The Lacemaker and the Princess follows the story of Isabelle, a girl from a family of poor lacemakers who are trying to make ends meet. When she is spotted by the Queen at the palace and taken to be a playmate for the young princess, she is glad to be free for a while at least of her strict grandmother and poverty-stricken home. The princess (daughter of Marie Antoinette) is like the rest of the royalty, oblivious to all the needs and suffering of the French people. Whispers of rebellion and revolution swirl about spurring discontentment, even in Isabelle's own brother. Can the two girls remain friends even when their classes clash?
This book was an OK read. I was not able to connect to the characters very much. I felt that the princess would be an intriguing character if the author had let us see into her mind now and then the same way as Isabelle's. I had a hard time finding motivation to continue reading. However, fans of historical fiction or Marie Antoinette may find it interesting and fresh. It is a quick, easy read that young readers will probably enjoy for the glimpses it gives into the time period.
Rating (0 - 10 scale): 5
Reviewer Age: 16
Reviewer City, State and Country: Moscow, ID USA
