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The Russian Tapestry
A captivating tale of struggle, loyalty and love, inspired by a true story From St Petersburg, 1913, to Estonia, 1919, and beyond, THE RUSSIAN TAPESTRY spans wars, revolution and friendships that will grow as strong as the turmoil around them.
Marie Kulbas, the daughter of a wealthy merchant, is excited about her new life in the vibrant city of St Petersburg. But as World War I escalates she must farewell those dearest to her when her brother and her fianc leave for the German Front.
Colonel Alexei Serov comes from a long line of professional soldiers. Leading his men is his birthright and his duty; his allegiance to Russia surpasses everything, including his obligations to his wife and family. His role is clear, until he meets Marie and suddenly emotions rise in him that he has never felt before.
As their world starts to crumble, Marie and Alexei discover a love that they will cling to in their search for a path to safety.
Marie Kulbas, the daughter of a wealthy merchant, is excited about her new life in the vibrant city of St Petersburg. But as World War I escalates she must farewell those dearest to her when her brother and her fianc leave for the German Front.
Colonel Alexei Serov comes from a long line of professional soldiers. Leading his men is his birthright and his duty; his allegiance to Russia surpasses everything, including his obligations to his wife and family. His role is clear, until he meets Marie and suddenly emotions rise in him that he has never felt before.
As their world starts to crumble, Marie and Alexei discover a love that they will cling to in their search for a path to safety.
400 pages, Paperback
First published July 30, 2013
About the author
Banafsheh Serov
3 books83 followersBorn in London, Banafsheh spent her childhood in Tehran. In 1982, in the midst of the Iran/Iraq war, her parents came up with a plan to smuggle the family out of Iran. Caught by the Turkish border guards, Banafsheh and her family spent three weeks crammed in a cell with five other refugees while their fate was decided.
Moving to Australia, Banafsheh completed her bachelors at UTS Sydney. She lives with her husband and two sons. When not running their family bookstores, Banafsheh splits her time between writing and conducting author talks.
Moving to Australia, Banafsheh completed her bachelors at UTS Sydney. She lives with her husband and two sons. When not running their family bookstores, Banafsheh splits her time between writing and conducting author talks.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
September 3, 2013
Of course I've read it. I bloody well wrote it:))
Seriously, its a good yarn. If you've loved Dr. Zhivago and War and Peace, you'll probably like The Russian Tapestry.
Give it a go. My children will thank you:)
Seriously, its a good yarn. If you've loved Dr. Zhivago and War and Peace, you'll probably like The Russian Tapestry.
Give it a go. My children will thank you:)
September 14, 2013
Even though I felt that Marie and Alexei had only seen and had the opportunity to learn about one another in such a brief period of time, I was amazed and admired how strong their love was for each other.
It was their love that helped them survive the hardships of war and faith that had brought them together.
I was hoping for more from Alexei and Marie's love affair but the author had done a brilliant job in capturing wartime Russia.
As much as I have enjoyed the main characters, my personal favourites were the supporting characters; Ivanov, Katya and Grigory. They remained strong and loyal to those they respected til the very end.
A powerful scene captured was when Pyotr was badly injured and he kept whispering Marie's name. Katya was by his side and made a choice to be Marie hoping for either Pyotr to fight and survive his injuries or to die with love, believing Marie was by his side.
It was their love that helped them survive the hardships of war and faith that had brought them together.
I was hoping for more from Alexei and Marie's love affair but the author had done a brilliant job in capturing wartime Russia.
As much as I have enjoyed the main characters, my personal favourites were the supporting characters; Ivanov, Katya and Grigory. They remained strong and loyal to those they respected til the very end.
A powerful scene captured was when Pyotr was badly injured and he kept whispering Marie's name. Katya was by his side and made a choice to be Marie hoping for either Pyotr to fight and survive his injuries or to die with love, believing Marie was by his side.
September 13, 2013
I'm trying to imagine writing the love story of my husband's grandparents...good Lord, the pressure!The awkward Sunday dinners!
Surely not a task for the feint of heart.
I love books about the effect of war and displacement on social change and have a particular interest in eastern Europe. I think it's heartening that there are an increasing number of authors who will roll up their sleeves and pour their fascination and passion into books like this so that we can appreciate the often colossal effort made by our migrant ancestors.
As I read this book, it was just so hard to comprehend that these people, who trod the path with the famous and infamous in Russian history, would ultimately become Australian. I'm guessing that our sunburnt country may as well have been Mars to them at the time.
This is a nicely written, sincere book by a brave author.
It would have been nice to know how they adjusted to such a different life. Or is that the sequel?
Surely not a task for the feint of heart.
I love books about the effect of war and displacement on social change and have a particular interest in eastern Europe. I think it's heartening that there are an increasing number of authors who will roll up their sleeves and pour their fascination and passion into books like this so that we can appreciate the often colossal effort made by our migrant ancestors.
As I read this book, it was just so hard to comprehend that these people, who trod the path with the famous and infamous in Russian history, would ultimately become Australian. I'm guessing that our sunburnt country may as well have been Mars to them at the time.
This is a nicely written, sincere book by a brave author.
It would have been nice to know how they adjusted to such a different life. Or is that the sequel?
August 17, 2013
The Russian Tapestry is a story inspired by the real life love story of the author’s husband’s grandparents. Banafsheh Serov never met Alexei Serov and Marie Kulbas but she was intrigued by their story of migrating to Australia and the hardship they faced in Russia, that she was inspired to fictionalise their story to write this book.
Beginning in St Petersburg 1913, The Russian Tapestry follows the lives of Marie Kulbas and Colonel Alexei Serov whose lives cross during World War 1. Marie is the daughter of a wealthy merchant who faces hardship when her fiancé leaves for the German Front and goes missing in action. To feel like she is contributing toward protecting her country she becomes a nurse and this is where she meets Alexei-who is injured- for the first time. He is attracted to the young nurse immediately but as his injuries heal, he is soon discharged and doesn’t expect to see her again though he very much hopes he does. Alexei too remains on Marie’s mind in the time that follows, however she is overwhelmed with guilt at these unwanted feelings because her beloved fiancé is still missing.
In the years that follow, Marie’s family endures many difficulties and Alexei’s womanising and commitment to battle sees his marriage breakdown. Their paths cross again when Alexei is again injured in battle and this time they develop a close friendship. The attraction is still present but Marie is reluctant to let go of her missing fiancé and fears her reputation as Alexei is a married man. Alexei’s feelings for Marie never wane and even when he becomes a prisoner in war, she is the dream he holds onto. His life and family are at risk when he is forced to join a vigilante group known as the Red Army. He manages to escape, he finds Marie and with a divorce underway he can now finally look forward to a future with the woman he loves, Marie. But trouble still lies in the mix and Marie’s connection with Alexei places her in grave danger, so they flee, eventually migrating to Sydney.
The Russian Tapestry is such an interesting story, not only from its origins (the author’s inspiration) but how it captures wartime Russia and brings to life two characters that are able to make a new life for themselves in the face of adversity. I found the plot, the setting and the historical aspects of the story very engrossing. I could picture the time and the place and I enjoyed reading about World War I from the perspective of the Russians. However, the love plot between Marie and Alexei just didn’t feel very believable for me. Especially at their very first meeting at the Hospital; this is a catalyst for them eventually falling in love. For me, those scenes just didn’t hold the emotional impact I’d want to experience to really want this couple to survive the challenges placed before them. I understand the story was based on real life characters, but from a fictional perspective the love plot wasn’t as strong as the historical plot in my opinion. As the story progressed I did experience a better emotional connection to Alexei and Marie and I was happy with how the story was resolved.
The Russian Tapestry is an engaging historical tale set during World War 1, featuring a real-life inspired love story. A great debut into fiction by Australian author, Banafsheh Serov.
Beginning in St Petersburg 1913, The Russian Tapestry follows the lives of Marie Kulbas and Colonel Alexei Serov whose lives cross during World War 1. Marie is the daughter of a wealthy merchant who faces hardship when her fiancé leaves for the German Front and goes missing in action. To feel like she is contributing toward protecting her country she becomes a nurse and this is where she meets Alexei-who is injured- for the first time. He is attracted to the young nurse immediately but as his injuries heal, he is soon discharged and doesn’t expect to see her again though he very much hopes he does. Alexei too remains on Marie’s mind in the time that follows, however she is overwhelmed with guilt at these unwanted feelings because her beloved fiancé is still missing.
In the years that follow, Marie’s family endures many difficulties and Alexei’s womanising and commitment to battle sees his marriage breakdown. Their paths cross again when Alexei is again injured in battle and this time they develop a close friendship. The attraction is still present but Marie is reluctant to let go of her missing fiancé and fears her reputation as Alexei is a married man. Alexei’s feelings for Marie never wane and even when he becomes a prisoner in war, she is the dream he holds onto. His life and family are at risk when he is forced to join a vigilante group known as the Red Army. He manages to escape, he finds Marie and with a divorce underway he can now finally look forward to a future with the woman he loves, Marie. But trouble still lies in the mix and Marie’s connection with Alexei places her in grave danger, so they flee, eventually migrating to Sydney.
The Russian Tapestry is such an interesting story, not only from its origins (the author’s inspiration) but how it captures wartime Russia and brings to life two characters that are able to make a new life for themselves in the face of adversity. I found the plot, the setting and the historical aspects of the story very engrossing. I could picture the time and the place and I enjoyed reading about World War I from the perspective of the Russians. However, the love plot between Marie and Alexei just didn’t feel very believable for me. Especially at their very first meeting at the Hospital; this is a catalyst for them eventually falling in love. For me, those scenes just didn’t hold the emotional impact I’d want to experience to really want this couple to survive the challenges placed before them. I understand the story was based on real life characters, but from a fictional perspective the love plot wasn’t as strong as the historical plot in my opinion. As the story progressed I did experience a better emotional connection to Alexei and Marie and I was happy with how the story was resolved.
The Russian Tapestry is an engaging historical tale set during World War 1, featuring a real-life inspired love story. A great debut into fiction by Australian author, Banafsheh Serov.
September 13, 2013
After reading the blurb on the back of the book, I couldn't wait to read more about Marie and Alexei's story. I had the expectation that I would grow to love them both and so it was surprising for me to discover that the characters I enjoyed the most were the supporting characters, to me they provided the "heart and soul" of this novel. The author did not shy away from depicting the horrors of war and yet at the same time made Russia so appealing and romantic. A wonderful juxtoposition. I was very pleased with the ending as my favourite character became the hero of the book. :-)
January 20, 2014
I was lucky enough to win this through Goodreads First Reads - thanks Hachette.
To be honest, whilst this is a period of history that I find fascinating I struggled to get into the flow of the book, the constant shifting between seemingly unrelated characters left me at a loss till paths started to cross and criss-cross as the story developed. The title 'Russian Tapestry' is apt, as the story attempts to explore the many different and unique threads (the different people and their very different backgrounds and philosophies) that woven together form a tapestry ('our', or in this case Marie's and Alexei's, life). It reminded me that there is a reason that so many editions of the great Russian sagas have character lists at the front of the books in order to help the reader 'acclimatise' to the world being created in a book (they also help in tracking the interchange of formal versus informal names/names of affection).
There are some lovely and powerful passages through the book but to be honest I never felt that I got to know any of the characters very well and like some other reviewers actually felt myself more drawn to some of the side characters and their stories ...
Given the strength of some of the writing I am interested to seek out the author's true story 'Under a Starless Sky' and will be interested to see what she tackles next.
To be honest, whilst this is a period of history that I find fascinating I struggled to get into the flow of the book, the constant shifting between seemingly unrelated characters left me at a loss till paths started to cross and criss-cross as the story developed. The title 'Russian Tapestry' is apt, as the story attempts to explore the many different and unique threads (the different people and their very different backgrounds and philosophies) that woven together form a tapestry ('our', or in this case Marie's and Alexei's, life). It reminded me that there is a reason that so many editions of the great Russian sagas have character lists at the front of the books in order to help the reader 'acclimatise' to the world being created in a book (they also help in tracking the interchange of formal versus informal names/names of affection).
There are some lovely and powerful passages through the book but to be honest I never felt that I got to know any of the characters very well and like some other reviewers actually felt myself more drawn to some of the side characters and their stories ...
Given the strength of some of the writing I am interested to seek out the author's true story 'Under a Starless Sky' and will be interested to see what she tackles next.
January 30, 2014
I received this book as a Goodreads Giveaway.
I really enjoyed reading The Russian Tapestry, and did so even more when I found out it was based upon a true story. The elements of the First World War contained within the book were gritty yet realistic, and made for an excellent story that kept me on the edge of my seat every time I picked it up. The love story woven throughout The Russian Tapestry is poetic and would certainly appeal to the many fans of Paullina Simons’ The Bronze Horseman. Overall, I thought The Russian Tapestry was a realistic and compelling story of love and loss during World War I.
I really enjoyed reading The Russian Tapestry, and did so even more when I found out it was based upon a true story. The elements of the First World War contained within the book were gritty yet realistic, and made for an excellent story that kept me on the edge of my seat every time I picked it up. The love story woven throughout The Russian Tapestry is poetic and would certainly appeal to the many fans of Paullina Simons’ The Bronze Horseman. Overall, I thought The Russian Tapestry was a realistic and compelling story of love and loss during World War I.
May 20, 2014
The Russian Tapestry is a very interesting and enjoyable read.
It is set in St Petersburg, Russia through to Tallin, Estonia.
I loved it.
If you like Dr Zhivago and War and Peace you are also going to love this novel.
This novel, however, is The Russian Tapestry which is exactly what the title of the book says it is. Unique & enthralling.
The author writes beautifully with enriching words; war escalating around the characters in the novel; snowy scenes & romance which enhance the setting of this unique novel by Banafsheh Serov.
Read & enjoy it.
It is set in St Petersburg, Russia through to Tallin, Estonia.
I loved it.
If you like Dr Zhivago and War and Peace you are also going to love this novel.
This novel, however, is The Russian Tapestry which is exactly what the title of the book says it is. Unique & enthralling.
The author writes beautifully with enriching words; war escalating around the characters in the novel; snowy scenes & romance which enhance the setting of this unique novel by Banafsheh Serov.
Read & enjoy it.
June 7, 2016
The Russian Tapestry blends fact and fiction together quite seamlessly, as we follow the story of Alexei and Marie, separated initially by war and Revolution in Russia, but drawn back together by a love that is strong enough to overcome the greatest of obstacles.
Serov has drawn on her own family history - Alexei and Marie were the grandparents of her husband, and this story is the retelling of how they came to be together and then travelled to Australia to begin a new life after the Russian Revolution.
Lovers of Historical Romance will enjoy this one.
Serov has drawn on her own family history - Alexei and Marie were the grandparents of her husband, and this story is the retelling of how they came to be together and then travelled to Australia to begin a new life after the Russian Revolution.
Lovers of Historical Romance will enjoy this one.
April 18, 2014
4.5/5
June 4, 2020
No thanks.
I know this is based on a true story, but the writing leaves a lot to be desired. It feels almost flaky on the page, packed with lots of telling and little showing, so devoid of important detail that it almost invites the reader to skim. The structure is pretty weak and constantly flops between POVs, many of which offer very little insight, and what they do give could be summarised through other means.
Alexei is deeply unlikable, already having cheated on his wife at least twice before meeting her. He's also much, much older than Marie in a way that makes me uncomfortable, given their vastly differing life experiences and levels of maturity. He comes off as almost predatory in his descriptions and treatment of women, including Marie herself. "She smiled at me when I was in hospital! This must mean she's attracted to me/hopelessly in love with me!"
(Or maybe she was doing her job. As a nurse. In World War I. And trying to have a good bedside manner.) (And yes I know she actually was attracted to him, but he couldn't have known that from one short, professional interaction.)
They speak maybe two or three times before he runs into her out in public and declares his love, and Marie, despite not yet knowing that , has already started thinking of Alexei as a replacement for Peyotr. She knows he's already married, and at the point where I stopped reading, it looked as if she was about to fall for his endless excuses. The mantra of every cheating scumbag: "my marriage is dead, I don't love my wife, she's so cold to me!"
The way he thinks of her, and speaks to her, while he's in hospital also crept me out. He was clearly making her uncomfortable, and the story frames it as, "Oh, in hindsight it was silly of her to be annoyed by his advances, because he was just so handsome!" Yuck, nasty, yikes.
There are also way too many random POVs thrown in, and they're hard to tell apart until the POV character's name is used. They just get in the way of Alexei and Marie's developing relationship, so much so that, like I said above, they barely exchange a paragraph worth of dialogue before thinking of each other as love interests.
If this is intended as an accurate depiction of a real love story, I can't help but feel it would have been better served as a biography. But fiction, somewhat paradoxically, does have standards for realism, and I just don't buy that these two people could have been in love after sharing only a handful of paragraphs of time together.
I hope the real-life Marie and Alexei were happy together, but their fictionalised counterparts just weren't that interesting to read about.
I know this is based on a true story, but the writing leaves a lot to be desired. It feels almost flaky on the page, packed with lots of telling and little showing, so devoid of important detail that it almost invites the reader to skim. The structure is pretty weak and constantly flops between POVs, many of which offer very little insight, and what they do give could be summarised through other means.
Alexei is deeply unlikable, already having cheated on his wife at least twice before meeting her. He's also much, much older than Marie in a way that makes me uncomfortable, given their vastly differing life experiences and levels of maturity. He comes off as almost predatory in his descriptions and treatment of women, including Marie herself. "She smiled at me when I was in hospital! This must mean she's attracted to me/hopelessly in love with me!"
(Or maybe she was doing her job. As a nurse. In World War I. And trying to have a good bedside manner.) (And yes I know she actually was attracted to him, but he couldn't have known that from one short, professional interaction.)
They speak maybe two or three times before he runs into her out in public and declares his love, and Marie, despite not yet knowing that , has already started thinking of Alexei as a replacement for Peyotr. She knows he's already married, and at the point where I stopped reading, it looked as if she was about to fall for his endless excuses. The mantra of every cheating scumbag: "my marriage is dead, I don't love my wife, she's so cold to me!"
The way he thinks of her, and speaks to her, while he's in hospital also crept me out. He was clearly making her uncomfortable, and the story frames it as, "Oh, in hindsight it was silly of her to be annoyed by his advances, because he was just so handsome!" Yuck, nasty, yikes.
There are also way too many random POVs thrown in, and they're hard to tell apart until the POV character's name is used. They just get in the way of Alexei and Marie's developing relationship, so much so that, like I said above, they barely exchange a paragraph worth of dialogue before thinking of each other as love interests.
If this is intended as an accurate depiction of a real love story, I can't help but feel it would have been better served as a biography. But fiction, somewhat paradoxically, does have standards for realism, and I just don't buy that these two people could have been in love after sharing only a handful of paragraphs of time together.
I hope the real-life Marie and Alexei were happy together, but their fictionalised counterparts just weren't that interesting to read about.
January 5, 2019
It took me 3 days to read. Needless to say, I couldn’t put it down. My friend recommended it and she did well to. The story, so intricately woven together by Banafsheh Serov, is simply all you want in a book: romance, drama, tragedy, detail, characters you love and cry for and laugh with. Definitely have tissues at hand when reading this, my heart still aches for many of the characters and the tragic blood shed of World War 1 and the Russian Revolution. Thank you Mrs Serov, for so beautifully sharing with us your your husbands grandparents love story. It was a delight to read. I will definitely recommend to friends.
January 18, 2026
3.5 stars
This definitely a saga and a tapestry of lives.
While I enjoyed the book, I rated it 3.5 because it didn't really leave me thinking about the characters afterwards and I didn't really feel commited to them. Despite all the killing and death, I didn't feel any emotion from reading about it.
At times it was confusing with the character perspective changing frequently and having to remember who was who. I enjoyed learning about the war from the Russian perspective and the subsequent civil war, despite it being depressing. I was surprised to find out that the authour was not Russian and that this story was based on the life of her husband's family.
This definitely a saga and a tapestry of lives.
While I enjoyed the book, I rated it 3.5 because it didn't really leave me thinking about the characters afterwards and I didn't really feel commited to them. Despite all the killing and death, I didn't feel any emotion from reading about it.
At times it was confusing with the character perspective changing frequently and having to remember who was who. I enjoyed learning about the war from the Russian perspective and the subsequent civil war, despite it being depressing. I was surprised to find out that the authour was not Russian and that this story was based on the life of her husband's family.
March 25, 2021
Loved this book so much, i wish there was a series of books to follow this one. I read it years ago and the story still haunts me, I wish I could find out what happened in their lives. I feel like there’s more weaving left in the untold story of the Russian tapestry
January 1, 2022
After seeing reviews, I really wasn’t expecting much from this book apart from being a nice buffer between other holiday reads. I was pleasantly surprised! A beautiful, heartbreaking story. If you are a fan of The Bronze Horseman, you’ll love this!
May 24, 2024
Learnt a bit more of Russia and what it was like there in the war.i like books that have historical context and based on real events and people. A good book and I became quite involved with the characters. I may read this again in the future
April 26, 2019
Ich habe gestern 50 Seiten gelesen und leider ist die Geschichte überhaupt nicht mein Geschmack. Irgendwie hat mich das ganze Thema überhaupt nicht interessiert und ich hab es abgebrochen.
September 7, 2023
This well-told family history is an accessible Russian novel.
October 11, 2013
Author Banafsheh Serov self-deprecatingly describes The Russian Tapestry as “a good yarn”. She’s right – it is a good yarn, but Serov’s words downplay just how good a yarn it is. Inspired by her husband’s grandparent’s love story, The Russian Tapestry is a beautifully woven tale of history, hardship, love and loyalty. The historical aspect – it’s set in Russia and Estonia during WWI – highlights the adversity faced by two people in their quest for survival and love.
The story begins in St Petersburg, 1913 and spans about six-years. The Kulbas family has returned to St Petersburg, later re-dubbed Petrograd, for their annual visit; it’s the first time young Marie Kulbas, has been allowed to join her parents and she’s understandably excited. However, despite her excitement about the ballet, galas, balls and masquerades ahead, Marie, the daughter of a Russian merchant, has plans to study law. It’s an unusual choice for a young woman, as Pyotr, the young man who catches Marie’s eye, observes. Their friendship soon grows into something more, but with Europe in turmoil it’s not long before the war reaches its grip into Marie’s life, snatching away those dearest to her. Marie’s brother, Nikolai enlists as soon as war starts; Pyotr follows soon after, declaring his intention to marry Marie.
Colonel Alexei Serov comes from a long line of professional soldiers. Leading his men is his birthright and his duty; his allegiance to Russia surpasses everything, including his obligations to his wife and family. His faithfulness to his country does not extend to his wife. When he is injured, he is taken to a hospital in Petrograd – the same place where Marie is now volunteering as a nurse. Her duty to her country is also clear – she cannot simply study and pretend war is not near, when her brother and fiance are fighting on the German front. It’s here that Marie and Alexei meet for the first time.
He found himself longing to learn her name and was impatient to be rid of the thermometer.
Marie’s passion and confidence lingers in Alexei’s memory; Marie, in turn, is intrigued by Alexei. While Alexei, perturbed but excited by the new emotions welling in him, is keen to pursue Marie, she is clear that there will be no relationship other than friendship – she is tied to Pyotr. It’s a dance that plays out over several years, as Marie deals with the fact that Pyotr is among many men missing, never found, Alexei returns to the front and ends his marriage, and both lose people that mean much to them. With the world crumbling around them, and the city they love becoming the focus of revolution, all they have to cling to is each other. Will they find a path to safety together? Or will their story simply be a thread in a new historical tapestry?
I don’t really know a great deal about Russian history, but I’ve always been drawn to books that examine the lives and hardships of people during wartime. These challenges are not something I ever have faced, nor am I likely to. The Russian setting intrigued me and I found the perspective fascinating. It took a few chapters to become fully absorbed in the book and then, all a sudden, I was engrossed, caught up in the lives of not only Marie and Alexei, but the interesting and well-drawn secondary characters. Some reviewers have said that the love story was overshadowed by the historical events, and with a 2013 perspective that’s true, but when you think about it, that’s probably exactly what it was like in that time. A hundred years ago, lovers were lucky to survive.
From the blurb The Russian Tapestry does sound like a romance, but I would describe this as historical fiction with romantic elements. The story moves from cities to forests, from war fronts to hospitals, from gala events to revolutionary meetings; with so much going on (again, it’s realistic for the time), it did take a while to emotionally connect with Marie or Alexei’s story. As their story took a back seat to other events, other characters grabbed at my emotions more – those of Ivanov and Marina, and of Pyotr (Oh, Pyotr, poor Pyotr), Katya and Feodor. These secondary characters were beautifully developed and all the threads of their stories beautifully tied into the larger tapestry. I’d really like to see further development of Marie and Alexei’s characters, perhaps in a sequel that examines their new life in Australia.
A fascinating read, The Russian Tapestry will appeal to those who love historical sagas that weave love and adversity together like Dr Zhivago. It’s well-written, carefully researched and delivers a most satisfying read. Add it to your list!
The story begins in St Petersburg, 1913 and spans about six-years. The Kulbas family has returned to St Petersburg, later re-dubbed Petrograd, for their annual visit; it’s the first time young Marie Kulbas, has been allowed to join her parents and she’s understandably excited. However, despite her excitement about the ballet, galas, balls and masquerades ahead, Marie, the daughter of a Russian merchant, has plans to study law. It’s an unusual choice for a young woman, as Pyotr, the young man who catches Marie’s eye, observes. Their friendship soon grows into something more, but with Europe in turmoil it’s not long before the war reaches its grip into Marie’s life, snatching away those dearest to her. Marie’s brother, Nikolai enlists as soon as war starts; Pyotr follows soon after, declaring his intention to marry Marie.
Colonel Alexei Serov comes from a long line of professional soldiers. Leading his men is his birthright and his duty; his allegiance to Russia surpasses everything, including his obligations to his wife and family. His faithfulness to his country does not extend to his wife. When he is injured, he is taken to a hospital in Petrograd – the same place where Marie is now volunteering as a nurse. Her duty to her country is also clear – she cannot simply study and pretend war is not near, when her brother and fiance are fighting on the German front. It’s here that Marie and Alexei meet for the first time.
He found himself longing to learn her name and was impatient to be rid of the thermometer.
Marie’s passion and confidence lingers in Alexei’s memory; Marie, in turn, is intrigued by Alexei. While Alexei, perturbed but excited by the new emotions welling in him, is keen to pursue Marie, she is clear that there will be no relationship other than friendship – she is tied to Pyotr. It’s a dance that plays out over several years, as Marie deals with the fact that Pyotr is among many men missing, never found, Alexei returns to the front and ends his marriage, and both lose people that mean much to them. With the world crumbling around them, and the city they love becoming the focus of revolution, all they have to cling to is each other. Will they find a path to safety together? Or will their story simply be a thread in a new historical tapestry?
I don’t really know a great deal about Russian history, but I’ve always been drawn to books that examine the lives and hardships of people during wartime. These challenges are not something I ever have faced, nor am I likely to. The Russian setting intrigued me and I found the perspective fascinating. It took a few chapters to become fully absorbed in the book and then, all a sudden, I was engrossed, caught up in the lives of not only Marie and Alexei, but the interesting and well-drawn secondary characters. Some reviewers have said that the love story was overshadowed by the historical events, and with a 2013 perspective that’s true, but when you think about it, that’s probably exactly what it was like in that time. A hundred years ago, lovers were lucky to survive.
From the blurb The Russian Tapestry does sound like a romance, but I would describe this as historical fiction with romantic elements. The story moves from cities to forests, from war fronts to hospitals, from gala events to revolutionary meetings; with so much going on (again, it’s realistic for the time), it did take a while to emotionally connect with Marie or Alexei’s story. As their story took a back seat to other events, other characters grabbed at my emotions more – those of Ivanov and Marina, and of Pyotr (Oh, Pyotr, poor Pyotr), Katya and Feodor. These secondary characters were beautifully developed and all the threads of their stories beautifully tied into the larger tapestry. I’d really like to see further development of Marie and Alexei’s characters, perhaps in a sequel that examines their new life in Australia.
A fascinating read, The Russian Tapestry will appeal to those who love historical sagas that weave love and adversity together like Dr Zhivago. It’s well-written, carefully researched and delivers a most satisfying read. Add it to your list!
February 13, 2016
I've never a historical romance novel before. I was gifted this book by a coworker, and reading the blurb went in expecting a nice love story, set upon the backdrop of WWI. I imagined a romanticised view of the War, of love letters sent back and forth.
What I got was something very different,. What I got was heartbreaking. What I got, had me crying in a doctors surgery waiting room.
And you know what? I loved it. Well, perhaps loved is the wrong word given the context. But nonetheless, I found The Russian Tapestry to be an absolutely amazing book, and I am profoundly grateful to Banafsheh Serov for writing it, and my coworker for putting it in my hands.
Marie is an intelligent, educated, strong woman, studying law who dreams of women having their place in law and politics. She is what I hope my daughters aspire to be, someone who is willing to stand up and wants to make a difference.
Alexei, if I'm honest, I felt badly towards in the beginning. He is out getting drunk cheating on his wife, while she raises their two daughters and his illegitimate daughter. I'm not sure exactly when my opinion of him changed, but my feelings towards him by the end of the book were very different.
Admittedly, I know little about WWI. It happened a century ago, in lands I've never seen. The politics in this were new to me, I had to pay attention and focus on who was who and what was happening. I usually read lighthearted fluff where good triumphs over evil and everyone leaves happily ever after, and this is such polar opposites to that.
We all know war is horrific, and I can imagine the scenarios in The Russian Tapestry barely scrape the surface of the atrocities many experience....but it was enough to have me shuddering and cringing at the way humans treat each other. And then I sit and think how although the book is fictionalised these are still things that people experienced during World War I.
I wept for these fictional I characters, and for the real life individuals they resembled.
Without a doubt, a five star read for me.
What I got was something very different,. What I got was heartbreaking. What I got, had me crying in a doctors surgery waiting room.
And you know what? I loved it. Well, perhaps loved is the wrong word given the context. But nonetheless, I found The Russian Tapestry to be an absolutely amazing book, and I am profoundly grateful to Banafsheh Serov for writing it, and my coworker for putting it in my hands.
Marie is an intelligent, educated, strong woman, studying law who dreams of women having their place in law and politics. She is what I hope my daughters aspire to be, someone who is willing to stand up and wants to make a difference.
Alexei, if I'm honest, I felt badly towards in the beginning. He is out getting drunk cheating on his wife, while she raises their two daughters and his illegitimate daughter. I'm not sure exactly when my opinion of him changed, but my feelings towards him by the end of the book were very different.
Admittedly, I know little about WWI. It happened a century ago, in lands I've never seen. The politics in this were new to me, I had to pay attention and focus on who was who and what was happening. I usually read lighthearted fluff where good triumphs over evil and everyone leaves happily ever after, and this is such polar opposites to that.
We all know war is horrific, and I can imagine the scenarios in The Russian Tapestry barely scrape the surface of the atrocities many experience....but it was enough to have me shuddering and cringing at the way humans treat each other. And then I sit and think how although the book is fictionalised these are still things that people experienced during World War I.
I wept for these fictional I characters, and for the real life individuals they resembled.
Without a doubt, a five star read for me.
August 1, 2016
This was a very interesting story about life in Russia before and during the Revolution. I really enjoyed all the descriptions of historical events that changed the history of Europe for ever.
Of course any war brings heartache, unnecessary death of hundreds or thousands of soldiers and civilians. In some war brings out the best, but in majority it brings out the worst in people.
I liked how this story followed member of members of the upper class, and the workers and peasants. And most of all how the lifes of these characters would intertwine.
What made this book special, is the fact that it was based mostly on true story. Alexei and Marie were real. Their story was true. Their love was real.
Of course any war brings heartache, unnecessary death of hundreds or thousands of soldiers and civilians. In some war brings out the best, but in majority it brings out the worst in people.
I liked how this story followed member of members of the upper class, and the workers and peasants. And most of all how the lifes of these characters would intertwine.
What made this book special, is the fact that it was based mostly on true story. Alexei and Marie were real. Their story was true. Their love was real.
September 29, 2014
The Russian Tapestry, as the name suggests, is an intertwining of characters whose lives tell of the turmoil facing Russia during World War I. Among the characters are Marie and Alexei, loosely based on the grandparents of the author's husband. As would be expected, this is a novel depicting much tragedy and suffering but there are moments of relief as well. The novelist twists together the fates of her characters cleverly and embraces many positive aspects of classic Russian storytelling.
February 12, 2014
A very interesting look at the history of the time, though some aspects reminded me of Anna Karenina and the heroine spent a frustrating amount of time creeping towards Mary Sue-ville. Although the hero and heroine were apparently based on the author's husband's grandparents so I suppose family loyalty does come into it.
September 29, 2015
My god how much I loved Alexis. But I thought there was too many characters in the book. And what An amazing ending. I love world war 2 books and it was also based on the Russians, which Made it even better. Great read.
December 25, 2014
I found this to be an interesting and enjoyable read, made all the more so once I realised there was some truth to the background of the two characters. I really enjoyed this book and it is a small insight into Russian history.
December 29, 2014
This is drawn from a real story which adds interest. The descriptions of St Petersburg under the Romanov dynasty were often convincing and the central love story and characters well drawn. Other characters and events were at times pedestrian.
September 17, 2013
Beautiful, memorable, stunning. I couldn't put it down.
July 12, 2015
Based on mainly real events, the story was woven together really well.
April 13, 2017
Lovely book - very readable mix of love, war, true and imagination with well written characters and facts known form the history. The images of war are described as painful and raw as they probably have been and even when you know what has happen from the history books you are sucked into the story of the people and how they lived and dealt with everyday life during these difficult times.
I must admit that I liked Ivanov the most, a very "real" character, not too sweet and positive maybe a bit naive at the start and very developed through the story - and yet - his ending in the book I consider a very open one and disappointing - as he is beautifully portrait-ted as a family man, who sticks to his values and to me the idea that he would give up everything to save someone who was a family member of a friend and risk his family lives and fortunes. This chapter is open- so there is also an option he became a hero, giving up his life - but that again would be totally against his values as described all through the book.
If I try to imagine this chapter as a movie - I am not sure which character I would like to see laying there lifeless on the street - both versions just destroyed the character of Ivanov in the light in which he was painted all through the events...
Otherwise very enjoyable book and I am keen to go to the library and get more form this author .
I must admit that I liked Ivanov the most, a very "real" character, not too sweet and positive maybe a bit naive at the start and very developed through the story - and yet - his ending in the book I consider a very open one and disappointing - as he is beautifully portrait-ted as a family man, who sticks to his values and to me the idea that he would give up everything to save someone who was a family member of a friend and risk his family lives and fortunes. This chapter is open- so there is also an option he became a hero, giving up his life - but that again would be totally against his values as described all through the book.
If I try to imagine this chapter as a movie - I am not sure which character I would like to see laying there lifeless on the street - both versions just destroyed the character of Ivanov in the light in which he was painted all through the events...
Otherwise very enjoyable book and I am keen to go to the library and get more form this author .
October 5, 2018
Solid romantic story set against the russian revolution.
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