Goldstone understands that, underneath the silk breeches, face powder and lofty pompadours, these monarchs were real people. They laughed, loved, argued, grieved and fornicated — often rather clumsily. The way they lived their lives at home shaped how they behaved on the world stage.

... her new subjects have much to offer. Regrettably, her book does not. The problem starts with the 'selected genealogy' that opens the book.

... a dizzying and dazzling foray into the intricacies of 18th-century European history as experienced by the extended family of Maria Theresa (1717–80), the only woman ever to inherit and rule the Hapsburg Empire in her own name. After a lengthy description and assessment of the reign of the empress herself, Goldstone focuses on three of her 16 children and their interwoven lives.

... expert.

The book is elegantly written, in a brisk style that plays to Ms. Goldstone’s strengths in portraiture and the theatrical set-piece. The author deftly interweaves the ups and downs of Maria Theresa’s running contest with Frederick with the vicissitudes of her life as Europe’s most prolific procreator.

... impressive and entertaining.

Drawing from histories, biographies, memoirs, and letters, Goldstone vividly depicts a resplendent, glittering milieu. Her fast-paced, populous narrative teems with gossip, court intrigue, and head-spinning political machinations.

... fascinating.