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Destinies
Catherine II seizes the imperial crown of Russia and a thousand miles away a Rhineland boy’s life changes forever.
Uprooted from his home near the Rhine River and taken to a hostile land on the Russian steppes, Christian comes up against adversity and setbacks as he attempts to make a new life for himself and his family. His efforts at enlisting a blacksmith and Gypsies to help a Russian girl sold into servitude put all their lives in deadly peril.
Meanwhile, Catherine, in her new role as empress, is surrounded by court intrigue and secret plots to overthrow her; rumors of her lover’s infidelity; an army of wild Cossacks and escaped serfs thundering down on Saratov intent on burning the city, sacking Moscow and locking the empress in a convent.
Now Catherine must find a solution to the challenges she faces at court – as Christian must find his own solutions in the colonies.
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AVAILABLE AMAZON.COM IN PAPERBACK AND DIGITAL EBOOK FORMATS
Uprooted from his home near the Rhine River and taken to a hostile land on the Russian steppes, Christian comes up against adversity and setbacks as he attempts to make a new life for himself and his family. His efforts at enlisting a blacksmith and Gypsies to help a Russian girl sold into servitude put all their lives in deadly peril.
Meanwhile, Catherine, in her new role as empress, is surrounded by court intrigue and secret plots to overthrow her; rumors of her lover’s infidelity; an army of wild Cossacks and escaped serfs thundering down on Saratov intent on burning the city, sacking Moscow and locking the empress in a convent.
Now Catherine must find a solution to the challenges she faces at court – as Christian must find his own solutions in the colonies.
================================================================
AVAILABLE AMAZON.COM IN PAPERBACK AND DIGITAL EBOOK FORMATS
- GenresHistorical Fiction
601 pages, Paperback
First published June 13, 2011
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
February 19, 2012
Take a blender. Pour a dose of facts, another dose of fiction, some amazing characters, some romance, a dash of conspiracy & violence and some suspense. Blend it all and you get “Destinies” as a result!
The protagonist of this novel is Catherine II, also known as Catherine the Great. She was the most renowned and the longest-ruling female leader of Russia, reigning from 1762 until her death in 1796. Ms.Morrow has managed to keep her character very real & true to the original person. She is fierce yet giving, cruel yet loving, ruthless yet caring…
Read the full review on Bookish Indulgences with b00k r3vi3ws
The protagonist of this novel is Catherine II, also known as Catherine the Great. She was the most renowned and the longest-ruling female leader of Russia, reigning from 1762 until her death in 1796. Ms.Morrow has managed to keep her character very real & true to the original person. She is fierce yet giving, cruel yet loving, ruthless yet caring…
Read the full review on Bookish Indulgences with b00k r3vi3ws
October 30, 2012
I finished Destinies yesterday and feel like I’ve lost an old friend. I’m in that floating period that comes after finishing a good book: I’m mulling over its scenes, characters, and settings. I’m also wondering what on earth I’ll do until I find another book that carries me away so completely.
Destinies is an epic of sweeping scope that reminds me of famous works about Russia, Dr. Zhivago, for instance. Destinies presents a very original twist on life in Mother Russia and is remarkable in its originality.
It’s the story of a group of German peasants who leave the Rhineland at the invitation of Tzarina Katherine (the Great). Life is rough in the Rhineland. They’re tenants, not landowners, and at the mercy of pretty near everyone in their German life. The village decides to take advantage of Katherine’s gracious offer to bear the expenses of their traveling to Russia, and to set them up with their own farms and all that would be needed to run them: houses, horses, farm implements and seed. Sounds like a good deal, especially when compared to being exploited unmercifully by their landlords and local nobles in the old country.
The tzarina’s plan is to modernize Russia. She intends to settle her new citizens on eastern lands beneath the Ural Mountains, an area undeveloped, sparsely populated and invaded by marauding robber bands and wild tribes. Thousands of individuals—families and whole villages—heed the call. Morrow wisely focuses on one Rhineland village, giving the reader a close-up view of village life and introducing characters that I will never forget.
Brilliant, Astonishing, and Impossible to Forget
This book is intricately plotted, but isn’t confusing. It moves like a freight train; the pace being fast and exciting. Right from the beginning things begin to go wrong. I think this work could also be put in the suspense genre. It had me on the edge of my seat and reading into the night.
The plot alternates between the trials and tribulations of the German immigrants and the court life of the tzarina. I wanted to slap that woman. While communicating with Voltaire and the literati of France, and thinking of herself as an enlightened monarch, big (and growing bigger by the day) Tzarina Kate squeezes her own serfs almost to death, which incites a revolt she doesn’t understand.
The book bears the stamp of many hours spent researching everything about her characters, sites and the world around her work. The author presents detailed descriptions of the colonists’ difficult journey to Russia and what happens afterward. For instance, the way that Morrow describes the experience and sounds of the deep Volga ice breaking up during the spring makes you feel as though you’re right there. I can hardly wait to read more by Karleene Morrow.
I received a complimentary copy to read and review.
Destinies is an epic of sweeping scope that reminds me of famous works about Russia, Dr. Zhivago, for instance. Destinies presents a very original twist on life in Mother Russia and is remarkable in its originality.
It’s the story of a group of German peasants who leave the Rhineland at the invitation of Tzarina Katherine (the Great). Life is rough in the Rhineland. They’re tenants, not landowners, and at the mercy of pretty near everyone in their German life. The village decides to take advantage of Katherine’s gracious offer to bear the expenses of their traveling to Russia, and to set them up with their own farms and all that would be needed to run them: houses, horses, farm implements and seed. Sounds like a good deal, especially when compared to being exploited unmercifully by their landlords and local nobles in the old country.
The tzarina’s plan is to modernize Russia. She intends to settle her new citizens on eastern lands beneath the Ural Mountains, an area undeveloped, sparsely populated and invaded by marauding robber bands and wild tribes. Thousands of individuals—families and whole villages—heed the call. Morrow wisely focuses on one Rhineland village, giving the reader a close-up view of village life and introducing characters that I will never forget.
Brilliant, Astonishing, and Impossible to Forget
This book is intricately plotted, but isn’t confusing. It moves like a freight train; the pace being fast and exciting. Right from the beginning things begin to go wrong. I think this work could also be put in the suspense genre. It had me on the edge of my seat and reading into the night.
The plot alternates between the trials and tribulations of the German immigrants and the court life of the tzarina. I wanted to slap that woman. While communicating with Voltaire and the literati of France, and thinking of herself as an enlightened monarch, big (and growing bigger by the day) Tzarina Kate squeezes her own serfs almost to death, which incites a revolt she doesn’t understand.
The book bears the stamp of many hours spent researching everything about her characters, sites and the world around her work. The author presents detailed descriptions of the colonists’ difficult journey to Russia and what happens afterward. For instance, the way that Morrow describes the experience and sounds of the deep Volga ice breaking up during the spring makes you feel as though you’re right there. I can hardly wait to read more by Karleene Morrow.
I received a complimentary copy to read and review.
Want to Read
September 15, 2011 This is my historical novel - I list it as excellent because if I didn't think so, why should you?
Destinies is an epic tale of royalty and rural family. Catherine seizes the crown of Russia and a thousand miles away a Rhineland boy's life is changed forever. This is Catherine’s story, her private and personal insecurities; her public genius as a sovereign. Through ten years of her lover’s abuses, betrayals and humiliations, Catherine is a woman--tender, fragile, giving. But as she turns on the rebels and her own serfs, the great Catherine unleashes a different side of herself: unforgiving, chillingly cruel, relentless in her fierce power.
This is also Christian's story. When several Rhineland families accept Catherine’s invitation to help drag her backward country out of the dark ages, Christian is catapulted out of his boyhood. He is taken across the Baltic Sea and into a world of enigmas: the ship captain’s daughter, a Russian blacksmith, a band of Gypsies and the forbidden girl he can’t sweep out of his heart.
Destinies is an epic tale of royalty and rural family. Catherine seizes the crown of Russia and a thousand miles away a Rhineland boy's life is changed forever. This is Catherine’s story, her private and personal insecurities; her public genius as a sovereign. Through ten years of her lover’s abuses, betrayals and humiliations, Catherine is a woman--tender, fragile, giving. But as she turns on the rebels and her own serfs, the great Catherine unleashes a different side of herself: unforgiving, chillingly cruel, relentless in her fierce power.
This is also Christian's story. When several Rhineland families accept Catherine’s invitation to help drag her backward country out of the dark ages, Christian is catapulted out of his boyhood. He is taken across the Baltic Sea and into a world of enigmas: the ship captain’s daughter, a Russian blacksmith, a band of Gypsies and the forbidden girl he can’t sweep out of his heart.
June 11, 2012
Becoming the Empress and Ruler of All the Russians, Sophie Auguste Friedrike, was only fourteen when her mother made sure she became princess of Russia. The tsarina of Russia, Elizabeth Petrovna, was searching for a wife for her nephew who would inherit the crown.
Leaving her small town of Stettin, Poland, she met the tsarina and her heir in Russia. In 1762 Sophie became Katherine II.
Known as Katherine the Great, the Empress was literate, cultured, and loved the arts. Throughout Destinies, Karleene Marrow proves how she painstakingly researched every event during Katherine’s 34 year reign.
To not only enlighten her readers with facts and knowledge, but to entertain at the same time, Karleene Morrow writes her historical novel, Destinies, using Katherine the Great’s point of view plus a young boy, Christian, who emigrated from Germany to Russia with his family and friends searching for a better life. The way Morrow skillfully does this is what makes this book extraordinary.
Katherine II is known for her sex scandals and her desire for power. Morrow includes her political decisions and many of her lovers. During the day Katherine II was a powerhouse of a political leader, and at night she could not go without a man.
We see Christian grow up from a boy into manhood in Destinies. We meet and love his family and friends. He has strong family values and morals that he struggles with on his journey. His relationship with the Gypsy’s is my favorite. His life, along with his family and friends, is not an easy one. Emigrating from Germany and putting down roots in Russia was an unbelievable feat.
Going back and forth between Katherine the Great and Christian’s life was easily done. There is never a time where I got lost or confused. This is a longer book than most, but it never felt like it. I could not put it down. The story is terrific!
I recommend this book for readers of all ages. In my opinion, reading a historical novel that is well researched and written, is the best way to learn.
I’m hoping Destinies will have a sequel. I would love to read another historical novel by Karleene Morrow.
Leaving her small town of Stettin, Poland, she met the tsarina and her heir in Russia. In 1762 Sophie became Katherine II.
Known as Katherine the Great, the Empress was literate, cultured, and loved the arts. Throughout Destinies, Karleene Marrow proves how she painstakingly researched every event during Katherine’s 34 year reign.
To not only enlighten her readers with facts and knowledge, but to entertain at the same time, Karleene Morrow writes her historical novel, Destinies, using Katherine the Great’s point of view plus a young boy, Christian, who emigrated from Germany to Russia with his family and friends searching for a better life. The way Morrow skillfully does this is what makes this book extraordinary.
Katherine II is known for her sex scandals and her desire for power. Morrow includes her political decisions and many of her lovers. During the day Katherine II was a powerhouse of a political leader, and at night she could not go without a man.
We see Christian grow up from a boy into manhood in Destinies. We meet and love his family and friends. He has strong family values and morals that he struggles with on his journey. His relationship with the Gypsy’s is my favorite. His life, along with his family and friends, is not an easy one. Emigrating from Germany and putting down roots in Russia was an unbelievable feat.
Going back and forth between Katherine the Great and Christian’s life was easily done. There is never a time where I got lost or confused. This is a longer book than most, but it never felt like it. I could not put it down. The story is terrific!
I recommend this book for readers of all ages. In my opinion, reading a historical novel that is well researched and written, is the best way to learn.
I’m hoping Destinies will have a sequel. I would love to read another historical novel by Karleene Morrow.
July 21, 2012
I am a huge fan of Russian literature and historical fiction set in Russia, so when I was offered this book for review, I didn't hesitate. The parallel/intertwining stories remind me of The Pillars of the Earth. I became very invested in the characters and the arch of the storyline.
I loved the character Christian. He was the wonderful mix of the traditional values that his parents had instilled in him and a progressive adaptability to his new life in Russia. He's also kind of a typical teenager. (Example being that a beautiful girl is a good motivator to learn Russian).
I thought that parts of Christian's story were prevalent to today's current events. Immigration is a very hot button issue in the States and people feel just as strongly about it here as the Russians feel about the Germans in the book (and the German's don't exactly have a flattering view of the Russians, either).
His determination and his loyalty really made me love him. I would read another novel of equal length with a storyline of just his character.
There is an additional storyline involving Catherine the Great's struggle to rule the country successfully. I haven't done much research about her specifically, but if some scenes in the book are based on fact, she had some brutal moments.
What I liked most about her story was that yes, she did use some brutal tactics, but you saw beyond the ruler. You saw a very flawed human being and a woman scorned. I don't think that she made all the right decisions, but I think that she did the best that she could given what she had to work with. It couldn't have been easy ruling one of the largest empires especially when you're a woman in a patriarchal society.
I think that the story overall will appear to fans of historical fiction; Russian HF especially. The length can be a bit daunting, but the story breezes by. It was a hard book to put down; I got so invested into the characters and I had to find out what happened to them.
I would love to read more novels by this author. I think she has a real knack for having characters propel the story.
I loved the character Christian. He was the wonderful mix of the traditional values that his parents had instilled in him and a progressive adaptability to his new life in Russia. He's also kind of a typical teenager. (Example being that a beautiful girl is a good motivator to learn Russian).
I thought that parts of Christian's story were prevalent to today's current events. Immigration is a very hot button issue in the States and people feel just as strongly about it here as the Russians feel about the Germans in the book (and the German's don't exactly have a flattering view of the Russians, either).
His determination and his loyalty really made me love him. I would read another novel of equal length with a storyline of just his character.
There is an additional storyline involving Catherine the Great's struggle to rule the country successfully. I haven't done much research about her specifically, but if some scenes in the book are based on fact, she had some brutal moments.
What I liked most about her story was that yes, she did use some brutal tactics, but you saw beyond the ruler. You saw a very flawed human being and a woman scorned. I don't think that she made all the right decisions, but I think that she did the best that she could given what she had to work with. It couldn't have been easy ruling one of the largest empires especially when you're a woman in a patriarchal society.
I think that the story overall will appear to fans of historical fiction; Russian HF especially. The length can be a bit daunting, but the story breezes by. It was a hard book to put down; I got so invested into the characters and I had to find out what happened to them.
I would love to read more novels by this author. I think she has a real knack for having characters propel the story.
January 9, 2012
This historical novel is written with such grace, compassion and attention to detail that it is like no other I have read before. The story is expressed from two viewpoints, Katherine II, Empress of Russia and Christian Kehler a young boy who departs Germany with his family for a better life in Russia.
Katherine II, Empress of Russia, offers free land and homes to those who come to Russia. She is a strong, complex woman who wishes to populate Russia's Eastern frontier. Her personal love exploits provide a glimpse into her frailties and insecurities.
Christian Kehler is the main character in this story as he comes of age throughout the course of the book. Christian travels from Germany across the Rhine River with his family and neighboring families full of hope and determination. His journey is long and arduous as he encounters obstacles beyond his imagination. He is a strong, insightful and intelligent boy whose contribution to the journey and the eventual settlement of the people is invaluable.
The additional characters are rich in description and extremely well defined. They play an integral part is this story and add to its complexity. Each one experiences their own personal tragedies and triumphs. Each character has a personal story of their own which is portrayed with clarity, compassion and resolve.
The descriptive writing of the journey itself and the landscapes that are encountered are vividly drawn in such a way that you will make the journey as well. This story is very fast paced and surprises you at every turn of the page. I felt a great sense of compassion and trepidation for the characters in this story which is a direct result of the tremendous writing in this book.
I highly recommend this book to all readers. It is not merely a book of historical fiction but a book of families, hardships, love and determination. It portrays the best and worst of human nature and their struggle for survival.
Destinies by Karleene Morrow is truly a MUST READ.
Katherine II, Empress of Russia, offers free land and homes to those who come to Russia. She is a strong, complex woman who wishes to populate Russia's Eastern frontier. Her personal love exploits provide a glimpse into her frailties and insecurities.
Christian Kehler is the main character in this story as he comes of age throughout the course of the book. Christian travels from Germany across the Rhine River with his family and neighboring families full of hope and determination. His journey is long and arduous as he encounters obstacles beyond his imagination. He is a strong, insightful and intelligent boy whose contribution to the journey and the eventual settlement of the people is invaluable.
The additional characters are rich in description and extremely well defined. They play an integral part is this story and add to its complexity. Each one experiences their own personal tragedies and triumphs. Each character has a personal story of their own which is portrayed with clarity, compassion and resolve.
The descriptive writing of the journey itself and the landscapes that are encountered are vividly drawn in such a way that you will make the journey as well. This story is very fast paced and surprises you at every turn of the page. I felt a great sense of compassion and trepidation for the characters in this story which is a direct result of the tremendous writing in this book.
I highly recommend this book to all readers. It is not merely a book of historical fiction but a book of families, hardships, love and determination. It portrays the best and worst of human nature and their struggle for survival.
Destinies by Karleene Morrow is truly a MUST READ.
October 24, 2012
The Good…
Normally I wouldn’t pick up a historical fiction simply because it is outside of my normal genre reading. This is one time I’m very glad I took the risk. If my history classes had been anything like this book I probably would have aced every test. We follow two storylines that often intersect and both are riveting.
Catherine’s story reminded me of a Doctor Who episode where the Doctor and his companions are able to look into the life of Madame D’Pompadour during certain points in her life. We get a close up look at how Catherine may have actually lived, not just the dry facts, but also how she may have felt and reacted to specific events. The author brings this historical figure to life and allows us special access to behind the scenes action.
In the other storyline we watch Christian grow into a man during one of his people’s most exciting and trying times. We feel the heart break as he loses loved ones and thrill to the moments of danger he overcomes. As the story progresses we hope ever more fervently for a happy ending for this endearing character.
The Not-so-good…
As with most books with prologues, this one I believe could have been eliminated without harming the story. It’s interesting, but unnecessary.
This book is actually three books in one. Book one is well written and well edited. However, while books two and three are also well written, they could have benefitted from a little more editing. I found several typographical and formatting errors that were annoying. My suggestion for perfectionists is to note that the errors exist and concentrate on enjoying the story, which is strong through the entire book.
It’s also worth noting that in a few scenes there is excessive foul language and brutality. In each case I would consider it acceptable given the scene and the characters.
The Overall…
Destinies by Karleene Morrow is a fabulous historical fiction worth adding to one’s library and definitely worth taking a chance on.
Normally I wouldn’t pick up a historical fiction simply because it is outside of my normal genre reading. This is one time I’m very glad I took the risk. If my history classes had been anything like this book I probably would have aced every test. We follow two storylines that often intersect and both are riveting.
Catherine’s story reminded me of a Doctor Who episode where the Doctor and his companions are able to look into the life of Madame D’Pompadour during certain points in her life. We get a close up look at how Catherine may have actually lived, not just the dry facts, but also how she may have felt and reacted to specific events. The author brings this historical figure to life and allows us special access to behind the scenes action.
In the other storyline we watch Christian grow into a man during one of his people’s most exciting and trying times. We feel the heart break as he loses loved ones and thrill to the moments of danger he overcomes. As the story progresses we hope ever more fervently for a happy ending for this endearing character.
The Not-so-good…
As with most books with prologues, this one I believe could have been eliminated without harming the story. It’s interesting, but unnecessary.
This book is actually three books in one. Book one is well written and well edited. However, while books two and three are also well written, they could have benefitted from a little more editing. I found several typographical and formatting errors that were annoying. My suggestion for perfectionists is to note that the errors exist and concentrate on enjoying the story, which is strong through the entire book.
It’s also worth noting that in a few scenes there is excessive foul language and brutality. In each case I would consider it acceptable given the scene and the characters.
The Overall…
Destinies by Karleene Morrow is a fabulous historical fiction worth adding to one’s library and definitely worth taking a chance on.
July 15, 2012
BEC'S REVIEW
Historical novels are a tricky subject to get right. Unlike most novels they require a lot of research in order to ensure that events and characters stay as close to their real life counterparts as possible, and that those who have researched or know of the characters won’t get upset by them acting in strange ways. As such it’s a genre not every author can pull off but one that Morrow does with such ease. I found myself eagerly turning the pages of this book and finishing it in a short time despite its large size. Do not let the size put you off either, this is a real page turner.
Dealing with the story of Katherine the Great and the European settlers she invited to immigrate to Russia, this story is told from two perspectives, that of Katherine but mostly that of a fictional immigrant teenager, Christian, who grows up over the years that this book is set in. Each of the characters has trials they must face, successes and failures, and life changing decisions. Each of the characters is a refreshing read, with individual voices that combine the story telling in an enchanting read.
There were some parts of this story that amused me, and some parts that had me worried for the characters but no matter what was happening I couldn’t put it down. At times it did get frustrating when it would switch to the other character, especially when something good was happening with the first one, but this only added to the suspense. I believe Destinies can stand it’s ground against other historical novels that have graced book store shelves, and would highly recommend it. Don’t let the fact that it’s a rather long book put you off, as you will savour every page.
Source: The Masquerade Crew (http://s.tt/19BUY)
Historical novels are a tricky subject to get right. Unlike most novels they require a lot of research in order to ensure that events and characters stay as close to their real life counterparts as possible, and that those who have researched or know of the characters won’t get upset by them acting in strange ways. As such it’s a genre not every author can pull off but one that Morrow does with such ease. I found myself eagerly turning the pages of this book and finishing it in a short time despite its large size. Do not let the size put you off either, this is a real page turner.
Dealing with the story of Katherine the Great and the European settlers she invited to immigrate to Russia, this story is told from two perspectives, that of Katherine but mostly that of a fictional immigrant teenager, Christian, who grows up over the years that this book is set in. Each of the characters has trials they must face, successes and failures, and life changing decisions. Each of the characters is a refreshing read, with individual voices that combine the story telling in an enchanting read.
There were some parts of this story that amused me, and some parts that had me worried for the characters but no matter what was happening I couldn’t put it down. At times it did get frustrating when it would switch to the other character, especially when something good was happening with the first one, but this only added to the suspense. I believe Destinies can stand it’s ground against other historical novels that have graced book store shelves, and would highly recommend it. Don’t let the fact that it’s a rather long book put you off, as you will savour every page.
Source: The Masquerade Crew (http://s.tt/19BUY)
November 25, 2012
I began reading "Destinies" by Karleene Morrow, not knowing quite what to expect. The settlement by German colonists around the area of the Russian Volga, during the reign of Katherine the Great, was an episode of history of which I knew nothing.
After a couple of pages it was clear that Karleene Morrow is a skilled story-teller. By the end of the first chapter it was equally clear she had a fascinating story to tell. The narrative switches from the court of Katherine to the harsh frontier of the Russian Steppes. The characters she brings to life are complex, multi-layered, fully fleshed individuals. She is as comfortable getting under the skin of the Great Katherine as she is with Doshinski the Russian blacksmith, or Christian the young German colonist.
This is a truly excellent novel, as rich in historical detail as it is in human interest. It was a book I thoroughly enjoyed reading, and would unreservedly recommend to anyone; male , female, German, Russian, American, or Scot like myself.
I only have two questions for Karleene Morrow: When is the film being released? And when are you writing your next book?
After a couple of pages it was clear that Karleene Morrow is a skilled story-teller. By the end of the first chapter it was equally clear she had a fascinating story to tell. The narrative switches from the court of Katherine to the harsh frontier of the Russian Steppes. The characters she brings to life are complex, multi-layered, fully fleshed individuals. She is as comfortable getting under the skin of the Great Katherine as she is with Doshinski the Russian blacksmith, or Christian the young German colonist.
This is a truly excellent novel, as rich in historical detail as it is in human interest. It was a book I thoroughly enjoyed reading, and would unreservedly recommend to anyone; male , female, German, Russian, American, or Scot like myself.
I only have two questions for Karleene Morrow: When is the film being released? And when are you writing your next book?
October 12, 2012
A lavish Russian saga you can certainly sink your teeth into!
Russia’s Catherine the Great is depicted in a historically-accurate yet fictionally fleshed-out manner, making history come alive in a smart, needy woman who ignores the peasantry and doesn’t understand the heart of the country she’s ruling. Her intriguing story is contrasted with that of a fictional immigrant boy and his family who have come from Germany looking for a better life. The substantial characters are unusually well-developed and the writing is so good I didn’t even notice it – high praise indeed from an editor! Morrow’s first foray into novels is highly recommended.
Susan Uttendorfsky
Owner, Adirondack Editing
Russia’s Catherine the Great is depicted in a historically-accurate yet fictionally fleshed-out manner, making history come alive in a smart, needy woman who ignores the peasantry and doesn’t understand the heart of the country she’s ruling. Her intriguing story is contrasted with that of a fictional immigrant boy and his family who have come from Germany looking for a better life. The substantial characters are unusually well-developed and the writing is so good I didn’t even notice it – high praise indeed from an editor! Morrow’s first foray into novels is highly recommended.
Susan Uttendorfsky
Owner, Adirondack Editing
May 20, 2013
Excellent read could not to put it down, wanted to know more about the Rhinelaenders. Their struggle to find a better Life far from their home and was fascinated by Katherine the Great. She had great visions for Russia, some foolish some very brave. I am glad I found this book beside being a real good read I learned a lot.
September 4, 2012
Full review available at http://darleneelizabethwilliamsauthor...
November 10, 2012
This is a captivating historical novel full of action and drama. The differences between the classes of society drive the plot and keep you wanting to read more.
August 20, 2013
A Rich Historical Novel. That is well researched and well written.The story follows Katherine the Great and Christian Kehler who comes from Germany with his family for what they hope is a better life in Russia. Destinies is a story you can get lost in. And you will want to take time with and enjoy. This is a book you will not want to put down and the story will stay with you long after you finish reading it. This is a book I will want to reread to enjoy again and again. I was lucky to receive a free copy to review. I recommend you purchase Destinies and enjoy. It is a story you do not want to miss.
February 21, 2014
I have known for decades that there were German colonies in Russia. What I never knew was how they got there. Destinies is the fascinating story of how they did get there and some of the incredible hardships they had to undergo to get to Russia, and the further hardships once they did arrive. I would have died. A lot of Germans did. Destinies also shows some of Katherine the Great's activities and confirmed my total dislike of royalty. Fascinating story, fascinating times.
Read
January 25, 2013Really enjoyed the story of the immigrants from Germany. Actually skimmed the latter section re: Katherine, found rather boring and going nowhere. Not blended well with immigrants, almost like two stories.
May 6, 2012
Obviously well reasearched historical novel. A good blend of true and fictional characters.
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews