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A Hundred Sweet Promises
WINNER - 2023 AMERICAN FICTION AWARDS - Historical Fiction & Historical RomanceFINALIST- 2022 INTERNATIONAL BOOK AWARDS - Historical Fiction & Literary FictionSHORTLIST- 2022 HAWTHORNE PRIZE - Historical Fiction2022 GOLD CATEGORY WINNER - Historical AudiobookAS FEATURED ON NATIONAL PUBLIC RADIO (NPR) A family secret revealed 40 years ago by a grandmother to her grandson is now an acclaimed Russian historical fiction novel. "A Hundred Sweet Promises" is the tale of the author’s grandfather, Nasrosoltan, a famed composer, who on the eve of World War I travels from Persia to Russia to study classical music at the St. Petersburg Conservatory with such masters as Rimsky-Korsakov. While there, Nasrosoltan falls in love with a Romanov princess, but the royalty surrounding him considers this a forbidden love. Unexpectedly, the Tsar gets involved, and Nasrosoltan suddenly finds himself in a battle between head and heart while being carried forward on a wave of destiny toward an uncertain future. A novel based on a true story set against the backdrop of the final days of Imperial Russia.KIRKUS REVIEWS"...An exceedingly intelligent tale that thoughtfully juxtaposes the maddening effects of romantic love with the violent paroxysms of political insurrection. Furthermore, the reader is given a rare literary a peek into distinct revolutionary periods—Russia and Iran in the early years of the 20th century and Iran in the century’s last quarter. A dramatically affecting novel that is also politically astute." - "Kirkus Reviews"PUBLISHERS WEEKLY BOOK LIFE REVIEW "....one of the peculiar pleasures of this novel is that its author seems deeply familiar with & fond of 19th century Russian literature; there are hints of Chekhov, Tolstoy’s “Kreutzer Sonata” and Pushkin’s “The Queen of Spades.” The narrative style evokes the writers of that period, and their influence is felt throughout the text. The novel is well-researched and convincingly recreates the pomp and glitter of St. Petersburg in the twilight of the Romanov empire. The story brings back how honor was an achievable ideal and nobility of character and behavior were the qualities sought after in a romantic hero and heroine. Nasrosoltan Minbashian is an appealing and vividly drawn romantic hero in his grandson's retelling of the ill-fated love between the Persian composer and the Russian princess who ultimately wound up wed to Rasputin's assassin, Prince Felix Yusupov. Nasrosoltan's complex inner life and character are depicted with a sure hand."-"Publishers Weekly""Already this novel is being compared to Chekhov, Tolstoy, and Pushkin, but I would venture to add another famous Russian novelist into the mix – Boris Pasternak – for in the story I saw the reflection of the rich and meaty tale of Doctor Zhivago, which blends the turbulence of the political arena at the precipice of the Great War and the Russian Revolution with the lovely refrains of young love and the dreamy world of an artist in search of escape where love reigns supreme. Zhivago’s love of poetry and his homeland is overshadowed by reality, just as Nasrosoltan’s love of music along with his love of both Russia and Iran is brought face to face with the harsh reality of his station in life – face to face with Tsar Nicholas, himself, in a confrontation and pronouncement of love as to place this book firmly alongside those classic Russian novels as a contender for pure, exquisite literature.
302 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 2, 2021
488 people are currently reading
18197 people want to read
About the author
Sepehr Haddad
2 books175 followersSepehr Haddad is an author and recording artist. His latest historical fiction novel, "The Harmless Necessary Cat," is a World War II Family Saga set in Allied-occupied Iran. The book is the #1 Amazon Bestseller in the History of Iran. It has been awarded the 2024 E.M. Forster Gold Medal for Middle Eastern Historical Fiction and the 2025 Xanadu Book Awards Highly Recommended Award of Excellence.
Sepehr's debut novel, "A Hundred Sweet Promises," won the 2023 American Fiction Awards for Historical Fiction and Historical Romance. It was also the #1 Amazon Bestseller in Middle Eastern literature and Historical Russian fiction and was featured on National Public Radio (NPR).
Sepehr is also a Universal Music Group (UMG) recording artist with the Billboard chart-topping duo "Shahin & Sepehr."
He previously worked for the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for 27 years before retiring to pursue his writing career.
Sepehr's debut novel, "A Hundred Sweet Promises," won the 2023 American Fiction Awards for Historical Fiction and Historical Romance. It was also the #1 Amazon Bestseller in Middle Eastern literature and Historical Russian fiction and was featured on National Public Radio (NPR).
Sepehr is also a Universal Music Group (UMG) recording artist with the Billboard chart-topping duo "Shahin & Sepehr."
He previously worked for the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for 27 years before retiring to pursue his writing career.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 120 reviews
July 2, 2023
What a charming and intriguing tale based on true events of the author’s grandfather, Nasrosoltan, a famed composer from Persia.
A family secret revealed many years later tells the story of Nasrosoltan and his time studying in St. Petersburg and his job teaching piano to the niece of the tsar of Russia and how romance develops between the pair.
I was invested in this one from the very first chapter. I enjoyed learning about Persia, the customs and traditions and a little bit of Persian and Russian history thrown in. I really enjoy historical fiction stories and this is certainly one that is well written, entertaining and yet educational.
The book also contains a collection of photos which bring the story to life.
An enjoyable read and one for my real life bookshelf.
A family secret revealed many years later tells the story of Nasrosoltan and his time studying in St. Petersburg and his job teaching piano to the niece of the tsar of Russia and how romance develops between the pair.
I was invested in this one from the very first chapter. I enjoyed learning about Persia, the customs and traditions and a little bit of Persian and Russian history thrown in. I really enjoy historical fiction stories and this is certainly one that is well written, entertaining and yet educational.
The book also contains a collection of photos which bring the story to life.
An enjoyable read and one for my real life bookshelf.
July 9, 2021
I am the author of the book. This is my debut novel based on the true story of my grandfather's life, as told to me by my grandmother, before the 1979 Islamic Revolution in Iran. My grandfather, Nasrosoltan Minbashian—was a famed music composer living in St. Petersburg, Russia, in 1913. On the eve of World War I, he embarks on a journey from his homeland, Persia, to study at the renowned St. Petersburg Conservatory in pursuit of his musical legacy. During this time, through a series of events beyond his control, he becomes acquainted with the Russian royal family and falls in love with a princess. Nasrosoltan suddenly finds himself in a battle between head and heart while being carried forward on a wave of destiny toward an uncertain future. He later became the director of the Iranian Conservatory (Tehran Conservatory of Music). Fate, destiny or kismet play big parts in the trajectory of the story. As Nasrosoltan is told by his friend Rustam, "divine Providence is under no obligation to be kind to us all." This novel will take you on a journey of love accompanied by music of the greats such as Beethoven, Strauss, but most importantly the romantic composer Franz Schubert.
June 30, 2023
I’m not sure my review can do this book justice. The concept for the book was told 40 years ago by the author’s grandmother. The highs and lows keep you engrossed in this true story set in Russia and Persia. This isn’t the typical book I usually read but I am so glad I did. The characters make you sad, angry, elated, disappointed and surprised. My interest was held from beginning to end. I hope that this isn’t the only story his grandmother told him as I look forward to his next book.
July 2, 2022
4.5 stars
Eep! Review to come!
Eep! Review to come!
March 15, 2021
After reading a few pages, I felt like the poor sap who is walking down the street, minding his own business, and gets a whiff of the intoxicating aroma of fresh baked bread. I followed my nose and turned the pages. Before I knew it, I was inside a magnificent palace of treats, surrounded by all kinds of deliciousness. All my senses were assaulted. The door was shut, and I was trapped inside this story.
The writer takes us on a journey through the early 20th century Persia and pre-revolution Russian. The splendor of the monarchy, and the glamour of the Romanov court. He introduces the Western reader to a part of the Persian culture that is so rich and beautiful, by weaving in poems from Hafez and Rumi, and fables from other sages. Sadly, these aspects of Persian culture have been drowned out by the current political climate. The writer’s grandfather, our hero, is a young man who by the hand of fate, is introduced to the Tsar’s niece, and this impossible love, becomes the crucible of the story. Our hero, in his own rite, comes from a noble lineage of musicians and composers, and his father has expectations that he will return to his motherland and carry on the family tradition. After all, the father, who studied under Rimsky Korsakov, has written the first national anthem for Persia. Is there a greater honor than that? He is expected to come back after finishing his studies at the Russian Conservatory, and follow in his father’s footsteps, but his love for the Russian princess is pulling at him. In short, our hero is impaled on the horns of a dilemma. He has to choose between his love for the princess, and his duty to his father and country. Conflict, conflict conflict… this is the engine that drives the story.
We become a fly on the wall at the Romanov court, as the writer takes us through the hero’s turmoil, and the desperate struggle of the star-crossed lovers to be together. But how? A commoner and a princess? The writer navigates this story beautifully, as we go through the emotional highs and lows that you would expect from a great novel; hope, love, failure, honor and ultimately- unexpected betrayal from the one closest to you.
As the writer slowly builds the story to its climax, and its shocking ending, he ties all the loose ends together with a nice bow, and leaves the reader with a dagger in his heart. Well done Mr. Haddad. I finished your book a few days ago, and still find myself thinking about it, and being pulled back to it. I look forward to reading your next piece.
The writer takes us on a journey through the early 20th century Persia and pre-revolution Russian. The splendor of the monarchy, and the glamour of the Romanov court. He introduces the Western reader to a part of the Persian culture that is so rich and beautiful, by weaving in poems from Hafez and Rumi, and fables from other sages. Sadly, these aspects of Persian culture have been drowned out by the current political climate. The writer’s grandfather, our hero, is a young man who by the hand of fate, is introduced to the Tsar’s niece, and this impossible love, becomes the crucible of the story. Our hero, in his own rite, comes from a noble lineage of musicians and composers, and his father has expectations that he will return to his motherland and carry on the family tradition. After all, the father, who studied under Rimsky Korsakov, has written the first national anthem for Persia. Is there a greater honor than that? He is expected to come back after finishing his studies at the Russian Conservatory, and follow in his father’s footsteps, but his love for the Russian princess is pulling at him. In short, our hero is impaled on the horns of a dilemma. He has to choose between his love for the princess, and his duty to his father and country. Conflict, conflict conflict… this is the engine that drives the story.
We become a fly on the wall at the Romanov court, as the writer takes us through the hero’s turmoil, and the desperate struggle of the star-crossed lovers to be together. But how? A commoner and a princess? The writer navigates this story beautifully, as we go through the emotional highs and lows that you would expect from a great novel; hope, love, failure, honor and ultimately- unexpected betrayal from the one closest to you.
As the writer slowly builds the story to its climax, and its shocking ending, he ties all the loose ends together with a nice bow, and leaves the reader with a dagger in his heart. Well done Mr. Haddad. I finished your book a few days ago, and still find myself thinking about it, and being pulled back to it. I look forward to reading your next piece.
June 5, 2021
A Hundred Sweet Promises is a fascinating blend of a fairytale romance and bittersweet reality. Reading the young Nasrosoltan's journey through life and adulthood gives the readers a sense of camaraderie with the protagonist who, through thick and thin, grasped his life in his own hands and steered the sails of his destiny through his own valiant efforts. Futile, his efforts may have been to some, but I believe our beloved protagonist's life has been eventful, fulfilling, and even inspiring as he never let anyone else steer his sails.
The realistic approach of the author in recounting his grandfather's tales has made Nasrosoltan all the more real and tangible to the reader. This deep sense of connection with the protagonist enamored me into the book as I felt like I was also going through what Nasrosoltan was going through.
The realistic approach of the author in recounting his grandfather's tales has made Nasrosoltan all the more real and tangible to the reader. This deep sense of connection with the protagonist enamored me into the book as I felt like I was also going through what Nasrosoltan was going through.
August 23, 2022
On the eve of the 1979 Islamic Revolution in Iran, a beloved grandmother opens her grandson’s eyes to his family history. His head is filled with the story of his grandfather, a Russian princess, Tsar Nicholas, and previous Shahs of Persia. A tale of love, loss, fame, and family, the history she told expanded the young man’s perspective of life.
“Love is fearless in the midst of the sea of fear.” – Rumi
Nasrollah Minbashian, later known as “Nasrosoltan” Minbashian, was the son of Gholam Reza Khan “Salar Moazaz” Minbashian, a famously celebrated and decorated Iranian musician. Don’t be intimidated by the names and titles that may not roll easily through a mind wired for more western attributes. To do so would be to miss an incredible story set in the Persia of the early 1900s: an unknown or forgotten Persia to many of us in modern western culture.
Nasrosoltan walked in his father’s footsteps as a great musician, having attended the world-renowned St. Petersburg Conservatory in Russia from his early youth. In his lifetime, Nasrosoltan achieved both fame and status in his home country, rising to become a colonel in the Persian Cossack Brigade of Tehran as well as Director of the Iranian Conservatory. But it’s not his fame nor his achievements that are the real story here. This story is about a man whose kismet wove a bittersweet path through his life.
I’ll admit to struggling a bit with this story at first. It’s not a fast-paced tale, and the characters speak in the staid yet rambling style common to the area and time. Why say something in five words when you can use fifty words instead? This more formal, stylized form of speech demands a slower pace. I wanted things to move a bit more quickly, of course. But the author has given his readers an unparalleled view of this early 20th century Persia, so different from the Iran of today that we would be remiss not to allow this story to unfold at the appropriate measure.
Through the eyes of Nasrosoltan we glimpse not just Persia, but the Russia of the last tsar, Nicholas Romanov, and his extended family. As his love for the beautiful Princess Irina takes flight, he is a man consumed by the consciousness that they are of two different worlds that will never mesh. Yet he believes so strongly in kismet that he is convinced they must indeed be fated for each other.
“And with that desire came the understanding that courage was not the absence of fear but the overcoming of it.”
I became mesmerized as Nasrosoltan struggled with his father, his dreams, and his destiny. He was an emotional ping-pong ball, bouncing from hope to despair with such frequency it was impossible to turn away. It seemed a few ill-timed words could have this young lover falling from the height of true love’s peak to the depths of despair. How could these young lovers overcome the odds?
The author, in penning this novel, has allowed us into a love note he has written for his ancestors. As one of the characters stated, “always remember this about death; people only die when you forget them!” The author, in remembering the remarkable lives of his grandfather and great grandfather, helps them live on for more generations to discover. Included within the ebook are links to some of the songs mentioned in the story, including the National Anthem of Persia composed by his great grandfather. I highly recommend this book to those who enjoy historical reads, both fiction and non-fiction.
“Love is fearless in the midst of the sea of fear.” – Rumi
Nasrollah Minbashian, later known as “Nasrosoltan” Minbashian, was the son of Gholam Reza Khan “Salar Moazaz” Minbashian, a famously celebrated and decorated Iranian musician. Don’t be intimidated by the names and titles that may not roll easily through a mind wired for more western attributes. To do so would be to miss an incredible story set in the Persia of the early 1900s: an unknown or forgotten Persia to many of us in modern western culture.
Nasrosoltan walked in his father’s footsteps as a great musician, having attended the world-renowned St. Petersburg Conservatory in Russia from his early youth. In his lifetime, Nasrosoltan achieved both fame and status in his home country, rising to become a colonel in the Persian Cossack Brigade of Tehran as well as Director of the Iranian Conservatory. But it’s not his fame nor his achievements that are the real story here. This story is about a man whose kismet wove a bittersweet path through his life.
I’ll admit to struggling a bit with this story at first. It’s not a fast-paced tale, and the characters speak in the staid yet rambling style common to the area and time. Why say something in five words when you can use fifty words instead? This more formal, stylized form of speech demands a slower pace. I wanted things to move a bit more quickly, of course. But the author has given his readers an unparalleled view of this early 20th century Persia, so different from the Iran of today that we would be remiss not to allow this story to unfold at the appropriate measure.
Through the eyes of Nasrosoltan we glimpse not just Persia, but the Russia of the last tsar, Nicholas Romanov, and his extended family. As his love for the beautiful Princess Irina takes flight, he is a man consumed by the consciousness that they are of two different worlds that will never mesh. Yet he believes so strongly in kismet that he is convinced they must indeed be fated for each other.
“And with that desire came the understanding that courage was not the absence of fear but the overcoming of it.”
I became mesmerized as Nasrosoltan struggled with his father, his dreams, and his destiny. He was an emotional ping-pong ball, bouncing from hope to despair with such frequency it was impossible to turn away. It seemed a few ill-timed words could have this young lover falling from the height of true love’s peak to the depths of despair. How could these young lovers overcome the odds?
The author, in penning this novel, has allowed us into a love note he has written for his ancestors. As one of the characters stated, “always remember this about death; people only die when you forget them!” The author, in remembering the remarkable lives of his grandfather and great grandfather, helps them live on for more generations to discover. Included within the ebook are links to some of the songs mentioned in the story, including the National Anthem of Persia composed by his great grandfather. I highly recommend this book to those who enjoy historical reads, both fiction and non-fiction.
March 17, 2021
This was really a delicious and timely journey through time -- a magical tale that transported me to the land of the Russian Tzars and Persian kings interwoven by the kind of innocent love that one only finds in nostalgic fairy tales. Considering this is based on a true story, I was stunned to read the level of detail that made the whole story come alive. It sucked me in for a breezy and wonderful read from start to finish. I can really see this as a Netflix or Amazon Prime mini-series. Jeff Bezoz, are you listening ?!
March 22, 2021
A beautiful gem of a book: Persia as it straddled its thousands of years of tradition and the hunger for modernity. Stories like this one remind me of my own family’s follies as we sat around a korsi during long winter nights.
June 3, 2021
The recounting of Nasrosoltan’s story made me remember my own youth. I was young, free-spirited, and ambitious just like the author’s grandfather, Nasrosoltan, was. I felt a deep connection with our beloved protagonist in that I felt like going back to the countryside after years of studying in the city was such a waste. Now, as an adult, I realized I was quite arrogant and would have very well told my younger self exactly what Nasrosoltan’s mother told him before his departure.
Sepehr Haddad writes in a mesmerizing style that keeps the readers' eyes glued to the page and their souls bonded to the characters. Perhaps the fact that it’s based on a true story has some part in the magic, but the author’s writing style is surely the main star.
Sepehr Haddad writes in a mesmerizing style that keeps the readers' eyes glued to the page and their souls bonded to the characters. Perhaps the fact that it’s based on a true story has some part in the magic, but the author’s writing style is surely the main star.
May 6, 2021
I enjoyed this book so much
I couldn’t put this book down A hundred sweet promises (and when you come to the end you will see how significant this title is)
When I came to the end I wanted more
Sepehr Haddad is a wonderful musician
(Shahin and Sepehr) and a wonderful author and story teller
I couldn’t put this book down A hundred sweet promises (and when you come to the end you will see how significant this title is)
When I came to the end I wanted more
Sepehr Haddad is a wonderful musician
(Shahin and Sepehr) and a wonderful author and story teller
February 11, 2024
I gave this book 4.5 stars.
Historical fiction is one of my favorite genres. When I was asked if I would like to read and review this book by an admin of Facebook’s Book Lovers Club, I jumped at the chance. The author Sepehr Haddad sent me a signed copy of his book and I began a journey through history and found myself immersed in the love story of a man with an amazing musical talent, and such a romantic heart. I absolutely fell in love with this book.
I will admit that I knew very little about Russian history until I read this book. I knew about the Romanov family’s tragic ending, but “A Hundred Sweet Promises” introduced me to more of their history and more of the family members. I also learned some early 20th century Persian history. I have never read poetry from Hafez and Rumi, these poems were very touching and added so much to the story.
This book is beautifully written. It grabs your attention from the start and doesn’t let go. It will absolutely touch your heart.
If you enjoy books about history, romance, music and family relationships, you will enjoy this book.
Historical fiction is one of my favorite genres. When I was asked if I would like to read and review this book by an admin of Facebook’s Book Lovers Club, I jumped at the chance. The author Sepehr Haddad sent me a signed copy of his book and I began a journey through history and found myself immersed in the love story of a man with an amazing musical talent, and such a romantic heart. I absolutely fell in love with this book.
I will admit that I knew very little about Russian history until I read this book. I knew about the Romanov family’s tragic ending, but “A Hundred Sweet Promises” introduced me to more of their history and more of the family members. I also learned some early 20th century Persian history. I have never read poetry from Hafez and Rumi, these poems were very touching and added so much to the story.
This book is beautifully written. It grabs your attention from the start and doesn’t let go. It will absolutely touch your heart.
If you enjoy books about history, romance, music and family relationships, you will enjoy this book.
April 3, 2024
Loved this!!!
March 11, 2021
Renowned musician Sepehr Haddad's (from the famed duo group "Shahin & Sepehr') debut novel "A Hundred Sweet Promises" is a MUST READ for any individual interested in history, Iran and Russia. Inspired by a story his grandmother told him shortly before the Islamic Revolution in Iran, the book is a true tale of Sepehr's grandfather; Nasrosolatn Minbashian - a famed music composer living in St. Petersburg, Russia, in 1913.
At its core, the book is a love story and deals with the protagonist's emotional conflicts between head and heart.
The author has dedicated the book to his American born sons with a notation: "hoping they always remember their Persian roots." After reading this book, I strongly believe his sons will be truly inspired and proud of their Persian heritage.
With Nowruz (Persian New Year) around the corner, "A Hundred Sweet Promises" makes a perfect Aydee (Gift in Persian)!
December 2, 2021
“Love,” I cried, “a little pity show to me, a hapless stranger, poor and lonely in Love’s City.” But she answered: “Foolish stranger, yours the fault, not mine, for losing thus your way.’ ‘tis your own choosing, blame not me, O tiresome stranger.” Once more, O HAFIZ, dawns the morning cup, another day in which to seek her face! Patience! The day will come, in some strange place, when thy strong hands her veil at last lift up.
A secret revealed begins the story of a forbidden love... a story told from a grandmother to her grandson, and not just any grandson – this story is written by the actual grandson of the main character – a true story of a rise to fame, and the rise and fall of destiny in a lush, rich, heart-wrenching true love story between Nasrosoltan Minbashian, a noted Persian composer, and Princess Irina Alexandrovna, the niece to Tsar Nicholas II. A story never known until now, and a story not to be missed.
In an exquisite symphony of words, Mr Haddad relays the rise of his grandfather, Nasrosoltan, as he leaves his homeland in pre-WW1 Persia (Iran) and travels to St Petersburg Russia to begin training at the music conservatory alongside masters such as Rimsky-Korsakov. His entire focus is music and he is a natural savant on the piano, with dreams of reaching the heights of Stravinsky and Schubert. Along the way, he is befriended by a wealthy businessman, Rustam, whose quick wit and profound words of wisdom aid Nasrosoltan along his journey; and the two share deep discussions along with their fair share of vodka, cards, and roulette. He is also befriended by his landlady, Madame Lazar, a piano tutor whose skill has brought her to the attention of the Grand Duke and his wife as a tutor to their daughter, Irina.
But Nasrosoltan’s youth and inexperience lead him along the path of fate, first stepping in as he is entranced with the worldly-wise Madame Shamsi, whose continental flair, French-style, and red lips lure him into a romantic attachment... and an ultimate broken heart, sending him determined never to find himself lured by any woman, ever again.
But as his friend Rustam reminds him, you must play the cards dealt to you, and after an unexpected loss at a gaming table, an accident involving Madame Lazar, and an incident with an adorable French bulldog, Nasrosoltan finds himself at the Grand Duke’s palace as a temporary replacement and tutor to the Princess Irina.
What takes place is nothing short of a perfect love story built on youthful dreams, innocent ideals of love, and looking beyond the man-made titles of nobility and privilege. Love maybe blind, but love looks beyond such things – and Nasrosoltan and Irina’s story reveals this truth in a beautiful and eloquent way.
Already this novel is being compared to Chekhov, Tolstoy, and Pushkin, but I would venture to add another famous Russian novelist into the mix – Boris Pasternak – for in the story I saw the reflection of the rich and meaty tale of Doctor Zhivago, which blends the turbulence of the political arena at the precipice of the Great War and the Russian Revolution with the lovely refrains of young love and the dreamy world of an artist in search of escape where love reigns supreme. Zhivago’s love of poetry and his homeland is overshadowed by reality, just as Nasrosoltan’s love of music along with his love of both Russia and Iran is brought face to face with the harsh reality of his station in life – face to face with Tsar Nicholas, himself, in a confrontation and pronouncement of love as to place this book firmly alongside those classic Russian novels as a contender for pure, exquisite literature.
“True love creates rather than devastates.”
The sheer intelligence of the author’s words and the ability to offer this story as if you are listening to Schubert’s own work of Fantasie is breath taking – the easy beginning building to the climactic crescendo, and finishing with the unexpected heartbreaking final notes – and yes, if you are lover of luxuriant Russian novels, the golden world of the Romanov’s and the incredible history of Iran during the reign of the Shahs, then this book is one that will go down in history as a classic in the making.
And if ever a book needed to be made into a movie, this is it for it offers all the elements of a perfect historical romance melding together the powerful lessons taught as a result of the political upheaval and national unrest which grew to a frenzy against the Russian nobility of that time.
I cannot even begin to relay all the beautiful passages presented in this novel, but here are just a few of my favorites:
“Even though they could not look at each other while playing four hands, their hands communicated as if they were in private, shutting out the gaze of any would-be spectator. Accidentally placed fingers brushing against each other created brief moments of contact between them, in a safe place, where such touching and nearness were permitted.” - For the author to take the simplicity of sitting side by side on a piano bench, the intimacy of their fingers touching as they play the keys, and render such passion in the words as the music fills the air around these two young people is nothing short of genius.
Nasrosoltan found himself fixated by a Henri Matisse painting, Harmony in Red. The painting had a magnetic pull, drawing him in closer. He sat down in front of this sizeable oil-on-canvas masterpiece and carefully spent time studying the bright red colors and the rhythms of the foliage patterns. For some reason, this particular painting had a powerful effect on his sensibilities, distracting him from his recent troublesome thoughts. As he studied the intricate details of this work, it was as if he could almost hear the painting... the similarities between music and painting... shared principles of rhythm, harmony, and balance. - As artists of the written word, an author’s job is to paint a beautiful masterpiece for the reader, and Mr Haddad has done this in the most superlative way, composing words like a symphony, using the shared principles of rhythm, harmony, and balance like playing upon a piano or the strokes of a brush over a canvas. He instructs us how to write a historical novel, and the lesson is one that can be read again and again – and for my part, as I not only read this novel, but listened to the audio version, I was glad to sit in the audience as this masterpiece unfolded, and I stand with a shout of applause, a standing ovation, shouting “Bravo, Mr Haddad, bravo!!”
The Historical Fiction Company awards “A Hundred Sweet Promises” by Sepehr Haddad a resounding five stars and the “Highly Recommended” award.
A secret revealed begins the story of a forbidden love... a story told from a grandmother to her grandson, and not just any grandson – this story is written by the actual grandson of the main character – a true story of a rise to fame, and the rise and fall of destiny in a lush, rich, heart-wrenching true love story between Nasrosoltan Minbashian, a noted Persian composer, and Princess Irina Alexandrovna, the niece to Tsar Nicholas II. A story never known until now, and a story not to be missed.
In an exquisite symphony of words, Mr Haddad relays the rise of his grandfather, Nasrosoltan, as he leaves his homeland in pre-WW1 Persia (Iran) and travels to St Petersburg Russia to begin training at the music conservatory alongside masters such as Rimsky-Korsakov. His entire focus is music and he is a natural savant on the piano, with dreams of reaching the heights of Stravinsky and Schubert. Along the way, he is befriended by a wealthy businessman, Rustam, whose quick wit and profound words of wisdom aid Nasrosoltan along his journey; and the two share deep discussions along with their fair share of vodka, cards, and roulette. He is also befriended by his landlady, Madame Lazar, a piano tutor whose skill has brought her to the attention of the Grand Duke and his wife as a tutor to their daughter, Irina.
But Nasrosoltan’s youth and inexperience lead him along the path of fate, first stepping in as he is entranced with the worldly-wise Madame Shamsi, whose continental flair, French-style, and red lips lure him into a romantic attachment... and an ultimate broken heart, sending him determined never to find himself lured by any woman, ever again.
But as his friend Rustam reminds him, you must play the cards dealt to you, and after an unexpected loss at a gaming table, an accident involving Madame Lazar, and an incident with an adorable French bulldog, Nasrosoltan finds himself at the Grand Duke’s palace as a temporary replacement and tutor to the Princess Irina.
What takes place is nothing short of a perfect love story built on youthful dreams, innocent ideals of love, and looking beyond the man-made titles of nobility and privilege. Love maybe blind, but love looks beyond such things – and Nasrosoltan and Irina’s story reveals this truth in a beautiful and eloquent way.
Already this novel is being compared to Chekhov, Tolstoy, and Pushkin, but I would venture to add another famous Russian novelist into the mix – Boris Pasternak – for in the story I saw the reflection of the rich and meaty tale of Doctor Zhivago, which blends the turbulence of the political arena at the precipice of the Great War and the Russian Revolution with the lovely refrains of young love and the dreamy world of an artist in search of escape where love reigns supreme. Zhivago’s love of poetry and his homeland is overshadowed by reality, just as Nasrosoltan’s love of music along with his love of both Russia and Iran is brought face to face with the harsh reality of his station in life – face to face with Tsar Nicholas, himself, in a confrontation and pronouncement of love as to place this book firmly alongside those classic Russian novels as a contender for pure, exquisite literature.
“True love creates rather than devastates.”
The sheer intelligence of the author’s words and the ability to offer this story as if you are listening to Schubert’s own work of Fantasie is breath taking – the easy beginning building to the climactic crescendo, and finishing with the unexpected heartbreaking final notes – and yes, if you are lover of luxuriant Russian novels, the golden world of the Romanov’s and the incredible history of Iran during the reign of the Shahs, then this book is one that will go down in history as a classic in the making.
And if ever a book needed to be made into a movie, this is it for it offers all the elements of a perfect historical romance melding together the powerful lessons taught as a result of the political upheaval and national unrest which grew to a frenzy against the Russian nobility of that time.
I cannot even begin to relay all the beautiful passages presented in this novel, but here are just a few of my favorites:
“Even though they could not look at each other while playing four hands, their hands communicated as if they were in private, shutting out the gaze of any would-be spectator. Accidentally placed fingers brushing against each other created brief moments of contact between them, in a safe place, where such touching and nearness were permitted.” - For the author to take the simplicity of sitting side by side on a piano bench, the intimacy of their fingers touching as they play the keys, and render such passion in the words as the music fills the air around these two young people is nothing short of genius.
Nasrosoltan found himself fixated by a Henri Matisse painting, Harmony in Red. The painting had a magnetic pull, drawing him in closer. He sat down in front of this sizeable oil-on-canvas masterpiece and carefully spent time studying the bright red colors and the rhythms of the foliage patterns. For some reason, this particular painting had a powerful effect on his sensibilities, distracting him from his recent troublesome thoughts. As he studied the intricate details of this work, it was as if he could almost hear the painting... the similarities between music and painting... shared principles of rhythm, harmony, and balance. - As artists of the written word, an author’s job is to paint a beautiful masterpiece for the reader, and Mr Haddad has done this in the most superlative way, composing words like a symphony, using the shared principles of rhythm, harmony, and balance like playing upon a piano or the strokes of a brush over a canvas. He instructs us how to write a historical novel, and the lesson is one that can be read again and again – and for my part, as I not only read this novel, but listened to the audio version, I was glad to sit in the audience as this masterpiece unfolded, and I stand with a shout of applause, a standing ovation, shouting “Bravo, Mr Haddad, bravo!!”
The Historical Fiction Company awards “A Hundred Sweet Promises” by Sepehr Haddad a resounding five stars and the “Highly Recommended” award.
January 15, 2022
I will start by saying I don't usually read historical fiction novels. I am a bigger fan of fiction/fantasy, but I am so happy I stumbled upon this gem. I have been a big fan of Shahin and Sepehr's music since I was a kid, so when I found out Sepehr had written a book I was intrigued.
I could not put this book down...Every chapter left me with wanting more. The development of the characters is what really pulled me in though. Like a good movie, the book set the scene and built connections with each character so that I felt like I was experiencing what Nasrosoltan went through. It was a truly amazing story of love, loss and jealousy. This is an absolute must read and I hope to read more novels by this amazing author.
I could not put this book down...Every chapter left me with wanting more. The development of the characters is what really pulled me in though. Like a good movie, the book set the scene and built connections with each character so that I felt like I was experiencing what Nasrosoltan went through. It was a truly amazing story of love, loss and jealousy. This is an absolute must read and I hope to read more novels by this amazing author.
January 16, 2022
This was a great book with a compelling story. You really care about the characters (which I need to truly care about the books I read), so this was perfect. I usually have a hard time wanting to continue books if the stories don't progress in a satisfying way, but this story drew me in more and more through every chapter. Great job, would definitely recommend.
October 9, 2021
Fascinating!
If you are looking for a love story, this is a beautifully written historical fiction book based on events recounting a relationship between a Persian piano teacher and his beautiful student. I found the story challenging to believe, but fascinating to consider. Haddad is a master storyteller and once I got into the book I absolutely had find out how it was going to end.
If you are looking for a love story, this is a beautifully written historical fiction book based on events recounting a relationship between a Persian piano teacher and his beautiful student. I found the story challenging to believe, but fascinating to consider. Haddad is a master storyteller and once I got into the book I absolutely had find out how it was going to end.
December 3, 2022
I loved this beautiful but sad love story!
June 29, 2022
Wonderful true story. Beautifully written. Had me hooked all the way.
November 29, 2021
This book is a very well written novel. The author masterfully tells a very sweet and magical love story while at the same time takes the reader through the historical view of the world around WWI and the Russian revolution. I still can't get over the fact that the main character, Nasrosoltan Minbashian, was a student of Rimsky Korsakov and a class mate of Igor Stravinsky at San Petersburg conservatory of music. A convincing evidence of the influence of European culture on Persian culture towards the end of Ghajar era. It turned out one of Nasrosoltan's sons, in later years, becomes the first-ever minister of culture in Iran and marries Princess Shams Pahlavi.
July 24, 2022
Excellent story telling. Main characters are fully developed and express emotions faithfully. I also appreciated the history.
August 8, 2021
Thank you to Goodreads and the author as I won this book from Goodreads. This is a great book. I truly enjoyed reading this book and learning about a period of time and culture that I was not familiar with prior to reading this book.i look forward to reading more books by this author. I thoroughly loved this heartbreaking story.
June 4, 2021
I am a firm believer that a book is an outer manifestation of its writer’s innermost being, and A Hundred Sweet Promises perfectly lives up to this saying. Sepehr Haddad, coming from a family of progressive, passionate musicians, pours out his whole heart into writing this masterpiece. Haddad’s pride and passion for his lineage are extremely tangible in his writing, and one cannot help but appreciate such devotion.
Haddad writes in a special way that informatively and effectively introduces their culture and philosophy without delineating from the plot. It is very mesmerizing to me when he opens the world of Persia in front of my very eyes as I get more and more engrossed in every scene despite having a fair share of the story being set in a different country.
Haddad writes in a special way that informatively and effectively introduces their culture and philosophy without delineating from the plot. It is very mesmerizing to me when he opens the world of Persia in front of my very eyes as I get more and more engrossed in every scene despite having a fair share of the story being set in a different country.
June 4, 2021
It was such a joy to follow the exploits of a bright-eyed, ambitious young man in his journey to follow his dreams and his heart. Nasrosoltan was introduced and described in such a way that immediately puts him in a special spot in the hearts of the readers, either as a stubborn son or a like-minded brother. The narrative was nothing short of magical as every chapter connected me deeper and deeper to the protagonist, looking forward to exactly what this smart, promising youth would decide to do next.
The realistic origins of this novel are coupled with the creative privileges, which the author took upon himself to add, to culminate into this perfectly and beautifully balanced book of romance and family history. Highly recommend it!
The realistic origins of this novel are coupled with the creative privileges, which the author took upon himself to add, to culminate into this perfectly and beautifully balanced book of romance and family history. Highly recommend it!
June 4, 2021
Sepehr Haddad narrates his grandfather’s escapades according to his grandmother’s storytelling in his book A Hundred Sweet Promises. A Hundred Sweet Promises is written in an alluring fusion of youthful ambition, bittersweet romance, and inescapable reality. Nasrosoltan’s exploits were very well-narrated and gave the readers a sense of connection with the protagonist, making it easy to bond and feel a kinship towards the smart, young man.
Haddad captivates his audience by expertly weaving a web of humor and excitement, a dash of heart thumps, and a couple of well-placed philosophies, then ultimately captures their hearts with an inevitable sense of relatability and reality. This book is truly worth reading. Kudos to a work well done!
Haddad captivates his audience by expertly weaving a web of humor and excitement, a dash of heart thumps, and a couple of well-placed philosophies, then ultimately captures their hearts with an inevitable sense of relatability and reality. This book is truly worth reading. Kudos to a work well done!
June 4, 2021
The beauty of Sepehr Haddad’s A Hundred Sweet Promises lies in its magically creative recounting of the stories of the author’s past generations and its well-placed golden nuggets of wisdom spread throughout the whole novel. The author writes his prose simply in a way most would find extremely easy to understand and yet, inserts deep words of wisdom that make one ponder at just the right moment. The many societal issues Haddad tackles in his book really give it a sense of depth and reality, unique from its other counterparts. Reading this novel was, indeed, time well spent. And the realizations from the wise ponderings it induced were nothing short of extraordinary. Sepehr Haddad is, indeed, a talented man who fascinates his readers with his wisdom, expertise, and passion.
June 4, 2021
It was such great fun reading A Hundred Sweet Promises by Sepehr Haddad! The way he describes the appearance of a setting in such a detailed manner creates an incredibly clear image that it feels like I’m watching a movie in my mind’s eye as I read. The dialogues and body language of the characters depict each character’s personality very well, with no hint of discrepancy. There is also the fact that Haddad had strategically placed various interesting information on different subjects that catch the eye of the reader; like lovely, little trivia to further reel them into the story. Overall, this novel by Sepehr Haddad is a literary work of art that is a perfect reflection of this man’s pride, passion, and talent.
June 5, 2021
I highly recommend this book! As a lover of novels based on true stories, I found Sepehr Haddad's A Hundred Sweet Promises to be exactly my type of book! The perfect blend of a person's autobiography and the author's creative writing makes for a very satisfying story to read over a cup of coffee.
The author expertly entwines beautiful words and narratives, chooses the most exciting parts of his protagonist's life, and skillfully adds some trivial happenings for continuity to create the most enchanting, entertaining story. Sepehr Haddad was able to successfully achieve all these elements, and A Hundred Sweet Promises took up quite a huge part of my leisure time. Honestly, I'd say it was time well-spent.
The author expertly entwines beautiful words and narratives, chooses the most exciting parts of his protagonist's life, and skillfully adds some trivial happenings for continuity to create the most enchanting, entertaining story. Sepehr Haddad was able to successfully achieve all these elements, and A Hundred Sweet Promises took up quite a huge part of my leisure time. Honestly, I'd say it was time well-spent.
February 20, 2022
A very romantic historical novel of the life of a famous Persian musician and his encounter with the Romanov family. Very well written it really puts you in the heart of the protagonist's world with his inner conflict between his love for Russia and his obligations towards his family and original country. This experience of the emotional ordeal has been shared by all the people who fall in love with another country and who are permanently caught up by the culture they are born in. With This book the author Sepehr Haddad shows how you can overcome this duality in a positive way by letting it enrich the culture of the country that has welcomed you.
A first promising novel from Sepehr who himself belongs to to the the Minbashian family and its traditional love for music.
A first promising novel from Sepehr who himself belongs to to the the Minbashian family and its traditional love for music.
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