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Blessed Charles of Austria: A Holy Emperor and His Legacy
October 3, 2004 saw what appeared to many to be a very strange Emperor-King Charles of Austria-Hungary, last Habsburg to rule in Central Europe and wartime foe of the United States, was raised to the altars of the Church as a Blessed by St. John Paul II. But odd as this appeared, the real story of the “Peace Emperor” and his just as remarkable wife reads like a combination of a suspense thriller, Greek tragedy, and hagiography. The inheritor of a tradition of Catholic monarchy dating back to the Roman Empire, Bl. Charles struggled to update it sufficiently to survive in the modern world. A brave soldier coming to the throne during a war whose start he had no part in, he risked everything to bring the bloody conflict to an end. Betrayed on all sides by allies, enemies, and subjects, his deep devotion to the Blessed Sacrament, the Sacred Heart, and the Virgin Mary helped him to avoid hating those who wronged him. Devoted to his wife and children, Charles succeeded, with the help of his loving Empress, in leading a good Catholic family life despite everything. In a life filled with signs and miracles before and after his death, Bl. Charles managed to combine a life of deep piety with intense practicality. After his death, his wife and children continued his work—her cause for beatification is now being considered.
In these pages, prolific Catholic author Charles Coulombe brings to bear his vast erudition, affection for Catholic monarchy, and assorted contacts close to the Hapsburg family, through his residence in Austria in the production of a biography of a man whose thrilling and event-filled life story deserves to be better known.
In these pages, prolific Catholic author Charles Coulombe brings to bear his vast erudition, affection for Catholic monarchy, and assorted contacts close to the Hapsburg family, through his residence in Austria in the production of a biography of a man whose thrilling and event-filled life story deserves to be better known.
268 pages, Hardcover
Published September 23, 2020
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308 people want to read
About the author
Charles A. Coulombe
24 books78 followersRoy-Charles A. Coulombe is an American Catholic author, historian, and lecturer. Coulombe is known for his advocacy of monarchism.
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
June 27, 2021
Wow, what a beautiful life. What a beautiful man. What a beautiful marriage.
Charles and Zita, you are my new favorite saints. (And I know neither of you is technically canonized yet, but...you will be. You will be.)
This biography is very broad of scope! It starts with several chapters explaining the concepts of Catholic empire and monarchy, complete with royal family trees that made my head spin (but would probably be helpful for a more thoughtful and detail-oriented reader than I). Nor does it end at Charles' death, but devotes the last several chapters to what happened (and continues to happen) to his family and nation(s) after he died.
There were typos here and there, but overall this is a good book. I recommend it in particular to those who are already interested in Charles and want to know more....although I warn you it'll just whet your curiosity further. ;)
Charles and Zita, you are my new favorite saints. (And I know neither of you is technically canonized yet, but...you will be. You will be.)
This biography is very broad of scope! It starts with several chapters explaining the concepts of Catholic empire and monarchy, complete with royal family trees that made my head spin (but would probably be helpful for a more thoughtful and detail-oriented reader than I). Nor does it end at Charles' death, but devotes the last several chapters to what happened (and continues to happen) to his family and nation(s) after he died.
There were typos here and there, but overall this is a good book. I recommend it in particular to those who are already interested in Charles and want to know more....although I warn you it'll just whet your curiosity further. ;)
December 31, 2020
I had very superficial knowledge concerning Charles and Zita before reading this.
Now being better informed, I find this a super fascinating story. A tragedy in an earthy sense, but an amazing one detailing his faith, virtues, and the striving for peace. The ideals he strived for. I am very glad to know more about him and his wife.
As a biography, there are plenty of interesting details and even the fulfillment of a prophecy concerning him. Some parts read more like a novel and really shows that mostly truth is stranger than fiction.
Now being better informed, I find this a super fascinating story. A tragedy in an earthy sense, but an amazing one detailing his faith, virtues, and the striving for peace. The ideals he strived for. I am very glad to know more about him and his wife.
As a biography, there are plenty of interesting details and even the fulfillment of a prophecy concerning him. Some parts read more like a novel and really shows that mostly truth is stranger than fiction.
February 16, 2025
What a book! Definitely recommended!
I read this for a religion class project where we had to read a saint biography book, contemplating on the universal call to holiness. I had always wanted to know more about Bl. Karl and it was a perfect opportunity.
After finishing the book, I now know that Bl Karl of Austria is one of the most complete models of sainthood for any lay person to follow. He excelled in holiness in all aspects of his life: his duty as a monarch, his chivalry as a soldier, his piety as a Christian, his love for his wife and his children, and his self-sacrificing actions for the sake of his people and his family. Although he is not canonized yet, Bl Karl is definitely one of the greatest saints of the 20th century, and not only as a model of holiness in all areas of life, but also what he fought for and represented in this changing world we live in. After reading this book, I know that he is a saint whom I will always have a special relationship with and I am considering joining the Gebetsliga.
ON THE BOOK ITSELF: the book is wonderfully divided into three main sections: a background explanation of the ideals of Christian empire and Catholic monarchy that Karl and Zita’s families had been taught for over 1000 years, followed by the actual biography until his dry martyrdom, finishing with a last explanation of the legacy of Bl Karl, the work of his widow and his children in Europe after his death, the miracles attributed to him, and finally a reflection on his sanctity. Very well organized! It also has a handful of very beautiful images and photographs of Bl Karl and his family!
My only problem with the book was that the author sometimes uses awkward syntax that makes you have to pause to understand what was being told (although maybe that is just me and I don’t read enough books), and finally, it may be difficult for someone who doesn’t know much European history or geography to understand much of the political and spiritual themes of the book.
I read this for a religion class project where we had to read a saint biography book, contemplating on the universal call to holiness. I had always wanted to know more about Bl. Karl and it was a perfect opportunity.
After finishing the book, I now know that Bl Karl of Austria is one of the most complete models of sainthood for any lay person to follow. He excelled in holiness in all aspects of his life: his duty as a monarch, his chivalry as a soldier, his piety as a Christian, his love for his wife and his children, and his self-sacrificing actions for the sake of his people and his family. Although he is not canonized yet, Bl Karl is definitely one of the greatest saints of the 20th century, and not only as a model of holiness in all areas of life, but also what he fought for and represented in this changing world we live in. After reading this book, I know that he is a saint whom I will always have a special relationship with and I am considering joining the Gebetsliga.
ON THE BOOK ITSELF: the book is wonderfully divided into three main sections: a background explanation of the ideals of Christian empire and Catholic monarchy that Karl and Zita’s families had been taught for over 1000 years, followed by the actual biography until his dry martyrdom, finishing with a last explanation of the legacy of Bl Karl, the work of his widow and his children in Europe after his death, the miracles attributed to him, and finally a reflection on his sanctity. Very well organized! It also has a handful of very beautiful images and photographs of Bl Karl and his family!
My only problem with the book was that the author sometimes uses awkward syntax that makes you have to pause to understand what was being told (although maybe that is just me and I don’t read enough books), and finally, it may be difficult for someone who doesn’t know much European history or geography to understand much of the political and spiritual themes of the book.
July 8, 2023
I wasn’t sure what to expect with this book. Overall, I enjoyed it for what it was. A Roman Catholic hagiography.
This book is equal parts historical non-fiction, Catholic empire dream casting, and religious fanaticism.
The historical non-fiction is probably the best part of this book. It’s a well documented and detailed account of the last decades of the Habsburg empire. As a WW1 and Habsburg history nut, I found that the most engaging.
The Catholic empire dream casting was the most tedious portion. The author waffles between blaming Protestants, communists, and a whole host of foes (including 2 American presidents) for the “unjust crucifixion of a holy monarch.” His utter devotion to the Habsburg house and family is at times endearing and at other times bizarrely overstated. He makes some interesting analysis in the beginning chapters about the point and purpose of Christian monarchs. Those were his most compelling arguments in my opinion.
The religious fanaticism and Roman catholic ‘cult of saints’ was a portion of the book, weirdly it’s smallest part, that I found interesting but almost unrelated to the purpose of the book. As a Lutheran, this was obviously challenging to comprehend.
I might recommend this book to a person who is interested in Habsburg history. Or the theory of Christian monarchy and its place in society.
Overall, I enjoyed this read.
This book is equal parts historical non-fiction, Catholic empire dream casting, and religious fanaticism.
The historical non-fiction is probably the best part of this book. It’s a well documented and detailed account of the last decades of the Habsburg empire. As a WW1 and Habsburg history nut, I found that the most engaging.
The Catholic empire dream casting was the most tedious portion. The author waffles between blaming Protestants, communists, and a whole host of foes (including 2 American presidents) for the “unjust crucifixion of a holy monarch.” His utter devotion to the Habsburg house and family is at times endearing and at other times bizarrely overstated. He makes some interesting analysis in the beginning chapters about the point and purpose of Christian monarchs. Those were his most compelling arguments in my opinion.
The religious fanaticism and Roman catholic ‘cult of saints’ was a portion of the book, weirdly it’s smallest part, that I found interesting but almost unrelated to the purpose of the book. As a Lutheran, this was obviously challenging to comprehend.
I might recommend this book to a person who is interested in Habsburg history. Or the theory of Christian monarchy and its place in society.
Overall, I enjoyed this read.
May 11, 2022
The tale of a martyr who, like Christ, was betrayed and crucified for doing his duty. A must read for Catholics interested in political history.
November 4, 2020
Marvelously written book about my favourite Saint by someone who really knows how to connect the historical, cultural and religious dots in this epic drama of a biography. I especially like how well structured it is, in three parts: 1) The Inheritance, where the reader learns all the prerequisites for this story, 2) the Imperial Lives in Tandem, which tells the dramatic story of one (or two?) Saints' lives amidst the total collapse of everything Good, True and Beautiful on the Old Continent, and 3) The Legacy, how all this impacts today's world and our everyday lives.
August 6, 2021
A great man to emulate but a very depressing story in all honesty. Seems strange that only a hundred years ago my ancestors would have been living in under his rule.
April 14, 2021
This book is one of the most important books of 2020. As the 100 years anniversary of Blessed Charles's death is approaching, it brings more attention to the Sainthood, Monarchy, Masculinity, that are all connected to the bearer not only of the Crowns of Hungary and Austria, but now a heavenly crown as a Blessed and hopefully soon as Saint. It also sparks a devotion towards a great Blessed, and along brings a hope towards reunification of Slovakia with Hungary (for those who would like to hope for it), reestablishment of the monarchies and Hapsburgs' rule (as opposed to reign only), but also to reestablishment with the help of Blessed Kaiser Karl of the "Traditional lain mass" as the norm of the Roman Catholic Church, which the Blessed Charles was himself part of and the Traditional mass being the only Roman rite mass that this exceptional figure knew.
And so not only loaded with historical content that sometimes gives the reader an impulse to fill the gaps of one's historical knowledge, but also sparking devotion and hope that with the help of intercession of the Blessed Charles, the return to Throne and the Altar is possible or maybe even probable.
And so not only loaded with historical content that sometimes gives the reader an impulse to fill the gaps of one's historical knowledge, but also sparking devotion and hope that with the help of intercession of the Blessed Charles, the return to Throne and the Altar is possible or maybe even probable.
September 10, 2021
Hagiography of a Decent, Tragic Emperor
I am interested in the Habsburgs and their Empire. The title of this book alerted me to what I may find in it but I bought it anyway. It turned out that I was right to be alerted. It is a propaganda piece for first, Roman Catholicism and secondly Kaiser Karl. Protestants are “heretics” according to the author, who is at least honest about it. The RCC itself is sometimes more lily livered nowadays (we are just “separated brethren” etc). The more the author goes on about Karl and Zita’s deep faith and attachment to the RCC and the Sacred Heart (and other such mumbo jumbo) I cannot fail to be struck by the extreme irony that Karl’s beloved church in Austria and Hungary simply abandoned him. This was that church’s gratitude to centuries of persecution of Protestants in Mitteleuropa by the Habsburgs. Karl’s extreme devotion to outlandish (to Protestants) RCC devotional practices e.g. the Sacred Heart again, did not come to his aid nor did it restore him or his descendants to the throne. Maybe this was God’s
judgement on the Habsburgs. Don’t get me wrong, the secular supposed friends of the monarchy betrayed him too, shamefully. For all its unbridled propaganda for the RCC I did enjoy the historical parts of the book. Karl was a decent Emperor who was dealt a bad hand and was, in the end, betrayed by those who fawned all over him to his face and dropped him like the proverbial ton of doo doo when the going got tough. At least he and his family were spared the fate of the Romanovs. I think it is about time he was brought back to Vienna to lie in the Kaisergruft. “put not your trust in princes nor men, for in them you shall find no salvation”.
I am interested in the Habsburgs and their Empire. The title of this book alerted me to what I may find in it but I bought it anyway. It turned out that I was right to be alerted. It is a propaganda piece for first, Roman Catholicism and secondly Kaiser Karl. Protestants are “heretics” according to the author, who is at least honest about it. The RCC itself is sometimes more lily livered nowadays (we are just “separated brethren” etc). The more the author goes on about Karl and Zita’s deep faith and attachment to the RCC and the Sacred Heart (and other such mumbo jumbo) I cannot fail to be struck by the extreme irony that Karl’s beloved church in Austria and Hungary simply abandoned him. This was that church’s gratitude to centuries of persecution of Protestants in Mitteleuropa by the Habsburgs. Karl’s extreme devotion to outlandish (to Protestants) RCC devotional practices e.g. the Sacred Heart again, did not come to his aid nor did it restore him or his descendants to the throne. Maybe this was God’s
judgement on the Habsburgs. Don’t get me wrong, the secular supposed friends of the monarchy betrayed him too, shamefully. For all its unbridled propaganda for the RCC I did enjoy the historical parts of the book. Karl was a decent Emperor who was dealt a bad hand and was, in the end, betrayed by those who fawned all over him to his face and dropped him like the proverbial ton of doo doo when the going got tough. At least he and his family were spared the fate of the Romanovs. I think it is about time he was brought back to Vienna to lie in the Kaisergruft. “put not your trust in princes nor men, for in them you shall find no salvation”.
September 16, 2024
Charles Coulombe has done a good job at presenting the life and the historical background of this holy emperor, the last to have had a profound understanding of his royal mission. It seems a paradoxical statement, but Blessed Karl is in every respect, except in his crown, an exemplary saint for the ordinary men. From his life we learn how to be a leader who genuinely loves those entrusted to his care; how to be a soldier who fulfils his duties or dies trying; how to be a husband and a father who, despite being a wartime emperor, prioritises his family; and how to be a peacemaker and a defender of justice. Above all of these, the most precious witness is his unwavering faith in every defeat and betrayal suffered, and the forgiveness he extended to his bitterest enemies. Truly, his is a yoke that demands his entire heart and soul, but he gave yet more - not, however, from his own power, rather this incredible strength of will springs forth from his devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. Such is what true kingship is: sacrifice of self for the good of his people. In this sense, and insofar as every Christian participates in the kingship of Christ, it may be said that to be a saint, one must first be a king.
May 13, 2025
This is definitely an excellent summary of Blessed Charles and his position in World War I. Coulombe’s perspective is heavily influenced by his love for Catholicism, Europe, the Habsburgs, and everything in between. This edition of the book is very high quality, featuring beautiful pictures of Blessed Charles and the imperial family. Chapters were often opened with excerpts from various liturgical prayers, Tolkien, et cetera, making for a faith-filled telling of the tragic tale of Blessed Charles. If you are not yet familiar with Charles’ story, I would highly recommend this, as the tragedy of the imperial family very much reminds us of the tragedy we’ve seen in our culture, homes, and countries. Charles shares the sufferings of the Church assailed by secularism and materialism, and is truly a role model of faithful, Christian leadership.
November 13, 2020
This is an outstanding primer for those wanting to learn more about Blessed Charles. It is written on several levels, so it is appealing to a wide variety of audiences: those looking to read a biography of a prominent figure of the First World War, those with an interest in the Hapsburg dynasty, and those with a devotion to Blessed Charles who seek to learn by his holy example. Regardless of the reader's motivation for picking up this book, he will come away truly inspired by a figure who, while not always successful by the world's standards, always strove to do what he believed was good for his people. In an era when the public and private lives of so many leaders leave much to be desired, it is good to remember that there have been times when among them were actual saints.
December 6, 2020
Great Book on the Last Habsburg Emperor and Modern Eastern Europe
Coulombe does an excellent job of detailing the life and times of Bl. Charles I of Austria. This is part hagiography and part biography. One sees how Bl. Charles excelled as both emperor and saint. Even if his political efforts did not meet with the success he hoped for, Charles performed his duty up until his early death in exile at the age of 34.
I highly recommend this book for Americans especially. We know very little about the history and culture of Eastern Europe. This book fills a big gap most of us have in this regard. Very well written and researched.
Coulombe does an excellent job of detailing the life and times of Bl. Charles I of Austria. This is part hagiography and part biography. One sees how Bl. Charles excelled as both emperor and saint. Even if his political efforts did not meet with the success he hoped for, Charles performed his duty up until his early death in exile at the age of 34.
I highly recommend this book for Americans especially. We know very little about the history and culture of Eastern Europe. This book fills a big gap most of us have in this regard. Very well written and researched.
August 21, 2021
A very well documented account of the life and legacy of the last king of Austria-Hungry. His faithfulness to his God, his wife and his people make him a tremendous role model.
The first chapter traces the politics of Europe through the ages and the second chapter traces royal lineages. Both chapters are excellent.
They also trace the importance of kingly annointance to the monarchy.
I was not so enthralled with the final section of the book titled Legacy. This book helped me to understand Austria's roke in Europe and in the world wards. It also brought to light the ridiculous reasons for the beginning of WWI.
Overall, a worthwhile read.
The first chapter traces the politics of Europe through the ages and the second chapter traces royal lineages. Both chapters are excellent.
They also trace the importance of kingly annointance to the monarchy.
I was not so enthralled with the final section of the book titled Legacy. This book helped me to understand Austria's roke in Europe and in the world wards. It also brought to light the ridiculous reasons for the beginning of WWI.
Overall, a worthwhile read.
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June 24, 2025Great guy, a very historical and dry read-I found myself wishing for more about the man personally. Definitely a new holy friend, with a bright faith despite his circumstances. Loved how he was a stalwart soldier who worked for peace!
“In their piety, bravery, and good cheer, they seem like figured out of the stories of King Arthur and Charlemagne…But they are not…” 9
“I am spared nothing.” 57 Franz Joseph 😭
"I am an officer with all my body and soul. But I do not understand how anyone who sees his dearest relations leaving for the front can love war." 60
“The Sacred Heart of Jesus will help!” 104
“We will meet again in the Heart of Jesus!” 151
“In their piety, bravery, and good cheer, they seem like figured out of the stories of King Arthur and Charlemagne…But they are not…” 9
“I am spared nothing.” 57 Franz Joseph 😭
"I am an officer with all my body and soul. But I do not understand how anyone who sees his dearest relations leaving for the front can love war." 60
“The Sacred Heart of Jesus will help!” 104
“We will meet again in the Heart of Jesus!” 151
June 14, 2021
I purchased this book because of the fact that I read beforehand the first chapter, which develops the concept of Christian empire. It’s excellent and I’ll probably go back to it. But it’s likely the best part of the book. I was hoping for more about his personal and marital life and wasn’t terribly satisfied. What I did find in the book was a lot of historical and local context of his life, at times presented in a tedious fashion.
I suppose the book to look for one by the postulator of his cause of canonization—if this is ever (or has been?) written.
I suppose the book to look for one by the postulator of his cause of canonization—if this is ever (or has been?) written.
March 4, 2021
This is a solid book, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I hope it will do great wonders for continuing to spread devotion to Blessed Karl. It has quite a view grammatical errors where entire words seem to have been left out or a sentence just doesn’t flow (at times, it felt as though no one proofread or edited it), however Coulombe’s writing is very compelling and does Blessed Karl and Empress Zita great honor.
August 24, 2021
Simply a wonderful book about a wonderful emperor, father, and husband. Very few leaders today can claim to be saintly.
This book is very very easy to read! Mr Coulombe is full of wit, humor, and knowledge it makes you feel like talking to that one family member who tells the best stories.
Deo Gratias
This book is very very easy to read! Mr Coulombe is full of wit, humor, and knowledge it makes you feel like talking to that one family member who tells the best stories.
Deo Gratias
August 9, 2021
Truly A Holy Emperor
I was truly astounded with the ability of Emperor Charles to forgive his enemies. As a Catholic, it made me realize how much work I still have in my pursuit of holiness.
I was truly astounded with the ability of Emperor Charles to forgive his enemies. As a Catholic, it made me realize how much work I still have in my pursuit of holiness.
October 19, 2020
Another masterful book by Sir Charles Coulombe. Blessed Charles and Empress Zita Ora pro nobis
December 19, 2020
Riveting
This book has helped me understand better my devotion to Blessed Charles von Hapsburg the last Emperor of the Austria Hungarian Empire
This book has helped me understand better my devotion to Blessed Charles von Hapsburg the last Emperor of the Austria Hungarian Empire
December 11, 2021
Indeed, a holy emperor.
A powerful review of the life and times of Blessed Emperor Charles. In of own lives, we should seek to emulate him. Well written.
A powerful review of the life and times of Blessed Emperor Charles. In of own lives, we should seek to emulate him. Well written.
March 4, 2025
A new look at history, especially for American readers. A must-read for anyone interested in the influence of the Habsburg dynasty.
September 27, 2023
I was introduced to Blessed Karl (Charles) a few years ago. When I saw this volume about his life and death, I wanted to read it to get more in depth knowledge of him. What I discovered is that he was one of the last great Catholic monarchs. I am awed by both him and his lovely wife. They are an inspiration on how to live a very Catholic and family life. Born into luxury and dying in poverty dependent upon others. Still they both faced whatever life gave them with a joy that only a strong belief in God can provide. They are heroes and everyone should read their life story.
October 17, 2024
Excellent biography of this great Catholic monarch; the author also gives a fantastic overview of the Catholic view of, and history of, monarchy. He also covers Charles' legacy and the spread of devotion to both Charles and his wife. As a minor criticism, the author referred to John Paul II as "saint" several times (see the book Doubts about a Beatification).
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews