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The Countess of the Revolution
March, 1917
Petrograd is on the eve of revolution. For Countess Sophia Orlova, the city of her childhood – the only home she has ever known – has become her deadly enemy. The mob are ready to get rid of anyone connected to the old regime, including Sophia.
When rebels threaten to shoot Sophia and her husband, they are saved by Nikolai, a fervent supporter of the revolution. Determined to help Nikolai’s cause, Sophia sets up a hospital wing in the house, nursing injured victims by his side.
Her kindness has captured Nikolai’s heart, but their burgeoning romance is forbidden. With battle lines drawn between the new and the old, both their lives are in danger…
Will their love be strong enough to overcome the horrors of war?
From the bestselling author of Sisters of War comes a heart-wrenching novel of lovers trapped on the opposite sides of a terrifying political conflict, loss, and sacrifice.
Petrograd is on the eve of revolution. For Countess Sophia Orlova, the city of her childhood – the only home she has ever known – has become her deadly enemy. The mob are ready to get rid of anyone connected to the old regime, including Sophia.
When rebels threaten to shoot Sophia and her husband, they are saved by Nikolai, a fervent supporter of the revolution. Determined to help Nikolai’s cause, Sophia sets up a hospital wing in the house, nursing injured victims by his side.
Her kindness has captured Nikolai’s heart, but their burgeoning romance is forbidden. With battle lines drawn between the new and the old, both their lives are in danger…
Will their love be strong enough to overcome the horrors of war?
From the bestselling author of Sisters of War comes a heart-wrenching novel of lovers trapped on the opposite sides of a terrifying political conflict, loss, and sacrifice.
352 pages, Paperback
First published December 8, 2022
133 people are currently reading
764 people want to read
About the author
Lana Kortchik
9 books450 followersLana Kortchik grew up in two opposite corners of the Soviet Union – the snow-white Siberian town of Tomsk and the golden-domed Ukrainian capital, Kyiv. At the age of sixteen, she moved to Australia with her mother. Lana and her family live on the Central Coast of NSW, where it never snows and is always summer-warm.
Lana studied IT at university and, as a student, wrote poetry in Russian that she hid from everyone. For over a decade after graduating, she worked as a computer programmer. When she returned to university to complete her history degree, her favourite lecturer encouraged her to write fiction. She hasn’t looked back, and never goes anywhere without her favourite pen because you never know when the inspiration might strike.
Lana’s short stories appeared in many magazines and anthologies, and she was the winner of the Historical Novel Society Autumn 2012 Short Fiction competition. She is the author of USA Today bestsellers Sisters of War and Daughters of the Resistance, published by HQ Stories, an imprint of Harper Collins UK.
Lana also writes psychological thrillers under the pen name of Lana Newton.
To find out more, please visit http://www.lanakortchik.com.
Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/lanakortchik
Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/lanakortchik
Lana studied IT at university and, as a student, wrote poetry in Russian that she hid from everyone. For over a decade after graduating, she worked as a computer programmer. When she returned to university to complete her history degree, her favourite lecturer encouraged her to write fiction. She hasn’t looked back, and never goes anywhere without her favourite pen because you never know when the inspiration might strike.
Lana’s short stories appeared in many magazines and anthologies, and she was the winner of the Historical Novel Society Autumn 2012 Short Fiction competition. She is the author of USA Today bestsellers Sisters of War and Daughters of the Resistance, published by HQ Stories, an imprint of Harper Collins UK.
Lana also writes psychological thrillers under the pen name of Lana Newton.
To find out more, please visit http://www.lanakortchik.com.
Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/lanakortchik
Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/lanakortchik
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
February 11, 2024
This story of the life of a countess (really an ex-countess) living in St. Petersburg at the start of the Russian Revolution was a little too much of a romance novel for me. The reader sees the countess’ opulent life and her passionless marriage. Then amid the bullets and chaos (Bolshevik vs Tsarist), in steps her husband’s brother – an activist Bolshevik. Of course, the countess and the brother-in-law fall distantly in love, and through her Bolshevik brother-in-law, the countess learns that there is “another side” (i.e. the revolutionary side) to the conflict. Through more bullets and chaos (Bolshevik vs remnants of the Imperial Army) and long, unspoken love, it all works out for the countess and the Bolshevik. I have read, learned from, been very moved by, and enjoyed many wonderful novels set during the Russian Revolution, but this one was just really a romance novel in a very interesting setting.
April 3, 2023
"Russia was a ship without a helm, at the mercy of a horrifying tempest, propelled by a current towards deadly rocks."
The Countess of the Revolution provides an informative look at the Russian Revolution of 1917 but that is also where its fault lies. Though well researched, it turned into too much of history lesson. I was hoping to learn more about this tumultuous time while getting lost in a story but it seemed as if the story fell to the sidelines. However, I do think this book was successful in capturing what civilian life was like during political upheaval in Russia, the fear and uncertainty about the future evident in its pages.
Countess Sophia Orlova was a woman of nobility, born into wealth and privilege, thereby making her an enemy in the eyes of the revolutionaries. She focused too heavily on material objects considering she was lucky to be alive and she stayed married to a man she didn't love, leading me to find it difficult to empathize with her plight. And I never liked her husband, Dmitry, who often seemed possessive instead of protective, the need for constant control showing in everything he said and did.
"There is no happiness without freedom."
Sophia's adoration for her husband's brother, Nikolai, seemed like a schoolgirl with a crush instead of that of a grown woman and, though I love a forbidden romance, it felt out of place in a time of upheaval in Russia. Perhaps it could have worked better with a focus on the romance but here it became lost in anarchy and politics. I also would have liked to learn more about Nikolai, his past as well as more details of the work he was doing with the revolutionaries other than inciting insurrection. He was always disappearing and I wanted to get to know and understand him better.
"She was no longer the countess who had everything done for her. She was serving the men whose lives depended on her and happier for it."
When Sophia helped Nikolai set up a makeshift hospital in her home to aid the wounded revolutionaries, she finally found a purpose in her life. I wished that aspect had been explored further as I think that would have added a more interesting direction for the story to follow. It showed selflessness and caring, making Sophia a better developed and more likable character.
This book shed light on differences in class structure, the treatment of nobility vs peasants, the rights of women and that of the working class. It suggested a number of thought provoking questions. How do we define equality? How should we initiate change? How do we right what's wrong?
"Would you give your life for the revolution?"
What are you willing to sacrifice to fight for what you believe in? How would you protect those you love? Would you risk the possibility of death and destruction? This book had so much potential as a story of heartbreaking loss and survival but it was overshadowed by politics and history. It felt too long for the story it was trying to tell with actions and descriptions often becoming repetitive. I wanted to continue reading until the end but, ultimately, I decided to call it a DNF at 62%.
** Special thanks to Harper 360/HQ Digital and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this ARC. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own. Quotes subject to change at time of publication. Available March 28, 2023. **
The Countess of the Revolution provides an informative look at the Russian Revolution of 1917 but that is also where its fault lies. Though well researched, it turned into too much of history lesson. I was hoping to learn more about this tumultuous time while getting lost in a story but it seemed as if the story fell to the sidelines. However, I do think this book was successful in capturing what civilian life was like during political upheaval in Russia, the fear and uncertainty about the future evident in its pages.
Countess Sophia Orlova was a woman of nobility, born into wealth and privilege, thereby making her an enemy in the eyes of the revolutionaries. She focused too heavily on material objects considering she was lucky to be alive and she stayed married to a man she didn't love, leading me to find it difficult to empathize with her plight. And I never liked her husband, Dmitry, who often seemed possessive instead of protective, the need for constant control showing in everything he said and did.
"There is no happiness without freedom."
Sophia's adoration for her husband's brother, Nikolai, seemed like a schoolgirl with a crush instead of that of a grown woman and, though I love a forbidden romance, it felt out of place in a time of upheaval in Russia. Perhaps it could have worked better with a focus on the romance but here it became lost in anarchy and politics. I also would have liked to learn more about Nikolai, his past as well as more details of the work he was doing with the revolutionaries other than inciting insurrection. He was always disappearing and I wanted to get to know and understand him better.
"She was no longer the countess who had everything done for her. She was serving the men whose lives depended on her and happier for it."
When Sophia helped Nikolai set up a makeshift hospital in her home to aid the wounded revolutionaries, she finally found a purpose in her life. I wished that aspect had been explored further as I think that would have added a more interesting direction for the story to follow. It showed selflessness and caring, making Sophia a better developed and more likable character.
This book shed light on differences in class structure, the treatment of nobility vs peasants, the rights of women and that of the working class. It suggested a number of thought provoking questions. How do we define equality? How should we initiate change? How do we right what's wrong?
"Would you give your life for the revolution?"
What are you willing to sacrifice to fight for what you believe in? How would you protect those you love? Would you risk the possibility of death and destruction? This book had so much potential as a story of heartbreaking loss and survival but it was overshadowed by politics and history. It felt too long for the story it was trying to tell with actions and descriptions often becoming repetitive. I wanted to continue reading until the end but, ultimately, I decided to call it a DNF at 62%.
** Special thanks to Harper 360/HQ Digital and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this ARC. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own. Quotes subject to change at time of publication. Available March 28, 2023. **
January 2, 2023
Countess Of The Revolution is historical fiction set in Russia around 1917.
The story opens in Petrograd (now Saint Petersburg). Countess Sophia Orlova and her family are caught up in the revolution, trapped and then imprisoned in their home by drunken soldiers; they fear for their lives.
They are saved from execution by her husband’s estranged brother, Nikolai. Sophia sets up a hospital ward in their home for injured soldiers; however, her idea causes conflict with her husband, who refuses to relinquish his old societal beliefs.
Eventually it is too dangerous to stay in the city and they get permits to leave, but the conflict follows them.
This is a story set during one of the great upheavals in Russian history and the horrors of the war are described well. I did however, struggle to believe in Sophia, as she ping-ponged between a helpless countess who hid in her bed and an overworked dedicated nurse; I couldn’t quite picture her capable of both.
Overall, an interesting piece of historical fiction, but I didn’t enjoy it as much as I had hoped.
The story opens in Petrograd (now Saint Petersburg). Countess Sophia Orlova and her family are caught up in the revolution, trapped and then imprisoned in their home by drunken soldiers; they fear for their lives.
They are saved from execution by her husband’s estranged brother, Nikolai. Sophia sets up a hospital ward in their home for injured soldiers; however, her idea causes conflict with her husband, who refuses to relinquish his old societal beliefs.
Eventually it is too dangerous to stay in the city and they get permits to leave, but the conflict follows them.
This is a story set during one of the great upheavals in Russian history and the horrors of the war are described well. I did however, struggle to believe in Sophia, as she ping-ponged between a helpless countess who hid in her bed and an overworked dedicated nurse; I couldn’t quite picture her capable of both.
Overall, an interesting piece of historical fiction, but I didn’t enjoy it as much as I had hoped.
December 5, 2022
Fascinating Historical Fiction
Revolutions (and wars in general) are not as romantic as the victors would have us believe. But amidst all the suffering and death, romantic relationships can take root, as they do in this book. While unflinching in her portrayal of a tumultuous time in history, Ms. Kortchik does not overlook the human element in her account of the travails of Sophia and Nikolai. This is a well-written tale that is both instructive and entertaining, and fans of good historical fiction should enjoy it.
Revolutions (and wars in general) are not as romantic as the victors would have us believe. But amidst all the suffering and death, romantic relationships can take root, as they do in this book. While unflinching in her portrayal of a tumultuous time in history, Ms. Kortchik does not overlook the human element in her account of the travails of Sophia and Nikolai. This is a well-written tale that is both instructive and entertaining, and fans of good historical fiction should enjoy it.
April 12, 2024
There’s nothing quite like a flimsy piece of historical fiction about the suffering of the aristocracy during the Russian Revolution, served cold with a heaping side of infidelity.
(I was going to give this 2 stars for effort untilllll I got to the last chapter/epilogue. That’s when a run of the mill lame book turned plain ridiculous.)
(I was going to give this 2 stars for effort untilllll I got to the last chapter/epilogue. That’s when a run of the mill lame book turned plain ridiculous.)
March 31, 2023
Infuriatingly, this rich topic is done a terrible disservice by the shoddy writing. There has been no effort put into characterization and it is impossible to care about the journey.
December 11, 2022
The Countess of the Revolution by Lana Kortchik is a great historical fiction that gives us several views into the complex and world-altering Russian revolutions of the 20th century.
I really enjoyed several books by Ms. Kortchik in the past, so I was excited to read her take on the Russian revolutions that took place in the 20th century.
I know quite a bit about Russian history as a whole, but it was still interesting to read it full of drama, humanity, romance, love, loss, and what defines patriotism.
Countess Sophia Orlova is a complex and intriguing main character that really helps bring several different worlds together. Through her life-altering experiences, we can see the grey that is truly present, and that the world is a lot more than just black and white.
4.5/5 stars
Thank you NG and HQ Digital/ Harper 360 for this wonderful arc and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.
I am posting this review to my GR and Bookbub accounts immediately and will post it to my Amazon, Instagram, and B&N accounts upon publication on 3/28/23.
I really enjoyed several books by Ms. Kortchik in the past, so I was excited to read her take on the Russian revolutions that took place in the 20th century.
I know quite a bit about Russian history as a whole, but it was still interesting to read it full of drama, humanity, romance, love, loss, and what defines patriotism.
Countess Sophia Orlova is a complex and intriguing main character that really helps bring several different worlds together. Through her life-altering experiences, we can see the grey that is truly present, and that the world is a lot more than just black and white.
4.5/5 stars
Thank you NG and HQ Digital/ Harper 360 for this wonderful arc and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.
I am posting this review to my GR and Bookbub accounts immediately and will post it to my Amazon, Instagram, and B&N accounts upon publication on 3/28/23.
August 29, 2022
This exciting novel is both a historical novel and a love story. Two brothers love the same woman married to one of them in the background of the Russian civil war.....
What I really enjoyed about this novel is the fact that both brothers have completely different political opinions, views of life while Sophia feels empathy for both sides, not condoning the violence though! Through their dialogues, their differences, I learned a lot about what led to the civil war, its disappointments, hopes and of course the scale of the horrors committed. This was extremely interesting and also thought provoking. Very well researched, this novel has captivating me all way through. Highly recommended!
I received a complimentary ARC of this novel from NetGalley and I am leaving voluntarily an honest review.
What I really enjoyed about this novel is the fact that both brothers have completely different political opinions, views of life while Sophia feels empathy for both sides, not condoning the violence though! Through their dialogues, their differences, I learned a lot about what led to the civil war, its disappointments, hopes and of course the scale of the horrors committed. This was extremely interesting and also thought provoking. Very well researched, this novel has captivating me all way through. Highly recommended!
I received a complimentary ARC of this novel from NetGalley and I am leaving voluntarily an honest review.
Want to read
March 7, 2023Review copy provided by publisher - March 2023
July 19, 2024
3.5 More of a in love with wrong brother story set during Russian revolution. Did enjoy learning more about the struggles and trials of the aristocracy during the Russian revolution.
September 17, 2022
High praise for this novel!
I am really amazed by this book. Speaking as a total world war one genre lover, this book is very fresh. I say that because the publishing world is full of stories from the western perspective, very rarely do I find novels not based in "the western front".
The Countess of the Revolution takes you on a fascinating journey through the eyes of a well to do woman, yes she's a noble but not a high up royal like so many novels based in Russia have as their main character (always one of the grand duchess, am I right?)
At the start, you see how intense her husband feels for her, never really sure if its actual love or just creepy possession, and honestly it's suffocating as a reader to read parts where he is involved. You really begin to feel sorry for our Countess Sophia, and what a nice twist with Nikolai. The ending by the way is so satisfying!
I really recommend this book, its great page turner and I completed it within one sitting. A good read for the upcoming winter!
Thanks to Netgalley for giving me a chance to read this really good novel!
I am really amazed by this book. Speaking as a total world war one genre lover, this book is very fresh. I say that because the publishing world is full of stories from the western perspective, very rarely do I find novels not based in "the western front".
The Countess of the Revolution takes you on a fascinating journey through the eyes of a well to do woman, yes she's a noble but not a high up royal like so many novels based in Russia have as their main character (always one of the grand duchess, am I right?)
At the start, you see how intense her husband feels for her, never really sure if its actual love or just creepy possession, and honestly it's suffocating as a reader to read parts where he is involved. You really begin to feel sorry for our Countess Sophia, and what a nice twist with Nikolai. The ending by the way is so satisfying!
I really recommend this book, its great page turner and I completed it within one sitting. A good read for the upcoming winter!
Thanks to Netgalley for giving me a chance to read this really good novel!
September 9, 2022
First time reading this author and what a fantastic book.
The countess of the revolution was quite an amazing read in regards the premise, characters and content.
This is a book that has been extremely well reserched and plotted and planned I really loved it and can highly recommend.
The countess of the revolution was quite an amazing read in regards the premise, characters and content.
This is a book that has been extremely well reserched and plotted and planned I really loved it and can highly recommend.
September 6, 2022
I was given an ARC copy of this book by NetGalley and thought it sounded an interesting premise. It did not disappoint, I absolutely loved it. It is brilliantly researched and very well written. Sophie, Dimi and Nikolai were all fascinating characters, not good nor bad - all with shades of grey. The love triangle was very realistic and I really cared about all the characters. This is the best book I’ve read in ages.
July 17, 2023
Sophia was getting irritating by the last 1/4 of the book.
March 4, 2023
I received this book for free, this does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
The sprawling Kazan Cathedral, the symbol of Russia’s victory over Napoleon, of freedom and sacrifice, of bravery and spirit, sported a red revolutionary flag.
Count Dmitry Orlov is throwing his Countess Sophia Orlova a lavish twenty-third birthday party but it's March of 1917 in Petrograd and the only people who show up are the Bolsheviks. Arrogance kept Dmitry from leaving the city when Sophia wanted to leave with their friends and now their home is being ransacked and the men surrounding them are calling for their blood. Before Sophia is struck down, a man enters and with his authority he saves them. Nikolai, Dmitry's younger banished brother because of his ideals, is a Bolshevik and manages to keep them alive in the home that isn't their own anymore. However, revolutions are never easy and Russia is not done with her turmoil, as the Bolsheviks, Mensheviks, and Imperial Army all vie for power, Sophia, Dmitry, and Nikolai are all tossed around by the winds of fate and love.
Her crime was having everything while they had nothing, having been born into luxury while their whole lives they had struggled to put bread on the table.
Told from Sophia's point-of-view, this hit some of the big moments and followed along the broad strokes of the revolution during 1917-18. Sophia was younger and previously very privileged, as the story goes on, reader's get to know Sophia and see that ennui was starting to creep into her life and she wanted to care more about things other than balls and jewels. She had worked as a nurse and helped Russian soldiers coming home injured from World War I, so she has some taste of the outside world. It seemed pretty instant her attraction to Nikolai (there are a lot of “twinkling” eyes in this) and what pulls her to him is his caring and passion for something that seems big and important. Dmitry seems to only care about his cigars and keeping up appearances, so when Nikolai talks about his vision for the new Russia, he seems more interesting and her attraction to her brother-in-law grows.
‘Tsar Nicholas abdicated in favour of his brother, who refused the throne and surrendered the power to the Provisional Government. As of today, there is a new order in Russia.’
The danger of the revolution and the forbidden love developing sets the story up for some great emotional dramatics but Nikolai never developed beyond a good-looking guy who writes speeches and while the historical events and people are mentioned and Sophia has to run and sometimes interacts with them, I never completely felt the depth of it all. The story and characters read like New Adult historical fiction to me, not quite delivering the emotional depth for me. Sophia likes that Nikolai cares about something important but it's more from a fangirl pov, she doesn't necessarily agree, disagree, or thinking deeply about it all and Nikolai seems to just travel around saving her at moments and write speeches; we never see what he is doing for the Bolsheviks. The romance between the two was pretty weak for me.
The newly established regime saw danger everywhere. And it endeavoured to eliminate this danger at all cost.
The story did have Sophia traveling from Petrograd, to Kislovodsk, and then to Tambievskii in the mountains to be with the Cossacks and we get a glimpse of Andrei Shkuro. With the war, we of course get the drama of her trying to hide her feelings for Nikolai from Dmitry and her bestfriend Regina. Regina develops a liking for Nikolai too and is convinced he is going to ask her to marry him. For a long time, the reader isn't sure if Regina is making something up in her own mind or if Sophia's feelings are one-sided. It's around the half-way point that Nikolai makes his feelings known but then he's captured as the Mensheviks are taking power and his fate becomes unknown to Sophia for a while.
He was her husband’s brother.
The second half has things deteriorating between Sophia and Dmitry and it becomes harder for her to hide her feelings for Nikolai. The last twenty percent hurried along with betrayals, seemingly betrayals, and Sophia finally making a choice. The chaotic and dangerous atmosphere of Russia at this time was felt, all the running from city to city, Nikolai getting arrested and then Dmitry and Sophia getting arrested, the changing regimes in power but the romance between Sophia and Nikolai felt like teenagers in the throes of hormonal first love, which didn't really fit with the real life dangerous times. The epilogue also didn't fit for me as it was from Dmitry's point-of-view and while it gave an update on how things worked out for Sophia, the tone of it didn't work as the story had previously been all from Sophia. This had some interesting moments but the overall mood felt more like, easier, on the surface New Adult historical fiction.
The sprawling Kazan Cathedral, the symbol of Russia’s victory over Napoleon, of freedom and sacrifice, of bravery and spirit, sported a red revolutionary flag.
Count Dmitry Orlov is throwing his Countess Sophia Orlova a lavish twenty-third birthday party but it's March of 1917 in Petrograd and the only people who show up are the Bolsheviks. Arrogance kept Dmitry from leaving the city when Sophia wanted to leave with their friends and now their home is being ransacked and the men surrounding them are calling for their blood. Before Sophia is struck down, a man enters and with his authority he saves them. Nikolai, Dmitry's younger banished brother because of his ideals, is a Bolshevik and manages to keep them alive in the home that isn't their own anymore. However, revolutions are never easy and Russia is not done with her turmoil, as the Bolsheviks, Mensheviks, and Imperial Army all vie for power, Sophia, Dmitry, and Nikolai are all tossed around by the winds of fate and love.
Her crime was having everything while they had nothing, having been born into luxury while their whole lives they had struggled to put bread on the table.
Told from Sophia's point-of-view, this hit some of the big moments and followed along the broad strokes of the revolution during 1917-18. Sophia was younger and previously very privileged, as the story goes on, reader's get to know Sophia and see that ennui was starting to creep into her life and she wanted to care more about things other than balls and jewels. She had worked as a nurse and helped Russian soldiers coming home injured from World War I, so she has some taste of the outside world. It seemed pretty instant her attraction to Nikolai (there are a lot of “twinkling” eyes in this) and what pulls her to him is his caring and passion for something that seems big and important. Dmitry seems to only care about his cigars and keeping up appearances, so when Nikolai talks about his vision for the new Russia, he seems more interesting and her attraction to her brother-in-law grows.
‘Tsar Nicholas abdicated in favour of his brother, who refused the throne and surrendered the power to the Provisional Government. As of today, there is a new order in Russia.’
The danger of the revolution and the forbidden love developing sets the story up for some great emotional dramatics but Nikolai never developed beyond a good-looking guy who writes speeches and while the historical events and people are mentioned and Sophia has to run and sometimes interacts with them, I never completely felt the depth of it all. The story and characters read like New Adult historical fiction to me, not quite delivering the emotional depth for me. Sophia likes that Nikolai cares about something important but it's more from a fangirl pov, she doesn't necessarily agree, disagree, or thinking deeply about it all and Nikolai seems to just travel around saving her at moments and write speeches; we never see what he is doing for the Bolsheviks. The romance between the two was pretty weak for me.
The newly established regime saw danger everywhere. And it endeavoured to eliminate this danger at all cost.
The story did have Sophia traveling from Petrograd, to Kislovodsk, and then to Tambievskii in the mountains to be with the Cossacks and we get a glimpse of Andrei Shkuro. With the war, we of course get the drama of her trying to hide her feelings for Nikolai from Dmitry and her bestfriend Regina. Regina develops a liking for Nikolai too and is convinced he is going to ask her to marry him. For a long time, the reader isn't sure if Regina is making something up in her own mind or if Sophia's feelings are one-sided. It's around the half-way point that Nikolai makes his feelings known but then he's captured as the Mensheviks are taking power and his fate becomes unknown to Sophia for a while.
He was her husband’s brother.
The second half has things deteriorating between Sophia and Dmitry and it becomes harder for her to hide her feelings for Nikolai. The last twenty percent hurried along with betrayals, seemingly betrayals, and Sophia finally making a choice. The chaotic and dangerous atmosphere of Russia at this time was felt, all the running from city to city, Nikolai getting arrested and then Dmitry and Sophia getting arrested, the changing regimes in power but the romance between Sophia and Nikolai felt like teenagers in the throes of hormonal first love, which didn't really fit with the real life dangerous times. The epilogue also didn't fit for me as it was from Dmitry's point-of-view and while it gave an update on how things worked out for Sophia, the tone of it didn't work as the story had previously been all from Sophia. This had some interesting moments but the overall mood felt more like, easier, on the surface New Adult historical fiction.
April 21, 2023
Russia and Eastern Europe have been rife with conflict for years. There have been regimes and empires that have risen and fallen throughout history and it is an area in history that I have such limited knowledge and understanding. Whenever I see historical fiction books set in Russia or Eastern Europe, regardless of the time period, I am usually really interested in. I know that I will learn something new and explore unknown to me history. When this one came up for review, naturally I was intrigued.
Lana Kortchik is not stranger to historical fiction, she has written two other books that are set in WWII, both of which are focused on the Eastern European experience (Ukrainian region) during the war. That is one of the things that makes this book stand out for me. There are so many books set in WWII that focus on the occupations of France and Belgium, as well as the experiences of England, America, and France. Right away I could tell this book was different just based on the description and I was eager to see what sorts of historical tidbits I could glean from this one.
This book is actually set earlier the WWII so it will be a new time period for this author, and a favorite time period of mine! I couldn’t wait to start reading this one and am so excited to bring a review to you guys today! This book is out now so do not miss it especially if you are a historical fiction fan looking for something a little off the beaten path historically.
This book could potentially be a bit misleading at first glance. This book is published by HQ which is an offshoot of Harlequin, a publisher known for its romances and thus I think a lot of people will go into this one expecting it to be ‘fluff’. This book was surprisingly heavy on history. On one hand a lot of history and background is helpful but can sometimes bog the story down. I enjoy books with a lot of history especially when it’s a time in history that I don’t know much about such as this. I felt like I learned a lot from this book historically but at times it just felt a little too heavy on the history part for the casual reader. I personally didn’t mind but I am also a historian and love learning about the historical things happening in a part of the world that I don’t know much about but if you are looking for something that is a historical fiction light book, then this might be a bit much on the history for you.
The book does start off with a lot of action and right away it hooked me into the story. This book doesn’t shy away from the brutality of war nor does it romanticize it but it does show that even in the darkest of times, romantic connections and love can form. I really liked how this book portrayed the struggles of the people and characters, but also showed readers that love could grow from unimaginable pain and suffering. I loved reading Sophia and Nikolai’s romance. I thought they were a great pair and I loved seeing how they worked through struggles and difficulties. While I am normally not a huge fan of romantic triangle, in this book both Nikolai and his brother are both in love with the same woman. In this book though I think the romance triangle does more for the story than other romantic triangles.
The romantic triangle helped explain things historically—at least for me. Each brother had a differing opinion about the politics of the time and I think this really helped me understand how and why some things were happening politically. This is why I didn’t mind the romance triangle in this book as it served a larger purpose than just being a romantic instrument for the characters. The story as a whole really kept me on the edge of my seat too, it was an excellent read with a lot of drama, love, and of course history. I felt invested in the characters and their stories as well as the romances, but what shined for me was the history. While heavy history might not be for everyone, for me it made the story stand out and unique. I really liked this book and can’t wait for more from this author.
Lana Kortchik is not stranger to historical fiction, she has written two other books that are set in WWII, both of which are focused on the Eastern European experience (Ukrainian region) during the war. That is one of the things that makes this book stand out for me. There are so many books set in WWII that focus on the occupations of France and Belgium, as well as the experiences of England, America, and France. Right away I could tell this book was different just based on the description and I was eager to see what sorts of historical tidbits I could glean from this one.
This book is actually set earlier the WWII so it will be a new time period for this author, and a favorite time period of mine! I couldn’t wait to start reading this one and am so excited to bring a review to you guys today! This book is out now so do not miss it especially if you are a historical fiction fan looking for something a little off the beaten path historically.
This book could potentially be a bit misleading at first glance. This book is published by HQ which is an offshoot of Harlequin, a publisher known for its romances and thus I think a lot of people will go into this one expecting it to be ‘fluff’. This book was surprisingly heavy on history. On one hand a lot of history and background is helpful but can sometimes bog the story down. I enjoy books with a lot of history especially when it’s a time in history that I don’t know much about such as this. I felt like I learned a lot from this book historically but at times it just felt a little too heavy on the history part for the casual reader. I personally didn’t mind but I am also a historian and love learning about the historical things happening in a part of the world that I don’t know much about but if you are looking for something that is a historical fiction light book, then this might be a bit much on the history for you.
The book does start off with a lot of action and right away it hooked me into the story. This book doesn’t shy away from the brutality of war nor does it romanticize it but it does show that even in the darkest of times, romantic connections and love can form. I really liked how this book portrayed the struggles of the people and characters, but also showed readers that love could grow from unimaginable pain and suffering. I loved reading Sophia and Nikolai’s romance. I thought they were a great pair and I loved seeing how they worked through struggles and difficulties. While I am normally not a huge fan of romantic triangle, in this book both Nikolai and his brother are both in love with the same woman. In this book though I think the romance triangle does more for the story than other romantic triangles.
The romantic triangle helped explain things historically—at least for me. Each brother had a differing opinion about the politics of the time and I think this really helped me understand how and why some things were happening politically. This is why I didn’t mind the romance triangle in this book as it served a larger purpose than just being a romantic instrument for the characters. The story as a whole really kept me on the edge of my seat too, it was an excellent read with a lot of drama, love, and of course history. I felt invested in the characters and their stories as well as the romances, but what shined for me was the history. While heavy history might not be for everyone, for me it made the story stand out and unique. I really liked this book and can’t wait for more from this author.
April 8, 2023
Lana Kortchik's "The Countess of the Revolution" is a captivating historical fiction that offers a multifaceted perspective on the complex and world-changing events of the Russian revolutions in the 20th century.
The story takes place in Petrograd on the brink of revolution, where Countess Sophia Orlova finds herself in a precarious situation as a target of the mob due to her connection with the old regime. With the help of Nikolai, a passionate supporter of the revolution, Sophia and her husband are saved from certain death.
Sophia becomes determined to aid Nikolai's cause and sets up a hospital in her home to nurse the injured alongside him. As they work together, Sophia and Nikolai fall in love, but their romance is forbidden. With the conflict between the new and the old escalating, Sophia and Nikolai find their lives in grave danger.
Kortchik's writing is superb, with a compelling storyline and well-developed characters that make the reader feel deeply invested in their fates. The novel offers a powerful portrayal of what it was like to live as a civilian during the war and the struggles and choices faced by those caught up in the midst of conflict. The novel truly captures the human drama of the time, including themes of love, loss, and patriotism.
Countess Sophia Orlova is a complex and fascinating protagonist who provides a bridge between different worlds. Through her experiences, the reader is able to see the shades of grey that exist in history and the ways in which the world is much more nuanced than simple black and white.
Overall, "The Countess of the Revolution" is a remarkable work of historical fiction that is highly recommended for anyone interested in the Russian Revolution or in engaging and powerful storytelling.
The story takes place in Petrograd on the brink of revolution, where Countess Sophia Orlova finds herself in a precarious situation as a target of the mob due to her connection with the old regime. With the help of Nikolai, a passionate supporter of the revolution, Sophia and her husband are saved from certain death.
Sophia becomes determined to aid Nikolai's cause and sets up a hospital in her home to nurse the injured alongside him. As they work together, Sophia and Nikolai fall in love, but their romance is forbidden. With the conflict between the new and the old escalating, Sophia and Nikolai find their lives in grave danger.
Kortchik's writing is superb, with a compelling storyline and well-developed characters that make the reader feel deeply invested in their fates. The novel offers a powerful portrayal of what it was like to live as a civilian during the war and the struggles and choices faced by those caught up in the midst of conflict. The novel truly captures the human drama of the time, including themes of love, loss, and patriotism.
Countess Sophia Orlova is a complex and fascinating protagonist who provides a bridge between different worlds. Through her experiences, the reader is able to see the shades of grey that exist in history and the ways in which the world is much more nuanced than simple black and white.
Overall, "The Countess of the Revolution" is a remarkable work of historical fiction that is highly recommended for anyone interested in the Russian Revolution or in engaging and powerful storytelling.
April 24, 2025
I'm sorry, this book was not for me. I was excited for so many things but it just didn't work out.
I'll start with the positives (just one, really). It was interesting to see the Russian Revolution happen through the eyes of the nobility. I enjoyed reading how Sophia, Dmitry, and Regina were navigating the absolute chaos that became their reality when their lives were literally turned upside down.
Now, the negatives (sigh, there are a lot). Firstly, the plot went in circles. A lot of it was running, then finding somewhere to settle, then getting arrested, then Sophia's medical escapades, and repeat. I didn't really feel any progession of the storyline.
Second, characters! This was such a let down for me because I so wanted to love Sophia but she and everyone else were very bland. She literally had three feelings; scared, angry, or mooning over Nikolai (for no reason, I might add). Absolutely no character-depth or development.
And finally, the romance. *Big sigh* If you asked Sophia why she fell in love with Nikolai, I don't think girlie could tell you. He showed up, and she was head over heels. No chemistry, no build-up, just endless, annoying pining. And I couldn't stand the infidelity, loveless marriage or no.
And don't even get me started on that final chapter and epilogue. Absolutely out of the blue and a shameless desecration of everything we had thus far learned about Dmitry.
2/5 ⭐️
I'll start with the positives (just one, really). It was interesting to see the Russian Revolution happen through the eyes of the nobility. I enjoyed reading how Sophia, Dmitry, and Regina were navigating the absolute chaos that became their reality when their lives were literally turned upside down.
Now, the negatives (sigh, there are a lot). Firstly, the plot went in circles. A lot of it was running, then finding somewhere to settle, then getting arrested, then Sophia's medical escapades, and repeat. I didn't really feel any progession of the storyline.
Second, characters! This was such a let down for me because I so wanted to love Sophia but she and everyone else were very bland. She literally had three feelings; scared, angry, or mooning over Nikolai (for no reason, I might add). Absolutely no character-depth or development.
And finally, the romance. *Big sigh* If you asked Sophia why she fell in love with Nikolai, I don't think girlie could tell you. He showed up, and she was head over heels. No chemistry, no build-up, just endless, annoying pining. And I couldn't stand the infidelity, loveless marriage or no.
And don't even get me started on that final chapter and epilogue. Absolutely out of the blue and a shameless desecration of everything we had thus far learned about Dmitry.
2/5 ⭐️
August 17, 2022
I absolutely loved this book. It was interesting in that it gave so much insight into an historical event that I knew very little about, that is the Russian Revolution that began in 1917 towards the end of the Great War.
The reader is thrown into the story right from the very first page and with little knowledge of the Russian Revolution – who was involved, why and what the politics of it were, I googled it very early on in the book so that I had some background. It is fiction, but is written around the real events of the time and places, and is both insightful but quite disturbing too. You can see how quickly mob rule becomes completely out of control and how a divided society becomes so volatile. I found it such a fascinating story which gave much food for thought, especially in relation to the economic and political situation the UK is in right now.
They are all interesting characters. Sophia Orlova, a strong character, born into Russian aristocracy under Tsarist rule, she has lived a privileged life up to the beginning of the revolution only to lose most of what she had. But they could never take away her strength of character and she was incredibly loyal to both her husband and Nikolai after Nikolai saved both herself and her husband from certain death. Unlike her husband though, she could understand the unfairness of the oppression and cruelty the workers and lower classes had suffered under Tsarist rule for such a long time.
The plot, the characters, the writing are so compelling. I really did find this such a page turner and enjoyed it very much. Right up there with the best books I’ve read this year, it is so much more than a love story. Fantastic.
The reader is thrown into the story right from the very first page and with little knowledge of the Russian Revolution – who was involved, why and what the politics of it were, I googled it very early on in the book so that I had some background. It is fiction, but is written around the real events of the time and places, and is both insightful but quite disturbing too. You can see how quickly mob rule becomes completely out of control and how a divided society becomes so volatile. I found it such a fascinating story which gave much food for thought, especially in relation to the economic and political situation the UK is in right now.
They are all interesting characters. Sophia Orlova, a strong character, born into Russian aristocracy under Tsarist rule, she has lived a privileged life up to the beginning of the revolution only to lose most of what she had. But they could never take away her strength of character and she was incredibly loyal to both her husband and Nikolai after Nikolai saved both herself and her husband from certain death. Unlike her husband though, she could understand the unfairness of the oppression and cruelty the workers and lower classes had suffered under Tsarist rule for such a long time.
The plot, the characters, the writing are so compelling. I really did find this such a page turner and enjoyed it very much. Right up there with the best books I’ve read this year, it is so much more than a love story. Fantastic.
March 29, 2023
4.75 (rounded up to 5) - I always forget what an exciting setting this time and place in history makes for novel settings. I'd hoped to be posting this review before the US publication date, but I was so invested that I took my sweet time.
As the Tsar begins to fall and the revolutionaries rise, The Countess of the Revolution follows Countess Sophia Orlova, her family, and her friend Regina. Thanks to her husband Dmitry's brother Nikolai, they are spared execution early on though the brothers save opposing views on the revolution. Inspired by his efforts, Sophia helps Nikolai set up a hospital. Working side by side and getting to know him better, problems aside from both of their lives being in danger arise for them.
I liked so much about this book, but the pacing is my highest praise. I didn't find that the story dragged anywhere. Another thing I enjoyed was that the characters each had morally grey areas all the while maintaining a likableness. I was invested within the first few pages and maintained my interest from start to finish.
A huge thanks to Harper360 for sending me a free ARC to read and review!
As the Tsar begins to fall and the revolutionaries rise, The Countess of the Revolution follows Countess Sophia Orlova, her family, and her friend Regina. Thanks to her husband Dmitry's brother Nikolai, they are spared execution early on though the brothers save opposing views on the revolution. Inspired by his efforts, Sophia helps Nikolai set up a hospital. Working side by side and getting to know him better, problems aside from both of their lives being in danger arise for them.
I liked so much about this book, but the pacing is my highest praise. I didn't find that the story dragged anywhere. Another thing I enjoyed was that the characters each had morally grey areas all the while maintaining a likableness. I was invested within the first few pages and maintained my interest from start to finish.
A huge thanks to Harper360 for sending me a free ARC to read and review!
November 30, 2022
Note: I received an advanced copy of this book via NetGalley.
There is no happiness without freedom.
When we love, we assume we are loved in return. We can’t imagine it any other way.
Petrograd is on the eve of revolution. For Countess Sophia Orlova, the city of her childhood – the only home she has ever known – has become her deadly enemy. The mob are ready to get rid of anyone connected to the old regime, including Sophia. When rebels threaten to shoot Sophia and her husband, they are saved by Nikolai, a fervent supporter of the revolution. Determined to help Nikolai’s cause, Sophia sets up a hospital wing in the house, nursing injured victims by his side. Her kindness has captured Nikolai’s heart, but their burgeoning romance is forbidden. With battle lines drawn between the new and the old, both their lives are in danger…
This book, while long, kept me on the edge of my seat with the intense nature of the culmination of situations that Sophia found herself in. I really enjoyed the forbidden love aspect and the turmoil that Sophia faced between the love of her life with someone that really understood her and the duty that she felt to the life that she had.
There is no happiness without freedom.
When we love, we assume we are loved in return. We can’t imagine it any other way.
Petrograd is on the eve of revolution. For Countess Sophia Orlova, the city of her childhood – the only home she has ever known – has become her deadly enemy. The mob are ready to get rid of anyone connected to the old regime, including Sophia. When rebels threaten to shoot Sophia and her husband, they are saved by Nikolai, a fervent supporter of the revolution. Determined to help Nikolai’s cause, Sophia sets up a hospital wing in the house, nursing injured victims by his side. Her kindness has captured Nikolai’s heart, but their burgeoning romance is forbidden. With battle lines drawn between the new and the old, both their lives are in danger…
This book, while long, kept me on the edge of my seat with the intense nature of the culmination of situations that Sophia found herself in. I really enjoyed the forbidden love aspect and the turmoil that Sophia faced between the love of her life with someone that really understood her and the duty that she felt to the life that she had.
September 6, 2024
4.5 stars, but my love of war-adjacent fiction bumps it to a 5.
I know nothing about the Russian revolution. Well, that's not quite true. I knew it happened. I recognized some names and political parties associated. And of course, I'd heard of Petrograd (St. Petersburg). And I'm sad to say that's it.
This story was a good read for me and a nice departure from my usual WWII novels. Although, it's hard to call a book about a revolution "nice." It was a random pick because my holds weren't in and I have no regrets.
There are a lot of emotional lows and highs in this book as it's told from the point of view of Countess Sophia Orlova. As you can figure out by her title, she is one of the ruling class in Russia at the start of the revolution, and therefore a target of revolutionaries as she and her family lose everything.
There is tragedy and romance and the horrible realities of a war.
It's also interesting to me that the top two reviews on Goodreads are critical for opposite reasons. One laments that it's essentially a romance in an interesting setting. The other feels the story gets lost in the details of historical research.
I know nothing about the Russian revolution. Well, that's not quite true. I knew it happened. I recognized some names and political parties associated. And of course, I'd heard of Petrograd (St. Petersburg). And I'm sad to say that's it.
This story was a good read for me and a nice departure from my usual WWII novels. Although, it's hard to call a book about a revolution "nice." It was a random pick because my holds weren't in and I have no regrets.
There are a lot of emotional lows and highs in this book as it's told from the point of view of Countess Sophia Orlova. As you can figure out by her title, she is one of the ruling class in Russia at the start of the revolution, and therefore a target of revolutionaries as she and her family lose everything.
There is tragedy and romance and the horrible realities of a war.
It's also interesting to me that the top two reviews on Goodreads are critical for opposite reasons. One laments that it's essentially a romance in an interesting setting. The other feels the story gets lost in the details of historical research.
July 29, 2023
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC of this book. I have chosen to write this honest review voluntarily and it reflects my personal opinion.
The historical aspect of this book appealed to me but although there was a lot of detail about the revolution and civil war much of it did not ring true: Nikolai and Sophia seemed to have no trouble getting hold of hospital supplies, such as bandages and drugs, there were references to food (the picnic) which are not credible, some of the language is contemporary, not of that time 'not a big deal' would not have been used then, and there is a reference to Lidocaine which was not available until 1946.
Sophia's character was unappealing, she seemed unable to decide if she wanted to commit to nursing or complaining about her new-found poverty. I sympathised with her love for Nikolai but although she professed to care for her husband I thought she was just using both men.
This book does not encourage me to read more by this author although I believe some readers will enjoy it as a light story with little depth.
The historical aspect of this book appealed to me but although there was a lot of detail about the revolution and civil war much of it did not ring true: Nikolai and Sophia seemed to have no trouble getting hold of hospital supplies, such as bandages and drugs, there were references to food (the picnic) which are not credible, some of the language is contemporary, not of that time 'not a big deal' would not have been used then, and there is a reference to Lidocaine which was not available until 1946.
Sophia's character was unappealing, she seemed unable to decide if she wanted to commit to nursing or complaining about her new-found poverty. I sympathised with her love for Nikolai but although she professed to care for her husband I thought she was just using both men.
This book does not encourage me to read more by this author although I believe some readers will enjoy it as a light story with little depth.
May 18, 2023
**I would like to thank NetGalley, Harper 360, and Lana Kortchik for an ARC of this book! This is available as of 3/28/23!**
I chose this book because I'd never read about the Russian Revolution before. I thought the basis had so much potential but just didn't quite get there for me. Infidelity is by far my least favorite trope, so I also know I was swimming uphill on this one. This may have done better as a shorter novel.
I would definitely still check out other books by this author, but I would like to see her develop the storyline and characters more.
"When we love someone, we assume that person feels the same way. We can't imagine it any other way."
I chose this book because I'd never read about the Russian Revolution before. I thought the basis had so much potential but just didn't quite get there for me. Infidelity is by far my least favorite trope, so I also know I was swimming uphill on this one. This may have done better as a shorter novel.
"I had a good life, all things considered. I had so much love in my life. But sometimes love turns to hate. It eats you alive like cancer."
I would definitely still check out other books by this author, but I would like to see her develop the storyline and characters more.
"Was it possible to build happiness on someone else's sorrow?"
October 13, 2023
In "The Countess of the Revolution," Lana Kortchik delivers a captivating historical fiction that provides readers with a multifaceted view of the intricate and world-altering Russian revolutions of the 20th century. Having previously enjoyed several of Ms. Kortchik's works, I eagerly anticipated her perspective on the 20th-century Russian revolutions. Despite my existing knowledge of Russian history, I found her portrayal brimming with drama, humanity, romance, love, loss, and a profound exploration of patriotism. At the heart of the narrative is Countess Sophia Orlova, a complex and intriguing central character who effectively bridges multiple worlds. Through her transformative experiences, the story unearths the shades of gray that permeate reality, reminding us that the world is seldom confined to stark black-and-white distinctions.
I extend my gratitude to NetGalley and HQ Digital/Harper 360 for the opportunity to read this exceptional ARC.
I extend my gratitude to NetGalley and HQ Digital/Harper 360 for the opportunity to read this exceptional ARC.
December 1, 2022
The story comes to life in 1917 with the Russian Revolutions. The authors descriptions of the horrors of war made me feel as though I was watching a movie in my head. The characters once royalty, become homeless, starving, and under constant upheaval by the Bolsheviks who took their homes and everything they owned.
The story of Sophia and Dmetry is one of immense sadness there were a lot of intense moments that tugged at my heart. Keep the tissues handy. The ending was unexpected and there are some twists in the story that I wasn't expecting.
A well-developed story filled with heartache, loss, love, and forgiveness. I received a complimentary copy from the author and voluntarily choose to review it.
The story of Sophia and Dmetry is one of immense sadness there were a lot of intense moments that tugged at my heart. Keep the tissues handy. The ending was unexpected and there are some twists in the story that I wasn't expecting.
A well-developed story filled with heartache, loss, love, and forgiveness. I received a complimentary copy from the author and voluntarily choose to review it.
March 18, 2023
A captivating and heart breaking story during the Russian Revolution. The author wrote a story that had me on tenterhooks even though I knew what lay ahead historically. What kept me reading was her way of weaving the historical aspects of the Revolution without sounding like a text book and integrating an intense story of family and love.
Sophia and Nikolai had a sweet relationship that could only naturally develop into love. Their forbidden love left me heart broken a few times but thankfully there is a HEA... it just takes so much to get there.
Overall a well written historical fiction. I highly recommend for fans of the forbidden romance trope and the Russian Revolution.
I received an ARC from Netgalley and Harper 360. All thoughts and opinions are my own and offered freely.
Sophia and Nikolai had a sweet relationship that could only naturally develop into love. Their forbidden love left me heart broken a few times but thankfully there is a HEA... it just takes so much to get there.
Overall a well written historical fiction. I highly recommend for fans of the forbidden romance trope and the Russian Revolution.
I received an ARC from Netgalley and Harper 360. All thoughts and opinions are my own and offered freely.
April 17, 2025
I recently read a quote about how not finishing a book you don't like is similar to looking at only half a painting.
No. Bad advice.
I wish I had not struggled through & finished this. I read novels for enjoyment & relaxation. This provided neither.
It's a mediocre romance novel masquerading as a historical story.
I never found myself empathizing with or cheering for the protagonist. The development of the other characters felt flat. I didn't understand their motivations.
Pacing was slow, but that's likely attributed to the fact that I didn't empathize with the characters. Russian terms were occasionally sprinkled into the story, in what seems an attempt at legitimacy as a historical novel, but didn't add value.
No. Bad advice.
I wish I had not struggled through & finished this. I read novels for enjoyment & relaxation. This provided neither.
It's a mediocre romance novel masquerading as a historical story.
I never found myself empathizing with or cheering for the protagonist. The development of the other characters felt flat. I didn't understand their motivations.
Pacing was slow, but that's likely attributed to the fact that I didn't empathize with the characters. Russian terms were occasionally sprinkled into the story, in what seems an attempt at legitimacy as a historical novel, but didn't add value.
July 6, 2023
3.5 ⭐️
This book was certainly captivating and presented one of the darkest times in Russian history with the respect it deserved. The characters throughout were likeable to an extent especially Nikolai and Sophia, their love story was beautifully written however there were a few things I struggled with. It felt rushed, especially the end. Although it was a lovely ending I felt it needed more. In some areas it lacked the detail needed to explain the story, almost like the book needed another 100 or so pages. Overall it was a nice read with beautiful moments.
This book was certainly captivating and presented one of the darkest times in Russian history with the respect it deserved. The characters throughout were likeable to an extent especially Nikolai and Sophia, their love story was beautifully written however there were a few things I struggled with. It felt rushed, especially the end. Although it was a lovely ending I felt it needed more. In some areas it lacked the detail needed to explain the story, almost like the book needed another 100 or so pages. Overall it was a nice read with beautiful moments.
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