The prequel to The Russian Concubine, this book tells the story of Lydia's mother Valentina and their eventual escape from Russia during the revolution. Probably an even better story than the first, the setting and storytelling are first rate, however I almost wish I had read this book first because by the second book, Valentina has been pretty much destroyed by the events of her life. I would suggest reading the books in chronological order as opposed to the order in which they were written. Highly recommended for historical fiction fans. Furnivall should fire her publisher for the stupid choice of cover, though -- the dress and hair are not of the era. This book took forEVER for me to read. I simply wasn't interested. I never became invested in the characters or even in the plot. I only finished it because I felt obligated after wanting to read it for so long. We can be sure that I will not be reading any more of the corresponding books, or probably anything else by Kate Furnivall. Not when there are so many other books that I would rather be reading. I don't recommend it,it fell VERY flat. And, if you have followed my reviews before, you know how rare it is that my assessment is so low. Please heed my advice.
What do You think about St. Petersburgs Juvel (2010)?
Nice historical fiction in time of war with love story. Easy summer read.
—chava
This is the 1st in a trilogy and is excellent.
—superbeben
