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Izgubljeni čas ljubezni in snega
Ljubezenska zgodba, ki jo je napisalo življenje enega največjih romantičnih avtorjev – Aleksandra Sergejeviča Puškina. Natalija Gončarova je bila že pri rosnih šestnajstih letih osupljivo lepa in intelektualno razvita ženska. Na svojem prvem javnem plesu v času božiča leta 1828 je pritegnila pozornost najslavnejšega ruskega uporniškega pesnika.
Natalijo je v hipu očarala njegova energija in veselje do življenja, še hitreje pa jo je v vrtinec povleklo njegovo dvorjenje, in tako se je kmalu znašla v zakonu s strastnim pesnikom, ki je bil nagnjen k še silovitejšim izbruhom ljubosumja.Kaj kmalu so zlobni jeziki in obrekovanja na dvoru ruskega carja prisilili Aleksandra, da brani svojo, pa tudi Natalijino čast v dvoboju, za katerega vemo, da se je zanj tragično končal.
Jennifer Laam v svojem osupljivem romanu Izgubljeni čas ljubezni in snega pomaga Nataliji predstaviti njeno plat te ljubezenske zgodbe, ki pod spretnim avtoričinim peresom zaživi pred bralcem - prepričljivo upodobi njen notranji boj, da bi zase in za moža ustvarila izpolnjeno življenje, kljub nevarnim in zlobnim intrigam glamuroznega dvora.
»Pretresljiva zgodba, v kateri je odlično predstavljena Puškinova žena Natalija. Zelo rahločuten in spretno napisan roman ... ki vas bo gotovo očaral.« – Hazel Gaynor
Natalijo je v hipu očarala njegova energija in veselje do življenja, še hitreje pa jo je v vrtinec povleklo njegovo dvorjenje, in tako se je kmalu znašla v zakonu s strastnim pesnikom, ki je bil nagnjen k še silovitejšim izbruhom ljubosumja.Kaj kmalu so zlobni jeziki in obrekovanja na dvoru ruskega carja prisilili Aleksandra, da brani svojo, pa tudi Natalijino čast v dvoboju, za katerega vemo, da se je zanj tragično končal.
Jennifer Laam v svojem osupljivem romanu Izgubljeni čas ljubezni in snega pomaga Nataliji predstaviti njeno plat te ljubezenske zgodbe, ki pod spretnim avtoričinim peresom zaživi pred bralcem - prepričljivo upodobi njen notranji boj, da bi zase in za moža ustvarila izpolnjeno življenje, kljub nevarnim in zlobnim intrigam glamuroznega dvora.
»Pretresljiva zgodba, v kateri je odlično predstavljena Puškinova žena Natalija. Zelo rahločuten in spretno napisan roman ... ki vas bo gotovo očaral.« – Hazel Gaynor
397 pages, Hardcover
First published January 17, 2018
8 people are currently reading
1556 people want to read
About the author
Jennifer Laam
6 books154 followersJennifer Laam is the author of four novels of historical fiction including the forthcoming THE ROMANOV HEIRESS. On the rare moments she's away from her computer, she enjoys fussing over animals, binge watching thrillers on Netflix, obsessing over House Targaryen, and planning cosplay for the next San Diego Comic-Con.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 105 reviews
February 10, 2018
First I want to say that I really need to read EVGENY ONEGIN. I've seen the movie with Ralph Fiennes and Liv Tyler and it's a fabulous movie. And, I own the book. I just haven't read it. However, after reading this book I truly need to find some time to get to EVGENY ONEGIN. Also, I quite badly want to re-watch the movie.
READ THE REST OF THE REVIEW OVER AT FRESH FICTION!
READ THE REST OF THE REVIEW OVER AT FRESH FICTION!
July 25, 2025
Александър Пушкин е любим автор от моето детство. Неговите вълшебни приказки в стихотворна форма са препрочитани многократно. Затова и нямах търпение да се потопя в романизираната биография за него и съпругата му.
Действието в книгата се развива от тяхната първа среща през 1828 г. до смъртта на Пушкин 1837 г. Авторката се съсредоточва предимно върху техния любовен живот, раждането на децата им и причината за дуела, който отнема живота на великия поет. Всичко е през погледа на Наталия и чрез нея проследяваме целия им семеен живот.
Дженифър Лам се е опитала да е максимално близо до истината, но между страниците се промъкват и феминистки настроения. Защо за мъжа да може, а за жената - не и все тя да е виновна. Не мисля, че една американска авторка е могла да улови между страниците богатата руска душевност и култура. Наталия е представена като малко дете - иска рокли, иска внимание, иска флирт и ухажване. Тя е била красавица и вероятно се е ласкаела от това. Жорж Дантес е представен като луд човек, обсебен от любов към нея. В книгата се прокарва идеята, че всичко е било интрига срещу Пушкин. Никой не може със сигурност да каже каква точно е била истината.
Авторката има хубав изказ и в началото книгата ме грабна. Но към края вече не мислех, че е успяла да ме убеди в характерите и взаимоотношенията между героите. Мисля, че е трудно да се налучка истината за Пушкин и Наталия. Това ще си остане само между тях двамата. Достатъчно е сега да се наслаждаваме на произведенията на великия поет.
Действието в книгата се развива от тяхната първа среща през 1828 г. до смъртта на Пушкин 1837 г. Авторката се съсредоточва предимно върху техния любовен живот, раждането на децата им и причината за дуела, който отнема живота на великия поет. Всичко е през погледа на Наталия и чрез нея проследяваме целия им семеен живот.
Дженифър Лам се е опитала да е максимално близо до истината, но между страниците се промъкват и феминистки настроения. Защо за мъжа да може, а за жената - не и все тя да е виновна. Не мисля, че една американска авторка е могла да улови между страниците богатата руска душевност и култура. Наталия е представена като малко дете - иска рокли, иска внимание, иска флирт и ухажване. Тя е била красавица и вероятно се е ласкаела от това. Жорж Дантес е представен като луд човек, обсебен от любов към нея. В книгата се прокарва идеята, че всичко е било интрига срещу Пушкин. Никой не може със сигурност да каже каква точно е била истината.
Авторката има хубав изказ и в началото книгата ме грабна. Но към края вече не мислех, че е успяла да ме убеди в характерите и взаимоотношенията между героите. Мисля, че е трудно да се налучка истината за Пушкин и Наталия. Това ще си остане само между тях двамата. Достатъчно е сега да се наслаждаваме на произведенията на великия поет.
January 8, 2018
I knew nothing about Alexander Pushkin other than that he was a famous poet, I knew nothing about his wife or that he died in a duel defending her honor, so of course once I saw the blurb for The Lost Season of Love and Snow, I had to read it. What a subject for a novel!
Despite being bound by the constraints of historical fact, this is very much a character-driven story. In the prologue, I was a bit put off by Natalya. Her husband has literally just breathed his last breath and all she can think about is how she is going to repair her reputation. But I told myself that I did not yet know what had happened to make this her first reaction, and as her past unfolds, the way her light is dimmed by the expectations of marriage and society, the way she bears the blame for the transgressions of others, the way she is robbed of her own destiny, witnessing her despair and regret, I could not help but feel for her.
We first meet young Natalya as an idealistic sixteen-year-old whose love for romantic novels shapes her expectations of love and courtship. A celebrated yet humble beauty with writing aspirations of her own, she catches the eye of Russia's favorite poet shortly after her introduction into society and quickly weaves grand dreams around a life with him. Eventually she will get that life, and though it will bring her passion and love, it will also bring her disappointment and heartbreak. The pressure of being Russia's greatest poet often takes a toll on Alexander, and Natalya often finds herself putting her husband's needs above her own. Never achieving the success she hoped for with her own attempts at writing, she begins to indulge in what she thinks are innocent pleasures where she can find them, mainly amidst the glittering and "courtly love" atmosphere of St. Petersburg society, where she has become the belle of the ball. But she unwittingly sets in motion a chain of events that will forever alter not only her own life, but the landscape of Russian literature.
"You have only known the sorrows of a beautiful and clever woman. You did nothing wrong."
At times I was tempted to dismiss Natalya for being vain and foolish, but I can see how relishing her status as a great beauty and a woman oft admired and desired was the only real option left to her to feel some self-worth in the shadow of her husband's talent and fame. Upon presentation at court, she is immediately dismissed as being beneath her husband's intellect simply by way of her beauty, and her husband is not supportive of her own attempts at writing. She does find joy in being a wife and a mother, but still she yearns for that something more, and I think we can all identify with that.
Sometimes the beauty of a book is knowing at the beginning how it's going to end and then building the tension and suspense to the point that the reader, though knowing what's coming, can't wait to see how it all shakes out, and that's exactly what happens here. Aside from the prologue, I thought the first third of the book to be rather slow-moving, and I confess I grew a bit bored during Natalya and Alexander's lengthy and often long-distance courtship, but once they married, the narrative became much more compelling. I could not turn the pages fast enough as the fateful hour drew near, and I shed a tear during the very tender and moving final scene between husband and wife. And I lamented that even in the immediate aftermath of Alexander's death, Natalya was not allowed the freedom to express her grief, still subject to the expectations of how someone else thought she should behave.
Not having read anything of Pushkin's beforehand, I was disappointed and a bit surprised that so few lines of his work were presented in the story. We get to see his inspiration and his methods, but not the actual results, and I can't help but feel that a few selected excerpts in apt moments would have enriched the story. But I still found The Lost Season of Love and Snow to be a poignant and satisfying examination of a woman unfairly vilified for her role in the beloved poet's death, by people who never seemed to consider that she was grieving him more than they were. And though she loses the love of her life, she achieves the ultimate triumph by managing to make her own peace, in the process finding happiness again, and ensuring that her husband's works were never forgotten.
Despite being bound by the constraints of historical fact, this is very much a character-driven story. In the prologue, I was a bit put off by Natalya. Her husband has literally just breathed his last breath and all she can think about is how she is going to repair her reputation. But I told myself that I did not yet know what had happened to make this her first reaction, and as her past unfolds, the way her light is dimmed by the expectations of marriage and society, the way she bears the blame for the transgressions of others, the way she is robbed of her own destiny, witnessing her despair and regret, I could not help but feel for her.
We first meet young Natalya as an idealistic sixteen-year-old whose love for romantic novels shapes her expectations of love and courtship. A celebrated yet humble beauty with writing aspirations of her own, she catches the eye of Russia's favorite poet shortly after her introduction into society and quickly weaves grand dreams around a life with him. Eventually she will get that life, and though it will bring her passion and love, it will also bring her disappointment and heartbreak. The pressure of being Russia's greatest poet often takes a toll on Alexander, and Natalya often finds herself putting her husband's needs above her own. Never achieving the success she hoped for with her own attempts at writing, she begins to indulge in what she thinks are innocent pleasures where she can find them, mainly amidst the glittering and "courtly love" atmosphere of St. Petersburg society, where she has become the belle of the ball. But she unwittingly sets in motion a chain of events that will forever alter not only her own life, but the landscape of Russian literature.
"You have only known the sorrows of a beautiful and clever woman. You did nothing wrong."
At times I was tempted to dismiss Natalya for being vain and foolish, but I can see how relishing her status as a great beauty and a woman oft admired and desired was the only real option left to her to feel some self-worth in the shadow of her husband's talent and fame. Upon presentation at court, she is immediately dismissed as being beneath her husband's intellect simply by way of her beauty, and her husband is not supportive of her own attempts at writing. She does find joy in being a wife and a mother, but still she yearns for that something more, and I think we can all identify with that.
Sometimes the beauty of a book is knowing at the beginning how it's going to end and then building the tension and suspense to the point that the reader, though knowing what's coming, can't wait to see how it all shakes out, and that's exactly what happens here. Aside from the prologue, I thought the first third of the book to be rather slow-moving, and I confess I grew a bit bored during Natalya and Alexander's lengthy and often long-distance courtship, but once they married, the narrative became much more compelling. I could not turn the pages fast enough as the fateful hour drew near, and I shed a tear during the very tender and moving final scene between husband and wife. And I lamented that even in the immediate aftermath of Alexander's death, Natalya was not allowed the freedom to express her grief, still subject to the expectations of how someone else thought she should behave.
Not having read anything of Pushkin's beforehand, I was disappointed and a bit surprised that so few lines of his work were presented in the story. We get to see his inspiration and his methods, but not the actual results, and I can't help but feel that a few selected excerpts in apt moments would have enriched the story. But I still found The Lost Season of Love and Snow to be a poignant and satisfying examination of a woman unfairly vilified for her role in the beloved poet's death, by people who never seemed to consider that she was grieving him more than they were. And though she loses the love of her life, she achieves the ultimate triumph by managing to make her own peace, in the process finding happiness again, and ensuring that her husband's works were never forgotten.
May 6, 2018
"The Lost Season of Love and Snow" is the story of Natalya, the wife of famous Russian writer Alexander Pushkin. While I have not read anything by Pushkin (after reading this book, I might need to change that), I was familiar with some of the details of his life to include his untimely end. I was not familiar with his wife and the impact that she had on his life so I was looking forward to hearing her side of the story through this book and I was certainly not disappointed!
Come to find out, Natalya is yet another example of a woman who was maligned by those who either felt wronged by her or perhaps were jealous of her. Alexander was a hot commodity already by the time Natalya meets him. He was already published and very well-known throughout Russia when he falls for Natalya. She very quickly becomes the envy of Russia as she takes Alexander off the market. Their romance was anything but clear cut. Alexander has his dalliances and Natalya is relentlessly pursued by a man who could upend the Pushkin family's lives with one move: the Czar of Imperial Russia. I loved having a front row seat for all of this drama.
I have loved this author's other books. I am fascinated with Russia and I love the way that Laam has brought the time periods that she has chosen to write about to life. She does a great job of bringing Natalya and Alexander to life. I loved how she was able to create their movements in and out of Russian high society as they seem to follow Alexander's whims from wanting to be a man about town to acting (and sometimes not acting!) the part of the struggling artist.
Overall, this was a good read and I am looking forward to reading more by Laam in the future!
Come to find out, Natalya is yet another example of a woman who was maligned by those who either felt wronged by her or perhaps were jealous of her. Alexander was a hot commodity already by the time Natalya meets him. He was already published and very well-known throughout Russia when he falls for Natalya. She very quickly becomes the envy of Russia as she takes Alexander off the market. Their romance was anything but clear cut. Alexander has his dalliances and Natalya is relentlessly pursued by a man who could upend the Pushkin family's lives with one move: the Czar of Imperial Russia. I loved having a front row seat for all of this drama.
I have loved this author's other books. I am fascinated with Russia and I love the way that Laam has brought the time periods that she has chosen to write about to life. She does a great job of bringing Natalya and Alexander to life. I loved how she was able to create their movements in and out of Russian high society as they seem to follow Alexander's whims from wanting to be a man about town to acting (and sometimes not acting!) the part of the struggling artist.
Overall, this was a good read and I am looking forward to reading more by Laam in the future!
March 10, 2018
Това е първото изречение на романа:
"Когато един мъж ви казва, че е готов да умре за вас, понякога трябва да му повярвате."
... последното е още по-силно!
Това беше една страхотна книга, изпълнена с невероятни образи и завладяващ сюжет.
Не бих казал, че това е любовен роман, а по-скоро исторически. Фактологията е малко изменена, но книгата претендира за историческа действителност, както и разглежда последните години на Пушкин през погледа на една жена - неговата съпруга.
Действието е страхотно. Книгата лети през годините и води читателя до края на житейския път на автора.
Тук ще откриете една невероятна история за поезия, любов, изкуство, красота и страст - думи, които винаги съм свързвал с Русия.
За финал искам да споделя още един любим цитат от книгата:
"Да пишеш, означава да търсиш истината, а истината за живота на повечето хора е непоносима. По-добре да живееш в щастливо неведение. Но пък щастливото неведение също е невъзможно за писателя, защото ние винаги се стремим да разкажем историите си и когато не можем, не чувстваме нищо."
"Когато един мъж ви казва, че е готов да умре за вас, понякога трябва да му повярвате."
... последното е още по-силно!
Това беше една страхотна книга, изпълнена с невероятни образи и завладяващ сюжет.
Не бих казал, че това е любовен роман, а по-скоро исторически. Фактологията е малко изменена, но книгата претендира за историческа действителност, както и разглежда последните години на Пушкин през погледа на една жена - неговата съпруга.
Действието е страхотно. Книгата лети през годините и води читателя до края на житейския път на автора.
Тук ще откриете една невероятна история за поезия, любов, изкуство, красота и страст - думи, които винаги съм свързвал с Русия.
За финал искам да споделя още един любим цитат от книгата:
"Да пишеш, означава да търсиш истината, а истината за живота на повечето хора е непоносима. По-добре да живееш в щастливо неведение. Но пък щастливото неведение също е невъзможно за писателя, защото ние винаги се стремим да разкажем историите си и когато не можем, не чувстваме нищо."
January 12, 2022
Svidjela mi se priča o fatalnoj ženi velikog ruskog pjesnika Puškina. Na vijeran i objektivan način je rasvjetljena njena uloga u dvoboju u kojem Puškin izgubi život. Iako u historiji predstavljena kao žena lakog morala i ljubiteljica balova i rasipničkog života, u ovom romanu je drugačiji pogled na njihov brak, flertove i tragični Puškiniv kraj.
Volim historijsku fikciju, te zbog toga i ovaj roman toplo preporučujem.
Volim historijsku fikciju, te zbog toga i ovaj roman toplo preporučujem.
October 2, 2019
Alexander Pushkin was the greatest poet of Russia. His marriage was marked by duel, which ended in his death. What led to it? He encouraged his wife, Natalya Nikolaevna, to coquette with men of Saint Petersburg while he traveled away from his family to write in solace. His wife was not happy about this, but once she took part in the social life of Saint Petersburg, she realized that she enjoyed it. “Allegations of her inappropriate flirtations and even a possible affair with the handsome Georges d’Anthes” led to the infamous duel that ended the life of Pushkin and “lingered long after Alexander’s death. Though Alexander himself absolved his wife of any wrongdoing, Natalya was sometimes viewed as complicit and even responsible for the duel between the great poet and his perceived rival.” The history vilified Natalya as she “fell outside of the traditional norms.”
With this story the author sheds light on the social life, its rules and expectations, of the 19th century Russia. For example, the coquetting part which Alexander encouraged his wife to was seen as normal. The story starts in Moscow in 1828 with Natalya, age 16, meeting Alexander at a ball. It is followed by courtship, then marriage and children. It is all set against the backdrop of the rules of social life, which is an interesting part and it spices the story up. However, once Pushkin encourages his wife to take active part in social life, then the story changes its tune. It becomes a melodramatic romance and nothing more to it. The spice is gone.
@FB: Best Historical Fiction
With this story the author sheds light on the social life, its rules and expectations, of the 19th century Russia. For example, the coquetting part which Alexander encouraged his wife to was seen as normal. The story starts in Moscow in 1828 with Natalya, age 16, meeting Alexander at a ball. It is followed by courtship, then marriage and children. It is all set against the backdrop of the rules of social life, which is an interesting part and it spices the story up. However, once Pushkin encourages his wife to take active part in social life, then the story changes its tune. It becomes a melodramatic romance and nothing more to it. The spice is gone.
@FB: Best Historical Fiction
May 11, 2024
A strong novel focused on the life of Natalia Nickloaevna Goncharova, the eventual wife to the famous Russian poet Alexander Pushkin. Though the various trials Natalie faced both on her own and with her famous husband, Laam keeps a brisk pace and a fresh eye on her often-maligned main character.
Some of the events may be drawn out a tad too long, but this was a vivid re-imagination of the court of Tsar Nicholas I and the life that Natalie lived within it. I also appreciated that it offers a new version of an infamous woman often blamed by history for the choices and actions of her husband. She gets her own voice and personal agency in The Lost Season of Love and Snow.
Some of the events may be drawn out a tad too long, but this was a vivid re-imagination of the court of Tsar Nicholas I and the life that Natalie lived within it. I also appreciated that it offers a new version of an infamous woman often blamed by history for the choices and actions of her husband. She gets her own voice and personal agency in The Lost Season of Love and Snow.
February 5, 2018
Реална оценка: 3.5 звезди
Все още събирам мислите си след прочита на тази история - може да се каже и изпише доста по темата, но най-добре според мен е всеки сам да прецени за себе си като прочете книгата. Не е голяма, но съдържа тежки истини за човека като индивид и като част от обществото. И за "вината" на жената и "мястото" й в един мъжки свят...
Все още събирам мислите си след прочита на тази история - може да се каже и изпише доста по темата, но най-добре според мен е всеки сам да прецени за себе си като прочете книгата. Не е голяма, но съдържа тежки истини за човека като индивид и като част от обществото. И за "вината" на жената и "мястото" й в един мъжки свят...
March 6, 2018
Реална оценка - 4,5
January 4, 2018
This is my first book review of 2018 and I couldn’t have picked a better book to kick things off with. Though I read this in 2017, I am ringing in the new year with love and snow!
There is something about Jennifer Laam’s writing that I find so lovely and elegant. It’s hard to describe but her books are consistently good and well written which made me all the more anxious to read this one!
Laam clearly has an interest in Russia, as most of her novels are based on Russian history which is refreshing and unique in a sea of books set in Tudor England (the first time period that comes to mind when someone says ‘historical fiction’). Her novels are always well researched and authentic feeling. This book was no different, though slightly shorter than her other novels (about 350 pages, while her others are around 360), it still was packed full of historical details.
This book had a distinct holiday feel to it, as Natalya met Alexander during a Christmas ball. I felt like the setting and especially reading it at the holiday time, made it all the more cozy and fun to read. I loved the tension between the characters and the romance that developed and even the heart break was fitting and had the right amount of tragedy.
Some people complained that the novel was too short to develop in-depth characters or story, however I felt differently. Could the character development have gone deeper—yes. But this novel wasn’t meant to be an ‘epic’. Could it have been an epic—-yes. But for me I thought the length was perfect for a broad audience. It offers a balanced amount of character development, history, and romance without being overly long which might alienate some readers making them lose interest. This book has a much broader appeal to readers. There is enough to make the reader feel connected and invested in the characters as well as enough history to satisfy fans of historical fiction, but it’s not so long that readers find themselves wondering when they can start their next book.
I personally loved how balanced the story was and how easy it was to read and connect with Natalya and Alexander. The romance was well written and as usual, there is an elegance about Laam’s writing that is her signature style.
If you are looking for something unique and elegant, give Laam’s novels a try. She has never disappointed me in her novels!
See my full review here
There is something about Jennifer Laam’s writing that I find so lovely and elegant. It’s hard to describe but her books are consistently good and well written which made me all the more anxious to read this one!
Laam clearly has an interest in Russia, as most of her novels are based on Russian history which is refreshing and unique in a sea of books set in Tudor England (the first time period that comes to mind when someone says ‘historical fiction’). Her novels are always well researched and authentic feeling. This book was no different, though slightly shorter than her other novels (about 350 pages, while her others are around 360), it still was packed full of historical details.
This book had a distinct holiday feel to it, as Natalya met Alexander during a Christmas ball. I felt like the setting and especially reading it at the holiday time, made it all the more cozy and fun to read. I loved the tension between the characters and the romance that developed and even the heart break was fitting and had the right amount of tragedy.
Some people complained that the novel was too short to develop in-depth characters or story, however I felt differently. Could the character development have gone deeper—yes. But this novel wasn’t meant to be an ‘epic’. Could it have been an epic—-yes. But for me I thought the length was perfect for a broad audience. It offers a balanced amount of character development, history, and romance without being overly long which might alienate some readers making them lose interest. This book has a much broader appeal to readers. There is enough to make the reader feel connected and invested in the characters as well as enough history to satisfy fans of historical fiction, but it’s not so long that readers find themselves wondering when they can start their next book.
I personally loved how balanced the story was and how easy it was to read and connect with Natalya and Alexander. The romance was well written and as usual, there is an elegance about Laam’s writing that is her signature style.
If you are looking for something unique and elegant, give Laam’s novels a try. She has never disappointed me in her novels!
See my full review here
August 17, 2017
To be honest, I really need to take a deep breath here.
Natalya is a young girl desperate to get out from under her strict Mother and to pursue her own study of Russian poetry. Her wish is granted when she captures the heart of Alexander Pushkin, the greatest Russian poet of the day. Their beautiful marriage is all any woman longs to have, but one misstep could ruin it forever.
The Lost Season of Love and Snow is probably one of the best books I have read this year. I really cannot rave about this book enough. It was truly a beautiful romance.
Natalya is so relatable. She is a young woman wanting to improve herself intellectually and make her way in the world. She tries to stay true to herself even with everyone around her pushing her to marry a wealthy man and to maintain the best of appearances. A woman who loves her husband and her children dearly.
I want to live in 19th century Russia. Imagine going to balls and masquerades in a beautiful city accented with flurry snow.
The social pressures are very much the same as it is today. One small friendly or flirtatious act can completely ruin someone. Or if the Tsar desires one certain woman, how dare you refuse him? He has the power over you and your family and their destiny. Or the high fashion in Russian court is a low cut bodice.
Alexander and Natalya were real people. Yes, this story is fictional, but nothing thrilled my soul more than knowing that these people actually existed. In reading the author's note, I learned a lot more about them. This version of their history, though fictional, definitely puts a better view on what possibly could have happened.
The Lost Season of Love and Snow by Jennifer Laam gets five stars.
*ARC received for free via NetGalley*
Natalya is a young girl desperate to get out from under her strict Mother and to pursue her own study of Russian poetry. Her wish is granted when she captures the heart of Alexander Pushkin, the greatest Russian poet of the day. Their beautiful marriage is all any woman longs to have, but one misstep could ruin it forever.
The Lost Season of Love and Snow is probably one of the best books I have read this year. I really cannot rave about this book enough. It was truly a beautiful romance.
Natalya is so relatable. She is a young woman wanting to improve herself intellectually and make her way in the world. She tries to stay true to herself even with everyone around her pushing her to marry a wealthy man and to maintain the best of appearances. A woman who loves her husband and her children dearly.
I want to live in 19th century Russia. Imagine going to balls and masquerades in a beautiful city accented with flurry snow.
The social pressures are very much the same as it is today. One small friendly or flirtatious act can completely ruin someone. Or if the Tsar desires one certain woman, how dare you refuse him? He has the power over you and your family and their destiny. Or the high fashion in Russian court is a low cut bodice.
Alexander and Natalya were real people. Yes, this story is fictional, but nothing thrilled my soul more than knowing that these people actually existed. In reading the author's note, I learned a lot more about them. This version of their history, though fictional, definitely puts a better view on what possibly could have happened.
The Lost Season of Love and Snow by Jennifer Laam gets five stars.
*ARC received for free via NetGalley*
December 14, 2017
From a young age, Natalya Goncharova has known that she must marry well. Even though she has a variety of interests, her mother is more concerned about her marriage prospects, which should be promising as Natalya is a very beautiful girl. At a Christmas Ball in 1828, she attracts the attention of the very famous Alexander Pushkin, Russia's most prized poet. What is even more exciting is that Natalya has read Pushkin's work and is a fan. This possible love connection should be exciting to her family, but at first, her mother isn't convinced it's a good match as Alexander has a shady past. Plus, how much money can a poet make, especially if he isn't in the Tsar's good graces? But it seems that no one can keep these two love birds apart. Jennifer Laam's The Lost Season of Love and Snow is an interesting glimpse into the actual relationship between Pushkin and his beautiful wife, Natalya. There's romance, secrets, and major heartbreak in this historical novel.
Read the rest of my review here:
http://www.confessionsofabookaddict.c...
Read the rest of my review here:
http://www.confessionsofabookaddict.c...
February 21, 2024
The book begins with the death of Pushkin, who was killed in a duel. It then details the events that led to this tragic outcome. The narrator is Pushkin's wife, who plays a crucial role in the story. The author does an excellent job of depicting the atmosphere of high society in Saint-Petersburg during the 1830s. Full review on my blog: https://poetryofreading.blogspot.com
December 18, 2017
A special thank you goes out to Netgalley and St Martin's Griffin for allowing me to read this early! All thoughts and opinions are my own!
4.5 stars!
TW: sexual harassment, violent incident between Natalya and a side character.
What a beautiful story of love! I hardly took any notes, only a notecard, because I was just so entranced with the story of love. Natalya and Alexander have a special place in my heart and their love story will stay with me for a long time.
As this is historical fiction, it is based on the events of Natalya and Alexander, who was one of Russia's greatest poets. However, history has painted Natalya in negative light, accusing her of being a slut and driving Alexander to defend her honor. I liked that this author has tried, and succeeded in my humble opinion, to show Natalya in a better light. Too often the women are blamed for the demise of whatever is going on, especially in history. For example, poor Anne Boleyn or Joan of Arc. I hope more authors like Jennifer Laam attempt to clear move historical women's names.
One of my favorite things about this book is that it is a story within a story. Natalya is telling us readers the story of her and Alexander. How they met, their marriage, their struggles. All of it. The story was weaved in such a beautiful way. The first chapter tells us what is going to happen but that still didn't stop me from crying when that part happened in the book. Tears were streaming down my face. I'm sure I looked a fright. But the love those two had for eachother was breathtakingly beautiful. I truly hope that each and every one of you experience that kind of love in your life.
Overall, I couldn't be more pleased with this book. It has made my heart so full and happy, despite what happened in the end. This is a one of the best love stories out there. So much better than a lot of them that I have read.
4.5 stars!
TW: sexual harassment, violent incident between Natalya and a side character.
What a beautiful story of love! I hardly took any notes, only a notecard, because I was just so entranced with the story of love. Natalya and Alexander have a special place in my heart and their love story will stay with me for a long time.
As this is historical fiction, it is based on the events of Natalya and Alexander, who was one of Russia's greatest poets. However, history has painted Natalya in negative light, accusing her of being a slut and driving Alexander to defend her honor. I liked that this author has tried, and succeeded in my humble opinion, to show Natalya in a better light. Too often the women are blamed for the demise of whatever is going on, especially in history. For example, poor Anne Boleyn or Joan of Arc. I hope more authors like Jennifer Laam attempt to clear move historical women's names.
One of my favorite things about this book is that it is a story within a story. Natalya is telling us readers the story of her and Alexander. How they met, their marriage, their struggles. All of it. The story was weaved in such a beautiful way. The first chapter tells us what is going to happen but that still didn't stop me from crying when that part happened in the book. Tears were streaming down my face. I'm sure I looked a fright. But the love those two had for eachother was breathtakingly beautiful. I truly hope that each and every one of you experience that kind of love in your life.
Overall, I couldn't be more pleased with this book. It has made my heart so full and happy, despite what happened in the end. This is a one of the best love stories out there. So much better than a lot of them that I have read.
January 3, 2018
This is an amazing book with a great story and interesting characters! As it turns out, based on factual history. Maybe I'm showing my ignorance here. But... I'd heard of Alexander Pushkin, but had never read his works, nor had I know that he had a wife! That's what really made the story interesting to me!
The story itself is well told and as I said, based on facts. The central character, Natalya, opens the story as a young woman living in Russia during the Tsarist times. She is aristocratic, beautiful and doesn't have much money. Enter Puskin and the fireworks begin. Pushkin was a self-driven man, much more worldly than Natalya.
So you have Tsarist Russia, two people in love and family. What's not to love!
Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for the opportunity to read and review this book.
The story itself is well told and as I said, based on facts. The central character, Natalya, opens the story as a young woman living in Russia during the Tsarist times. She is aristocratic, beautiful and doesn't have much money. Enter Puskin and the fireworks begin. Pushkin was a self-driven man, much more worldly than Natalya.
So you have Tsarist Russia, two people in love and family. What's not to love!
Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for the opportunity to read and review this book.
February 23, 2018
How does the saying go? This book killed my soul, here read it.
Tis how I am feeling right now. I love Jennifer Laam this is the third of her books I have read. And it is as masterful as the others. Even more so that it hit me so emotionally. This is one of my biggest fears in life, finding the perfect man for me, being completely and utterly in love, and losing him.
But she has us prepared for this fact in the very beginning chapter. So you read page after page watching their love story evolve fully knowing at some point, he is going to die. And when it happened I was okay- but then I was gutted with her moving on in his memory. Such a great book I had to stay up into the morning to finish it and it was worth every sacrifice.
Recommend to others? YES YES YES TO THE YES.
And if you are reading this Jennifer, thank you so much for this. And the rest of your works.
Tis how I am feeling right now. I love Jennifer Laam this is the third of her books I have read. And it is as masterful as the others. Even more so that it hit me so emotionally. This is one of my biggest fears in life, finding the perfect man for me, being completely and utterly in love, and losing him.
But she has us prepared for this fact in the very beginning chapter. So you read page after page watching their love story evolve fully knowing at some point, he is going to die. And when it happened I was okay- but then I was gutted with her moving on in his memory. Such a great book I had to stay up into the morning to finish it and it was worth every sacrifice.
Recommend to others? YES YES YES TO THE YES.
And if you are reading this Jennifer, thank you so much for this. And the rest of your works.
December 29, 2017
I received an Advance Reader Copy of this book from Net Galley in exchange for an honest review.
3.5 Stars
Natalya Goncharova Pushkina, reputed to be the most beautiful Russian woman in her day, has historically received a great deal of blame for the death of her husband Alexander Pushkin, Russia's most famous poet, in a duel fought over her reputation and his honor. The degree to which Natalya was responsible for the duel has long been debated by Pushkin historians. I agree with author Jennifer Laam that, since history has largely been written by men, misbehaving women, or more accurately, women not conforming to their cultural and societal roles are treated badly in historical accounts.
I have to admit that I found this book tough going in passages. The first person narrative choice (Natalya's voice) just did not seem to be the best fit, in my opinion. I am sure the choice was made to try to invest the readers in the heroine's viewpoint and her world, but for me, it didn't work. What I struggled with in this book is the fact that the first person narrator often seemed to be reflecting on observations more suited to an older, omniscient third-person narrator, stripping the voice of authenticity from a character who, though very bright, is only sixteen years old at the start of the book. (Admittedly, often counted as a young adult in that age.) The reader definitely cares about the lives of Natalia and Alexander but I felt that a deeper exploration of the relationship and its obvious downfalls (the societal "burden" of her beauty and vivacity, his reactions to it) might have been better explored in third-person narration. Nevertheless, here we are.
This book seeks to tell Natalya's side of history and that it does. Laam has definitely sought to exculpate Natalya from direct responsibility for Pushkin's death and makes a good case for societal views of women being responsible for Natalya's loss and Pushkin's death. While expected to be vivacious when young and unmarried, the more sober role of married women with children in this historical period often pushed even women in the upper classes to keep their sparkle and light under a proverbial bushel. Natalya attracted much attention, and not just from her devoted husband. An insult at the hands of her besotted brother-in-law results in a duel defending her reputation and her husband's honor. The duel, as all who know of Pushkin's history, cut short his life at the young age of 37. The agonizing last two days of Pushkin's life are given searing spotlight here. As a famous beauty who tried to revel in the expectations of women of her era, even as they chafed, Natalya has been called vain, cold, selfish and many, many worse things. Since Larisa Cherkashina's 2012 biography Natalya Goncharova, which portrays another side to her character thanks in part drawing on her letters and writings, has still not made its way into English translation, this book, though a novel, stands as one of the few English language defenses of Natalya's character. Laam, who has written other novels dealing with Russian history clearly loves her subjects. I just wish editorial guidance had steered this to a different narrative angle.
Check out the blog post for images of the beautiful Natalya: http://marziesreads.blogspot.com/2017...
3.5 Stars
Natalya Goncharova Pushkina, reputed to be the most beautiful Russian woman in her day, has historically received a great deal of blame for the death of her husband Alexander Pushkin, Russia's most famous poet, in a duel fought over her reputation and his honor. The degree to which Natalya was responsible for the duel has long been debated by Pushkin historians. I agree with author Jennifer Laam that, since history has largely been written by men, misbehaving women, or more accurately, women not conforming to their cultural and societal roles are treated badly in historical accounts.
I have to admit that I found this book tough going in passages. The first person narrative choice (Natalya's voice) just did not seem to be the best fit, in my opinion. I am sure the choice was made to try to invest the readers in the heroine's viewpoint and her world, but for me, it didn't work. What I struggled with in this book is the fact that the first person narrator often seemed to be reflecting on observations more suited to an older, omniscient third-person narrator, stripping the voice of authenticity from a character who, though very bright, is only sixteen years old at the start of the book. (Admittedly, often counted as a young adult in that age.) The reader definitely cares about the lives of Natalia and Alexander but I felt that a deeper exploration of the relationship and its obvious downfalls (the societal "burden" of her beauty and vivacity, his reactions to it) might have been better explored in third-person narration. Nevertheless, here we are.
This book seeks to tell Natalya's side of history and that it does. Laam has definitely sought to exculpate Natalya from direct responsibility for Pushkin's death and makes a good case for societal views of women being responsible for Natalya's loss and Pushkin's death. While expected to be vivacious when young and unmarried, the more sober role of married women with children in this historical period often pushed even women in the upper classes to keep their sparkle and light under a proverbial bushel. Natalya attracted much attention, and not just from her devoted husband. An insult at the hands of her besotted brother-in-law results in a duel defending her reputation and her husband's honor. The duel, as all who know of Pushkin's history, cut short his life at the young age of 37. The agonizing last two days of Pushkin's life are given searing spotlight here. As a famous beauty who tried to revel in the expectations of women of her era, even as they chafed, Natalya has been called vain, cold, selfish and many, many worse things. Since Larisa Cherkashina's 2012 biography Natalya Goncharova, which portrays another side to her character thanks in part drawing on her letters and writings, has still not made its way into English translation, this book, though a novel, stands as one of the few English language defenses of Natalya's character. Laam, who has written other novels dealing with Russian history clearly loves her subjects. I just wish editorial guidance had steered this to a different narrative angle.
Check out the blog post for images of the beautiful Natalya: http://marziesreads.blogspot.com/2017...
January 19, 2018
This is my second book taking place in Russia in as many months. It’s also another look at a well-known historical figure through the eyes of his wife. Alexander Pushkin is the name I have heard but I’m not familiar with this works. Sometimes when this happens I find myself going back and reading what has been previously been published, such is the case with Pushkin.
This book begins with a prologue, Pushkin has been involved in a duel defending the honour of his wife Natayla. As she reflects on what has happened she goes back in time and tells her story of how they got to this point, it is told from her point of view. What I found interesting right off the bat was she concern about her reputation rather than her husband, making my first impression of her less favourable. Though it did peek my curiosity as to the events leading up to this duel.
Jumping back to when she is only 16 she tells her story. Of course this is fictionalized but based on real events that took place. The author created the right environment to get a picture of the setting and feeling. This was a character driven story where everything revolves around Natayla, for some of the time I couldn’t help but feel sympathy for her and all she endured, however there were times I wanted to reach in there and give her a shake and ask what’s was she thinking, in regards to various situations.
A look at high society life in Russia while having to deal with advances from the Czar himself as well as dealing with family members was a lot for this young girl to handle. The author has painted a vivid picture of the times. This is my first time reading this author and I will definitely be adding her 2 previous novels to my Tbr list.
Thanks to HFVBT to be part of this tour in which I received a copy of this book in my change for honest review.
This book begins with a prologue, Pushkin has been involved in a duel defending the honour of his wife Natayla. As she reflects on what has happened she goes back in time and tells her story of how they got to this point, it is told from her point of view. What I found interesting right off the bat was she concern about her reputation rather than her husband, making my first impression of her less favourable. Though it did peek my curiosity as to the events leading up to this duel.
Jumping back to when she is only 16 she tells her story. Of course this is fictionalized but based on real events that took place. The author created the right environment to get a picture of the setting and feeling. This was a character driven story where everything revolves around Natayla, for some of the time I couldn’t help but feel sympathy for her and all she endured, however there were times I wanted to reach in there and give her a shake and ask what’s was she thinking, in regards to various situations.
A look at high society life in Russia while having to deal with advances from the Czar himself as well as dealing with family members was a lot for this young girl to handle. The author has painted a vivid picture of the times. This is my first time reading this author and I will definitely be adding her 2 previous novels to my Tbr list.
Thanks to HFVBT to be part of this tour in which I received a copy of this book in my change for honest review.
August 17, 2019
Well written and thought provoking, focused on a part of history I really didn’t know much about. The writing is extremely atmospheric-Moscow and Saint Petersburg almost seem like characters in and of themselves. Natalya’s story still is relevant today, nearly 200 years later. I’ll have to read more Pushkin in the future.
January 8, 2018
I will admit to knowing the name Alexander Pushkin. But I will also admit that I didn’t know much more about the man than he was a famous poet. I’ve long been fascinated with various facets of Russian history so I knew that I was starting from a good place with The Lost Season of Love and Snow. The book is the imagined telling of the love story of Alexander and his wife Natalya through her eyes.
It was a time when women did not hold much power and the slightest scandal could ruin a woman forever. Natalya was one of the great beauties of her time despite coming from a family that had fallen on hard times. She was feeling the pressure to marry well so as to provide for her family but what is a girl to do when the heart leads her to a poet? That poet may be Russia’s most famous but he has a bit of the renegade about him and she fears his revolutionary thoughts could lead to exile. She gets assurances that her beloved will be safe but the question then becomes, will she be?
These two are very compelling characters; Natalya was very young when she married Alexander and he was what we would consider a bit of a player. He introduced her to court where her beauty made her quite popular and after a childhood where her mother constantly berated her the attention was a comfort – especially when Alexander was away. They were both flirts but Natalya attracted some dangerous attention. It caused her no end of worry and Alexander no end of jealousy.
Her telling of the tale offers a softer perspective on their life together. History shows it did not end happily for him but life did go on for Natalya and their children.
I enjoyed this take on the love story of Alexander and Natalya. They were at times lovable and detestable as can often be said of people of disparate ages and types who fall in love. Ms. Laam brings the period to life with well written descriptions of the Tsar’s court and its entertainments. She presents the different households well so that you really get the sense of the depths to which Natalya’s family had fallen while still trying to maintain some nobility.
It’s a great read for sitting by the fire with a cup of tea on a Saturday afternoon.
4.5
It was a time when women did not hold much power and the slightest scandal could ruin a woman forever. Natalya was one of the great beauties of her time despite coming from a family that had fallen on hard times. She was feeling the pressure to marry well so as to provide for her family but what is a girl to do when the heart leads her to a poet? That poet may be Russia’s most famous but he has a bit of the renegade about him and she fears his revolutionary thoughts could lead to exile. She gets assurances that her beloved will be safe but the question then becomes, will she be?
These two are very compelling characters; Natalya was very young when she married Alexander and he was what we would consider a bit of a player. He introduced her to court where her beauty made her quite popular and after a childhood where her mother constantly berated her the attention was a comfort – especially when Alexander was away. They were both flirts but Natalya attracted some dangerous attention. It caused her no end of worry and Alexander no end of jealousy.
Her telling of the tale offers a softer perspective on their life together. History shows it did not end happily for him but life did go on for Natalya and their children.
I enjoyed this take on the love story of Alexander and Natalya. They were at times lovable and detestable as can often be said of people of disparate ages and types who fall in love. Ms. Laam brings the period to life with well written descriptions of the Tsar’s court and its entertainments. She presents the different households well so that you really get the sense of the depths to which Natalya’s family had fallen while still trying to maintain some nobility.
It’s a great read for sitting by the fire with a cup of tea on a Saturday afternoon.
4.5
February 18, 2020
Kada pomislimo na Puškina uvek se setimo njegove izuzetne poezije i dela kao što su "Evgenije Onjegin", "Kapetanova kći", "Pikova dama"... Osim poezije, pamtimo ga i po braku sa Natalijom Gončarovom, najlepšom ženom tog doba.
"Muškarac kaže da će za vas umreti. Žena je naučena da spusti pogled i porumeni pre nego što se opet skrije iza svilene lepeze. Muškarci umeju sebe da uzdižu, dok žene laskaju sujeti i drže muškarce vezane za zemlju. Tako je svet ustrojen ili sam barem tako mislila pre nego što je počeo da me bije glas najveće zlice Sankt Peterburga."
Ovako Dženifer počinje ovaj sjajan roman, zasnovan na istorijskim činjenicama, uz dozu fikcije koja meni nije nimalo smetala. Baš naprotiv, uživala sam.
Natalija je u ovom romanu predstavljena kao žrtva tadašnjeg društva koje je bilo surovo prema njoj.
Sa samo šesnaest godina Natalija upoznaje Puškina koji je tada imao tridest godina, Upoznata sa njegovim delima i sama je bila veliki zaljubljenik u knjige i poeziju. Desila im se ljubav na prvi pogled, udvaranje, pa ubrzo i brak. Njihova ljubav je bila velika i puna strasti, ali i uzajamne ljubomore.
Pored toga što je bila brižna majka četvoro dece i verna i odana svom suprugu, čeznula je za izlascima, balovima i lepim haljinama.
Često je sputavala svoje želje i stavljala supruga na prvo mesto.
"Vi ne znate šta znači voleti. Kada nekog volite, želite ono što će ga najviše usrećiti. Voljni ste da žrtvujete vlastitu sreću da biste to postigli."
Nisu baš najbolje stajali finansijski iz razloga što je car cenzurisao Puškinova dela.
Nesvesna svoje lepote i šarma kojim je plenila, izazivala je veliku pažnju muškaraca, kao i ogovaranja i klevete ljubomornih žena. Aleksandra je to dovodilo do ludila. Na kraju je i stradao u dvoboju sa samo 37 godina, braneći Natalijinu čast i sopstveni ponos.
"Ne tvrdim da imam moć da proreknem budućnost. Premda verujem da su ljudska bića slobodna da naslute kako se događaji mogu odvijati ne na osnovu racionalnog razmišljanja tako dragog filozofima, već na osnovu čudnog osećaja u sebi. Srce oseća ono što mozak možda još ne zna ili ne prihvata..."
Društvo joj nije oprostilo pesnikovu preranu smrt. Nisu joj oprostili lepotu. Nazivali su je koketom i kurvom i smatrali je direktno odgovornom za smrt supruga.
Položaj žena u to doba nije bio na zavidnom nivou i na to spisateljica stavlja akcenat. Politika se, uz česte cenzure, mešala u celokupan sistem.
A Natalija... Ona je samo želela da živi i voli. Bila je nestvarno lepa žena u svetu u kojem su vladali muškarci...
Ja sam je zavolela kao jednu snažnu ženu koja se grčevito bori za ono što voli.
Ovaj istorijski roman napisan je elegantnim stilom. Topla ljubavna priča, romantika 19. veka koja se oseća u svakoj rečenici i čini da čeznete da se bar na trenutak nađete u tom vremenu...
Velika #preporuka od mene za ovaj istorijski, romantičan roman, napisan toplim, lepim stilom, bez imalo patetike. 💝
"Muškarac kaže da će za vas umreti. Žena je naučena da spusti pogled i porumeni pre nego što se opet skrije iza svilene lepeze. Muškarci umeju sebe da uzdižu, dok žene laskaju sujeti i drže muškarce vezane za zemlju. Tako je svet ustrojen ili sam barem tako mislila pre nego što je počeo da me bije glas najveće zlice Sankt Peterburga."
Ovako Dženifer počinje ovaj sjajan roman, zasnovan na istorijskim činjenicama, uz dozu fikcije koja meni nije nimalo smetala. Baš naprotiv, uživala sam.
Natalija je u ovom romanu predstavljena kao žrtva tadašnjeg društva koje je bilo surovo prema njoj.
Sa samo šesnaest godina Natalija upoznaje Puškina koji je tada imao tridest godina, Upoznata sa njegovim delima i sama je bila veliki zaljubljenik u knjige i poeziju. Desila im se ljubav na prvi pogled, udvaranje, pa ubrzo i brak. Njihova ljubav je bila velika i puna strasti, ali i uzajamne ljubomore.
Pored toga što je bila brižna majka četvoro dece i verna i odana svom suprugu, čeznula je za izlascima, balovima i lepim haljinama.
Često je sputavala svoje želje i stavljala supruga na prvo mesto.
"Vi ne znate šta znači voleti. Kada nekog volite, želite ono što će ga najviše usrećiti. Voljni ste da žrtvujete vlastitu sreću da biste to postigli."
Nisu baš najbolje stajali finansijski iz razloga što je car cenzurisao Puškinova dela.
Nesvesna svoje lepote i šarma kojim je plenila, izazivala je veliku pažnju muškaraca, kao i ogovaranja i klevete ljubomornih žena. Aleksandra je to dovodilo do ludila. Na kraju je i stradao u dvoboju sa samo 37 godina, braneći Natalijinu čast i sopstveni ponos.
"Ne tvrdim da imam moć da proreknem budućnost. Premda verujem da su ljudska bića slobodna da naslute kako se događaji mogu odvijati ne na osnovu racionalnog razmišljanja tako dragog filozofima, već na osnovu čudnog osećaja u sebi. Srce oseća ono što mozak možda još ne zna ili ne prihvata..."
Društvo joj nije oprostilo pesnikovu preranu smrt. Nisu joj oprostili lepotu. Nazivali su je koketom i kurvom i smatrali je direktno odgovornom za smrt supruga.
Položaj žena u to doba nije bio na zavidnom nivou i na to spisateljica stavlja akcenat. Politika se, uz česte cenzure, mešala u celokupan sistem.
A Natalija... Ona je samo želela da živi i voli. Bila je nestvarno lepa žena u svetu u kojem su vladali muškarci...
Ja sam je zavolela kao jednu snažnu ženu koja se grčevito bori za ono što voli.
Ovaj istorijski roman napisan je elegantnim stilom. Topla ljubavna priča, romantika 19. veka koja se oseća u svakoj rečenici i čini da čeznete da se bar na trenutak nađete u tom vremenu...
Velika #preporuka od mene za ovaj istorijski, romantičan roman, napisan toplim, lepim stilom, bez imalo patetike. 💝
January 25, 2018
Historical fiction is still my favourite genre, especially when it is takes a different look at real historical figures and their lives. I know a bit about Russian poet Alexander Pushkin, and have studied some of his poetry as part of my degree course. Apart from his poetry what people remember is his marriage to one of Moscow's most beautiful women, Natalya Pushkina, née Goncharova, who was blamed for his death after a flirtation led to a duel in which Pushkin was mortally wounded. In The Lost Season of Love and Snow Jennifer Laam tells the story from Natalya's point of view, and portrays her not as a femme fatale, and villain but instead as a victim of society.
Jennifer Laam is a skilful writer and was able to bring to life early nineteenth century Russia to life, and had obviously done a lot of research. Her attention to detail, in both setting and characters, draw you in and paint wonderful pictures of the palaces, the costumes and the characters themselves. Natalya was only sixteen when she met Pushkin, and he was thirty, but this was acceptable in nineteenth century Russia; women were married off young so they no longer had to be supported by their family. Natalya was a figure I was really drawn to, I had empathy for the situation she found herself in; a beautiful woman in a society ruled by men. No woman in the Russian court could turn away from the Tsar, although Natalya tried her best. Bearing in mind what has happened in today's society this is an interesting read of how a woman is viewed as a beautiful object, and not an actual person, her intelligence and feelings are not taken into account. Her husband is obviously doomed from the beginning, as a young man he had been told by a fortune teller that he would die at the hands of a tall, fair haired man. Pushkin is the tortured genius we expect a poet to be, he doesn't have much money and is at the whim of his imagination, and of the Tsar who censors his work.
The Lost Season of Love and Snow is an erudite and character driven novel. Full of historical fact and captures the zeitgeist of the era; the position of women, the class system, censorship, politics and the role of literature. I was captivated by this alternative history of Natalya and he role in Pushkin's life. An evocative tale of love, jealousy, power and ultimately the death of a great poet; A brilliant piece of historical fiction.
Jennifer Laam is a skilful writer and was able to bring to life early nineteenth century Russia to life, and had obviously done a lot of research. Her attention to detail, in both setting and characters, draw you in and paint wonderful pictures of the palaces, the costumes and the characters themselves. Natalya was only sixteen when she met Pushkin, and he was thirty, but this was acceptable in nineteenth century Russia; women were married off young so they no longer had to be supported by their family. Natalya was a figure I was really drawn to, I had empathy for the situation she found herself in; a beautiful woman in a society ruled by men. No woman in the Russian court could turn away from the Tsar, although Natalya tried her best. Bearing in mind what has happened in today's society this is an interesting read of how a woman is viewed as a beautiful object, and not an actual person, her intelligence and feelings are not taken into account. Her husband is obviously doomed from the beginning, as a young man he had been told by a fortune teller that he would die at the hands of a tall, fair haired man. Pushkin is the tortured genius we expect a poet to be, he doesn't have much money and is at the whim of his imagination, and of the Tsar who censors his work.
The Lost Season of Love and Snow is an erudite and character driven novel. Full of historical fact and captures the zeitgeist of the era; the position of women, the class system, censorship, politics and the role of literature. I was captivated by this alternative history of Natalya and he role in Pushkin's life. An evocative tale of love, jealousy, power and ultimately the death of a great poet; A brilliant piece of historical fiction.
December 12, 2017
3.5 Stars
As a native Russian speaker who grew up with Pushkin's poetry I wanted to love The Last Season of Love and Snow. And even though I did enjoy it, I wasn't wowed by this book. I liked the fact that the story was told from Pushkin's wife, Natalya, point of view, the woman who was blamed for the poet's untimely demise. Like Ms. Laam noted, history is often unkind to beautiful and strong women who don't fit with society's expectations. Women have long been blamed for men's misfortunes and have been treated unfairly, so I really appreciated the way Natalya was portrayed in the book. She wasn't the villain that history made her to be.
Pushkin's life and death were very dramatic and so I was expecting an intense and emotional storytelling. He was a literally genius, arguably the greatest Russian poet, who died in duel defending his wife's honor. Natalya was one of the most beautiful women in court and she had many admirers including Tsar. Their life is fascinating and the author had a real chance to make these characters complex and intriguing. But I feel like she didn't do them justice, I found their portrayal in the book a little bland.
Also I wanted to see Pushkin's poetry and his letters to Natalya incorporated into the story. There was not a poem, a stanza, or a verse of his to be found in the book. I really missed that, I think it would have been a nice touch. And reading his letters to Natalya would have helped understand their relationship better. This was another missed opportunity by Ms. Laam.
The Lost Season of Love and Snow is by no means a bad book, if you love historical fiction and are interested in Russian culture and literature you may very well enjoy it.
*ARC provided by the publisher via NetGalley
As a native Russian speaker who grew up with Pushkin's poetry I wanted to love The Last Season of Love and Snow. And even though I did enjoy it, I wasn't wowed by this book. I liked the fact that the story was told from Pushkin's wife, Natalya, point of view, the woman who was blamed for the poet's untimely demise. Like Ms. Laam noted, history is often unkind to beautiful and strong women who don't fit with society's expectations. Women have long been blamed for men's misfortunes and have been treated unfairly, so I really appreciated the way Natalya was portrayed in the book. She wasn't the villain that history made her to be.
Pushkin's life and death were very dramatic and so I was expecting an intense and emotional storytelling. He was a literally genius, arguably the greatest Russian poet, who died in duel defending his wife's honor. Natalya was one of the most beautiful women in court and she had many admirers including Tsar. Their life is fascinating and the author had a real chance to make these characters complex and intriguing. But I feel like she didn't do them justice, I found their portrayal in the book a little bland.
Also I wanted to see Pushkin's poetry and his letters to Natalya incorporated into the story. There was not a poem, a stanza, or a verse of his to be found in the book. I really missed that, I think it would have been a nice touch. And reading his letters to Natalya would have helped understand their relationship better. This was another missed opportunity by Ms. Laam.
The Lost Season of Love and Snow is by no means a bad book, if you love historical fiction and are interested in Russian culture and literature you may very well enjoy it.
*ARC provided by the publisher via NetGalley
September 4, 2017
I was lucky enough to read this one in its early stages and I was swept up in it even then.
Unlike Laam’s first two novels, this one focuses solely on historical figures: Natalya Goncharova and her husband, the beloved poet, Alexander Pushkin. When Pushkin is killed in a duel fighting for his honor, many blamed Natalya for his death because of her dalliances, and is subsequently vilified. The Lost Season of Love and Snow presents the story from Natalya’s point of view.
I connected with Natalya right away, even if her lifestyle was obviously vastly different from mine. She did what she could to remain educated, but also followed societal norms, as women were expected to. She’s a young girl trying to find her way in a world that’s dominated by men—from her own free-spirited husband who is allowed to act however he wishes without reproach (especially since he’s so admired for his talent), to the Tsar himself—a powerful figure whose advances are not so easily shucked off.
I loved how her struggles with image and rumors are still issues women face today. When I finished the novel, I hurriedly researched her, wanting to learn more about her. I think that’s the best any historical author can wish for.
I highly recommend this one to fans of historical fiction and feisty female heroines.
Unlike Laam’s first two novels, this one focuses solely on historical figures: Natalya Goncharova and her husband, the beloved poet, Alexander Pushkin. When Pushkin is killed in a duel fighting for his honor, many blamed Natalya for his death because of her dalliances, and is subsequently vilified. The Lost Season of Love and Snow presents the story from Natalya’s point of view.
I connected with Natalya right away, even if her lifestyle was obviously vastly different from mine. She did what she could to remain educated, but also followed societal norms, as women were expected to. She’s a young girl trying to find her way in a world that’s dominated by men—from her own free-spirited husband who is allowed to act however he wishes without reproach (especially since he’s so admired for his talent), to the Tsar himself—a powerful figure whose advances are not so easily shucked off.
I loved how her struggles with image and rumors are still issues women face today. When I finished the novel, I hurriedly researched her, wanting to learn more about her. I think that’s the best any historical author can wish for.
I highly recommend this one to fans of historical fiction and feisty female heroines.
January 1, 2018
Jennifer Laam's latest is a beautiful, nuanced portrayal of a woman whose reputation through history hasn't been kind. Natalya Goncharova, wife of famed Russian poet Alexander Pushkin, is often blamed for his death in a duel. The Lost Season of Love and Snow paints a more sympathetic, realistic depiction of her as a complex person caught between politics and personal relationships. Her romance with creative, rebellious Alexander is passionate and often turbulent, and their scenes together light up the pages, making it impossible to put down. I gladly fell for Natalya within the first few pages, when I immediately related to her feelings about needing to wear glasses - and how often do we get heroines, especially historical, who wear them? I found myself thinking about the characters and their emotions and actions long after I'd read to the visceral conclusion. Highly recommended!
January 16, 2018
I enjoyed this book about the real life, albeit, little known poet Alexander Pushkin. The book glitters with the Russian Court of Tsar Nicolas I. Court life is one of my favorite subjects. I enjoyed the rivalry between Alexander's wife, the beautiful Natalya and her sisters. Also the rivalry between the men in Natalya's life who tried to win her affections and steal her away from her husband. The author portrays a wonderful life for this couple and their four children, though the husband and father is taken too soon in life. I didn't want this book to end.
January 13, 2018
The Lost Season of Love and Snow tells the story of the Natalya, the wife of Russia’s most famous poet Alexander Pushkin. Courted by Pushkin at the young age of sixteen, the beautiful Natalya falls head over heels for him and becomes Madame Pushkina. Like most writers, Alexander struggles to make ends meet, and even though fame attends him, finances suffer. Natalya tries to assist her husband by transcribing his writing into clean manuscripts, and even though the newlyweds are poor (by rich people standards), they are happy.
After a few years go by and a few children enter the picture, Alexander goes away for a writing retreat of sorts. He urges his wife to enjoy society in his absence and flirt with all her admirers as is the fashion. Natalya gets a taste for court parties and balls, impressing the lecherous tsar with her daring decolletage and coquetting her way around St. Petersburg. When Alexander returns, he becomes increasingly disturbed that he is the Vulcan to her Venus (the ugly misshapen blacksmith married to the goddess of love). Matters come to a head when Natalya is unable to successfully end a flirtation with the tall, blond Georges d’Anthes, and Alexander’s jealousy leads him to the end we knew must come.
I really enjoyed the way the author used Natalya’s weak eyesight and need for glasses as a symbol for her life. In the beginning, her mother forbade her to wear her eyeglasses in public since beauty was more important than the ability to see across the room. Later, we see Natalya imposing that same restriction on herself, caring more about appearance than perspective. And in the end it is her lack of perspective, her lack of understanding of how society would perceive her actions that contributes to the great tragedy of her life.
History has blamed Natalya’s flighty and foolish actions for her husband Pushkin’s early demise. This book tries to “tell Natalya’s side of the story.” Written in first person, we can see the author’s conjecture for how Natalya was motivated as she navigated the perilous world of the Russian court.
It seemed like the author felt obliged by historical fact to state Natalya’s words and actions as documented by source material, and then to create internal excuses to try to redeem her in the readers’ eyes–
-She was flustered when she said that–it just didn’t come out right…
-She was flirting, but hasn’t everybody at some point?…
-She actually had the best intentions when she did that, but circumstances were against her…
-She was lusting after someone not her husband, but she really loved Alexander the whole time…
-And it is a truth universally acknowledged that the world is rigged against women!
Frankly, a lot of Natalya’s self-justifying narration seemed pretty weak. I wondered if perhaps the author was trying to make us see Natalya as self-deluded in the matter (which would have been an interesting narrative approach!), although when I reached the Author’s Note, I saw that was not the case.
One great thing about the novel is that it raised a lot of questions for me about the real Natalya: did she actually write poetry herself and never show it to her husband? Is there any evidence of a feminist perspective on her part, or is that a modern notion imposed by the author on the story? What was the relationship between Pushkin and Tolstoy? And the biggest question of all: what does the title of the book actually refer to?
Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. The opinions expressed in this review are my own.
After a few years go by and a few children enter the picture, Alexander goes away for a writing retreat of sorts. He urges his wife to enjoy society in his absence and flirt with all her admirers as is the fashion. Natalya gets a taste for court parties and balls, impressing the lecherous tsar with her daring decolletage and coquetting her way around St. Petersburg. When Alexander returns, he becomes increasingly disturbed that he is the Vulcan to her Venus (the ugly misshapen blacksmith married to the goddess of love). Matters come to a head when Natalya is unable to successfully end a flirtation with the tall, blond Georges d’Anthes, and Alexander’s jealousy leads him to the end we knew must come.
I really enjoyed the way the author used Natalya’s weak eyesight and need for glasses as a symbol for her life. In the beginning, her mother forbade her to wear her eyeglasses in public since beauty was more important than the ability to see across the room. Later, we see Natalya imposing that same restriction on herself, caring more about appearance than perspective. And in the end it is her lack of perspective, her lack of understanding of how society would perceive her actions that contributes to the great tragedy of her life.
History has blamed Natalya’s flighty and foolish actions for her husband Pushkin’s early demise. This book tries to “tell Natalya’s side of the story.” Written in first person, we can see the author’s conjecture for how Natalya was motivated as she navigated the perilous world of the Russian court.
It seemed like the author felt obliged by historical fact to state Natalya’s words and actions as documented by source material, and then to create internal excuses to try to redeem her in the readers’ eyes–
-She was flustered when she said that–it just didn’t come out right…
-She was flirting, but hasn’t everybody at some point?…
-She actually had the best intentions when she did that, but circumstances were against her…
-She was lusting after someone not her husband, but she really loved Alexander the whole time…
-And it is a truth universally acknowledged that the world is rigged against women!
Frankly, a lot of Natalya’s self-justifying narration seemed pretty weak. I wondered if perhaps the author was trying to make us see Natalya as self-deluded in the matter (which would have been an interesting narrative approach!), although when I reached the Author’s Note, I saw that was not the case.
One great thing about the novel is that it raised a lot of questions for me about the real Natalya: did she actually write poetry herself and never show it to her husband? Is there any evidence of a feminist perspective on her part, or is that a modern notion imposed by the author on the story? What was the relationship between Pushkin and Tolstoy? And the biggest question of all: what does the title of the book actually refer to?
Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. The opinions expressed in this review are my own.
February 23, 2018
Thank you to St. Martin’s Press for giving me a copy of the Lost Season of Love and Snow by Jennifer Laam. I was given this copy in exchange for an honest review.
How many of you have read Jennifer Laam before or are familiar with Russian history? This is my first time reading one of Jennifer’s books. I found Russian history fascinating. When one can take a look back and understand what the Russian society was like back in the early nineteenth century. She tells the story of Lady Pushkina the great wife of the famous Poet Alexander Pushkin. What is her story?
Synopsis:
Natalya is the youngest sister of Ekatrinia and Azya, and they attend a ball in Moscow. At this ball, Natalya attracts the attention of Sir Alexander Pushkin the Poet Laureate of Russia. She is equally attracted to Alexander, and hopes that her mother will say yes to the union. Natalya’s mother was concerned by the financial arrangement that came from the marriage. Once married life is different, and Natalya starts a family with Alexander. Her greatest passion attending masked balls becomes her biggest nightmare. When she meets Georges and enjoys the flirtation. Natalya becomes concerned when Georges wants more from the relationship. Then the Czar becomes a little too interested in Natalya despite being married. Natalya only wants Alexander. How will he defend the honor of their family? How will his actions impact his family?
My Thoughts:
Jennifer Laam wrote a beautiful book. It is easy to read and communicates the struggles of Alexander Pushkin and his wife Natalya well. One question I had while reading it was what happened to the Russian bourgeois? Why did the peasants revolt? I know the revolution took place after this story took place but I wanted to see the roots of Russian history The author also spoke to some extent of the issues that Natalya had in her role as Alexander’s wife. This book also reminded me a little of Paula McLain’s The Paris Wife. It was a good read with a tragic end!
How many of you have read Jennifer Laam before or are familiar with Russian history? This is my first time reading one of Jennifer’s books. I found Russian history fascinating. When one can take a look back and understand what the Russian society was like back in the early nineteenth century. She tells the story of Lady Pushkina the great wife of the famous Poet Alexander Pushkin. What is her story?
Synopsis:
Natalya is the youngest sister of Ekatrinia and Azya, and they attend a ball in Moscow. At this ball, Natalya attracts the attention of Sir Alexander Pushkin the Poet Laureate of Russia. She is equally attracted to Alexander, and hopes that her mother will say yes to the union. Natalya’s mother was concerned by the financial arrangement that came from the marriage. Once married life is different, and Natalya starts a family with Alexander. Her greatest passion attending masked balls becomes her biggest nightmare. When she meets Georges and enjoys the flirtation. Natalya becomes concerned when Georges wants more from the relationship. Then the Czar becomes a little too interested in Natalya despite being married. Natalya only wants Alexander. How will he defend the honor of their family? How will his actions impact his family?
My Thoughts:
Jennifer Laam wrote a beautiful book. It is easy to read and communicates the struggles of Alexander Pushkin and his wife Natalya well. One question I had while reading it was what happened to the Russian bourgeois? Why did the peasants revolt? I know the revolution took place after this story took place but I wanted to see the roots of Russian history The author also spoke to some extent of the issues that Natalya had in her role as Alexander’s wife. This book also reminded me a little of Paula McLain’s The Paris Wife. It was a good read with a tragic end!
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