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The Secret Diary of a Princess: a novel of Marie Antoinette
The dramatic and often tragic years of Marie Antoinette’s early life, told in her own words. This book follows her privileged childhood and adolescence in the beautiful palaces of Vienna as the youngest and least important of the daughters of the all powerful Empress Maria Theresa of Austria and invites the reader to share the long journey, both emotional and physical that ended with her marriage to the Dauphin Louis of France at Versailles.
This is the unforgettable story of a charming, fun loving and frivolous young girl, destined for greatness, coming to age in one of the most magnificent and opulent courts that the world has ever seen.
'As soon as the introductions were over, the King took my hand and led me to the Dauphin, who I had barely noticed since entering the room. He seemed to be trying his best to hide from view and looked uncomfortable and ill at ease in his suit of white satin, sewn all over with diamonds and gold embroidery and I noticed with irritation that he was scratching at his neck underneath the fine white linen of his shirt collar, leaving red scratch marks beneath his powdered wig.
‘Are you ready?’ the King asked as he gave my hand to the Dauphin. ‘All of Versailles awaits you.’
I nodded, feeling the Dauphin’s hand grow hot and clammy against my own. ‘I am ready.’
This is the unforgettable story of a charming, fun loving and frivolous young girl, destined for greatness, coming to age in one of the most magnificent and opulent courts that the world has ever seen.
'As soon as the introductions were over, the King took my hand and led me to the Dauphin, who I had barely noticed since entering the room. He seemed to be trying his best to hide from view and looked uncomfortable and ill at ease in his suit of white satin, sewn all over with diamonds and gold embroidery and I noticed with irritation that he was scratching at his neck underneath the fine white linen of his shirt collar, leaving red scratch marks beneath his powdered wig.
‘Are you ready?’ the King asked as he gave my hand to the Dauphin. ‘All of Versailles awaits you.’
I nodded, feeling the Dauphin’s hand grow hot and clammy against my own. ‘I am ready.’
Nook
First published January 1, 2010
71 people are currently reading
674 people want to read
About the author
Melanie Clegg
14 books311 followersInternational woman of history, biographer, posh doomer, chaotic good, anxious, ENFP, flame haired Robespierre, Scottish, a sweet titbit for the Devil's mouth.
To date, my published books include biographies of Marie de Guise, Henrietta Anne of England, Margaret Tudor and Empress Alexandra of Russia, all of which were published by Pen and Sword Books.
My next book, a biography of Madame Élisabeth, sister of Louis XVI, is due to be published by Pen and Sword Books in the summer of 2023.
After this, I am contracted to write about women guillotined during the French Revolution, Louis Antoine de Saint-Just, Marie Antoinette, Madame Royale, Louis XVI and the daughters of Louis XIV.
To date, my published books include biographies of Marie de Guise, Henrietta Anne of England, Margaret Tudor and Empress Alexandra of Russia, all of which were published by Pen and Sword Books.
My next book, a biography of Madame Élisabeth, sister of Louis XVI, is due to be published by Pen and Sword Books in the summer of 2023.
After this, I am contracted to write about women guillotined during the French Revolution, Louis Antoine de Saint-Just, Marie Antoinette, Madame Royale, Louis XVI and the daughters of Louis XIV.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
October 26, 2025
4.5 stars.
This is such an intriguing story about Marie Antoinette's early years, brilliantly capturing the complexities of her childhood and the events leading up to her marriage. The narrative begins when she is just a little girl and follows her through formative experiences that shape her character and future.
Honestly, I was taken aback by how much I ended up loving this book. I've always been captivated by Marie Antoinette, and reading about her life evokes a deep sense of compassion within me. It’s heartbreaking to think about her final year and the fate of her children after her death. She is undoubtedly one of my favorite queens, and I truly wish more people would take the time to research her life instead of believing the myths and rumors that have persisted through history.
This story poignantly illustrates how utterly unprepared she was to take on the role of queen. Understandably, her childhood seemed sheltered, given that she had several older sisters who were first in line. However, after a series of tragic deaths in her family, it became clear that she was to be sent to France, but no one equipped her for the monumental responsibilities that awaited her. As a mere child, she had no grasp of the turbulent political landscape in France or the growing dissatisfaction among its people toward their king.
Upon her arrival in France, it struck me how she was often treated as an object rather than a person, a reflection of the impersonal nature of political alliances. Although it was an arranged marriage and she was an outsider in a foreign land, she was still just a young girl, isolated and alone in an unfamiliar environment. I found it especially absurd that she was expected to renounce her Austrian heritage entirely—she wasn't even allowed to bring her beloved dog with her. If the French were so keen on having a native queen, they should have chosen a French woman to avoid the complications altogether.
The historical context complicates matters even further; the existing tension between France and Austria created a recipe for disaster. So much blame is unjustly placed on Marie Antoinette for France's failings, yet the country was already facing significant strife long before her arrival. Contrary to popular belief, she wasn’t even the most extravagant spender in the royal court. While her lavish lifestyle did contribute to the financial strain, she certainly didn't bear all of the blame.
Ultimately, it’s astonishing how little preparation was devoted to equipping both her and her husband to fulfill their roles as king and queen. Instead, a façade of a perfect France was maintained, blinding them to the harsh realities faced by the French populace until it was far too late to enact meaningful changes. While I do acknowledge that both Marie Antoinette and her husband made mistakes, they were severely undermined by aristocrats working against them, making it nearly impossible for them to succeed.
I realize that my reflections have turned into more of a passionate rant about my feelings towards her rather than a focused review of the book, and I apologize for that. I have strong feelings about Marie Antoinette. The book itself is well-researched, successfully bringing to life not only the vibrant atmosphere of Vienna but also the characters who surrounded her. I was moved to tears by the deaths of Marie Antoinette’s family members, and even though I knew those events were coming, the author skillfully evoked profound emotions.
That said, the narrative did have moments that felt a bit drawn out and could benefit from tightening up, but these are minor concerns compared to the overall impact of the story.
In conclusion, I highly recommend this book to anyone curious about Marie Antoinette's early years. It offers valuable insights into her life and the circumstances that shaped her.
This is such an intriguing story about Marie Antoinette's early years, brilliantly capturing the complexities of her childhood and the events leading up to her marriage. The narrative begins when she is just a little girl and follows her through formative experiences that shape her character and future.
Honestly, I was taken aback by how much I ended up loving this book. I've always been captivated by Marie Antoinette, and reading about her life evokes a deep sense of compassion within me. It’s heartbreaking to think about her final year and the fate of her children after her death. She is undoubtedly one of my favorite queens, and I truly wish more people would take the time to research her life instead of believing the myths and rumors that have persisted through history.
This story poignantly illustrates how utterly unprepared she was to take on the role of queen. Understandably, her childhood seemed sheltered, given that she had several older sisters who were first in line. However, after a series of tragic deaths in her family, it became clear that she was to be sent to France, but no one equipped her for the monumental responsibilities that awaited her. As a mere child, she had no grasp of the turbulent political landscape in France or the growing dissatisfaction among its people toward their king.
Upon her arrival in France, it struck me how she was often treated as an object rather than a person, a reflection of the impersonal nature of political alliances. Although it was an arranged marriage and she was an outsider in a foreign land, she was still just a young girl, isolated and alone in an unfamiliar environment. I found it especially absurd that she was expected to renounce her Austrian heritage entirely—she wasn't even allowed to bring her beloved dog with her. If the French were so keen on having a native queen, they should have chosen a French woman to avoid the complications altogether.
The historical context complicates matters even further; the existing tension between France and Austria created a recipe for disaster. So much blame is unjustly placed on Marie Antoinette for France's failings, yet the country was already facing significant strife long before her arrival. Contrary to popular belief, she wasn’t even the most extravagant spender in the royal court. While her lavish lifestyle did contribute to the financial strain, she certainly didn't bear all of the blame.
Ultimately, it’s astonishing how little preparation was devoted to equipping both her and her husband to fulfill their roles as king and queen. Instead, a façade of a perfect France was maintained, blinding them to the harsh realities faced by the French populace until it was far too late to enact meaningful changes. While I do acknowledge that both Marie Antoinette and her husband made mistakes, they were severely undermined by aristocrats working against them, making it nearly impossible for them to succeed.
I realize that my reflections have turned into more of a passionate rant about my feelings towards her rather than a focused review of the book, and I apologize for that. I have strong feelings about Marie Antoinette. The book itself is well-researched, successfully bringing to life not only the vibrant atmosphere of Vienna but also the characters who surrounded her. I was moved to tears by the deaths of Marie Antoinette’s family members, and even though I knew those events were coming, the author skillfully evoked profound emotions.
That said, the narrative did have moments that felt a bit drawn out and could benefit from tightening up, but these are minor concerns compared to the overall impact of the story.
In conclusion, I highly recommend this book to anyone curious about Marie Antoinette's early years. It offers valuable insights into her life and the circumstances that shaped her.
August 28, 2011
Before she was Marie Antoinette, she was Maria Antonia, daughter of Empress Maria Theresa of Austria and Emperor Francis I. As the title suggests, young Maria Antonia keeps a secret diary which gives the reader an intimate look at her thoughts, her family relationships and the daily life of an archduchess and the duties and responsibilities that go with it. I really liked Maria's voice and loved her impish sense of humor,
"Consequently, I did not learn very much today."
"It was I who put salt in the Countess Brandeis' hot chocolate. I am very sorry."
"It was I who put a grasshopper down the back of Countess Brandeis' dress during the concert. I am not sorry."
Princesses must grow up and marry where they are told, and the book continues through Maria Antonia's betrothal to the dauphin of France, the transformation required to bring her up to snuff with the French (including wearing braces to straighten her teeth), and then leaving her old life behind to begin the long formal journey to France to join her new husband and the French court.
"Every single item about my person was to be removed and replaced in an act that symbolised my domestic transformation from Austrian Archduchess to French Dauphine."
I really enjoyed this, despite the diary format (admittedly not a favorite of mine). Clegg does a good job of setting the scene and giving the reader a good sense of time and place without clubbing you over the head with heavily detailed descriptions of every last button, shoe and petticoat. Recommended for those interested in the early days of Marie Antoinette, and would also be suitable for young adult readers. Don't quote me, but I believe The Secret Diary of a Princess is only available as an e-book at this time. 4/5 stars.
"Consequently, I did not learn very much today."
"It was I who put salt in the Countess Brandeis' hot chocolate. I am very sorry."
"It was I who put a grasshopper down the back of Countess Brandeis' dress during the concert. I am not sorry."
Princesses must grow up and marry where they are told, and the book continues through Maria Antonia's betrothal to the dauphin of France, the transformation required to bring her up to snuff with the French (including wearing braces to straighten her teeth), and then leaving her old life behind to begin the long formal journey to France to join her new husband and the French court.
"Every single item about my person was to be removed and replaced in an act that symbolised my domestic transformation from Austrian Archduchess to French Dauphine."
I really enjoyed this, despite the diary format (admittedly not a favorite of mine). Clegg does a good job of setting the scene and giving the reader a good sense of time and place without clubbing you over the head with heavily detailed descriptions of every last button, shoe and petticoat. Recommended for those interested in the early days of Marie Antoinette, and would also be suitable for young adult readers. Don't quote me, but I believe The Secret Diary of a Princess is only available as an e-book at this time. 4/5 stars.
July 24, 2011
If you’ve ever wondered how an awkward, uneducated girl who was never supposed to become queen of France became the belle of the fashionable world, this is the novel to read. It's beautifully written and accomplishes what I love best about good historical fiction: the delicate balance between research and voice so that the reader not only learns about the period, but also feels along with the character. I loved it and would recommend it for even the most diehard of Antoinette fans who think they've exhausted what can be learned about this fascinating queen.
August 25, 2020
I feel the urge to read more about Marie Antoinette now!
January 1, 2019
Marie Antoinette – think you know her?
You might think you know something about her, may even have had the pleasure of reading Antonia Fraser’s biography – but what about her as a young girl? I am lucky enough to have read about Marie Antoinette the Queen, and to have visited the Hofburg, having some knowledge of the reign of her mother Maria Theresa.
I’ve just recently had the pleasure of reading The Secret Diary of a Princess, a fictional account of Maria Antonia’s life from about the age of nine until her marriage to the Dauphin of France.
As suggested by the title, the book is set in diary form, starting from when Antonia received the diary as a gift from her sister Maria Amalia in 1765, though apart from the shorter entries, the entries spread out into a more traditional format, complete with dialogue between the characters – Antonia’s parents, siblings and other members of the court.
After the introductory passage, I was immediately sucked into the life of the young Archduchess. Her diary is written with such charm, you cannot help but care what happens to her. There were some laughs, tricks played on her governess, and a lot of sadness – losing her father so young for one instance. The descriptions of the chracters, settings and dress etc. are wonderfully detailed and evocative.
When I finished the book I also felt very sad for Antonia and her husband the Dauphin, knowing what was to come, and the fact that they were just frightened children when they married. It is the gift of the author that you care so much for the characters – not only that – it is a novel that makes you want to learn more about them. That cannot ever be a bad thing in my opinion. All in all, I really enjoyed the book and would recommend it to other readers as a well researched and engaging historical novel.
(edit - adding review I wrote for this back in 2011)
You might think you know something about her, may even have had the pleasure of reading Antonia Fraser’s biography – but what about her as a young girl? I am lucky enough to have read about Marie Antoinette the Queen, and to have visited the Hofburg, having some knowledge of the reign of her mother Maria Theresa.
I’ve just recently had the pleasure of reading The Secret Diary of a Princess, a fictional account of Maria Antonia’s life from about the age of nine until her marriage to the Dauphin of France.
As suggested by the title, the book is set in diary form, starting from when Antonia received the diary as a gift from her sister Maria Amalia in 1765, though apart from the shorter entries, the entries spread out into a more traditional format, complete with dialogue between the characters – Antonia’s parents, siblings and other members of the court.
After the introductory passage, I was immediately sucked into the life of the young Archduchess. Her diary is written with such charm, you cannot help but care what happens to her. There were some laughs, tricks played on her governess, and a lot of sadness – losing her father so young for one instance. The descriptions of the chracters, settings and dress etc. are wonderfully detailed and evocative.
When I finished the book I also felt very sad for Antonia and her husband the Dauphin, knowing what was to come, and the fact that they were just frightened children when they married. It is the gift of the author that you care so much for the characters – not only that – it is a novel that makes you want to learn more about them. That cannot ever be a bad thing in my opinion. All in all, I really enjoyed the book and would recommend it to other readers as a well researched and engaging historical novel.
(edit - adding review I wrote for this back in 2011)
July 8, 2011
This is, quite simply, a fantastic read. I absolutely raced through this novel, anxious to find out what happens next and Marie's reactions to the wild history unfolding around her. You really fall in love with ith her character during the course of reading her 'diary' - it feels very intimate and as though only you know her innermost thoughts. The descriptions of clothes, palaces and courts are magnificent, overwhelming and thrust the reader into the very heart of whatever is taking place. It's an exhilarating ride, and I was very sorry to close the last page and say goodbye. Emotionally engaging, very well researched and a wonderful concept, beautifully realised.
January 9, 2015
This book is set in the eighteenth century, yet this Marie Antoinette uses movie quotes in her diary. Also, a Herbert Hoover quote is attributed to a French king. It might have been an entertaining book to read, but the anachronisms and endless descriptions of pink brocade were distracting.
April 4, 2011
I loved it! I love my historical factual-fiction (ahem) and the detail Melanie goes into is fantastic. It was slightly addictive and I read it in an afternoon.
June 5, 2011
Read my review of
The Secret Diary of a Princess
July 7, 2011
A light but gripping read, I powered through this very quickly and was entirely satisfied with it. Recommended for fans of Georgette Heyer especially.
August 28, 2011
This was fascinating - the research that has gone into this unassuming little book is absolutely amazing. Loved it.
August 23, 2017
The Secret Diary of a Princess tells the story of the early years of Marie Antoinette in diary form. Maria Antonia is the youngest daughter of Maria Theresa. She has been neglected by her mother. However, Maria Antonia has a carefree life with her older sister Maria Carolina. When an opportunity for a marriage alliance between France and Austria arises, Maria Antonia is thrust into the political spotlight. Maria Antonia, unused to the attention being showered upon her, tries her best to adjust to the role of being the Dauphine of France.
Maria Antonia is a carefree child. She is lazy when it comes to her academics. She would rather play rather than learn to write well. Maria Antonia is often described as a prankster. She likes to play jokes on her governess. Therefore, Maria Antonia was a very playful young girl. I really thought that Melanie Clegg did an excellent job in portraying Marie Antoinette in her early years. The reader can see how innocent and naive she was. The reader will also see how unprepared she was for the role of Queen of France. Marie Antoinette was never taught to behave like a mature young woman during her formative years, and it leads to her ultimate downfall.
Overall, The Secret Diary of a Princess shows us that Marie Antoinette’s early years were just as tragic. She had been neglected by her mother. She had to deal with the deaths of her father and sister. She also had to adjust to her life after her favorite sister left for Naples and to prepare for her role of Dauphine. Marie Antoinette’s life was no fairy tale. I also thought that the novel did a great job in portraying Marie Antoinette’s other siblings. Maria Theresa’s family is so large that when reading about Marie Antoinette, it was hard to keep track of them. However, the author fleshed out their personalities so that I had no problem telling the siblings apart. The only thing I didn’t like about this book was that the drama of the Habsburg family was a bit too drawn out. Still, The Secret Diary of a Princess is a must-read for fans of Marie Antoinette! The novel is so very well-written that it left me anxious for more! Hopefully, the author will write a sequel! I recommend this book for fans of Becoming Marie Antoinette, The Hidden Diary of Marie Antoinette, and The Royal Diaries: Marie Antoinette.
Maria Antonia is a carefree child. She is lazy when it comes to her academics. She would rather play rather than learn to write well. Maria Antonia is often described as a prankster. She likes to play jokes on her governess. Therefore, Maria Antonia was a very playful young girl. I really thought that Melanie Clegg did an excellent job in portraying Marie Antoinette in her early years. The reader can see how innocent and naive she was. The reader will also see how unprepared she was for the role of Queen of France. Marie Antoinette was never taught to behave like a mature young woman during her formative years, and it leads to her ultimate downfall.
Overall, The Secret Diary of a Princess shows us that Marie Antoinette’s early years were just as tragic. She had been neglected by her mother. She had to deal with the deaths of her father and sister. She also had to adjust to her life after her favorite sister left for Naples and to prepare for her role of Dauphine. Marie Antoinette’s life was no fairy tale. I also thought that the novel did a great job in portraying Marie Antoinette’s other siblings. Maria Theresa’s family is so large that when reading about Marie Antoinette, it was hard to keep track of them. However, the author fleshed out their personalities so that I had no problem telling the siblings apart. The only thing I didn’t like about this book was that the drama of the Habsburg family was a bit too drawn out. Still, The Secret Diary of a Princess is a must-read for fans of Marie Antoinette! The novel is so very well-written that it left me anxious for more! Hopefully, the author will write a sequel! I recommend this book for fans of Becoming Marie Antoinette, The Hidden Diary of Marie Antoinette, and The Royal Diaries: Marie Antoinette.
November 13, 2017
This review can also be found on my blog
Novels in diary-format are usually not my thing. I just can’t suspend my disbelief enough to believe that someone would tell their diary in detail about their own family history or anything else they already know perfectly well. Thankfully, this book manages to avoid this pretty well. Sure, there are bits that you would not normally find in a real diary but that are only a few sentences at a time and not pages and pages about the history of the Habsburg dynasty. It also sounds believable like the voice of a young girl without being annoying (something not many authors can pull off).
At the same time, I’m beginning to realize that historical novels featuring real historical people as main characters are not really for me. Especially cases like this. The Secret Diary of a Princess begins when Marie Antoinette is nine years and ends with her wedding at fourteen. During that time, things happen to her and she has no influence over any of those things. Because children of her age rarely have, princesses at that even less (and daughters of Maria Theresia definitely not). I’m aware of all of these things but in a book that reads like fiction a part of me will always expect something – well fictional – to happen. Anything that would stop the plot from going to A to B in a straight line. But since Marie Antoinette’s life wasn’t fiction that doesn’t happen. And so I ended up being somewhat unsatisfied at the end even though I enjoyed the book. But in the future, I guess I’ll stick with historical novels that feature characters that can do whatever they like ;).
I may not be very clever but I always know what will most please people and that, I think, is far more important.
Novels in diary-format are usually not my thing. I just can’t suspend my disbelief enough to believe that someone would tell their diary in detail about their own family history or anything else they already know perfectly well. Thankfully, this book manages to avoid this pretty well. Sure, there are bits that you would not normally find in a real diary but that are only a few sentences at a time and not pages and pages about the history of the Habsburg dynasty. It also sounds believable like the voice of a young girl without being annoying (something not many authors can pull off).
At the same time, I’m beginning to realize that historical novels featuring real historical people as main characters are not really for me. Especially cases like this. The Secret Diary of a Princess begins when Marie Antoinette is nine years and ends with her wedding at fourteen. During that time, things happen to her and she has no influence over any of those things. Because children of her age rarely have, princesses at that even less (and daughters of Maria Theresia definitely not). I’m aware of all of these things but in a book that reads like fiction a part of me will always expect something – well fictional – to happen. Anything that would stop the plot from going to A to B in a straight line. But since Marie Antoinette’s life wasn’t fiction that doesn’t happen. And so I ended up being somewhat unsatisfied at the end even though I enjoyed the book. But in the future, I guess I’ll stick with historical novels that feature characters that can do whatever they like ;).
August 3, 2017
As long as you know what you're getting yourself into isn't a biography but historical fiction, it's great. It reads quickly as it's so easy to get caught up in, but I found myself wondering though how much is accurate and how much is embellished. Overall, good for those who have a fondness for Marie Antoinette but don't want to read The Big Book of 1001 Names and Dates like so many other historical accounts seem to be.
September 16, 2019
Didn't like this one as much as "Minette", which also chronicles the life of a young princess. Moved very slow and knew immediately I wouldn't be interested in finishing. Still love Clegg as a writer, just don't think this one is for me, unfortunately. Maybe because it's aimed at a younger audience?
August 14, 2025
This was not quite what I was expecting. The book really handled the biography of Marie Antoinette from childhood into adolescence. It read like a diary and was a fair description of her thought process leading up to her marriage to the Dauphin. But it does not go beyond this time of which I was most interested. This is really just a background story the historical figure she was to become.
July 12, 2019
Light and fun - everything a novel about the early years of Marie Antoinette should be. The history feels seamless and the characters are all charmingly two-dimensional, I just wish there had been more...
October 14, 2017
I am new to the Marie Antoinette genre and I loved this wonderfully crafted interpretation.
January 30, 2019
A wonderful look at Marie Antoinette's childhood and preparation to become the Queen of France.
March 14, 2019
Good read.
Very good read. Held my attention. Would recommend, lots of history that can be gleaned from this book. Well written.
Very good read. Held my attention. Would recommend, lots of history that can be gleaned from this book. Well written.
August 13, 2020
A fantastic historical fiction about the early life of Marie Antoinette showing how being a princess is not what we all dreamed about in our childhoods.
May 5, 2012
http://vivelaqueen.blogspot.com/2012/...
The Secret Diary of a Princess by Melanie Clegg is the fictional diary of Marie Antoinette which covers her earlier years as a young archduchess. Other fictional diaries and memoirs written from the point-of-view of Marie Antoinette tend to focus on her life and downfall as queen of France, or her life as dauphine, this novel focuses almost exclusively on her years in Austria and ends just as she is being wedded to Louis-Auguste in the chapel of Versailles.
Secret Diary has been available on Amazon.com as an ebook for some time now but I had been unable to read it because my e-reader is not compatible with the Kindle format. Melanie Clegg was kind enough to provide me with the book in the correct format and I was very excited to get started on reading! The book is aimed at younger readers but older readers such as myself will have no problem getting sucked into the detailed world of young Marie Antoinette's Austria. The book is clearly researched but not stuffed with detail--there is enough creative license to make things interesting but not so much that the reader feels like they are reading about someone other than Marie Antoinette. The "just right" amount of detail makes it an ideal book both for those who have a previous interest in Marie Antoinette (and will likely enjoy the little details) and those who have never read about her life before, who will benefit from the research that gives the setting and characters a solid background.
I felt that the novel's focus almost entirely on her youth in Austria was a fresh take on her story. Many authors are eager to get Marie Antoinette out of Austria and into the more glittering French court, but I found it refreshing to spend more time with her as a young child. I feel like this early stage in her life is sometimes ignored because it's not as fanciful or decadent as Versailles, but because Marie Antoinette was always strongly tied to her childhood roots, I feel it's a time period that should be given more focus.
The novel is written in diary format, which is used effectively to portray Marie Antoinette's growth throughout the story. She begins as a rather silly girl who is the "most unimportant" of Maria Theresa's daughters but ultimately grows into a young woman of 14 who is not only lavished with attention but given one of the most signifcant roles for a woman in Europe at the time--that of the future Queen of France. Clegg is working on a sequel which I am excited for as I am interested in seeing where she will take Marie Antoinette from here.
I definitely recommend The Secret Diary of a Princess by Melanie Clegg for readers who are interested in Marie Antoinette and are looking for a Marie Antoinette book that is a different take on her life. The book is currently available on Amazon.com as a Kindle book.
The Secret Diary of a Princess by Melanie Clegg is the fictional diary of Marie Antoinette which covers her earlier years as a young archduchess. Other fictional diaries and memoirs written from the point-of-view of Marie Antoinette tend to focus on her life and downfall as queen of France, or her life as dauphine, this novel focuses almost exclusively on her years in Austria and ends just as she is being wedded to Louis-Auguste in the chapel of Versailles.
Secret Diary has been available on Amazon.com as an ebook for some time now but I had been unable to read it because my e-reader is not compatible with the Kindle format. Melanie Clegg was kind enough to provide me with the book in the correct format and I was very excited to get started on reading! The book is aimed at younger readers but older readers such as myself will have no problem getting sucked into the detailed world of young Marie Antoinette's Austria. The book is clearly researched but not stuffed with detail--there is enough creative license to make things interesting but not so much that the reader feels like they are reading about someone other than Marie Antoinette. The "just right" amount of detail makes it an ideal book both for those who have a previous interest in Marie Antoinette (and will likely enjoy the little details) and those who have never read about her life before, who will benefit from the research that gives the setting and characters a solid background.
I felt that the novel's focus almost entirely on her youth in Austria was a fresh take on her story. Many authors are eager to get Marie Antoinette out of Austria and into the more glittering French court, but I found it refreshing to spend more time with her as a young child. I feel like this early stage in her life is sometimes ignored because it's not as fanciful or decadent as Versailles, but because Marie Antoinette was always strongly tied to her childhood roots, I feel it's a time period that should be given more focus.
The novel is written in diary format, which is used effectively to portray Marie Antoinette's growth throughout the story. She begins as a rather silly girl who is the "most unimportant" of Maria Theresa's daughters but ultimately grows into a young woman of 14 who is not only lavished with attention but given one of the most signifcant roles for a woman in Europe at the time--that of the future Queen of France. Clegg is working on a sequel which I am excited for as I am interested in seeing where she will take Marie Antoinette from here.
I definitely recommend The Secret Diary of a Princess by Melanie Clegg for readers who are interested in Marie Antoinette and are looking for a Marie Antoinette book that is a different take on her life. The book is currently available on Amazon.com as a Kindle book.
March 28, 2012
Let me begin by saying that I am so glad Melanie Clegg (Erzibet) wrote this novel about the young Marie Antoinette. The reason I say this is because it’s not often that we get such a tender look at what lay at the basis of this martyred queen. Marie Antoinette is probably one of the most maligned queens in history and perhaps by looking into her young life we can get a better sense of what she was really all about.
Melanie Clegg’s novel is written (as the title suggests) in diary format and is a delight to read. From the very first page you get the sense of how genuine Maria Antonia (as she was then called) comes forth. There is such a tenderness, refreshing naiveté and true wanting to please in this young archduchess.
Her diary entries are filled with her love of family, her light mischievousness and free-spirited attitude. As you read this enchanting novel you sense how kind Maria Antonia genuinely was. She is always looking on the positive side and being hopeful for something better.
It is also refreshing to read about her in this light since it brings about a realization that the young royal was not brought up to be pompous, wanting and forever spoiled. Quite the contrary, Maria Antonia was seemingly raised for the ultimate sacrifice of self-Always doing for others, and as she was expected. This is probably something that is difficult to imagine for a member of the Hapsburg family and yet it was simplicity, obedience and piety that, for the greater part, shaped the young Maria Antonia.
Although I would classify this primarily as a YA novel, I am certain that both young and older can enjoy and revel in the dreaminess of this book. Notably, the historical details pertaining to both people and surroundings are impeccable.
Loved it!
The Secret diary of a Princess is in Kindle format.
Melanie Clegg’s novel is written (as the title suggests) in diary format and is a delight to read. From the very first page you get the sense of how genuine Maria Antonia (as she was then called) comes forth. There is such a tenderness, refreshing naiveté and true wanting to please in this young archduchess.
Her diary entries are filled with her love of family, her light mischievousness and free-spirited attitude. As you read this enchanting novel you sense how kind Maria Antonia genuinely was. She is always looking on the positive side and being hopeful for something better.
It is also refreshing to read about her in this light since it brings about a realization that the young royal was not brought up to be pompous, wanting and forever spoiled. Quite the contrary, Maria Antonia was seemingly raised for the ultimate sacrifice of self-Always doing for others, and as she was expected. This is probably something that is difficult to imagine for a member of the Hapsburg family and yet it was simplicity, obedience and piety that, for the greater part, shaped the young Maria Antonia.
Although I would classify this primarily as a YA novel, I am certain that both young and older can enjoy and revel in the dreaminess of this book. Notably, the historical details pertaining to both people and surroundings are impeccable.
Loved it!
The Secret diary of a Princess is in Kindle format.
October 14, 2011
The book is very engaging and I could really feel the young Marie Antoinette.... the descriptions were very vivid too, I felt like I was in Vienna in the 18th century. I finished it in one sitting. The author also included many historical facts into the novel, which makes it even more believable. It is the antithesis of Carolly Erickson's diary on Marie Antoinette, which is just plain awful.
Two very minor points on Marie Antoinette's sister Maria Amalia and Karl of Zweibrucken: Karl did not appear to be attracted to the young Marie Antoinette (who was short, flat-chested, and underdeveloped -- the opposite of what he found attractive in women)so maybe the author was just "flattering" her a bit. And Maria Amalia got along much better than supposed with her husband Duke Ferdinand of Parma. I know this is a novel, but I like to separate the facts from fiction because I value historical truths. My own perception is that the author isn't as familiar on Karl and Maria Amalia. The supposed attraction between Marie Antoinette and Karl is an interesting take, even though without historical basis. But there is indeed basis that Karl was a bit of an "adventurer." Or perhaps I should reread it again - especially the parts on Maria Amalia in Parma - soon as my memory might be a bit fuzzy!
Overall, even with those two minor points, I find it an excellent read (and I generally stick to biographies of royals)! A pure pleasure!
Two very minor points on Marie Antoinette's sister Maria Amalia and Karl of Zweibrucken: Karl did not appear to be attracted to the young Marie Antoinette (who was short, flat-chested, and underdeveloped -- the opposite of what he found attractive in women)so maybe the author was just "flattering" her a bit. And Maria Amalia got along much better than supposed with her husband Duke Ferdinand of Parma. I know this is a novel, but I like to separate the facts from fiction because I value historical truths. My own perception is that the author isn't as familiar on Karl and Maria Amalia. The supposed attraction between Marie Antoinette and Karl is an interesting take, even though without historical basis. But there is indeed basis that Karl was a bit of an "adventurer." Or perhaps I should reread it again - especially the parts on Maria Amalia in Parma - soon as my memory might be a bit fuzzy!
Overall, even with those two minor points, I find it an excellent read (and I generally stick to biographies of royals)! A pure pleasure!
November 8, 2011
I didn't always like the diary format of this, especially in the beginning when Marie Antoinette is still very young and her childlike writing and behavior didn't appeal to me - for example, the constant prank confessions got old. But it definitely improves as the book goes along and she gets older.
It was great to see more focus on her life before she left Austria, which took up most of the book. With her tragic later life, I think it's easy to overlook her comparatively uneventful childhood but it's important to remember that her childhood helped shape who she was. It was interesting to see all the relationships among her large family and how Marie Antoinette dealt with the growing anticipation at the idea of moving to France and marrying a man she'd never met.
I was going to say Plaidy's "Flaunting, Extravagant Queen" was better but since they focus on completely different periods of Marie Antoinette's life, it's actually hard to compare. In fact, I'm wondering if Clegg is planning a sequel since this one did not even cover her later life and ends soon after arriving in France. For a bargain price on Kindle, this was a good read, especially if you're interested in seeing more of Marie Antoinette's early life.
It was great to see more focus on her life before she left Austria, which took up most of the book. With her tragic later life, I think it's easy to overlook her comparatively uneventful childhood but it's important to remember that her childhood helped shape who she was. It was interesting to see all the relationships among her large family and how Marie Antoinette dealt with the growing anticipation at the idea of moving to France and marrying a man she'd never met.
I was going to say Plaidy's "Flaunting, Extravagant Queen" was better but since they focus on completely different periods of Marie Antoinette's life, it's actually hard to compare. In fact, I'm wondering if Clegg is planning a sequel since this one did not even cover her later life and ends soon after arriving in France. For a bargain price on Kindle, this was a good read, especially if you're interested in seeing more of Marie Antoinette's early life.
October 6, 2015
Who thinks of Marie Antoinette before she arrived at the french court? The french people came to hate 'The Austrian' as the embodiment of the frivolous, profligate nobility who were draining the coffers of the country. But Marie Antoinette arrived in France, a naive and charming fourteen-year-old, among strangers, and committed to a marriage that was distinctly not a love match.
This delightful book focuses on her childhood years in Austria; years within a large family and in a more relaxed court. In this delightful diary, the author describes that life in fascinating detail, meticulously researched and deftly presented--never tedious or overbearing. You won't want to miss a single word.
As unprepared as she is to enter the over-sophisticated french court, Marie forces herself to ignore the hints foreshadowing the difficulties on her horizon. This charming child captures our sympathy. She can't possibly imagine what her future life will really be.
This delightful book focuses on her childhood years in Austria; years within a large family and in a more relaxed court. In this delightful diary, the author describes that life in fascinating detail, meticulously researched and deftly presented--never tedious or overbearing. You won't want to miss a single word.
As unprepared as she is to enter the over-sophisticated french court, Marie forces herself to ignore the hints foreshadowing the difficulties on her horizon. This charming child captures our sympathy. She can't possibly imagine what her future life will really be.
April 17, 2015
A good time killer.
This was boring at first and It was not believable in totality when it boiled down to many of things that she wrote. The writing was far too adult than expected. I think the writer should have started this diary at a later age for the main character. It was also very repetitive and I was able to skip pages since one year was written as the year before but with slight changes. I no longer paid attention to the dates since they didn't matter. The book became a little more interesting towards the end and it is shame she didn't carry it on past the Queens rather young age. I think it would have been a more interesting if it followed through until her demise. Anyway I still enjoyed it in the end.
This was boring at first and It was not believable in totality when it boiled down to many of things that she wrote. The writing was far too adult than expected. I think the writer should have started this diary at a later age for the main character. It was also very repetitive and I was able to skip pages since one year was written as the year before but with slight changes. I no longer paid attention to the dates since they didn't matter. The book became a little more interesting towards the end and it is shame she didn't carry it on past the Queens rather young age. I think it would have been a more interesting if it followed through until her demise. Anyway I still enjoyed it in the end.
May 10, 2015
So very impressed!
Anyone who has a love of historical fiction will find this book paints just the most perfect picture of detailed life. Especially if you have read any other Marie Antoinette books or even watched the movies. I am very impressed with the author's research and descriptions. I would have assumed this book to be much more expensive since it it's just as well put together as the pricier books I've read. I downloaded all of Clegg's books after reading this just in case the low pricing of her books were in error since I enjoyed this one so much. And I read a ton of historical fiction by all sorts of authors. Still can't get over the price deal of such quality. Thank you for this book!
Anyone who has a love of historical fiction will find this book paints just the most perfect picture of detailed life. Especially if you have read any other Marie Antoinette books or even watched the movies. I am very impressed with the author's research and descriptions. I would have assumed this book to be much more expensive since it it's just as well put together as the pricier books I've read. I downloaded all of Clegg's books after reading this just in case the low pricing of her books were in error since I enjoyed this one so much. And I read a ton of historical fiction by all sorts of authors. Still can't get over the price deal of such quality. Thank you for this book!
April 9, 2013
I adored this look at the early life of Marie Antoinette. The author's research and descriptive style transported me to the palaces of Austria from page one and brought the childhood days of the young Archduchess to life. The diary format and Clegg's voice drew me straight into Antoinette's head and heart. This is the first book I read by Melanie Clegg, and it won't be the last. This secret diary is a much recommended read for Marie Antoinette fans or anyone interested in how Maria Antonia became France's most infamous queen.
May 14, 2012
A recent (cheap) Kindle acquisition...although I am not usually (read: never) a devotee of French history, this was really, really good!! The (fictionalized) diary of Marie Antoinette from ages 10 through 14, culminating in her marriage into the French royal family. I actually had to go do a little reading up on Marie afterwards, out of curiosity to learn a little more about this era in history and this person. I do recommend! It's fun to learn about teenage life in other eras!
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