Barton Book Club

Lost Roses/Martha Hall Kelly rec'd by Anjanette Stoltz

This is the story of a lifelong friendship between two strong women - and, despite a dangerous war that intervenes - is strengthened. There is almost nothing either will do to protect their families and each other - even though one, Eliza, is in the US most of the time and the other, Sofya, is in war-torn Russia. The era is pre- World War I.

A well-researched historical novel which gives a clear account of life in Russia under the Tsar for those affiliated or related to him - and how their lives change when all that has kept them safe has been destroyed. Through it all, Sofya, is determined to first, keep her family intact - and second, somehow to reach her friend, Eliza. At the same time, Eliza is making plans to leave her family in safe hands and find her friend.

It was not easy to put this book down for any length of time. It accounted for some very late nights! The novel is beautifully written, and although we move back and forth between Eliza, her family, and Sofya and hers, we are able to maintain the threads that connect it all.