Reviewed by Georgia Mayden for Readers' Favorite

A Trace of Royalty: Kopp Chronicles by Gregory Kopp is a historical novel that follows the life of Karolina Sorg, a young woman who is shaped by the charm of Europe and the uncertainty of America. The story opens in Baden, where weddings, customs, and power struggles of the royal courts create both beauty and unease in nineteenth-century Europe. From Baden, the story moves to New York City, where Karolina and her family face challenges in building a new life, carrying them through happy times as well as struggles, with each event leaving its mark on their story. The narrative follows Karolina from the royal halls of Baden to life as an immigrant in America, showing a path through privilege, hardship, and the choices that shape her family’s future.

Gregory Kopp writes each scene with clear descriptions. The historical settings are described in such a way that brings them to life, from the grand ballrooms with chandeliers to the busy, noisy streets of New York. The pace moves well, shifting from royal courts to city life while keeping space for drama. I liked how the characters made the story strong. Karolina's determination and courage made her truly inspiring to me. Princess Marie reveals another side of the era, where she is caught between royal duties and personal struggles. Their stories bring out themes of heritage, belonging, duty, sacrifice, and identity in times of change. I commend Kopp for ensuring that the movements came just at the right time, from the royal celebrations to unexpected confrontations, keeping the story very exciting. I loved the addition of the appendices, which include portraits, the marriage record, and historical images. These additions turned the story into more than just a novel, giving a glance into real history. I gladly recommend A Trace of Royalty by Gregory Kopp to anyone who enjoys historical novels with vivid details that tell a heartfelt story.