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The Malinovsky Papers
Over a nineteen day period in June 1987, Professor Nicholas Malinovsky interviewed a dying Russian emigre in his apartment in Brighton Beach. What Malinovsky learned during those nineteen days - about the Russian Revolution, the House of Special Purpose in Ekaterinburg and, most importantly, what happened to the two youngest Romanov family members - shattered his beliefs and changed his life. What followed, after 1987, was a lifetime of denial, regret and more investigations. The book contains intriguing photographs and compelling evidence.
There is only one question...is it true?
There is only one question...is it true?
- GenresHistorical Fiction
Paperback
Published November 1, 2017
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
March 7, 2018
I liked how unusual this book was, more than anything. It reads like an interview, because it largely documents an interview of Dimitri Kurshunov, a Russian emigre and previous gardener for the Ipatiev family. Whilst Dimitri is key to the story, and sheds new light on what might really have happened during 1918 surrounding the events on the Romanovs, Professior Malinovsky (the interviewer) is perhaps just as central to telling the story. So the order in which the story unfolds, and the way in which it is told are quite unique and compelling.
It's difficult to know what to believe, but the author (and undoubtedly the two characters at the heart of this story) offer a compelling argument which is hard not to give genuine consideration. I have to admit, I'm definitely swayed! And I think that's kind of the idea of this book - to give another perspective to the story and let the reader decide for themselves whether they take these ideas on board or not.
An interesting, unique book with an engaging argument. What I perhaps struggled with was the pacing. The story felt like it could have been told much quicker, and I wasn't always entirely captivated by it because the characters didn't really speak to me. A difficult thing to do with characters which aren't fictional though! But nevertheless, an interesting book definitely worth a read.
ARC provided free from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
It's difficult to know what to believe, but the author (and undoubtedly the two characters at the heart of this story) offer a compelling argument which is hard not to give genuine consideration. I have to admit, I'm definitely swayed! And I think that's kind of the idea of this book - to give another perspective to the story and let the reader decide for themselves whether they take these ideas on board or not.
An interesting, unique book with an engaging argument. What I perhaps struggled with was the pacing. The story felt like it could have been told much quicker, and I wasn't always entirely captivated by it because the characters didn't really speak to me. A difficult thing to do with characters which aren't fictional though! But nevertheless, an interesting book definitely worth a read.
ARC provided free from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
August 27, 2018
Brilliant! Although it is only available as an Ebook, which is surprising. Can't say too much as anything would constitute a spoiler. Just read it!
April 5, 2018
Over the years I've read more than a few books based on the Romanovs. The Kitchen Boy may have been the most recent, so it's been a while, which made me easy prey for The Malinovsky Papers.
There is an irresistible fascination with the family, their captivity and brutal assassination by the Bolsheviks. So many mysteries and theories regarding what happened with few facts to back it up makes it even more compelling. This book covers much of the ground of previous novels with an interesting delivery method. Here, we have a dying Russian emigre (Dmitri Korshunov) who tells his story to a history professor (Nicholas Malinovsky) who then decides not to publish. Malinovsky, after his own death, leaves it to his son to decide the fate of said story. The story consists of the transcribed audio tapes of Korshunov explaining what he witnessed as gardener of Ipatiev House and Malinovsky's own thoughts as the story unfolds. It has the feel of non-fiction which is hindered only by the awkward banter between these two characters and the constant repetition of, "I'm sorry for interrupting, now please carry on."
The story of what Korshunov observed, and did, was pretty predictable with a couple plot twists easily decipherable from early on. What stood out most strongly was the detail of the time. The reader felt submerged in a time and place of great political turmoil and unrest that is hard to fathom by western standards. Also of note are the facts on what transpired with various research teams over the years and the Russian art of disseminating false or misleading information. There is clearly a lot known by the Kremlin that will never be shared, unless it serves their purposes. It will be interesting to see what they roll out as 'fact' this year, being the 100th anniversary of the Romanov murders. The timeline of events at the end of the book is also great stuff as it illustrates the chain of events that led to the abdication of Tsar Nicholas II.
This is a cracking read for anyone interested in the Romanov family and/or keen conspiracy theorists. There's a lot of fact and fiction to fuel the mind on the mystery of what happened and where the family was really interred. A highly recommended read.
There is an irresistible fascination with the family, their captivity and brutal assassination by the Bolsheviks. So many mysteries and theories regarding what happened with few facts to back it up makes it even more compelling. This book covers much of the ground of previous novels with an interesting delivery method. Here, we have a dying Russian emigre (Dmitri Korshunov) who tells his story to a history professor (Nicholas Malinovsky) who then decides not to publish. Malinovsky, after his own death, leaves it to his son to decide the fate of said story. The story consists of the transcribed audio tapes of Korshunov explaining what he witnessed as gardener of Ipatiev House and Malinovsky's own thoughts as the story unfolds. It has the feel of non-fiction which is hindered only by the awkward banter between these two characters and the constant repetition of, "I'm sorry for interrupting, now please carry on."
The story of what Korshunov observed, and did, was pretty predictable with a couple plot twists easily decipherable from early on. What stood out most strongly was the detail of the time. The reader felt submerged in a time and place of great political turmoil and unrest that is hard to fathom by western standards. Also of note are the facts on what transpired with various research teams over the years and the Russian art of disseminating false or misleading information. There is clearly a lot known by the Kremlin that will never be shared, unless it serves their purposes. It will be interesting to see what they roll out as 'fact' this year, being the 100th anniversary of the Romanov murders. The timeline of events at the end of the book is also great stuff as it illustrates the chain of events that led to the abdication of Tsar Nicholas II.
This is a cracking read for anyone interested in the Romanov family and/or keen conspiracy theorists. There's a lot of fact and fiction to fuel the mind on the mystery of what happened and where the family was really interred. A highly recommended read.
July 4, 2018
The tragedy and mystery surrounding the last Tsar of Russia and his family has always been fascinating to me. So of course I was eager to read this book. And it is a wonderful historical fiction of what if.
What if a young man found himself in an extraordinary situation of being near the Romanovs in captivity? Dmitri Kurshunov is dying but before he goes, acting on the request of his beloved wife who passed before him, he decides to tell his story to Prof Malinovsky. What he tells the highly regarded historian/author sounds too good to be true...and yet so full of details that after checking, seem to be most likely true!
I truly enjoyed the story of Dmitri. So much that I was sad when he finally died and Malinovsky followed though many years later. What I didn't like is the part of Hannah and Andrei trying to see whether the story was worth publishing and their research into the lives of Dmitri and the events that followed, as well as the alleged Romanov bodies being found here and there. I get that Hannah and Andrei, now in possession of the papers, had to check...but it was soooo tedious to read. I don't care that there were so many conflicting reports on how the Romanovs were killed, buried, found and analyzed, about Anna Andersen and the other alleged Romanovs who would pop out every now and then. The best part of this story was the story of Dmitri, his life as a teenager in Russia at the start of Lenin's rule, and later, how he and his wife came to America and lived. It could've ended there and it would not take away from the romance of this novel and the fascination with the Romanovs. Instead, the last few chapters felt to me, to academic, wholly unnecessary to the book.
I should've stopped when Prof Malinovsky died and before Anna and Andrei started their research. Hmm wait, maybe we didn't need to see Hannah's research.
I received a copy of the book for my honest opinon.
What if a young man found himself in an extraordinary situation of being near the Romanovs in captivity? Dmitri Kurshunov is dying but before he goes, acting on the request of his beloved wife who passed before him, he decides to tell his story to Prof Malinovsky. What he tells the highly regarded historian/author sounds too good to be true...and yet so full of details that after checking, seem to be most likely true!
I truly enjoyed the story of Dmitri. So much that I was sad when he finally died and Malinovsky followed though many years later. What I didn't like is the part of Hannah and Andrei trying to see whether the story was worth publishing and their research into the lives of Dmitri and the events that followed, as well as the alleged Romanov bodies being found here and there. I get that Hannah and Andrei, now in possession of the papers, had to check...but it was soooo tedious to read. I don't care that there were so many conflicting reports on how the Romanovs were killed, buried, found and analyzed, about Anna Andersen and the other alleged Romanovs who would pop out every now and then. The best part of this story was the story of Dmitri, his life as a teenager in Russia at the start of Lenin's rule, and later, how he and his wife came to America and lived. It could've ended there and it would not take away from the romance of this novel and the fascination with the Romanovs. Instead, the last few chapters felt to me, to academic, wholly unnecessary to the book.
I should've stopped when Prof Malinovsky died and before Anna and Andrei started their research. Hmm wait, maybe we didn't need to see Hannah's research.
I received a copy of the book for my honest opinon.
June 12, 2020
Ever since I was a little girl I have loved the animated film Anastasia. I loved the story, the music and of course I felt that having long brown hair too I could easily pretend I was her. When I was older and found out that it was actually based on a real story I loved it even more. I know there have been many theories about what happened to the Romanov family but I always liked the idea of Anastasia living out her life in secret, away from the royal limelight.
Whilst I am not an expert of Russian history I was aware of the main facts before reading this book. From the start it was clear to me that it had been well researched and I loved the inclusion of photographs and emails/letters between the different characters. It did have me questioning if this was a true story? Like Nicholas I too had a soft spot for Bushravna. Lets be honest she was responsible for Dmitri escaping Ekaterinburg and living his life in America, she always had his best interests at heart and I dread to think what would of happened had he not had her there to guide him.
I love a good conspiracy theory and so listening to Dmitri tell his story was beautiful. There was so much detail and whilst I could tell where the story was heading I loved how it unfolded. A large part of me would love to believe his account and in some ways I do but unfortunately it is one of those things that we are never going to know for sure.
My main problem with the story was the research segment at the end. I enjoyed reading the correspondences between Hannah and Andrei but I didn’t feel like I needed all the information about DNA and different versions of what happened to the Romanov’s. For me I was happy enough to leave the story where Dmitri had finished it, perhaps it would of been nice to see more of his family know the truth?
Whilst I am not an expert of Russian history I was aware of the main facts before reading this book. From the start it was clear to me that it had been well researched and I loved the inclusion of photographs and emails/letters between the different characters. It did have me questioning if this was a true story? Like Nicholas I too had a soft spot for Bushravna. Lets be honest she was responsible for Dmitri escaping Ekaterinburg and living his life in America, she always had his best interests at heart and I dread to think what would of happened had he not had her there to guide him.
I love a good conspiracy theory and so listening to Dmitri tell his story was beautiful. There was so much detail and whilst I could tell where the story was heading I loved how it unfolded. A large part of me would love to believe his account and in some ways I do but unfortunately it is one of those things that we are never going to know for sure.
My main problem with the story was the research segment at the end. I enjoyed reading the correspondences between Hannah and Andrei but I didn’t feel like I needed all the information about DNA and different versions of what happened to the Romanov’s. For me I was happy enough to leave the story where Dmitri had finished it, perhaps it would of been nice to see more of his family know the truth?
August 9, 2018
If you're a foolish person, like me, you might start reading this unaware that it's historical fiction rather than non-fiction. Ahem. What can I say, I was given a free copy and read the blurb (which reads as though the Malinovsky Papers are real) but not the book category. Yep totally my mistake!
The premise is that back in 1987 June 1987, Professor Nicholas Malinovsky interviews a dying Russian emigre and is so taken back about what he learns - about the fate of the Romanovs - that instead of running to publish the information as soon as possible, he buries the knowledge in a hefty manuscript leaving his family with instructions to give it to someone trusty (the book's 'author') to deal with.
We read the hours of interview material from Professor Malinovsky and learn along with Harriet Jones the 'astounding' facts about the Russian Revolution and what was to follow. Afterwards she analyses whether or not it could be true. But the thing is, she has 'evidence' - this manuscript. In the real world, said manuscript is fiction, and so I didn't find it as interesting as lovely fictional Harriet does to look at whether the alternative/possible history presented here could be true or not.
Worth a read if you are particularly interested in the fate of the Romanovs and have read everything else on the subject. Personally, I'd rather start with the material that isn't fiction.
The premise is that back in 1987 June 1987, Professor Nicholas Malinovsky interviews a dying Russian emigre and is so taken back about what he learns - about the fate of the Romanovs - that instead of running to publish the information as soon as possible, he buries the knowledge in a hefty manuscript leaving his family with instructions to give it to someone trusty (the book's 'author') to deal with.
We read the hours of interview material from Professor Malinovsky and learn along with Harriet Jones the 'astounding' facts about the Russian Revolution and what was to follow. Afterwards she analyses whether or not it could be true. But the thing is, she has 'evidence' - this manuscript. In the real world, said manuscript is fiction, and so I didn't find it as interesting as lovely fictional Harriet does to look at whether the alternative/possible history presented here could be true or not.
Worth a read if you are particularly interested in the fate of the Romanovs and have read everything else on the subject. Personally, I'd rather start with the material that isn't fiction.
March 30, 2018
''Makes you exhausted reading it doesn't it?" Yes, it flipping well does – there can be no denying this book is far too long. But it also maintains its intrigue, to some extent, throughout. Being a novel about the fate of two of the Romanov children when the Communist Revolution murdered the Tzar's family in their enforced accommodation, it bears its research to such a huge and heavy extent that it seems to be faction in the end. Which to many will appeal, but also means some readers will not quite be on board for the actual novelistic side of things, where various characters in different framing devices question the themes of familial loyalty, respect for truth and secrets, and so on. I found it quite a rich read, for all its laboriousness – I liked the attention to detail that really brought to life the invented story, even if not to the level of emotional response the characters themselves found. There is a case for saying it has one framing device too many, and I certainly got to regret the author had chosen narrators that had such a forensic demand to be sticklers for the truth, but on the whole I found it a pleasant plod. Four stars from me, with the acknowledgement/warning that it will really rankle with some.
August 6, 2018
Over nineteen days in June 1978, Professor Nicholas Malinovsky interviewed a dying Russian emigre, Dimitri Kurshunov. The stories he told were unbelievable, about the Russian revolution, the House of Special Purpose in Ekaterinburg, and what really happened to the two youngest members of the Romanov family. Going through his interviews and research many years later, Hannah Jones is left with one question: Can any of this be true?
I really liked the interview style of storytelling in this book. With the addition of Malinovsky's notes at the end of each chapter, the story felt truly authentic. The most engaging aspect of this book was definitely Kurshunov’s story about living in Ekaterinburg and knowing the Romanovs. However, I didn’t care much for the parts about Malinovsky and his own life. The deterioration of his relationship with his own family was not particularly enjoyable to read about. Without those parts, the book could have been a lot shorter and told much quicker.
On that note, this book was seriously long, man. The pacing was incredibly slow and, although the detail of the time was truly fascinating, I could have done with things being more to-the-point.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I really liked the interview style of storytelling in this book. With the addition of Malinovsky's notes at the end of each chapter, the story felt truly authentic. The most engaging aspect of this book was definitely Kurshunov’s story about living in Ekaterinburg and knowing the Romanovs. However, I didn’t care much for the parts about Malinovsky and his own life. The deterioration of his relationship with his own family was not particularly enjoyable to read about. Without those parts, the book could have been a lot shorter and told much quicker.
On that note, this book was seriously long, man. The pacing was incredibly slow and, although the detail of the time was truly fascinating, I could have done with things being more to-the-point.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
May 25, 2018
ATTENTION ALL HISTORY GEEKS..... THIS IS THE BEST HISTORICAL FICTION BOOK I HAVE EVER READ
A full review can be found on my blog The Girl With All The Books
I've been obsessed with Anastasia since I was a little girl, so when this book popped up on Netgalley, I just had to request it. And now I’m sat here questioning whether we’ve all been duped by the Russians. Maybe Anastasia did manage to escape after all?
I honestly felt like I had been taken back in time to a place of political unrest, so naturally most of the events he spoke about DID actually happen and as I had prior knowledge of this era, some aspects were predictable… but I really didn’t care. It didn’t take away my enjoyment of reading this book!
Honestly, this is the best historical fiction book I have ever read. I studied Russian history at University so I've read a lot of books on this topic... but this is honestly mind blowing.
I’m sat here having finished the book, feeling like I did when I first watched the animated Anastasia film when I was a little girl. Maybe she did manage to escape? I hope so, but I guess we’ll never know.
A full review can be found on my blog The Girl With All The Books
I've been obsessed with Anastasia since I was a little girl, so when this book popped up on Netgalley, I just had to request it. And now I’m sat here questioning whether we’ve all been duped by the Russians. Maybe Anastasia did manage to escape after all?
I honestly felt like I had been taken back in time to a place of political unrest, so naturally most of the events he spoke about DID actually happen and as I had prior knowledge of this era, some aspects were predictable… but I really didn’t care. It didn’t take away my enjoyment of reading this book!
Honestly, this is the best historical fiction book I have ever read. I studied Russian history at University so I've read a lot of books on this topic... but this is honestly mind blowing.
I’m sat here having finished the book, feeling like I did when I first watched the animated Anastasia film when I was a little girl. Maybe she did manage to escape? I hope so, but I guess we’ll never know.
March 8, 2018
My familiarity with the Russian revolution and the heated debates surrounding the truth behind all the deaths of the Tsar and his family was minimal ( like some people my introduction was through the animated movie Anastasia). I got this book via NetGalley in exchange for an unbiased review and I brushed up my history before I sat down with it.
This tale had a few interesting twists which makes parts of it fun to read, but it turned out to be too big for me to assimilate all the details. I am sure a bigger history buff than me would relish the book but I bit off more than I could chew and ended up skipping a bit here and there in order to finish it.
It is a very detailed story presented with the intention of starting a debate on possibilities and was interestingly written.
for other unrelated reviews:
Www.superfluousreading.wordpress.com
This tale had a few interesting twists which makes parts of it fun to read, but it turned out to be too big for me to assimilate all the details. I am sure a bigger history buff than me would relish the book but I bit off more than I could chew and ended up skipping a bit here and there in order to finish it.
It is a very detailed story presented with the intention of starting a debate on possibilities and was interestingly written.
for other unrelated reviews:
Www.superfluousreading.wordpress.com
March 12, 2018
Because I am very interested in everything involving the mystery around the Romanov family and especially Anastasia, I was very curious when I started this book. And it was a pleasant surprise reading the story and I enjoyed it a lot. It took me awhile figuring out, that it was not a non-fictional book, but a cleverly written novel. The photographs are a nice touch, also adding more authenticity to to story. Recommended! I chose to read this book and all opinions in this review are my own and completely unbiased. Thanks to NetGalley and Write Publications Ltd.!
March 28, 2018
Being intrigued by all things Romanov, I was curious if this book would add to my collection. And what a treat it turned out to be! Still not sure if it is fiction or a true interview, It doesn't matter. It's an incredible account of what happened at Ipatiev House. The added photos make the story even more believable.
After two-thirds the tale is told. What follows is a dragging account of DNA research through the years. I skipped most of it, since it took me away from the amazing story I'd just read.
After two-thirds the tale is told. What follows is a dragging account of DNA research through the years. I skipped most of it, since it took me away from the amazing story I'd just read.
December 3, 2018
Historical Fiction that reads and feels like historical fact.
19 days in June 1987- Nicholas Malinovsky interviews a dying russian with a story to tell about the russian revolution, the execution of the tsar and his family and the truth of what happened to the youngest two.
Nicholas then spends his life in a state of flux between denial and investigation.
An interesting premise of a book, using photographs etc to create a new narrative and an interesting addition to the Historical Fiction genre. The cover could have been better it looks like an after thought.
19 days in June 1987- Nicholas Malinovsky interviews a dying russian with a story to tell about the russian revolution, the execution of the tsar and his family and the truth of what happened to the youngest two.
Nicholas then spends his life in a state of flux between denial and investigation.
An interesting premise of a book, using photographs etc to create a new narrative and an interesting addition to the Historical Fiction genre. The cover could have been better it looks like an after thought.
March 18, 2018
I'm fairly well read when it comes to the Romanovs and their final days, so the history in this book didn't deter me. But parts of the book are too long winded, particularly the last third, and it turned ME off, so I'm guessing the average reader would not find it very interesting at all. Parts of the story are fascinating, especially the always fun "what if?" aspect of it, but then at times it reads like a text book. Overall it's an inconsistent read.
May 2, 2018
This book is written in such a way that the reader is left questioning whether it is real or not. Is it a figment of the author’s imagination or is it a true memoir and are those genuine authenticity checks at the end? I rarely give 5 stars for a book but I loved the way this book makes you think. There are definitely a few tells within, some more obvious than others, but it was a very interesting story that had me hooked from the start.
May 9, 2018
This is a very interesting account of what might have happened to the Romanovs in Russia in 1918. The first part written as a taped conversation between the Historian and the Russian Korshunov documents events hitherto unknown and certainly captures the imagination. The narration is tied into memories if the Historian's son during that time. However the latter part of the book just becomes repetitive as the same "facts" are analysed over and over and unfortunately I lost interest
February 26, 2018
Although it's not my usual genre, I enjoyed reading this book. An original version of the well-known Romanov's mystery, written in such a clever way that it can almost fool you that this a true account. Some fascinating photographs also add authenticity to the story. Bravo Hannah Jones!
Many thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for the advance copy.
Many thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for the advance copy.
February 25, 2018
I got this because I was interested in the modern legend of Anastasia Romanov. In some ways it was interesting and I like the idea of getting a personal account transcribed, but I found it a bit long winded for me and mostly skim read it to be honest.
September 13, 2018
A gripping read about what happened to Anastasia Romanov following her family's massacre. An intriguing story that will add further fuel to the various conspiracy theories surrounding this tragic event.
May 31, 2020
This had some good moments in it but it was not for me. I did like the premise and how the story was told but it did not connect with me. I liked how it explored the Romanov family but it just fell flat for me.
I received this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
I received this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
February 25, 2018
The Malinovsky Papers by H. Jones is a brilliant historical mystery centred around the Romanov family.
Read more of my review here: http://www.bookerworm.com/reviews/205...
Read more of my review here: http://www.bookerworm.com/reviews/205...
May 3, 2018
The Malinovsky Papers is a fascinating and well written novel. Its fiction but written in such a style it makes you think it is non-fiction, with photographs and interview notes through it. I wish it were true!
2018 sees the 100th anniversary since the Romanov family died and the author has clearly done a significant amount of research in writing the book. I knew a little about the Russian Revolution but The Malinovsky Papers was so informative and really re-ignited my interest in the Romanovs and the mysteries and conspiracy theories that surround their plight. I would really recommend this book.
Thank you to Net Galley and the publishers for providing an advance copy in return for my honest opinion.
2018 sees the 100th anniversary since the Romanov family died and the author has clearly done a significant amount of research in writing the book. I knew a little about the Russian Revolution but The Malinovsky Papers was so informative and really re-ignited my interest in the Romanovs and the mysteries and conspiracy theories that surround their plight. I would really recommend this book.
Thank you to Net Galley and the publishers for providing an advance copy in return for my honest opinion.
February 24, 2018
I’ve always enjoyed books about the Tsar, his family and the house of special purpose. Many have been written as a fiction story with facts thrown in but the way this was written had me hooked from the first page. It was so interesting and I loved every single word. I could literally picture every event and description more so than with any other similar book I’ve read.
I did wonder through out if this was written as a fiction book with facts or was this account of events actually told by a man on his death bed.... either way I enjoyed it so very much. I couldn’t not put it down to go to sleep. It was one of those I can’t wait to read my book, turn the phone off and I finished it within 24hrs. I started to slow my pace to make it last longer.
I have already told my book club friends just how good it was. Whether you believe it or not I would highly recommend this book.
I did wonder through out if this was written as a fiction book with facts or was this account of events actually told by a man on his death bed.... either way I enjoyed it so very much. I couldn’t not put it down to go to sleep. It was one of those I can’t wait to read my book, turn the phone off and I finished it within 24hrs. I started to slow my pace to make it last longer.
I have already told my book club friends just how good it was. Whether you believe it or not I would highly recommend this book.
February 23, 2018
Well that took my breath away, as has been said before if your interested in Russia and it's history mainly the Romanov's then this is a book for you.
It had come close to not being written for so many reasons but i will let you read without bias. This is a account of what happened in the fatal time upto and after the e execution of the Tsar and his family, another one you say but wait till you have read it, the research and your gut reaction. This is a book i guess where it's your take that will count, you can read and if your like me Google will be used a lot or some better avenues of research as there are many.
I enjoyed this book and believe it but that is just my opinion.
I received a free copy if this book from NetGalley in return for a honest review
It had come close to not being written for so many reasons but i will let you read without bias. This is a account of what happened in the fatal time upto and after the e execution of the Tsar and his family, another one you say but wait till you have read it, the research and your gut reaction. This is a book i guess where it's your take that will count, you can read and if your like me Google will be used a lot or some better avenues of research as there are many.
I enjoyed this book and believe it but that is just my opinion.
I received a free copy if this book from NetGalley in return for a honest review
February 23, 2018
I finished this book today after not being able to put it down for much of it. I received a free copy from NetGalley to read in exchange for an honest review. There was no indication as to whether it was fiction or biography. I had assumed that it was non-fiction when I requested a copy to read. About two thirds in I started Googling the characters and realised that it actually fiction and felt somewhat duped.
The first two thirds is a series of interviews that Professor Nicholas Malinovsky, an American professor of Russian descent, makes over a period of 2 weeks in the late 1980s with Dmitri Korshunov. Korshunov is in his 80s and dying and wants to share his incredible story about his childhood and youth in Ekaterinburg, Russia. As a 16 year old he was working at the Ipatiev House as a gardener during World War I. Shortly after he started this job the owners of the house were sent away and days later the former Emperor Nicholas II, his wife and some of their children and servants were brought there. The other children followed later. Within a year the Romanov family and their close servants were executed by the Bolshevics who were imprisoning them. All the Romanovs were killed. Or were they? This has been a subject of speculation world-wide ever since with no definitive answers.
The interviews are woven with Malinovsky's summing up notes each day. It is an incredible tale of what really happen to Grand Duchess Anastasia, youngest daughter of the ex Tsar, and the rest of her family. Malinovsky was a highly regarded academic and felt unable to publish the story in his lifetime so the book is mainly set in 2003 when Andrei, Malinovsky's son, is corresponding with Hannah Jones, a student of Malinovsky, who he is entrusted to know what to do with the contents of these interviews.
It is written in the style of complete reality, alongside many photos from 1917/18 of the main characters and locations in Russia. Until about two thirds in I was still assuming that this was factual material, partly due to the inclusion of so many photographs. Alarm bells had rung at one point as Hannah Jones appeared to have taken two weeks to have read the first manuscript when it took me about 15 minutes and was so gripping that, had it been real, I would have read to the end of those manuscript in a matter of hours and not spent two weeks reading one manuscript out of fifteen.
The last third dragged. Maybe because I realised that this was a work of fiction but also as it covered a later period in history after which the graves of the slaughtered Romanovs had been found and DNA tests were being done. There was a long section when Hannah, in an email to Andrei, unpicks 3 slightly different accounts of the disposing of the bodies as recollected on two occasions in 1922 and another in 1934. Dozens of points are brought up and how the three tellings all differ slightly. This was very tedious and suddenly detracted hugely from the story for me. I'm not even sure of the point of this section.
It's a clever telling but I am still left feeling duped as I wouldn't have requested this book to read if I had known it was fiction but I have to say it was a very clever piece of writing and a gripping tale for the first two thirds.
The first two thirds is a series of interviews that Professor Nicholas Malinovsky, an American professor of Russian descent, makes over a period of 2 weeks in the late 1980s with Dmitri Korshunov. Korshunov is in his 80s and dying and wants to share his incredible story about his childhood and youth in Ekaterinburg, Russia. As a 16 year old he was working at the Ipatiev House as a gardener during World War I. Shortly after he started this job the owners of the house were sent away and days later the former Emperor Nicholas II, his wife and some of their children and servants were brought there. The other children followed later. Within a year the Romanov family and their close servants were executed by the Bolshevics who were imprisoning them. All the Romanovs were killed. Or were they? This has been a subject of speculation world-wide ever since with no definitive answers.
The interviews are woven with Malinovsky's summing up notes each day. It is an incredible tale of what really happen to Grand Duchess Anastasia, youngest daughter of the ex Tsar, and the rest of her family. Malinovsky was a highly regarded academic and felt unable to publish the story in his lifetime so the book is mainly set in 2003 when Andrei, Malinovsky's son, is corresponding with Hannah Jones, a student of Malinovsky, who he is entrusted to know what to do with the contents of these interviews.
It is written in the style of complete reality, alongside many photos from 1917/18 of the main characters and locations in Russia. Until about two thirds in I was still assuming that this was factual material, partly due to the inclusion of so many photographs. Alarm bells had rung at one point as Hannah Jones appeared to have taken two weeks to have read the first manuscript when it took me about 15 minutes and was so gripping that, had it been real, I would have read to the end of those manuscript in a matter of hours and not spent two weeks reading one manuscript out of fifteen.
The last third dragged. Maybe because I realised that this was a work of fiction but also as it covered a later period in history after which the graves of the slaughtered Romanovs had been found and DNA tests were being done. There was a long section when Hannah, in an email to Andrei, unpicks 3 slightly different accounts of the disposing of the bodies as recollected on two occasions in 1922 and another in 1934. Dozens of points are brought up and how the three tellings all differ slightly. This was very tedious and suddenly detracted hugely from the story for me. I'm not even sure of the point of this section.
It's a clever telling but I am still left feeling duped as I wouldn't have requested this book to read if I had known it was fiction but I have to say it was a very clever piece of writing and a gripping tale for the first two thirds.
March 6, 2018
The narrative of The Malinovsky Papers centres around the conversations between Prof Malinovsky and a dying Russian emigre, Dmitry Korshunov, later reported to researcher Hannah Jones, Korshunov claims to have been at the centre of events in Russia at the time of the killing of the Imperial family, and reveals the "truth" about the fate of two of the Tsar's children, Anastasia and Alexei. I really enjoyed this intriguing tale, unsure as to whether it was real or whether the story between researcher and professor was itself a fiction - this just added to the intrigue! Tailed off a bit at the end as analysis of conflicting historical sources got a bit long winded, but aside from that what a read!
April 17, 2018
I have always been interested and intrigued by the Romanovs, and found this book a fascinating read.
I think the book would have benefitted from being slightly more concise, and I wasn't that interested in the personal life of Malinovsky, but on the whole a very enjoyable and convincing read. Although apparently fictional, it certainly holds its own against so-called factual accounts of the events surrounding the downfall of the Romanovs.
I think the book would have benefitted from being slightly more concise, and I wasn't that interested in the personal life of Malinovsky, but on the whole a very enjoyable and convincing read. Although apparently fictional, it certainly holds its own against so-called factual accounts of the events surrounding the downfall of the Romanovs.
April 24, 2018
There has been much speculation over the past 100 hundred years about what happened to Anastasia, a daughter of the Tsar following his,(and his family's) murder by the Bolsheviks in 1917. The Malinovsky Papers present another picture, as told in 1986 by an old Russian emigre to an Academic Historian, Professor Malinovsky.
Dmitri Korshunov said he worked at the House of Special Purposes in Ekaterinburg at the time the Imperial family was murdered. He presents a very detailed picture to which Malinovsky applied academic detachment and thoroughness as he forensically questioned what he was told. His extensive notes did not become available until after his death, when his son shared them with a UK author (sic Hannah Jones) who had got to know Malinovsky and his family over the years. She in turn endeavoured to test the veracity of the papers etc.
The book is an excellent read which quickly absorbs the reader into the description of life at the time and subsequently until Anastasia's death. The text had an analytical quality which adds authenticity to the presentation. But is it to be believed? It certainly is credible but you, the reader, will have to decide where you stand ..... and why.
I suspect we have not heard the last of this. In the meantime I look forward to more of Hannah' Jones work. The Malonovsky sets the bar very high and she will do well to better it.
Dmitri Korshunov said he worked at the House of Special Purposes in Ekaterinburg at the time the Imperial family was murdered. He presents a very detailed picture to which Malinovsky applied academic detachment and thoroughness as he forensically questioned what he was told. His extensive notes did not become available until after his death, when his son shared them with a UK author (sic Hannah Jones) who had got to know Malinovsky and his family over the years. She in turn endeavoured to test the veracity of the papers etc.
The book is an excellent read which quickly absorbs the reader into the description of life at the time and subsequently until Anastasia's death. The text had an analytical quality which adds authenticity to the presentation. But is it to be believed? It certainly is credible but you, the reader, will have to decide where you stand ..... and why.
I suspect we have not heard the last of this. In the meantime I look forward to more of Hannah' Jones work. The Malonovsky sets the bar very high and she will do well to better it.
May 11, 2018
A very thought provoking book.
Whether it is true on not is immaterial
It was very difficult to put down
If it is true it turns history on its head
Whether it is true on not is immaterial
It was very difficult to put down
If it is true it turns history on its head
May 15, 2018
Boy, this was fun to read. 90% of this book had me hooked, walking through hallways and cooking ramen with one hand holding my phone up to read this. Towards the end, I did skip a few bits that were either boring or too technical but the bulk of this book was great.
Could I see this becoming a movie? Sure. Or at least a short series.
But the real question: who should spend their hard earned money on this book?
Almost everyone. People who like mysteries, fairy tales, romances, and historical fiction might like this book. People who are squeamish at mentions of blood and death may not want to read this.
Could I see this becoming a movie? Sure. Or at least a short series.
But the real question: who should spend their hard earned money on this book?
Almost everyone. People who like mysteries, fairy tales, romances, and historical fiction might like this book. People who are squeamish at mentions of blood and death may not want to read this.
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