Author Olaf Schmidt tells the true story of Louise von Seybold, a young woman growing up in 19th century Bavaria, eager to escape the monotony of a predetermined life plan. Her dreams seem to come true when she falls in love with a handsome stranger named Valsin Bozonnier-Marmillion, who takes her across the ocean to live in one of Louisiana's most spectacular mansions. But what happens on the day of their arrival puts an end to all romantic cliches and leaves the couple in a state of shock. Louise and Valsin are forced to battle epidemics and personal illness, accidents and natural disasters, only to find their entire existence threatened by America's great tragedy, the Civil War. In almost 100 letters written to her mother and sisters in Bavaria, Louise creates a sweeping panorama of the American South during its historical downfall. Illustrated by countless images and documents, this book offers a uniquely authentic window into a period of history that continues to have a dramatic impact on contemporary United States culture and society.
This is a hardback book and measures 9"x11".