I was very fortunate to receive an advance copy of this historical fiction debut!!

The story alternates between Maya and Natasha, twin sisters who are competing for one coveted spot in the ballet and how their lives diverge from each other and come back again. Durham did a great job with character development and had a unique way of adding tidbits for the reader for even more minor characters, which I really enjoyed.

The novel takes place during the cold world era in both Russia and the United States. Durham does a wonderful job setting the scene of Russia in the 1940s through 1960s. Since I was born after the Cold War, I left the novel interested in learning more about this part of history. Durham does a great job paralleling Maya's experience in the United States with Natasha's experience in Russia.

If you like a multi-character, heart wrenching story then this one is for you!

I appreciated the author taking the time to note which characters and events she took liberty with throughout the book. Note: I have not read War & Peace and wonder if that would have added to my overall experience with the novel.

Overall, I highly recommend and look forward to future works from this author!!

4.5 stars