OCTOBER 2019 - AudioFile
The tragic story of the doomed Romanovs of Russia has been told and retold over the years. This audiobook focuses on daughter Maria and her experiences during the revolution. Helen Duff's performance features a wide array of accents, and her enthusiasm for the task at hand is appealing. Indeed, Duff's energy is nearly tangible as she immerses herself in the story. Often, the consonants—the sound of the letter "s" in particular—are too sibilant, causing them to become distractions. But Duff's pacing and pronunciations are solid and keep the performance grounded. As the plot spans years, Duff's consistent delivery is a strong guide through the characters' tribulations and changes. This is a new telling of a familiar story. L.B.F. © AudioFile 2019, Portland, Maine
Kate Furnivall
Bold and powerful, filled with emotion, tension and vivid characters in a setting that is rich in historical detail.
Tracy Rees
Another brilliant read from Gill Paul. Two gripping stories entwine and kept me captivated till the last page. Kept me looking forward to getting back to it each evening.
Kate Riordan
With The Lost Daughter, she has returned to the tragic Romanovs, creating another fascinating story that asks the haunting question: ‘what if one of them escaped?’ A pleasure to dive into.
Jenny Ashcroft
Completely immersive. Gorgeous. Beautiful writing, great characters. I enjoyed it so, so much. Just brilliant!
Heather Webb
Riveting...At once richly descriptive and mysterious, Gill Paul demonstrates her extraordinary talents in this deeply affecting tale of war, forgiveness, and family legacy.
Natasha Lester
A remarkable novel...I loved Maria’s courage in the face of revolution and war, and adored her fierce determination to protect her family. The history is fascinating, the love story passionate and the characters moving.
Hazel Gaynor
Fascinating! Gill Paul captures this family and this period of history so vividly. Such a wonderful book!
OCTOBER 2019 - AudioFile
The tragic story of the doomed Romanovs of Russia has been told and retold over the years. This audiobook focuses on daughter Maria and her experiences during the revolution. Helen Duff's performance features a wide array of accents, and her enthusiasm for the task at hand is appealing. Indeed, Duff's energy is nearly tangible as she immerses herself in the story. Often, the consonants—the sound of the letter "s" in particular—are too sibilant, causing them to become distractions. But Duff's pacing and pronunciations are solid and keep the performance grounded. As the plot spans years, Duff's consistent delivery is a strong guide through the characters' tribulations and changes. This is a new telling of a familiar story. L.B.F. © AudioFile 2019, Portland, Maine