Penguin Die allerletzte Kaiserin

An empress is someone who considers herself one. Claudia Hendl is not particularly happy and even less imaginative – until one day an old, self-centered lady comes into her inn. Her name is Johanna Fialla, and after gaining Claudia's trust, she reveals something incredible: she, Johanna, is actually the granddaughter of Crown Prince Rudolf. He did not shoot himself, but instead went into hiding and started a new family under a false name, of which Johanna's father was a descendant. Gradually, Johanna shares her life story, and Claudia, who has never had any literary ambitions, begins to write it down. In the process, she may not necessarily learn historical facts – but she realizes that a little imagination is what makes life worth living. Irene Diwiak's novel is full of wit, bite, and originality. With loving irony and a constant wink, she gives her protagonist a final grand performance that is truly remarkable. "The Very Last Empress" offers a light-hearted, ironic glimpse into the Austrian soul.