In a Gilded Cage

by Susan Appleyard

Finalist in MM Bennetts Award Finalist in Wishing Shelf Award B.R.A.G. Medallion Winner Sisi enjoyed a carefree lifestyle in the hills of Bavaria until she was chosen by Franz Josef to be his wife. At the age of sixteen she became Elizabeth Empress of Austria and moved into the imperial palaces of Vienna, where a hostile court disdained her for her low birth, and strict protocol ruled her every act. She had no other purpose than to adorn the emperor's arm on ceremonial occasions and to make babies who were taken from her at birth to be raised by her domineering mother-in-law. Of too sensitive a spirit, and dazzlingly beautiful, she was often ill and anorexic and had to flee the court to distant places in order to heal. She struggled to adjust to her new life in an alien environment until she found a cause into which she could pour her heart and Hungary. Like Sisi herself, Hungary struggled to find its place in the world, where it would not be subsumed by a soulless empire. Having found her salvation, she also found a man she could love in the great patriot, Count Andrassy.

Genres: Historical Fiction

322 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 9, 2016

About the author

I was born in England where I learned to love English history. Now I live in Canada in the summer with my three children and three grandchildren. In winter I flee the cold for Mexico where I enjoy the sun and sea, restaurants on the beach and Happy Hours with my friends.
I don't think I have a particularly unique writing method. I always write in the mornings in a place where I can work relatively undisturbed. I never read over what I've written until the manuscript is finished so I can approach it with a fresh eye.

Reviews

[Alexia · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is by far the best book about Empress Sisi,I can't recommend it enough.
This needs more attention,it's well written,the author has a way with words that is very lyrical and the interpretation of Sisi is wonderful .

[Helen Hollick · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book has received a Discovering Diamonds Review:

'The use of language and descriptive detail is very pleasing and historically this is of great value, so the book will very much appeal to readers who seek the more accurate over the more 'speculative' side of history.'

Helen Hollick
founder #DDRevs

[Judith Barrow · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is the second novel I’ve read of Susan Appleyard’s; the first was Queen of Trial and Sorrow: http://amzn.to/2pGiV77

I like this author’s style of writing; In a Gilded Cage is a compact, detailed read that need a lot of concentration but is so worth it. And, as in Queen of Trial and Sorrow it is obvious that the author has research in great detail has preceded the writing of this book. It is an enthralling read of the time and the two countries.;the sense of the politics and machinations, threaded throughout reveal the tumult that the characters live through

Told in first person point of view from Elisabeth Empress of Austria The reader lives through all the emotions the protagonist feels: the uncertainties, the ,contentment, the wretchedness, the distress,the love. It’s easy to empathise with the changes in ‘Sisi’s’ life.

At the front of the book there is a long list of the principle characters that is quite complex and I often had to go back and refer to it which interrupted my reading. But that’s a small quibble. On the whole the characters are well rounded and believable; I liked those the author intended me to like and disliked those who made the protagonist unhappy or afraid. If a book does this for me as a reader… it works.

Susan Appleyard has a knack for capturing the sounds and syntax of an historic period; she doesn’t disappoint in this novel. For me the dialogue gives a real flavour of the era as I imagine it to be.

Again, as in Queen of Trial and Sorrow, although there is a wonderful sens of place through the descriptions of the countries, the buildings, the costumes, I did feel that they were sometimes a little arduous and I was tempted a few times to skip through them. (although I didn’t, knowing I needed to review honestly and fairly)

Would recommend In a Gilded Cage? Yes, I would; the book suit readers who enjoy first person accounts of historical fiction

[Elyse Welles · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is dense history with a lot of detail, down to the exact cutlery used in a dinner and the specific brocade of each gown. It is a more of a non-fiction telling of events between 1854 and 1866 for Sisi Empress of Austria with the only liberties being taken to express emotion and structure the story with more dialogue than would be possible in a straightforward non-fiction text. It is the best way to really learn this history, and the moments where a more fiction-leading writer would embellish or condense characters, Appleyard chooses to stay consistent with the facts.

I have had the pleasure of visiting both the Hofburg and Schonnbrunn as well as the Prater and streets of Vienna, and I could really picture everything immensely well: I kept anticipating certain rooms and places, and was constantly revisiting my pictures from my trip! This book really immersed me in depth with the life of Sisi and felt consistent with the nonfiction accounts I’ve read and experienced of her.

This is a great read for anyone who likes real-life princess stories, Austrian history, Hungarian history, 19th century politics, or historical intrigue.

My only complaint, which is why I would really rate this book a 3.5 than a 4, is that there are many errors and repeated thoughts in close succession, and other moments where it felt like certain characters weren’t introduced or dismissed properly. Sophie’s position dramatically changed with little explanation, Countess Esterhazy as well. And newer characters from the second half of the book really took over. I think an editor and a restructuring could improve this book immensely, the bones for it are there!

[Carrie Westmoreland Kurtz · Rating 4 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed this book! I have come to love historical fictions and was so excited to read this one. I don't think I have read anything about the Austrian Royal family before so this was extremely interesting to me. Reading this has made me want to learn more about them!

I loved Sisi and my heart acjed for her lost childhood and innocence. I can't imagine being thrust into such a position after living a wonderful, carefree life. And, being a mother myself, my heart was broken when reading about the different situations with her children (trying not to give spoilers here).

I do have to say, I would love to here more about Sisi's sister, Helene (Nené). To learn her thoughts and feelings about not being chosen and how her life was after going back home. Maybe I'm alone in thinking this, but I think it would make a great story.

Another thing that I would love is for there to be a sequel! I want more! More about the next years of Sisi's life. More about her relationship with Franz, her mother-in-law, and her children. I just really want more!

In a Gilded Cage was a great book and I am thankful to have been given the chance to read and review it!

*Note: I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.

[Fred Fanning · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a good book with strong characters.

[gj indieBRAG · Rating 5 out of 5]

We are proud to announce that IN A GILDED CAGE by Susan Appleyard is a B.R.A.G.Medallion Honoree. This tells a reader that this book is well worth their time and money!

[Tony Parsons · Rating 5 out of 5]

Timeline: 1853-1867
Lake Starnberg, Bavaria. Princess Elisabeth “Sisi” Amalie Eugenie (15, daughter, Duchess of Bavaria) enjoyed her royal carefree lifestyle roaming the hills with Bummerl (dog).
Duke Maximilian Josef (Bavaria, Sisi’s father), & Duchess Ludovika “Mimi” (Bavaria, Maximilian’s Sisi’s mother) were the parents.

The siblings are: Ludwig “Louis” Wilhelm (Sisi’s brother), Princess Helene “Nené” (Thurn/Taxis,
Sisi’s sister), Karl Theodor “Gackel” (Sisi’s brother), Queen Marie Sophie “Madi” (2 Sicily’s, Sisi’s sister), & Countess Mathilde Ludovika “Spatz” (Trani, Sisi’s sister).
The family were having a dinner to celebrate the Emperor Franz Josef (Austria) 23rd. birthday. Alexander Bach (minister of justice) & Count Ferdinand Buol-Schauenstein foreign minister) & many other family members & dignitaries were in attendance.
Fast-forward Cardinal Rauscher would preside over the wedding ceremony of Emperor Franz Josef & Empress Elisabeth “Sisi”.
The honeymoon in Laxenburg was over.
Politics, countries upheaval, & war were the topics of governmental discussion.
What news did Dr. Seeburger have for the couple?
Later; the Feast of St. Stephen was on the agenda & then on to cathedral for Mass.
4/1855, the baby was crying, Sophie had a girl.
Baroness von Welden was in charge of the nursery staff.

How will all the aristocrat’s lives turn out?
Kings/Queens, foreign politics, war, & romance all rolled in to 1.

I did not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing this book. While I receive free books from publishers & authors, I am under no obligation to write a positive review. Only an honest one.

A very awesome book cover, great font & writing style. Wow, a very well written Bavarian 19th. Century historical fiction book. It was very easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a huge set of unique characters to keep track of. This could also make another great Bavarian 19th. Century movie, or better yet a mini TV series. A very easy rating of 5 stars.

Thank you for the free Goodreads; MakingConnections; Author; Amazon Digital Services LLC; book
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)

[Jean Roberts · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reviewers note: I was given a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. If you are interested in seeing more about this book, click on the cover above and it will take you to its Amazon page.

PLOT: In A Gilded Cage is the story of Elizabeth, known affectionately as Sisi, born in 1837 into the royal Bavaria House of Wittelsbach. Raised in a family with a forward thinking father and a reluctantly indulgent mother, Sisi has a delightfully unconventional childhood. At the age of 16 she travels with her older sister who their mother hopes will catch the eye of their cousin, Franz Joseph, Emperor of Austria. To her surprise, it is Sisi who wins the heart and hand of the most powerful monarch in Europe. But, Sisi, is unprepared for the strict environment of the Hapsburg court, where every move and word is analyzed and one misstep can bring unhappy consequences.

CHARACTERS: Elizabeth is a complicated character and Appleyard does a good job of bringing her to life. From petulant child-bride to a woman fighting for her place in the world we follow the evolution of Elizabeth as she comes into her own as Empress of Austria and Queen of Hungary. Her battles with her controlling mother-in-law and her dedicated but emotionally detached husband pull the reader into her world. Despite being one of the most admired and talked about women of her age, her life is miserable and those of us along for the ride feel pity for the woman she becomes.

HISTORY: Meticulously researched, the waning days of the Hapsburgs and the Austro-Hungarian empire spring from the pages of this book. From the stiff court manners. the exhausting schedule of balls and social events to the daily routine of dressing, we become intimately acquainted with her world. I enjoyed the political/military history of the region as well, especially the description of the Hungarian fight for autonomy.

WRITING: The writing is good, the pace is steady. I was never bored and found myself surprised that I had reached the end of the novel. Some of the themes are a bit repetitive but did not distract me from enjoying the book.

CONCLUSION: Although a work of fiction, this is a serious look at the life of Elizabeth, Empress of Austria. I would recommend it to anyone who enjoys historical fiction, biographies, and royalty.

I rate this book 4 1/2 Stars!

[Billy Buttons · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was entered in the 2016 Wishing Shelf Book Awards. This is what our readers thought:

Title: In A Gilded Cage
Author: Susan Appleyard
Star Rating: 5 Stars
Number of Readers: 18
Stats
Editing: 9/10
Writing Style: 9/10
Content: 10/10
Cover: 9/10
Of the 18 readers:
18 would read another book by this author.
17 thought the cover was good or excellent.
18 felt it was easy to follow.
18 would recommend this story to another reader to try.
6 felt the author’s strongest skill was ‘plotting a story’.
12 felt the author’s strongest skill was ‘developing the characters’.
17 felt the pacing was good or excellent.
18 thought the author understood the readership and what they wanted.

Readers’ Comments
‘A well presented, thoroughly fascinating historical novel. Vividly written, almost biographical in nature, I enjoyed it very much.’ Female reader, aged 42
‘This book seems to show that this woman was far more than just a pretty face.’ Male reader, aged 28
‘Good book this. Loved the cover and the blurb enticed me to read it. Very easy to read and follow. The setting is described well as is the court life and how difficult it is for the central character to fit in there. Ends rather suddenly setting it up for book two. I will hunt it out.’ Female reader, aged 65
‘Entertaining read. This is not an overly detailed historical novel which helps to keep it light reading. She works competently with characters.’ Male reader, aged 36

‘A fascinating historical saga. A FINALIST and highly recommended.’ The Wishing Shelf Book Awards

[Mary Jo Krile · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really appreciated this book! For like the first time ever, a fictional novel has focused on Sisi as an actual person. So many times, authors get stuck on Sisi’s obsession with her beauty and the fact that many claim she was “eccentric” and “mentally unstable.” This book actually focused more on Sisi’s humanitarian works and desire to help Franz rule his empire (rather than the role given to her of just being a beautiful arm accessory). It was refreshing and allowed the readers to see the real side of Sisi. The kind, caring, and brave person that she really was. I also appreciated the author’s word choices. The book was clearly very well researched.

The one thing that did bother me was the author’s switching of point of views. Much of the book focuses on Sisi and her perspective. But there are randomly a few chapters that switch to Sophie, Franz, or Ludovika telling the story. I appreciated it and it was a nice attempt, but a bit confusing when the point of view changed so quickly. It left me thinking, “wait!!! Who is saying this? Surely this wasn’t Sisi.”

Otherwise, the book was very good! I highly recommend it and hope that the author thinks about writing a book about Sisi post her Hungary coronation. I would love to read her point of view as she raises Marie Valerie on her own and survives grieving her son’s suicide.

[Elaine Milks · Rating 5 out of 5]

In a Gilded Cage by Susan Appleyard 5 stars
A historical romance about the Austrian Royalty in the 1800's. The customs of the times in Austria were difficult for young women. Arranged marriages, little or no independence. Women everywhere had difficult lives and very little power over their circumstances, but there were ways for an intelligent independent female to get her way. A very interesting view of the lives of women who influenced history. Enjoyable read for all.

[ChillwithabookAWARD With · Rating 5 out of 5]

In A Gilded Cage has received a Chill With a Book Readers' Premier Award.
www.chillwithabook.com

This is a well-written story with excellent descriptions and insight. It reads so colourfully that I kept forgetting I was reading a biography; the characters really come to life.
Pauline Barclay - Founder of Chill Awards

[Amy Devins · Rating 5 out of 5]

An excellent fictionalized but informative account of a complex and incredible woman! I like that this book was a mix of fiction but also historical explanations. The author did a great job of making the reader feel as if they were feeling what Sisi was feeling, seeing what she was seeing, etc. A very enjoyable story.

[Emily Johnson · Rating 4 out of 5]

At 16 Sisi was chosen to marry the Emperor of the great Hapsburg empire. Sisi was a shy, sensitive girl who loved nature and fantasy, all of which would make her life as the Empress nearly unbearable. I felt bad for Sisi, even as I enjoyed the feeling of living vicariously through her in the twilight of the empire. The biography is told as a story, with equal insight into Sisi's private thoughts, her relationship with the man who became her husband, and the political turmoil of Europe at the time. A fun way to get a glimpse of this era in European history and a good preparation for travel to Vienna, Budapest or Bavaria.

[Lori Putz · Rating 4 out of 5]

Interesting woman

It is fascinating to see how noble women, basically sold into marriage, decide to find a way to still be fulfilled. However, it is sad to see the chains.

[Robin · Rating 2 out of 5]

Just Okay

I have read much better historical fiction about SiSi than this. Not only was it historically inaccurate, the writing wasn't I great.