Memory is a double edge sword in this novel. Marina tries holding on to her memories of the cherished paintings in the Hermitage Museum during the Seige of Leningrad while the devastating disease, Alzheimer’s... (read more)

I enjoyed the historical information, learning enough about the siege of Leningrad and the efforts involved in saving the art at The Hermitage as well as the incredible struggles of the citizens to survive... (read more)

Good book with much to think about.

Life lesson through war and the atrocities that it can afflict but morality and humanity can prevail all through life in this book.

We thought this book had beautiful descriptions, both of the art and of the scenes. The author clearly did a lot of research and wove in lots of historical fact into her flashback scenes, however some... (read more)

Everyone enjoyed the book, but it wasn't a favorite. It was interesting to read how they survived in the museum. Very sad about the present day Marina.

the author caring handles the heartbreak of memory loss and the effect it has on family. she gives an insightful account of the siege of Leningrad which many of us knew very little.

Our book club found this book to be too long, too boring. We thought there simply wasn't enough action and the characters were flat. BUT we were very intrigued by the Hermitage Museum and St. Petersburg.... (read more)