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The book picks up where "The Accidental Empress, "left off yet also stands completely on its own. SISI focuses on the story behind of one of history’s most fascinating—and yet, relatively unknown—leading ladies, Empress Elisabeth (“Sisi”) of mid-19th century Austria-Hungary. According to Pataki who grew up in Peekskill and Philipstown, Sisi was recognized as the “most beautiful woman in the world,” but it was her wit, intelligence, charisma, and fight to save her empire that made her a legend in her own time.
Pataki, the daughter of former New York State governor George E. Pataki, likens her to being the "Princess Diana of her time." "Sisi was politically savvy, embraced progressive ideals, was a mother of four and the wife of the world’s most powerful emperor, Franz Joseph, whom she unintentionally stole away from her sister, making her reign anything but simple," she said.
For Pataki, who now lives in Chicago, IL, there’s a very personal connection to this time period: her family history traces back to the very empire she depicts. She said she became intrigued with Sisi when, while traveling through Austria, Hungary, and the Czech Republic, she kept noticing images of the same beautiful woman everywhere—from gift shops and museums to hotel and restaurants. What started off as mere curiosity quickly became Pataki’s passion, and ultimately, the inspiration behind the novel.
She will be speaking at the Desmond Fish Library in Garrison, in partnership with the Mohegan Lake Barnes & Noble, on Friday, May 20.
Go to www.allisonpataki.com/ for more information.
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