Anastasia Forever

July 1, 2012
The trilogy that began with Dreaming Anastasia (2009) comes to an exciting, if cluttered, conclusion. Magic and time travel back to Czarist Russia dominate the narrative as Anne and her century-old yet still age-18 heartthrob Ethan try to outwit their nemesis Viktor, who somehow has become immortal again. This series conclusion will make little sense to those who have not read the first two books, as everything depends upon knowledge of previous events. The time-travel segments stand out as the most interesting in the story, especially the trip to the Alexander Palace and the meeting with 10-year-old Princess Anastasia. Anne's parents become involved when her rusalka (Russian mermaid) grandmother shows up in the backyard sprinkler. Baba Yaga flies through the skies in a giant mortar and pestle, dispensing danger and advice. Ethan and Anne (mostly) share the narration, but readers will need to pay attention to which one is speaking, as their voices come across as nearly identical. They're a fairly standard-issue romantic pair, despite their exotic abilities. Viktor and Baba Yaga are more distinct and much more entertaining, as is Anne's friend Tess, who provides some comic relief. Although the various plot threads eventually tie themselves neatly together, they resemble a Gordian knot before that happens. Satisfying, but start with the first book. (Paranormal suspense. 12 & up)

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September 1, 2012

Gr 8 Up-Anne and Ethan are now dating but happily ever after will have to wait. Anne's magical powers have increased, yet controlling them is a challenge. Ethan begins to feel that his own powers might have a frightening darkness in them. The mixture of Romanov family history, Russian folklore, and modern-day American teen angst makes an intriguing combination. Anastasia's unrest is tragic and pitiable. Legendary Baba Yaga is nuanced and richly drawn. Tess, Anne's hip, sassy BFF, while a willing participant in Anne's time travels, is a solid connection to the 21st century. Scene for scene, Preble packs a punch. Vivid settings and thrilling action sequences are captivating. The frigid air in wintertime Russia and the nauseating confusion of unexpected time travel are palpable. Romantic scenes are tender and engaging. What is lacking is overall cohesion. The story is told from the alternating viewpoints of Anne, Ethan, and Tsar Nicholas's son Viktor. Even though each chapter is labeled accordingly, their voices (and those of the secondary characters) sound alike, so it is hard to keep the narratives straight. In addition, frequent location and era changes add to the confusion. Oblique references to the first two novels do little to get readers up to speed, so this title does not stand alone. Consider purchasing where the first two books are popular.-Jennifer Prince, Buncombe County Public Library, NC

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