I had a hard time rating this book. On one hand I enjoy Charlie N. Holmberg writing, and this one was as pleasant a read as her other works. I loved the imaginative and unique world-building she created. I quite appreciated that Holmberg mythology and magic had nothing to do with Russian folklore. The story was 100% her own and independent, and yet had perfect sense to be tied to the old Russia setting. I also liked main character, as main characters go Matrona was quite unique too. I relay loved that Holmberg was bold enough to put quite, uncomplicated, unassuming character on a spot. I believe that every choice is a choice, and people with simple, down-to-earth goal has right to accomplish those goal as any book “hero”.
The romance was not very exciting, but again I have to compliment author boldness to choose to write about romance between older woman and younger man. There many stories featuring lovers with age difference, but it always men who are older. The other way has always been sort of taboo.
What I have problems with are many mistakes with the Russian motives. Half of the time things seem well enough researched, and then comes the mess with the names, and the way people call each other. I kept telling myself it doesn’t matter, but it did. Eventually I managed to switch names to more proper ones in my mind, but it lessened my enjoyment from the story. The food was hilarious. It seems Holmberg thinks kvas is alcoholic beverage, while kvas is something you drink when thirsty, give to kids and make cold soups. I think if you found such a complex foods as “holodets” - you should check what it is and how it is made. I practically had tears from laughing when Matrona took off holodets from the fire. (Holodets is a cold dish, which is basically crumbled meat in meaty jelly).
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