I received a complimentary copy of this book from Thomas Nelson through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

I really enjoyed this book. The character development, the magic in the story, and where the story had twists I wasn't expecting... I will continually be interested in this author's writing. This book is not a fluffy read; more dark and gritty. Loss, love, family, survival, adrenaline, and mischief are a few words I would use to describe it.

I really liked this book, the first half with the Romanov family in exile ran a little long for me and was a bit boring, though I did appreciate the author's attention to detail with the real history and it was clear she did her research, but it just didn't feel fantastical enough. The second half was much better, the author's imagining of what might have happened, had Anastasia survived her family's execution was creative and engaging and a lot of fun. though I do still wish there had been more magic, for a fantasy novel, it is kind of light on that side. I loved the main character though, Nastya was great, especially her relationship with her brother Alexei (who is sassy and I love it) and I thought Nadine Brandes writing was good too. Overall this was a solid book and I did enjoy it, I just didn't love it as much as I expected to.

Romanov is a historical fantasy novel that is a reimagining of the events leading up to, during, and following the assassination of the Romanov family. The story begins with Anastasia "Nastya" Romanov and her family in captivity by the Bolsheviks. Her country is in the midst of a political war. All the events and people you remember from history make an appearance. Ms. Brandes throws in her own unique story telling with elements of magic and complicated character relationships. If you enjoyed Fawkes by Ms. Brandes or stories about the Romanovs, I highly recommend this book.

I received a digital arc via netgalley and read this along with the booksplotion book club (sweat I spelled that wrong). I enjoyed this book. I know the story of Anastasia and it’s fun to see a magical twist. I haven’t read this author’s other book yet but after this I think I’d like to give it a chance. The writing was good, it’s just that some of the plot was a little slow for me. It wasn’t enough to really be a big detriment to the book. Overall I give it 3.5/5

Another young adult book where the male love interest has zero personality. I could tell Brandes tried to give him some back story near the end, but we really needed those details up front—or at least I did. The romance between Zash and Nastya was the worst part of this novel, but I could accept it when it wasn’t the focus. However, as the story went on it became more prevalent and less tolerable.

I liked how this was a focus on Anastasia and her family and what happened to them, not just on Anastasia. I could tell the author did a lot of research. The magical element was also fantastic and I wish we could’ve delved into the magic system more.

The unrealistic romance, childish characters, and picture perfect ending are what kept me from liking this book and are what kept me rolling my eyes in annoyance as I read. I won’t cancel out future releases from this author because I did like what she did with Anastasia’s story, but the characterization part needs so much work.

I really enjoyed this Anastasia retelling and I highly recommend the audiobook. It stuck to historical accuracy for the first half of our book. Following the Romanov family as they are under house arrest up until that fateful night. But that is when our story takes a drastically different direction. An intriguing direction. I felt such a connection to the characters and I so wanted history to be different for them. I loved the touch of magic in this story and how it affects our characters especially Anastasia. This story had many twists and turns I wasn't expecting and kept me enthralled all the way through. I definitely recommend this to anyone who is a fan of Anastasia and a magical realism/magical element.

I received an ARC of this book via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

Interesting based on true events tale about the last months of the Romanovs with a great little story about Anastasia and the tsarevich. I enjoyed this story and enjoyed learning about the family and maybe an alternate view of why thry stayed to themselves.

I was excited to read this as soon as I heard Nadine mention it in the Q+A I did with her just after Fawkes was published – here are my 5 reasons why:

I have always been fascinated by the stories surrounding the Romanov family, so I was instantly interested in this.
I previously read Fawkes by the same author and really enjoyed it, so I want to read this too. Hope it is even better!
When interviewing Nadine Brandes, she mentioned that her next project would be about the Romanov family, specifically Anastasia – this was added to my TBR immediately after that interview.
While I have yet to visit Russia, I love the history, culture and folklore so would like to go there someday. Set your book in Russia and I will probably read it for that reason alone!
Magic, in a story which already sounds great? Magic (usually!) makes everything better. I am really excited to see how the inclusion of magic changes the story, as well as getting to know one of the Bolshevik soldiers and see things from his perspective.

My blood is my crime. If you look at it, it’s still red. If you touch it, it’s still wet. But if you listen to it, it speaks a single name in a pulsing chant. Romanov. Romanov. Romanov. For that name alone , bound to my blood like a Bolshevik is bound to the Russian Revolution, I am destined to die. Because not even royal blood can stop bullets.

So, did it measure up to my sky-high hopes and expectations?

Spoiler, yes it did!

I knew that I had to read this as soon as I heard that it was going to be based around the exile of the Romanov family, a story which has captured imaginations around the world, particularly with rumours that the youngest two children may have survived. I was also intrigued by the mentions of magic and enjoyed this aspect of the first book I read by this author, Fawkes.
Each member of the family is lovingly illustrated, yet the reader can never fully relax knowing the tragic end that is drawing nearer.

I loved Nastya and her determination to find the magic in small moments and stick up for her family in every situation. Zash, her love interest, was someone who I found it really hard to get a handle on. Sometimes, he was kind, while at other times he seemed callous. I was fascinated by the hints to his background and got the impression that there was a lot there that the reader didn’t necessarily see. I was on tenterhooks during their first small overtures, leading towards a potential relationship, but, ultimately I found myself more interested in Nastya and her family than in the romance.

This is an imaginative, well-researched retelling full of magic, hope and love, despite the inevitable sorrow.



No soldiers filled the library, but I browsed the shelves in any case, maintaining a constant posture of innocence—one of my more prized talents. I stopped at a book of poetry and flipped it open, scanning the words but thinking only of Papa’s departure— No. Of Papa’s mission. I would not think of the fact he was gone. I would not. We would be together again.

I snapped the poetry book closed and strode to the case that held Pushkin’s works. My fingers tingled, though I let them hang by my side while I searched with my eyes first. Nothing appeared different about the set of spines, but the bookshelves were deep. I slipped one book from the shelf, glancing into the dark space behind it.

Red and gold paint resisted the shadow. A shimmer of secrets. Of hope. Of adventure. The Matryoshka doll. I dipped my fingertips into the shadow.

“You should not be in here unattended.”

My nerves scraped against my skull at the sudden voice, but my body did not react— trained to resist reflexive surprise. Everything within me wanted to snatch my inquiring hand back and pretend I’d seen nothing.

Instead, I lifted my head and slipped on a smile. “Is reading so dangerous?”

I almost choked on the last word when my gaze landed on the source of the voice. Soldier.

Stranger.

Bolshevik.

What I liked: I have always been fascinated by the story of the Romanov family, so was interested in seeing it re-imagined. I liked the character development throughout and how magic was threaded through so subtly, but in a way that really added to the the story. I fell in love with Nastya and her family, their relationships and how they were described.

Even better if: Honestly, I thought that this was pretty near perfect, as a fantasy/ semi-historical story! My only niggles come from the fact that we already know where we’re heading, so it is impossible to fully believe in even the happy moments in the book. An awareness of the historical events that surround this story could also hinder your enjoyment slightly. The authors keeps close to lots of real events, but skims over others and reduced the complexity of the situation to something a bit more black-and-white. Knowing that this is about real people also gave me a bit of a pause.

How you could use it in your classroom: This would be a great recommendation for anyone who enjoys retellings. It would also be fascinating to read if you’re studying this period of history and want to read a story set during the Russian Revolution, although it would have to come with the proviso that Nastya’ s view of her father is quite romanticized and doesn’t acknowledge that he was anything but a perfect ruler.

I was very excited to get the chance to read this, but unfortunately it didn't quite hit the mark for me. While I recognize that Nastya would have a very positive view of her family, the portrayal of the Romanovs seemed overly rosy and it was distracting at times how perfect and good they were. That said, I did really enjoy Alexei's character and how he had a larger role in the later part of the novel. Overall, I would probably still recommend this to teen readers who enjoy fantastical twists on historical events.

Romanov, Romanov, Romanov......

This book hurt my heart in all the best ways, reminded me how precious hope is, and highlighted the power of family. Nadine Brandes did an exquisite job of telling a story from history with a magic thread that makes I alive and imaginative. You don’t lost the essence of Anastasia and her family’s story, but there are new elements that make it a story of its own. The characters are each vibrant and well developed, so much so that by the end of the book I was gasping out loud with concern for them. This book will make you think about your own motivations, kindness, and ability to forgive. I recommend this novel to anyone who loves historical fiction, but also anyone who loves stories of family, magic, and hope.

Thank you NetGalley for an early copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.

*2.5 Stars
This book and I just did not completely mesh, and that's okay, but my problem is that I can't quite put my finger on where we had a disconnect. This is a historical fantasy retelling of the story of Anastasia and the other Romanovs, and I can't say I know much of anything about the original story, which I think was definitely a hindrance for me. In fact, the only exposure I've had to the Romanovs is the animated movie Anastasia, which I do not remember...almost at all.
I almost DNF'd this book at about 70%, and although I was nearing the end, I almost wish I had because I didn't get much out of the ending or out of the book as a whole. I felt almost no connection to any of the characters, no emotional attachment to their terribly sad situation, no strong interest for the magic system, nothing.
That isn't to say I hated this book, I just glided through it...slowly. It was fine for me.

I was excited to read Romanov. Whenever I see a story that has to do with that period of history in Russia, I immediately am drawn to it because it is strongly connected to my own family history.

My grandmother had to flee Russia at a young age, my great-grandfather who was also fleeing with her did not make it. She was actually saved by a kind Polish woman and made it to America but she lived her entire life, ENTIRE life in fear of the Bolsheviks. She wouldn’t talk about it. There is so much family history that left this world with her because she wouldn’t even tell us her real last name. (she used her mother’s maiden name). So I was glad to see a story that is connected to Anastasia and includes the Bolsheviks. They were a huge part of history for Russia and granted I consider most Anastasia retellings to be really be about Anna Anderson. I thought this story is so unique because it does include these important pieces of history and I was happy to see them.

So again. Yes I’m always invested in these stories of the time period and I loved that Romanov took such a different approach to a plot. The first 60 percent of the book follows the history of the Romanov’s up to their demise. It was sad to read but also really interesting to think about what they might have been thinking leading up to the horrible events. You get to see a personable side of the Romanov family through this book and even though we can’t talk to them now it’s interesting to imagine. There wasn’t many Russian words but I loved that Bubushka was included and talking about Pelmeni because I’ve been craving it. Ha ha!

As far as the magic involvement in the plot. I really liked having what were considered the mystics to be actual spell master. People who could use magical words with spell ink to cast spells. I actually wish it had a more prevalent role. I was really immersed in the family but at one point I did think in my head. Wait where are we going with the matryoshka? When we do get beyond the Romanov history and we go into Nadine’s version of what could have happened to Anastasia the spell work comes more into play. I would have really liked to have seen more of it but I really enjoyed the twist on the possibility of where her story could have lead her. I love how well it intertwines with the actual history.

Nastya was a character that was easy to bond with immediately. To see the world through her eyes and what it might be for a princess who is in exile might feel. Would she be unbearable or just want to keep her family safe. Again the history saddens me but I really enjoyed Nastya as a character. She’s strong and witty. Not perfect in any way, she doesn’t understand the frustrations of her people but begins to see how they could view the family in the light they did.

Zash was also an interesting character. I find the motivations for people to choose a side to always be interesting. Sometimes people pick a side because it’s safe not because it’s right. It’s easy to say that you would always do the right thing but when your family is at stake? I really liked that he represented an interesting perspective.

I also really liked the family except for the Tsarina but that’s just me. I loved the way Nicholas II is portrayed. I don’t know what he was really like but I hope that would be what he was really like.

I really enjoyed the writing. I really liked how the character’s all have their own personalities. Even though more were delved into than others, you had a real sense of the family. I felt the book had good pacing but again I really love historical fiction and I find retellings of events fascinating.

I really liked this Historical Fiction, I don’t think it can be called a Anastasia Retelling. I’m not sure if anyone calls it that. The story is such a great way to bring in the actual history. I hope someday someone will include Grand Duchess Olga, Anastasia's Aunt, but we will see. I enjoyed reading this and I hope it makes people more interested in the history because I’m a history nerd. Ha ha.

The famous Russian royal family, the Romanovs, told from Anastasia's viewpoint with a splash of magic mixed in? Yes, please!

This was really interesting historical retelling. I found it was a good mix of fact and fiction; the magical element was my favourite part. The story did seem a bit slow in parts, but it picks up and everything works together really well. The author's notes at the back break down what is fact and fiction, which I loved. She really did her research!

Anastasia is such a strong character, extremely loyal to her family. I really enjoyed reading from her perspective. There are hard parts to read (no spoilers there for anyone who knows their history) but they are tempered with glimmers of hope. I would definitely recommend this!

Nastya and her family are living in exile. The former royal family now live in squalor, guarded by Bolshevics. Spell casters are being hunted.

This book sounds great if that was what it was mainly about. Unfortunately, this book is way too sappy. The romance, and the goodness of the Romanovs was just too much for me.

If you like characters that are good and pure, and vomit-inducing romance, this book is for you. I will stick to grimdark!!

Nadine Brandes is amazing and a love her and her books.

I realize that’s a strong statement, however, full disclosure I’ve only read two of her books but I’ve adored both of them. So it’s a TRUE statement… currently. ;)

First, BIG THANK YOU to Netgalley & Thomas Nelson for providing an ARC of this novel in exchange for an honest review.

Nadine Brandes is making me like historical fiction. Which is a big feat in my opinion because usually it’s too dry or too slow to slog through. Now add in the fact that I LOVE RUSSIAN HISTORY, and she had be from chapter one.

Why do I love Russian History? Small random fact, I took Russian language and actually studied abroad in Moscow. I love the culture, language, and history of Russia.

“Peace, quiet, and safety are all well. But community and relationships are what truly fill a person's life.” ― Nadine Brandes, Romanov

The author has done a phenomenal job of staying as close to history as she can. This is including the fact that this is a Historical fiction FANTASY book.

“But there was still light - we were just learning how to find it.” ― Nadine Brandes, Romanov

The plot for this is wonderful and keep in mind it is mixed with the history. Brandes has done a wonderful job weaving the new and known information together and making you fall in love with the time period, while of course hating the Bolshevicks. You feel the starkness of the situation and the love of the Romanov family together. She builds the foundation of the fantasy and also the history extremely well.

The characters! I’m trying to think of one character that I didn’t think was well developed. I can’t find a single one. Even the dogs have personality and everyone has a part to play. I have favorites of course. I loved Anastasia, Zash, Maria, and Alexi. There’s another favorite character but I don’t want to spoil anything. Hahaha. I fell in love with the Romanov family. You feel Anastasia’s love for her father, and honestly you fall in love with him a bit too. Their loyalty and kindness to each other is inspiring.

The overall writing is phenomenal and I commend Nadine for creating something that stands on its own. By that I mean, I didn't think of the Anastasia cartoon or the Anastasia historical documentaries that I've watched before. It has excellent writing and dialogue that holds it's own and keeps you intrigued.

It is a little slower to start because the foundation needs to build but it does start to move and keep you intrigued. <3

Overall, I would recommend this book to anyone that enjoys history and fantasy. Maybe if you enjoy a little mystery as well. If you love the thrill of 'what if' I would also recommend this book to you.

Overall Rating: 4.5 Stars
Plot: 4 Stars
Character Development: 5 Stars
Dialogue: 4 Stars
Writing: 5 Stars

Happy Reading~
Ash

This wasn't the book for me right now. I started it, but wasn't able to get into it. I would like to revisit it again in the future, but I couldn't get into it right now and stopped around 10%.

Romanov was an amazing historical story that kept me on the edge of my seat. I adored Nastya as she did whatever she could to protect her family from the firing squad, even putting her own life in jeopardy to steal an ancient spell. Romanov will sweep you away with its rich descriptions and well-developed characters that readers will get lost in this story. Such a great read.

I’ll admit I appreciate history more as an adult than I did as a teen, but one thing that always stuck with me from high school history class was learning about Rasputin and the Romanovs. I haven’t read any fiction related to the last Russian royal family, so I jumped at the chance to read Romanov because I’d heard such great things about Nadine Brandes’s books.

I enjoyed how Brandes wove fact with fiction, and I especially enjoyed the magical aspect of the book. It should have seemed completely fantastical, and yet oddly enough, it was as believable as the parts of the story you knew were rooted in fact. Despite moments of levity, Romanov is far from a light-hearted book. What happened to the Romanovs was heartbreaking, and it felt like you were right there with them, feeling their fear and confusion, longing for freedom. Part of me almost hoped I wouldn’t connect to the characters, knowing their fate, but they were all so believable and real. The alternate/imagined history of what happened to Anastasia was wonderfully creative and I enjoyed watching it play out and seeing her get as close to a happy ending as she could after everything that happened to her and her family.

I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend this imaginative blend of fact and fantasy to lovers of historical fiction, especially if you have a fondness for Anastasia/the Romanovs/Russian history.


3.5 - 4 stars

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

I am not usually a big fan of historical novels but Romanov kept popping up on my radar through other authors that I follow so I was very happy when I received a copy to read and review. I devoured this book. The story of Anastasia is one that everyone who has seen the Disney film or loves history is aware of and in this tale, Brandes stays true to a lot of the historical aspects of the story which was mesmerizing to read. I don't particularly love to read stories with a ton of historical background but in this case she weaves the story around the truth of the time so well it reads quickly. I also like in the author's notes at the end, she is very clear about what was based in reality and what she took some liberties with. The story begins with Anastasia “Nastya” Romanov and her family dealing with their exile. The reader gets a lot of information on the family and how they interact through this first part of the story. She paints a picture of their time in exile and the challenges they are facing during this point in history. Brandes also introduces Zash, a solider, who Nastya finds friendship with during a very lonely time. As the story progresses past the execution of the Romanov family (not a spoiler - history!) more magical elements come into play but that didn't change the story for me at all. I was swept away with the beautiful writing, focus on family, love, heartbreak and forgiveness. I truly enjoyed this book and I look forward to reading more by this author.

I adored this book. I have always been intrigued by Russian history and particularly captivated by the legend of Anastasia Romanov.

This book reimagines the magic of the legend surrounding the Romanov family (in particular around Anastasia and Alexei) and draws closely on the historical events that preceded them.

I thought it was well-written, very human and had the right amount of magic to feel both real and fantastical.

I'd recommend this to anyone who enjoys Historical Fantasy because it is a touch of brilliance and beauty.