Some of the book was a bit dull, and I felt like there were a lot of detailed descriptions that weren't necessary.. However, after I thought about it some more, I realized that maybe it makes more sense this way. Regular people don't have lives full of adventure everyday, and neither should Charlotte and Robert. It just makes the book more realistic, as if we are truly watching the character's lives unfold.
Also, I feel that people should be forewarned that the N word is said several times in this book, around 10. It's important to have a trigger warning but also important to remember it's historically accurate to use this type of demeaning language. It helps show the truly horrifying treatment of native Africans in the early 20th century.
One of the saddest quotes for me is when Charlotte is offered a job at a hospital. "..she could no longer find it in herself to burn away the hours of her life and youth for strangers." Not only did the Bolsheviks make her wary of the world and its men, but they burned away her passion for nursing.
I will admit that I cried when Robert had to leave his cat behind, but not when one of his friends died. :)
Overall, I enjoyed this book. While not quite as action-filled as the past two books, I felt that I was living Robert and Charlotte's lives along with them. The character development, especially for Charlotte, has been superb throughout the series. The plot is fun to follow, while seemingly random at times. (Robert as a vet? Who would have guessed?) I'm excited for the fourth book, and I'm hoping everything works out the way I want it to, even though that never happens. :)
Again, thank you to Roy Griffis for providing the books (and for the shoutout in the Afterword!). These books have helped me learn a lot more about the time period and mindsets of those living in the early 20th century.
Keep reading!
Colleen