Interesting story of Kristina, daughter of King Gustav II Adolph of Sweden, who was raised more as a boy than as a girl (and liked it that way, at least according to the story). It was a fascinating glimpse of a time and place about which I know very little - though I must admit, as soon as I realized who her father was I was thinking about her in Eric Flint's 163x universe. It's written as her diary, describing each day; we get to see quite a bit of what she does, and what she thinks about her situation. Two things that puzzled me - the author, in her afterword, claims that Kristina is the second-most talked about ruling woman (after Cleopatra) - I've never heard of her before, and would put Elizabeth I and Eleanor of Aquitaine considerably higher. And in the sketch of Kristina's life that follows the diary, it turns out that she abdicates very shortly after assuming the throne, and leaves Sweden to her cousin (who she likes, but considers not as good as she is at...just about everything). I wonder if the woman depicted in the diary isn't true to life, or what happened to change her mind so quickly (maybe just the continuing pressure to marry?). A mildly interesting book; I always enjoy learning about a new period of history. ( )

Again, one of the better books of the series for me. I think because I didn't know anything about her or a lot of Swedish culture. This was a good book, informational, but still fun. I'm happy I got to learn about this incredible woman. I would recommend this book, but it is obviously for younger readers. 4.5 out of 5 stars. ( )

Fictional journal of Kristina, heir to the Swedish throne as she is raised to fill masculine shoes. ( )

I absolutely love the entire Royal Diaries series. They are all incredibly brilliant. MY favorite are Jahanara, Eleanor and Lady of Ch'iao Kuo. They're a great way to learn history. ( )

A girl destined to be king? King Gustav II Adolf of Sweden always wanted a boy, however, when his daughter Kristina was born, he declared her his heir and raised her in the same fashion as a prince would be. Kristina’s keeps a diary that documents her unique lifestyle around the age of twelve in which she studies foreign languages, weaponry, and horseback riding. When her father dies she does not become the Queen of Sweden, but the King. The author tells the story through Kristina’s multiple diary entries, which reflect her personal thoughts. Though a work of fiction, the book provides additional bibliographical information about Kristina, her family, and country. Compared to other historical figures in the Royal Diaries series, Kristina is not as well known, which may not attract as many readers. An early young adult book of historical fiction that readers ages 9-14 will enjoy once they get into it. Recommended. ( )