Victoria Rebels Book Review

Title: Victoria Rebels.

Author: Carolyn Meyer.

Genre: Historical Fiction, History, British History, Retelling, Humorous.

Plot: Using diary entries and letters as the inspiration and bases for her story, Carolyn Meyer weaves a wonderful fictional picture of England's "strong-willed and short-tempered Queen Victoria." The story begins when Victoria is eight years old and learns that her beloved older sister is being married off and shipped away to Germany in a few months' time. The two sisters are naturally brokenhearted over this unexpected turn of events but they maintain their affection for each other over the years that follow, with frequent letters and a few memorable visits. In the meantime, however, Victoria is left in the care of her rather controlling mother, her mother's even more controlling and unpleasant adviser Sir John Conroy, and Victoria's governess, Lehzen - whom Victoria affectionately calls Daisy and looks upon her as her mother.

As she grows up, Victoria learns valuable lessons about life, sounds out her friends and enemies, endures separations and changes she has no control over, learns to effectively fight her battles, and remains strong to the end. Once she finally comes of age and ascends the throne, she has triumphed over those who sought so hard and so long to control her life. But being queen - and an unmarried one at that - has it's drawbacks and unique challenges. She makes mistakes but she learns from them, and she becomes one of England's most famous and beloved queens.

Likes/Dislikes: This novel would fall into the category of "living history." With its roots in actual historic fact, the story moves and flows like a novel, blending the scenes and letting you immerse yourself in history without getting bored. Queen Victoria's reign was set during a pivotal point in history and is one of the most interesting periods in history. I've always wanted to know more about Queen Victoria and this novel is the perfect place to start. Very well written. The only thing I had against it was the family tree; it could have been done better, with all the cousins and such added on.

Rating: PG - 12 and up, mainly for reading level, and mildly suggested suggestive content. It'd go over the heads of most young people I think.

Date Report Written: February 2nd, 2013.