what I can only call a badass… she pushed to open schools to girls, funded health initiatives and orphanages from her own fortune, and lobbied to allow a woman to receive a baccalauréat diploma… long before such ideas were normalized in 19th‑century Europe. While reading, she reminded me so much of Marie Antoinette… not in personality, but in potential. Had Marie Antoinette had the tenacity, vision, and platform that Eugénie wielded, how different her legacy… and fate… might have been.
One thing that particularly impressed me: Eugénie’s forward-thinking interest in architecture and public space. She advocated planting trees in Paris to cool the city… a proto‑climate change strategy straight out of the 1860s. (Hello, modern urban planners… can we please do more of that today?)
What Kladstrup and Resnick have accomplished here is the revival of a woman too long relegated to the margins of history. Instead of a fashion icon in Winterhalter gowns, Eugénie showed herself to be a politician, patron of the arts, and regent of France in her husband’s absence… consulted daily by Napoleon III on state affairs.
The writing impressed me too… richly atmospheric without ever drifting into dry academic terrain. Like your best history books, this one kept me turning pages late into the night. The narrative balances vivid personal detail, political intrigue, and global context so seamlessly that I found myself aching to ask Eugénie a million questions across the barrier of centuries.
If you’re fascinated by French history, women in power, or cultural innovators who reshape their worlds, The Last Empress of France is a must-read. Eugénie de Montijo was far more than an “ornament of the throne”… she was a force. And her legacy, finally reclaimed, is nothing short of revolutionary.
I was absolutely blown away by this deep dive into the life of Eugénie de Montijo, a Spanish-born countess who became the last Empress of France and arguably one of history’s earliest feminists. This biography brought her fully to life… not just as a glamorous fixture at Napoleon III’s court, but as a passionate, visionary leader who argued for women’s rights, education, healthcare, and even climate-conscious urban design!
Eugénie emerges as what I can only call a badass… she pushed to open schools to girls, funded health initiatives and orphanages from her own fortune, and lobbied to allow a woman to receive a baccalauréat diploma… long before such ideas were normalized in 19th‑century Europe. While reading, she reminded me so much of Marie Antoinette… not in personality, but in potential. Had Marie Antoinette had the tenacity, vision, and platform that Eugénie wielded, how different her legacy… and fate… might have been.
One thing that particularly impressed me: Eugénie’s forward-thinking interest in architecture and public space. She advocated planting trees in Paris to cool the city… a proto‑climate change strategy straight out of the 1860s. (Hello, modern urban planners… can we please do more of that today?)
What Kladstrup and Resnick have accomplished here is the revival of a woman too long relegated to the margins of history. Instead of a fashion icon in Winterhalter gowns, Eugénie showed herself to be a politician, patron of the arts, and regent of France in her husband’s absence… consulted daily by Napoleon III on state affairs.
The writing impressed me too… richly atmospheric without ever drifting into dry academic terrain. Like your best history books, this one kept me turning pages late into the night. The narrative balances vivid personal detail, political intrigue, and global context so seamlessly that I found myself aching to ask Eugénie a million questions across the barrier of centuries.
If you’re fascinated by French history, women in power, or cultural innovators who reshape their worlds, The Last Empress of France is a must-read. Eugénie de Montijo was far more than an “ornament of the throne”… she was a force. And her legacy, finally reclaimed, is nothing short of revolutionary.
June 17, 2025
I requested and received an eARC of
The Last Empress of France: The Rebellious Life of Eugénie de Montijo
by Petie Kladstrup and Evelyne Resnick via NetGalley. Eugénie is a recent area of interest for me! A year or two ago I was researching Second French Empire, because of my reading of Zola. Then last year I read a dual biography of Sisi of Austria and Eugénie where she truly emerged as a fascination for me. I was excited to see this volume where she fully takes center stage.
Kladstrup & Resnick really drew me in with the vivid descriptions of Eugénie's childhood and the political turmoil that brought her father to prominence. I cannot imagine the early struggles Eugénie faced as Empress. On one side, the French didn't think she was quite good enough. On the other side, the Spanish didn't think Napoleon III good enough for her. Although the chapters dealing with her early and middle years were certainly interesting (being struck by Sultan Abdülaziz’s mother is a hilarious little highlight), I really got swept away reading about her later years. Eugénie had a long life, saw so many changes in the world, and ushered in many of her own.
The authors do a terrific job of extracting the essence of Eugénie's personality through her actions and the available sources. What I found most remarkable is how desperately I wished I could reach through the pages and the barriers of time to ask this woman so many questions. The pages of The Last Empresses of France are filled with admirable feats, but also recognition of the fact that Eugénie was a complicated woman. Allowing her this nuance made for a compelling read that really humanized the subject.
Kladstrup & Resnick really drew me in with the vivid descriptions of Eugénie's childhood and the political turmoil that brought her father to prominence. I cannot imagine the early struggles Eugénie faced as Empress. On one side, the French didn't think she was quite good enough. On the other side, the Spanish didn't think Napoleon III good enough for her. Although the chapters dealing with her early and middle years were certainly interesting (being struck by Sultan Abdülaziz’s mother is a hilarious little highlight), I really got swept away reading about her later years. Eugénie had a long life, saw so many changes in the world, and ushered in many of her own.
The authors do a terrific job of extracting the essence of Eugénie's personality through her actions and the available sources. What I found most remarkable is how desperately I wished I could reach through the pages and the barriers of time to ask this woman so many questions. The pages of The Last Empresses of France are filled with admirable feats, but also recognition of the fact that Eugénie was a complicated woman. Allowing her this nuance made for a compelling read that really humanized the subject.
July 17, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley and Harlequin Audio for the ARC of this audiobook.
I listened to The Last Empress of France while on a long drive, and I was surprised by how much it grew on me. The early chapters were a bit slow for my taste—dense with names, dates, and political context—but by the fourth chapter, the narrative found its stride and I was hooked.
The book offers a fascinating glimpse into the life of Eugénie de Montijo, the last empress of France, a figure I knew nothing about going in. The authors do a great job of balancing historical detail with personal intrigue, and I appreciated the way her story intersects with major moments in European history. By the end of the book, I cried in appreciation for Eugenie. And, for days, I thought about all that she influenced. I would love to go on a European tour that visits all the places that touched her heart. Further, I would love for this book to be made into a series like The Crown. Clearly, there is enough content for at least 3 seasons.
Jilly Bond’s narration is smooth and well-paced, and she brings a confident elegance to the material that matches the tone of the book nicely.
This is a solid choice for those who enjoy biographies of lesser-known historical figures, especially women who influenced history from behind the scenes. A rewarding listen if you stick with it past the early chapters.
Note: I rarely give 5 stars to books. Petie Kladstrup and Evelyne Resnick researched and presented the material in the most gripping fashion. And, Jilly Bond's narration was superb. At times, I felt like the story/narration was being relayed to me over a long cup of tea.
#TheLastEmpressOfFrance #PetieKladstrup #EvelyneResnick #JillyBond #HistoricalBiography #AudiobookReview #NetGalley #StrongWomen
I listened to The Last Empress of France while on a long drive, and I was surprised by how much it grew on me. The early chapters were a bit slow for my taste—dense with names, dates, and political context—but by the fourth chapter, the narrative found its stride and I was hooked.
The book offers a fascinating glimpse into the life of Eugénie de Montijo, the last empress of France, a figure I knew nothing about going in. The authors do a great job of balancing historical detail with personal intrigue, and I appreciated the way her story intersects with major moments in European history. By the end of the book, I cried in appreciation for Eugenie. And, for days, I thought about all that she influenced. I would love to go on a European tour that visits all the places that touched her heart. Further, I would love for this book to be made into a series like The Crown. Clearly, there is enough content for at least 3 seasons.
Jilly Bond’s narration is smooth and well-paced, and she brings a confident elegance to the material that matches the tone of the book nicely.
This is a solid choice for those who enjoy biographies of lesser-known historical figures, especially women who influenced history from behind the scenes. A rewarding listen if you stick with it past the early chapters.
Note: I rarely give 5 stars to books. Petie Kladstrup and Evelyne Resnick researched and presented the material in the most gripping fashion. And, Jilly Bond's narration was superb. At times, I felt like the story/narration was being relayed to me over a long cup of tea.
#TheLastEmpressOfFrance #PetieKladstrup #EvelyneResnick #JillyBond #HistoricalBiography #AudiobookReview #NetGalley #StrongWomen
August 30, 2025
🎧 Audiobook narrated by Jilly Bond
✨ Initial Vibes
Picked this up hoping for a brisk, elegant dive into the life of Eugénie de Montijo—and that’s exactly what I got. This is a stylish, informative biography that balances political history, fashion, and character study without ever dragging.
📖 What It’s About
A concise, engaging portrait of Empress Eugénie, wife of Napoleon III and a key figure in 19th-century French politics, culture, and fashion. The book covers her upbringing, influence on haute couture, charitable works, and her complicated role during the Second Empire—with enough context to be accessible for readers new to the period.
❤️ What I Loved
• The narration. Jilly Bond is impeccable—crisp delivery, clean pacing, and a light but confident French accent when needed. One of those narrations that just disappears into the story in the best way.
• The pacing. It moves quickly but always offers just enough background to situate Eugénie within her historical moment.
• The subject herself. Eugénie’s legacy is often overlooked, and I appreciated how this biography gave space to her political savvy, fashion influence (hello, haute couture!), and philanthropic work.
💭 Final Thoughts
A great entry point for readers interested in the Second Empire, 19th-century fashion, or influential women in history. This is not a dense academic tome—it’s a sharply focused, well-researched introduction that still feels lively and human. Eugénie comes across as both formidable and flawed, which makes her all the more compelling.
🧠 Rating
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
(4 stars for pace, accessibility, and excellent narration.)
✨ Initial Vibes
Picked this up hoping for a brisk, elegant dive into the life of Eugénie de Montijo—and that’s exactly what I got. This is a stylish, informative biography that balances political history, fashion, and character study without ever dragging.
📖 What It’s About
A concise, engaging portrait of Empress Eugénie, wife of Napoleon III and a key figure in 19th-century French politics, culture, and fashion. The book covers her upbringing, influence on haute couture, charitable works, and her complicated role during the Second Empire—with enough context to be accessible for readers new to the period.
❤️ What I Loved
• The narration. Jilly Bond is impeccable—crisp delivery, clean pacing, and a light but confident French accent when needed. One of those narrations that just disappears into the story in the best way.
• The pacing. It moves quickly but always offers just enough background to situate Eugénie within her historical moment.
• The subject herself. Eugénie’s legacy is often overlooked, and I appreciated how this biography gave space to her political savvy, fashion influence (hello, haute couture!), and philanthropic work.
💭 Final Thoughts
A great entry point for readers interested in the Second Empire, 19th-century fashion, or influential women in history. This is not a dense academic tome—it’s a sharply focused, well-researched introduction that still feels lively and human. Eugénie comes across as both formidable and flawed, which makes her all the more compelling.
🧠 Rating
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
(4 stars for pace, accessibility, and excellent narration.)
July 3, 2025
Colleen Chi-Girl at GoodReads
4 **** STRONG STARS
The Last Empress of France
by Petie Kladstrup and Evelyne Resnick, female authors
This novel on audiobook is such an important subject for French and world history, as well as for women's history in general. It is well-researched and well-written by the two female authors Kladstrup and Resnick.
This is the amazing biography of Eugénie de Montijo, 1826-1920, who was from Spanish aristocracy and married Louis-Napoléon Bonaparte III in the beautiful Notre Dame Cathedral. They had one son together also named Louis-Napolean. Eugénie became Empress of the French until 1873 and is considered the "forgotten woman" because her story isn't one generally found in French history according to the authors.
Eugénie is important for her own rights, not just for being married to the famous Napoleon III. She fought for women's rights, opened France's schools to underprivileged girls (so they too could be educated and have future means to care for themselves). Eugénie also created haute couture and ruled France as its last empress. She was a complicated person and is not without faults, which the authors don't shy away from and we get a considerable background on this woman who was a feminist before her time.
I enjoyed this rich biography for its historical value and for all the enlightening moments in women's studies, as well as for all women in our history who deserve to have their stories told.
August 7, 2025
I’m not typically a non-fiction reader, but this book truly captivated me. I listened to the audiobook, narrated by the talented Jilly Bond, and it held my attention from start to finish. While I was not actively listening, I found myself eagerly pondering what would happen next for Empress Eugénie. The engaging narration and compelling writing allowed me to forge a strong connection with her, almost as if she were a character in a work of fiction. I celebrated her achievements and felt deep sorrow for her tragedies.
As a biography, the timeline was occasionally disjointed, which made it challenging to grasp the overlapping nature of Eugénie’s projects, especially in the period leading up to her son's birth after marriage. While the chapters were thematically coherent, some began in entirely different decades, resulting in confusion about the sequence of events in Eugénie's life. Nonetheless, it’s important to recognize that this was a remarkably busy woman with a tremendous amount to cover in a short time frame.
Having heard Empress Eugénie mentioned only in passing during my time in France, I completely underestimated her significance, likability, and profound impact on culture, women’s rights, health and science, and the economy of post-revolutionary France. This exceptional woman undoubtedly deserves the recognition and attention she has been denied for too long.
As a biography, the timeline was occasionally disjointed, which made it challenging to grasp the overlapping nature of Eugénie’s projects, especially in the period leading up to her son's birth after marriage. While the chapters were thematically coherent, some began in entirely different decades, resulting in confusion about the sequence of events in Eugénie's life. Nonetheless, it’s important to recognize that this was a remarkably busy woman with a tremendous amount to cover in a short time frame.
Having heard Empress Eugénie mentioned only in passing during my time in France, I completely underestimated her significance, likability, and profound impact on culture, women’s rights, health and science, and the economy of post-revolutionary France. This exceptional woman undoubtedly deserves the recognition and attention she has been denied for too long.
July 9, 2025
The Last Empress of France by Petie Kladstrup and Evelyne Resnick is an amazing book! It is Non-Fiction but has so many incredible events written about in it that it would be easy to think it is Fiction. I have a degree in Teaching French and have been to France numerous times but I had never heard, or read, anything about Empress Eugenie until this book. She was married to Napoleon III who ruled France during the Second Empire and respected her intelligence so much that he treated her as an equal in leading the country. Furthermore, she was a woman born in Spain in 1826 and lived until age 94 - experiencing almost a century of significant inventions and advancements in medicine and technology. It was also a life of almost a century of being acquainted with most of the powerful rulers in the world.. It is a fascinating read to learn of this remarkable woman's childhood, her dreams for the future, her relationships, and the historical events she lived through that included pomp and cirumstance, adulation of the masses, tragedy, war and heartbreak. For fans of France, world history, women's rights, I strongly recommend this book. It is never stuffy or boring! I received an ARC from Harlequin Trade Publishing via NetGalley but all opinions are my own.
June 17, 2025
Thanks to NetGalley for sharing the audio version of this book with me!
The Last Empress of France is a vivid and engaging biography that gives Empress Eugénie the attention she deserves. Petie Kladstrup and Evelyne Resnick breathe life into the story of this overlooked monarch, charting her path from a spirited Spanish noblewoman to the last empress of France. This isn't just a book about palaces and gowns—it's about a badass woman who shaped history, defied convention, and refused to fade into the background.
What’s truly infuriating—is how a woman this fascinating barely got a mention in history class. We learned about Napoleon Bonaparte ad nauseam, but not about Eugénie!
This book does a fantastic job of showing the history being made at the time, while keeping Eugénie at the center. It’s informative without being dry, making it perfect for both history buffs and newcomers who just want to know why this woman was so important. Spoiler: she really, really was.
The Last Empress of France is a vivid and engaging biography that gives Empress Eugénie the attention she deserves. Petie Kladstrup and Evelyne Resnick breathe life into the story of this overlooked monarch, charting her path from a spirited Spanish noblewoman to the last empress of France. This isn't just a book about palaces and gowns—it's about a badass woman who shaped history, defied convention, and refused to fade into the background.
What’s truly infuriating—is how a woman this fascinating barely got a mention in history class. We learned about Napoleon Bonaparte ad nauseam, but not about Eugénie!
This book does a fantastic job of showing the history being made at the time, while keeping Eugénie at the center. It’s informative without being dry, making it perfect for both history buffs and newcomers who just want to know why this woman was so important. Spoiler: she really, really was.
September 9, 2025
This novel made it abundantly clear that Eugénie de Montijo had a significant influence on society, culture, and France as it is today. The book details her life in such a profound way that it felt as if I was going through it myself. The author clearly had a great respect for the Empress and it comes through clearly in this biography.
Although the material and subject of this book captivated me, there were parts that dragged on slightly. I believe the author was trying to cover as much of the Empress’s life as possible and be thorough in the process, but some parts felt like it was dwelling on a part of her life that was not super significant.
Any fan of history and especially of historical women who aren’t nearly as celebrated as they are will love this book! I also highly recommend the audiobook to anyone who can get their hands on it. It’s a wonderfully immersive experience.
Thanks to netgalley for an ARC of the audiobook in exchange for an honest review
Although the material and subject of this book captivated me, there were parts that dragged on slightly. I believe the author was trying to cover as much of the Empress’s life as possible and be thorough in the process, but some parts felt like it was dwelling on a part of her life that was not super significant.
Any fan of history and especially of historical women who aren’t nearly as celebrated as they are will love this book! I also highly recommend the audiobook to anyone who can get their hands on it. It’s a wonderfully immersive experience.
Thanks to netgalley for an ARC of the audiobook in exchange for an honest review
June 22, 2025
A comprehensive, chronological biography of Eugenie de Montijo, wife of Napoleon III and Empress of the Second French Empire. This is more of an overview than an in-depth analysis, but that's great for a famous figure who you normally read about in terms of her relationship with her famous husband and not as her own person. Eugenie ruled France from the 1850s to the 1870s and didn't pass away until 1920, meaning that she was a witness to most of the changes of the 19th century. Recommended if you're interested in this time period and want a clear, straightforward description of it from this specific perspective.
I tandem read and listened, which was a great choice for me. Narrator Jilly Bond has a cut glass, upper crust British accent, which was probably a great choice to depict Eugenie's aristocratic circles.
This objective review is based on a complimentary copy of the book.
I tandem read and listened, which was a great choice for me. Narrator Jilly Bond has a cut glass, upper crust British accent, which was probably a great choice to depict Eugenie's aristocratic circles.
This objective review is based on a complimentary copy of the book.
August 19, 2025
The Last Empress of France by Petie Kladstrup and Evelyne Resnick is about the life and rule of the little-known Empress Eugénie de Montijo, wife of Emperor Napoléon III.
Before reading this, I was unfamiliar with Eugénie and her husband, only being aware of Napoléon I. Eugénie is a Spanish-born woman who becomes not just an Empress, but a feminist, a progressive, an adventurer, the mother of haute couture, de facto head of state of France, a mother, a wife, and a survivor of the Franco-Prussian War.
The research is thorough, detailed, well-cited, and well-rounded.
The narrator of this audiobook is Jilly Bond. I found Jilly's narration to be a bit unsuited to this story, rather her narration si more appropriate for an elderly Queen Victoria rather than energetic Empress Eugénie.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for an advanced reader copy.
Before reading this, I was unfamiliar with Eugénie and her husband, only being aware of Napoléon I. Eugénie is a Spanish-born woman who becomes not just an Empress, but a feminist, a progressive, an adventurer, the mother of haute couture, de facto head of state of France, a mother, a wife, and a survivor of the Franco-Prussian War.
The research is thorough, detailed, well-cited, and well-rounded.
The narrator of this audiobook is Jilly Bond. I found Jilly's narration to be a bit unsuited to this story, rather her narration si more appropriate for an elderly Queen Victoria rather than energetic Empress Eugénie.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for an advanced reader copy.
July 9, 2025
Thank you netgalley harlequinbooks hanoversquarepress to read this biography of Eugenia De Montijo the last empress of France. I really enjoyed this one and learned so much. My knowledge of France after the Revolution was pretty sparse and this absolutely helps to fill in gaps. Plus what an extraordinary woman brought into the light. She did not just stand still and look pretty. She was a fashion icon worked to change women’s right and was the first woman to ever lead France all on her own. She lived a long life and saw several critical points in history including World War I and the Mexican American War.
Jilly Bond does a fantastic job narrating this book and makes history fun and exciting.
Jilly Bond does a fantastic job narrating this book and makes history fun and exciting.
July 9, 2025
This read was outside of my norm in terms of genres I usually pick up. I was really intrigued by the title and the book’s blurb. I majored in French in college and didn’t even know Eugénie. Overall I really enjoyed this book and the narration as I listened to the audiobook. Eugénie was quite the woman! We learn about her life and impact in a pretty linear format. I could tie in bits and pieces of French history and landmarks of Paris / the rest of France mentioned with what I already knew but still definitely felt like I learned a lot. Also very fascinated by the level of research that must have gone into the writing of this book. Well done. 👏🏼
Thanks Harlequin Audio & NetGalley for the advanced copy!
Thanks Harlequin Audio & NetGalley for the advanced copy!
July 25, 2025
The Last Empress of France: The Rebellious Life of Eugenie de Montijo, a biography written by Petie Klandstrup and Evelyne Resnick, brings Eugenie de Montijo center stage and reminds readers of her lasting legacy. I received an audiobook through NetGalley and found that both the book and narration done by Jilly Bond grew on me as the book carried on. The first few chapters felt a little tedious, but I pushed through and I am glad I did. Eugenie was a fascinating lady and I found myself impressed by her grit and glamour. I would most definitely watch a mini series about her life.
The authors clearly did their subject proud through through meticulous research.
Thank you NetGalley and Harlequin Audio for a chance to listen to this audiobook in exchange for my honest review.
The authors clearly did their subject proud through through meticulous research.
Thank you NetGalley and Harlequin Audio for a chance to listen to this audiobook in exchange for my honest review.
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