'Blood Red Snow White' is a fantastically detailed account of one of Russia's most important times in history - the Russian Revolution. The author uses a unique writing style to tell the story - the novel is divided into three sections, each with their own story and part of history. The way each part is written was intriguing and very different from anything I've read before - especially when it comes to historical fiction. It almost seemed like the story is written as a fairy tale or folk tale and is being told to the reader by a storyteller. This gives the book a completely different feel than any other writing style I've come across. I'm not even exactly sure how to describe it. It's one of those things that you just have to experience for yourself in order to understand. It took me awhile to get used to the narrative style - and I have to admit that part of my reading experience was marred by this issue. I couldn't really get into the story as I would've liked - it felt like I was being read a story instead of being able to put myself inside the character's world. It's not a bad thing at all - just not something that I prefer in my reading. Aside from this, every other aspect of the book was wonderful. The incredible attention to detail and the descriptive accounts of these major historical times really brought it all to life for me - even if I couldn't insert myself into the story. I could practically close my eyes and see each of the scenarios playing out before me. I'm not a huge history buff, but I enjoy the occasional historical fiction - and this one was perfect. Definitely recommended for fans of historical literature - especially dealing with Russia.

Marcus Sedgwick's newest YA book was NOT what I was expecting but it was delightful and was what I needed. I was expecting a more direct fairy tale retelling and not the 3 part mystery, folktale, espionage tale I received. I loved it. It was new and unexpected and covered a non-typical topic for teen fiction. Great job!

This booooook!!! The writing is gorgeous, and Russian-themed books are HUGE with my teens right now. I think the basic premise won't appeal to them but it will be easy to booktalk.