The Romanov Empress
Written by C.W. Gortner
Narrated by Katharine McEwan
Run time: 17h:49m:58s
ISBN: 9780525593652
Plot Summary
This story is told from the point of view of Maria Feodorovna, the mother of Russia's last Tsar. Readers meet Maria when she is about fifteen years old in her home land of Denmark and follow her until she and her family flee Russia as rebels dismantle the Romanov monarchy. Readers who are familiar with Russian history will know of what becomes of Maria and her family. However, C.W Gortner tells tragic end of the Romanovs with such elegance that listeners will undoubtedly be hooked on the narrator's every word until the very end.
What Makes This Novel Historical Fiction
Frame/Setting
With Historical Fiction novels, authors emphasizes a sense of place. The concept of 'world-building' is crucial in these types of novels. Customs, habits, culture, and so much more are drawn from the world from which the story takes place. Many readers find themselves drawn to type of framing when its foundation is based on these. It is a way for the reader to learn about a different culture without them even knowing it.
Tone
Another important factor for Historical Fiction is the tone. It can leave the reader feeling hostage to the story, when if they already know the outcome of that particular historical event.
Storyline
Unsurprisingly, the story lines of Historical Fiction novels emphasize a certain event, person, or time period.
Pacing
Generally, because of all the world-building and attention to details, Historical Fiction books often are hearty reads. Even when the book is centered around an action filled or adventurous time in history, Historical Fiction books are not considered fast paced reads.
Language
The language in a Historical Fiction story depends on where and when the story takes place. It speaks to the historic cultural accuracy of the piece.
Frame/Setting
With Historical Fiction novels, authors emphasizes a sense of place. The concept of 'world-building' is crucial in these types of novels. Customs, habits, culture, and so much more are drawn from the world from which the story takes place. Many readers find themselves drawn to type of framing when its foundation is based on these. It is a way for the reader to learn about a different culture without them even knowing it.
Tone
Another important factor for Historical Fiction is the tone. It can leave the reader feeling hostage to the story, when if they already know the outcome of that particular historical event.
Storyline
Unsurprisingly, the story lines of Historical Fiction novels emphasize a certain event, person, or time period.
Pacing
Generally, because of all the world-building and attention to details, Historical Fiction books often are hearty reads. Even when the book is centered around an action filled or adventurous time in history, Historical Fiction books are not considered fast paced reads.
Language
The language in a Historical Fiction story depends on where and when the story takes place. It speaks to the historic cultural accuracy of the piece.
Great For Readers Who Enjoy
*Compelling Writing Styles
*Illustrates Life During War Times
*Has An Atmospheric Tone
*Illustrates Life During War Times
*Has An Atmospheric Tone
Read-A-Likes
1. Sisi by Allison Pataki
2. The Romanov bride by Robert Alexander
3.Enchantments by Kathryn Harrison
1. Sisi by Allison Pataki
2. The Romanov bride by Robert Alexander
3.Enchantments by Kathryn Harrison
It sounds odd, but I have been meaning to learn more about the Romanovs! It's such a tragic and strange part of history. Maybe this book would be a good jumping off point and then I could delve into some nonfiction as well.
ReplyDeleteWhat did you think of the audio presentation? Did the narrator attempt Russian or Danish accents? Was there period music or other sound effects? The audio presentation can add a lot to a book that may otherwise not be as good, so I wonder if it affected your experience (I don't have any reason to believe it's not good).
ReplyDeleteAll good questions, Don. I would like to tag on a question about what narration style was used in this audiobook.
DeleteI really liked your annotation. It was short, but concise and let me know what the novel was about without giving too much away (especially if you don't know anything about Russian history).
ReplyDeleteI like the concept of this being from the mother's perspective. Usually everything we read about the demise of the family is what happened to them at the end with their disappearance and about Anastasia. thanks for the great annotation. This will definitely go on my TR list.
I love reading books about the last Tsar and Anastasia. Did you personally enjoy it? I'm also seconding what your classmates Don and Julie said. Anything you can tell us about the narration style? Great job and full points!
ReplyDelete