A must-own

It is a beautifully woven story rooted in actual history! The author has a unique perspective on the events that prompted his writing the tale. Born from genius creativity, it is a story almost impossible to put down! His ability to write details that paint vivid pictures is incredible. You smell, feel, experience what he writes! That is mastery of his abilities! I can’t wait for his next book. For those who haven’t, read his Thief of Roses too.

I absolutely loved this book! While not a retelling of beauty and the beast, there is still a feeling of it much like the other book I read by the same author. Mikhail went through so much and still managed to find a happy ending in the end.

The Tsarina was such a terrible person but such a complex character as well. Her life being the way it was turning her as bitter.

I happened to stumble upon this author in a fantasy book group on Facebook, and his explanation of his book sounded so interesting! I noted it in my Goodreads and moved on. Then it was available in a giveaway, I entered and lo and behold, I won! and I have to say, I’m so glad I did. this was a great read! the stakes were high enough to build suspense without feeling too sweeping or epic. The characters are well written and the humor had me chuckling aloud many times while reading. There are absolutely some dark aspects to the story but they are handled tastefully without feeling bawdy or excessive. the story even took an interesting twist that I definitely was not expecting. By the end, I was rooting so hard for the protagonists to get their happily ever after. Do they? you’ll have to read to find out. the journey is sad and funny and despairing and demented and loving all at once. and worth every second. happy reading!

After reading Thief of Roses, this book is a lot darker, but oh so perfect. The author makes the protagonist so relatable, even when – or especially when – he makes the wrong decisions. You truly feel everything he goes through alongside him, and you end up rooting for him no matter how hopeless his situation appears. His small moments of reprieve in the darkest times are so beautiful and keep you hanging in there. It’s an important reminder that, as one character says, there is always hope. It is also heartbreaking to consider the real people behind the story. They deserve to be remembered for more than just their worst moments.

This book was a journey I didn’t expect. And one that gripped my heart in a way I’ll never forget either.

The main character’s suffering was heartbreaking to witness. Watching him slowly unravel under the weight of someone else’s control, all while trying to hold onto who he is, gutted me. The way it was written made me feel every part of it. The emotions are raw and powerful. I was there with him every step of the way.

What really stayed with me was the relationship that forms between the two main characters. They’re both at their lowest, being tormented by the same person. But instead of becoming bitter or broken, they find strength in each other. There’s a softness that grows between them, and it’s incredibly moving. You believe in it. You root for them, even when everything seems stacked against them.

The writing itself is just stunning. Every word feels intentional. The story, the dialogue, the emotional depth … it all just flows effortlessly. It’s the kind of writing that pulls you in without drawing attention to itself, but then you stop and realize just how skillfully it’s done.

It’s a powerful story about companionship, about not losing yourself, and about holding onto your convictions even when the consequences are cruel. And it’s written with so much care and skill that it’s impossible not to feel like you’re experiencing it right alongside them.

If you’re looking for something emotional, beautifully written, unique, and unforgettable, don’t miss it!