Due to a passing in the family a few years ago and my subsequent health issues stemming from that, I was unable to download this book in time to review it before it was archived as I did not visit this site for years after the bereavement. Thank you for the opportunity.

"History of Russia and Eastern Europe" is a rather quick read. Probably not meant for the types that are interested in a more expansive look into history. I found it somewhat informative so it's more of a jumping off point for people interested in learning more.

The author did a great job of writing an interesting and informative book. I found myself wanting to learn more after reading this book and spent time researching online. Definitely recommend this one!

History of Russia and Eastern Europe is a concise, illustrated book covering the history of Russia and Eastern Europe, presenting the histories of ten countries. The book begins with the history of Russia from the ancient Kievan State to the present Russian Federation under Vladimir Putin. The book also covers nine other East European Countries (except Poland, explored in a previous book History of Poland).

The book promises a concise outline of history and it provides exactly that. Every chapter covers one country and each chapter is divided into the basic info, brief biographies of the the monarchs and rulers arranged chronologically and the major battles fought by each country. The information is basic but as the book suggests, this is a starting point and readers can explore in detail what interests them. The book uses a bullet-point format which makes the book immensely readable and it also contains pictures of most leaders and maps of the region.

Overall the book provides the readers some key information about some of the world’s most famous historical individuals and events of the Eastern Europe which rarely gets mainstream attention. The book will appeal to the casual history readers looking for a general outline of the History of Eastern Europe.

Many Thanks to NetGalley, Troubador Publishing Limited and the author Jack J. Kanski for the ARC.

This book was a short, but succinct, review of countries in Eastern Europe, particularly Russia, from the years of pagan rulers, through Christianity spreading throughout the region eventually, war and peace, monarchies and revolutions, and Communism giving way to new democracies at present. Timelines laid out the sequence of events neatly. All in all, a satisfactory outline of history.

Russia is such a vast country with a complicated and rich history and it can be difficult knowing where to start. This book is perfect for readers interested in Russian and Eastern Europe history and culture but who have limited prior knowledge. The writing is accessible and flows well and you leave the book satisfied with what you’ve learnt. Highly recommend this!

This is described as a history book for the 'general reader' rather than history buff and it is exactly that. It is basically, bullet point reading and very easy to follow. The section on Russia is far more detailed than the rest of the book but still leaves some questions as do the other sections.

In essence this is a starting point, a place to decide where to go next on your historical journey. I haven't read anything in this format before but enjoyed it immensely.

I was able to read an advanced copy of this book thanks to Netgalley in exchange for an unbiased review and recommend it for anyone interested in obtaining a basic understanding of what used to be a hidden part of the world or as a starting point to get into world history.