Russian, Chinese, English – so many complex characters that battle suffering but also battle with love. Much research was done by the author to create this compelling historical fiction piece. I didn’t want to put it down and I hope there is a sequel so we can read more about Lydia and Chang and the adventures their love will bring.

A Westside story relationship involving two unlikely lovers, one Chinese native and one young Russian girl. Kate Furnivall weaves the story with Russian references and phrases. I was transformed and hooked to the last page.

Very fast read. Lots of interesting history of Russia and China. Very good story.

A little history mixed with stories of interesting people.

This was not a favorite of my book club. While we all agreed the storyline itself was quite interesting, especially since it is partially based on the real life story of the author's mother, the writing itself was found to be trite. One member of our group has spent an extensive amount of time in China, and felt that the setting was historically accurate. I was surprised at how neatly everything was resolved at the end, and that it would end as happily as it did.