How to Rewrite Royal History

Jac Jemc’s latest novel, Empty Theatre, follows Ludwig and Elisabeth (also called Sisi) from their Bavarian childhoods to their ascension to their respective thrones (Ludwig as King of Bavaria, Elisabeth as Empress of Austria and Hungary), through the often painful years that followed, all the way to their deaths. The book’s scope is vast: readers are privy to the machinations that help to consolidate Austria and Hungary, as well as the North German Confederation, setting the stage for the wars of the following century. Great artists also make up the cast: Ludwig was in close contact with composer Richard Wagner, whom he called his “Great Friend,” and sculptress Elisabeth Ney and painter Franz Winterhalter also make appearances.