Angelot: A Story of the First Empire

"Angelot: A Story of the First Empire" by Eleanor C. Price is a lively historical story set in France during Napoleon's reign, zeroing in on themes of family devotion and clashing viewpoints. The story centers around the young and likeable Angelot de la Marinière, who finds himself torn between his family's support for the Royalists and the grip of Napoleon's Empire. Set against the French countryside, the book plunges readers into a world where family ties, personal sacrifice, and political unrest are tightly knit. From the beginning, we see Angelot meeting an old farmer and his wife, the Joubards, who tell of the pain caused by war conscription; highlighting the troubles with the Imperial rulers, like General Ratoneau. Early parts recount life at Les Chouettes, the home of Angelot's uncle Joseph, which becomes a secret place to plan against the Emperor. Viewers witness the complex relationships and loyalties that Angelot faces against the backdrop of disorder, capturing the spirit of obligation, love, and revolt in this age of disagreements.