The Empress

THE DAZZLING LOVE STORY BEHIND THE EPIC NETFLIX SERIES The Empress is a dazzling reimagining of the courtship between one of history's most iconic and beloved couples: Sisi and Franz of Austria. The year is 1853, and sixteen-year-old Elisabeth 'Sisi' of Bavaria has been very clear: she will wait for the sweeping, head-over-heels kind of love the poets speak of, or she will have no love at all. It is not her fault Mother refuses to listen. After all, just because her older sister Helene has chosen the line of duty, and is preparing to marry Emperor Franz of Austria, does not mean Sisi also needs to subject herself to such a passionless, regimented existence. Sisi knows there is more to life than corsets, luncheons, and woefully unfashionable dukes ... if only someone would give her the chance to experience it firsthand. Meanwhile, in Austria, the Emperor is recovering from an assassination attempt that left him wounded and scared. In a bid to keep the peace, Franz has recommitted himself to his imperial duties-and promised to romance the pliant Bavarian princess, Helene, at his upcoming birthday celebration. How better to unite the country than with the announcement of a new Empress? But when Sisi and Franz meet unexpectedly in the palace gardens, away from the prying eyes and relentless critique of their families, their connection cannot be denied. And as their illicit conversations turn into something more, they must soon choose between the expectations of the court, and the burning desires of their hearts... Epic, captivating, and deliciously steamy, The Empress is a remarkably contemporary tale of falling in love and finding one's voice. FOR FANS OF THE CROWN, A VERY BRITISH SCANDAL AND BRIDGERTON RAVE READER REVIEWS ????? 'Wow read in one sitting really gripping and so well written. Really enjoyable read totally recommend' - Netgalley reviewer ???? 'A fast-paced, witty romance with likeable characters. It reads like The Handmaiden meets The Great with similar plot points of Bridgerton ... fun and playful' - Netgalley reviewer ???? 'This is a fun and playful historical read with plenty of spice. I really liked the writing and the characters and after reading this I am excited for the series' - Netgalley reviewer ???? 'A romantic, light story ... Gigi Griffis delivers an easy-to-read romance ... The more modern tone and manner in fact lend to the book's digestibility ... an enjoyable read' - Netgalley reviewer

Gigi Griffis writes feminist historical fiction often featuring little-known histories and unruly female characters. She lives in Europe with an opinionated Yorkie mix named Luna, and spends her free time hiking the Alps, cycling around small villages, and eating as much French food as she can get her hands on. The Empress is Gigi's adult novel debut.