The Bronze Eagle: A Story of the Hundred Days

"The Bronze Eagle: A Story of the Hundred Days" by Baroness Emmuska Orczy is a historical novel that drops readers into the whirlwind of Napoleon's comeback from exile, exploring the tangled webs of loyalty, political games, and the hunger for power. The story likely follows characters, such as the passionate Bonapartist Victor de Marmont, and his English buddy, Bobby Clyffurde, as they try to maneuver through where their hearts lie during a really troubled moment in French history. The story kicks off with a ship sailing toward France, carrying the Emperor himself, stirring up all sorts of mixed feelings among the locals who wonder what his return is going to mean. As the story moves forward, there is a clear contrast as de Marmont's over-the-top excitement is faced with Clyffurde's logical thinking, creating discussions on what it means to be loyal, a national identity, and the coming danger to peace. This all hints at huge issues not only for them, but for the whole community at the time. The suspense intensifies with Crystal de Cambray, who wrestles conflicts between what she wants and what she is told to do, as she finds herself deeply involved in the goals of those who want the monarchy to take control.