Interesting historical fiction. It's well written and, oddly, educational. It's a good read. Thanks for the ARC.

I just was not in the right frame of mind to start this one at all. I am interested in Russian history, and thought this might be a mystery. However, upon closer reading of the blurb it looks like it's more of a "literary" novel.

The cascade of long names and occupations just left me cold (ha ha). It was one of those beginnings that just feels exhausting, like you have to do a lot of memorization in short order so that you aren't utterly lost. Or take notes. I need slightly more relaxing recreational reading.

Also, the description of the first female character and her "snout like nose" really put me off. Do we have to do this- the poor girl is apparently a bit slow, and she has to look like a pig to boot? Nope- do not want.