There was enough information and setting where the book had an authentic Russian feeling (to me, at least, but what do I know? The answer is not much, in this case). I confess that I know very little about the Romanovs and Russian culture, particularly during that time, but Brandes had me covered. ❧ Brandes obviously did her research and really transports the reader to Russia along with the Romanovs. And who doesn’t love a good pupper? 10/10 deserves all the treats. Romanov is more historical fiction than fantasy, with a heart-warming story of family love, strength during hardship, perseverance, and forgiveness. It was a case of me just having different expectations of what the book was about. I expected something entirely different going into it the book, but had I known it was so heavily focused on the historical fiction aspect, I probably wouldn’t have picked it up, knowing that solid historical fiction isn’t really my thing. I mean, this thing is practically a unicorn for me, because I’m usually really good at picking books that seem like a good fit for me. So what was the result? The really rare 2-star rating. … I was all for this and rushed out to read it. Possibly have hate-to-love or ill-fated lovers So when I heard that Brandes’ next book would be:Ĥ. I mean, history is okay, but let’s be honest … magic makes everything better.

Last year, I read Fawkes, which I wasn’t completely enamored with, but it was a fun read, and I really enjoyed the combination of a retelling of history with magic layered on top. She’s got such a wonderful personality, though. There’s a fine line, thank you very much. I’ve been following Nadine Brandes’ newsletters and her Youtube channel for what feels like foreverrrr.įollowing, not stalking.

Romanov nadine