China, 1929. For years Lydia Ivanova believed her father was killed by the Bolsheviks. But when she learns he is imprisoned in Stalin-controlled Russia, the fiery girl is willing to leave everything behind- even her Chinese lover, Chang An Lo.

Lydia begins a dangerous search, journeying to Moscow with her half-brother Alexei. But when Alexei abruptly disappears, Lydia is left alone, penniless in Soviet Russia.

All seems lost, but Chang An Lo has not forgotten Lydia. He knows things about her father that she does not. And while he races to protect her, she is prepared to risk treacherous consequences to discover the truth.

Again we join up with Lydia and her rag tag group of her Brother Alexei and Leiv but this time they are going across Soviet Russia. Just when things look the darkest when her brother has seemed to go away and leave her behind. Chang An Lo shows up and things for them seem to pick up right where they left off.

This is a wonderful book that brings to life the same pictures and ideals that you had painted for you in the last book. This time however instead of a bright flower like china being painted we get Soviet Grey and really a feeling for how things were in those days in Russia. While things were dark and gloomy some people bound together. I really enjoyed the twists and turns this novel took including where Alexei ended up, never would have thought it of him and yet at the same time it seemed to suit. If you enjoyed the Russian Concubine I think this second installment will be on the top of your list as well. I know I did!

My Gemstone Rating: