Lowe's biography of the talented, beautiful queen is a wonderful addition to the library of any student of Hawaiian history and its alii. Queen Liliuokalani's tragic years on what was left of the throne are perfectly illustrated.You feel you are actually there! The story of how the Queen was put under house arrest, refused access to newspapers - her friends had to smuggle them to her wrapped around flowers (there is even a photo of her reading a wet, crumpled newspaper) and accounts of the last days of the monarchy are devastating. The annexation day parade, according to this book which is very well researched and very readable, had "the atmosphere of an execution." Highly recommended.

My god, the Queen of Hawaii, the President of the United States, and a warrior on the warpath, aimed on his odd political comet streaking blindly, messing with the fate of the country--both countries, the Republic of Hawaii and the U.S. He was unwilling to stick it out, to get under control, on a mission. She was in her moment, out of time. The President was done. Good story, quick read, try it.

Author's interpretation of the possible outcome of the effects of the missionary teaching on young Hawaiian Ali'i is filled with Aloha for the people and history of Hawaii. Unfortunately, the the portrayal of thought patterns and situations are NOT within the Hawaiian way of life, beliefs or thinking patterns. Her end analysis is acceptable and probable, her description of means is not.