Shortlisted for the RNA Romantic Novel of the Year 2011.

From the bestselling author of The Russian Concubine comes a sweeping epic of love and courage, revenge and heartache in the last days of the Romanov empire

Synopsis

Russia, 1910. Young Valentina Ivanova charms St Petersburg's aristocracy with her classic Russian beauty and her talent as a pianist. But she scandalises society when she begins a romance with Jens Friis, a Danish engineer. He brings to her life a passion and an intimacy she has never known. Unbending in their opposition, her parents push her into a loveless engagement with a Russian count. Valentina struggles for independence and to protect her young sister from the tumult sweeping the city, as Russia is bound for rebellion. The Tsar, the Duma and the Bolsheviks are at each other's throats and Valentina is forced to make a choice that changes her life for ever ...

Reviews

'Furnivall skillfully intertwines historical fact with a heartfelt love story. This will be a delight for Furnivall's fans, and equally a joy for those new to her work'
PUBLISHER'S WEEKLY

'A complex tale masterfully told, of passion, adventure and intrigue during one of the most fascinating eras of Russian history. Kate Furnivall had my heart pounding from page one - and kept it racing right up until the last. A truly satisfying read'
SANTA MONTEFIORE

'Full of rich history, heart-stopping romance and delicious dangers, Furnivall's sweeping, sumptuous epic is perfect for readers who just want to escape'
LANCASHIRE EVENING POST

'Gripping, elegant, and fierce, this is a classic war-torn love story, and Furnivall's best yet'
LIBRARY JOURNAL

About the Author

Kate Furnivall was born in Wales and now lives by the sea, with her husband, in the beautiful county of Devon. She has worked in publishing and television advertising. Kate’s love for all things Russian stems from her family history in pre-Revolution St Petersburg. Look out for three previous novels, The Russian Concubine, Under a Blood Red Sky and The Concubine’s Secret, also published by Sphere.   Visit her website at www.katefurnivall.com.   Author Photo ©  Max Danby. More books by this author Author 'Like for Like' recommendation