So I thought I should post a couple of short reviews to some other fantastic Indie authors, starting with a wonderful book I enjoyed a huge amount.
Stalin’s Door is a hugely ambitious and fascinating read, and captures the spirit of the horrifying period in Russian history under the iron heel of Stalin. But this isn’t all doom and gloom, as at it’s heart is the touching story of an extended family, navigating and attempting to survive the twists and turns of an oppressive and fickle regime.
The writing is engaging and keeps you hooked from the fast-paced opening, yet manages to capture the spirit and style of Russian literature with grace. To say parts reminded me of Solzhenitsyn would not be overstating. St. Clair takes us on a journey of four intertwined stories, weaving a twisting narrative which will keep you guessing until the end, all again the backdrop of the worst horrors of the Stalinist regime. Stylistically, those unfamiliar with Russian literature might find some sections challenging at first, and there are one of two peculiar lexical choices that jarred a little for me, but the story draws the reader in from the first page onwards, and you should easily overcome any temporary unfamiliarity with the style as the narrative is so compelling, and the story so good. I’d highly recommend this book for anyone interested (or anyone unfamiliar) with Russian history, and to all readers as a fantastic and moving story of tragedy and survival.
From the pitch:
Stalin’s Door is the unforgettable story of three extraordinary individuals who lived during the time of Russia’s Great Terror. They share a terrible fate which will forever intertwine their lives. Zhenya is the strong young daughter of an important government official, who is growing up fast in a privileged government enclave. Sava is a devoted husband, unceremoniously dismissed from the Soviet Navy, who considers a new opportunity. Lera is a wise grandmother who bears a crucial responsibility, while forced into exile in the outland of Siberia.
Available at https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B08YQCNSVV/
Stay safe,
Kit