The Blackmailer takes us on a journey through mid-19th century Russia and America, following the lovable, incredibly resourceful "tomboy" (Is that term even used anymore?), Rian Krieger. Using ingenuity and wisdom beyond her years, she tries to make her mark in the world as a boy...in a foreign country, no less. it seems our world is still struggling with transgenders, and she will go to any length to avoid a traditional female life in frilly dresses.. We follow her exploits in St. Petersburg where she fled to help her uncle and cousin build a railroad for Tsar Nicolas I. Things get even more interesting when she's recruited (as a he) to serve as companion to Grand Duke Konstantin, the Tsar's 10 year old son.

Back in America....in Philadephia, to be exact, we follow the harrowing efforts of Jules Freeman, foreman for Krieger Coach, Rian's family's company, as he struggles to keep the company afloat and earn a living during a depression...at a time when racism was in high gear.. Key to this series is that as a freed slave, he runs an Underground Railroad station in his home. He's is a brilliant character, based on real events.

History truly comes alive in Roger A. Smith's hands. I feel like I know the characters personally and want to read more. When I was introduced to the book as a Net Galley offering, in exchange for an honest review, I did not know it was Book 3 of a projected 9 book series. First, it was and can be read as a stand-alone. But I loved it and the characters, especially Rian, so much that I plan to read the first two and look forward to the remaining books in the series.

Well plotted and unusual setting. I appreciated the style of writing and the storytelling.
Recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this ARC, all opinions are mine

A rollicking tale full of historical characters and incidents. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and would recommend it to anyone interested in Russia and/or Philadelphia in the late 1830s.