Anastasia's Secret - Book Review

Title ~ Anastasia’s Secret
Series ~ Single Title
Author ~ Susanne Dunlap
Release Date ~ March 15, 2011
Age Group ~ Young Adult
Publisher ~ Bloomsbury USA Children’s Books
Source ~ Bloomsbury USA Children’s Books

GOODREADS SUMMARY

When Princess Anastasia Romanov's life is torn apart by revolution, she and her family are exiled to Siberia. As their captivity stretches out, the threat of death by firing squad grows stronger. But despite the menacing circumstances, a secret romance blossoms between Anastasia and a young guard named Sasha. Will their love prove strong enough to help Anastasia and her family? Inspired by the mysteries surrounding the Romanovs, this is a compelling and romantic vision of what might have been.

REVIEW

Perfect timing! We just finished our unit on Russian history at school, so I couldn’t wait to jump into Anastasia’s Secret. I have been interested in her story since I watched the animated Anastasia movie.

I love every single thing about Anastasia’s Secret. All of it!

The historical references are accurate and complete with detailed descriptions. The perfect amount of background information (including how to understand the elaborate Russian names) is included at the beginning to set the stage. Susanne Dunlap clearly presents events from this time period without sounding like she is teaching a history lesson.

Oh, Anastasia is such a wonderful character. I love how her day-to-day life is described, both in the royal palace and in Siberia. The romance that grows between Anastasia and her guard, Sasha, is sweet and believable. I know this relationship is fictional, but I like how it is used to move the story along and tie things together.

I knew ahead of time how Anastasia’s life was going to turn out, and I appreciate how Susanne Dunlap handles it. While the story ends as Anastasia must make a choice, the final outcome is left for an epilogue. Nicely done.

Anastasia’s Secret offers a look into the fascinating story of this Russian princess along with a secret and forbidden romance.

RATING

5 Loved

COVER COMMENTS

While very simple, this cover captures Anastasia perfectly. Her royal standing is obvious by her lace sleeve, pearl necklace, and styled hair. She is looking off to the side, perhaps at Sasha.