This novel is a strange one – part brutal realism, part whimsical fantasy. The story is compelling and the setting vividly evoked, but the confusing mix of genres stops it from being a triumph.
The story begins in a Russian labour camp in 1933. These parts of the book are the most stark and cruel, sparing the reader no detail when describing the harshness of life under this regime. The friendship of two main characters, Anna and Sofia, is cemented under the heel of Soviet rule.
When Sofia escapes into rural Russia in an attempt to secure help for Anna, who is dying, the story takes a leap into pastoral fairy tale. Once Anna and Sofia part, their storylines become almost irreconcilable – Anna remaining in the labour camp, while Sofia assimilates into life in a village with a mysterious secret.
The story, as I mentioned, is gripping – I found myself desperate to know whether Sofia succeeds in helping her friend and some clever twists in the narrative kept things interesting. In my opinion, the book is too long and the story is propped up by coincidence and magic. However, it was an enjoyable read and the ending, if not particularly believable, was satisfying to reach after such a trek.
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