Very very dull.

I've always been interested in the Romanov family and what may or may not have been the truth surrounding Anna Anderson.....this book hinted at a new angle on that (fictional, of course), but didn't deliver much at all. Disappointing. ( )

I’m going to be honest – I was hoping this book would have a lot more to do with the history and the archaeology aspects. The beginning was promising. By 10% into the book, which is where I quit it, it became excruciatingly clear this is a thriller.

Rasputin was mentioned, and I paused, for a moment. I thought perhaps, for a second, things were going to be interesting. Unfortunately, this book appeals to a different audience. I imagine it to be the sort of book you find in airport bookshops. The thrills so feel shallow, just like all the characters. I’m sure someone else will be drawn into this book and wrapped up. Just not me.

Meade’s writing is at some moments beautiful, and in others rambling. Eventually the beautiful is squashed out by the rambling. He uses every possible detail in each sentence. Brand names, a minimum of two adjectives for every noun. This is a pet peeve, but there are a few different times when he uses multiple adverbs in the sentence. Every time we meet someone, we get to learn where they came from, and precisely what they are wearing. I know this style works for a lot of people. I know a lot of people LOVE this type of intricate detail. Frankly, I got bored.

I also have issues in thrillers where the author writes a smart, talented, sharp female character and instead of letting her stand on her own feet, she falls to bits. Instead of letting her be strong, she regresses and requires a man to explain things to her and give her advice. I am not impressed.

I have some criticisms of this narrator. While she does alright in dialogue, the protagonist’s voice frustrates me. As read by Kate Reading, every sentence ends in something between a question and a sigh. It makes it a bit dreary to listen for too long.

It’s a historical novel, a thriller, detailing an attempt to rescue the Russian royal family after the 1917 revolution. And it was a lot of fun to read! The characters were interesting and the action was quite steady and nonstop. I’ve long had an interest in the period leading up to World War I, and the Russian Revolution also, so this fiction was tailor-made for me. Revolution, spies, royalty, deceit and intrigue. I was thoroughly entertained. ( )

The writing wasn't a 4-star but the story certainly kept me reading furiously. Always fascinated with the Romanovs and their story. Fast read, but I wouldn't necessarily read another of glen Meade. I'd rather read Daniel Silva for this style of novel, suspense and thriller. ( )