The Romanov Conspiracy

A Thriller

By: Glenn Meade

Narrated by: Kate Reading

Sometimes mysteries are never solved. Sometimes there are no answers. But Dr. Laura Pavlov, an American forensic archaeologist, is about to unravel a mystery that promises to solve one of the twentieth century’s greatest enigmas.

Dr. Pavlov is a member of an international team digging on the outskirts of the present-day Russian city of Ekaterinburg, where the Romanov royal family was executed by their captors in July 1918. When Pavlov discovers two bodies perfectly preserved in permafrost in a disused mine shaft, they offer dramatic new clues to the disappearance of the Romanovs and, in particular, their famous daughter, Princess Anastasia, whose murder has always been shrouded in doubt. What Pavlov discovers is about to change the accepted course of world history and hurl her back into the past - and into a maelstrom of deceit, secrets, and lies.

Based in part on historical fact, The Romanov Conspiracy is a high-tension story of trust and betrayal, of a fight between good and evil, and of love and friendship thwarted by war, all set against one of the most bloody and brutal revolutions in world history.

Glenn Meade was born in Finglas, Dublin. Nearly all his novels have been international bestsellers, translated into over twenty languages, and have enjoyed both critical and commercial success. He worked in the field of pilot training for Aer Lingus for many years and as a journalist for the Irish Times.

©2012 Glenn Meade (P)2012 Blackstone Audio, Inc.

Critic reviews

"Intriguing…Puts a fresh spin on the mystery surrounding the deaths of the Romanovs, in particular the possible escape of princess Anastasia." ( Publishers Weekly)

Great book!

WOW just WOW! This time in history has always fascinated me, it put a different life to what we already knew about the royal family, and makes you think. This book kept me on the edge of my seat!

Engrossing!

I have always been fascinated with the history of the last royal family of Russia, so this book about the end of the Romanov dynasty kept me spellbound!
I didn’t want it to end, it was that good.

Great historical fiction

Would you recommend this audiobook to a friend? If so, why?

I would recommend this book to anyone who likes historical fiction, especially if they're interested in the Romanov Dynasty, and more specifically if they like to ponder the 'what-ifs' related around the family's last days.

What did you like best about this story?

I like how the author blended fact and fiction without sounding like a history text, but also without coming up with outlandish and unbelievable plotlines to force the story to coincide with the time period

What about Kate Reading’s performance did you like?

I've listened to other audiobooks she's narrated and she always does a good job. She isn't stiff but also doesn't get overly dramatic.

Was this a book you wanted to listen to all in one sitting?

I didn't want to listen to it all in one sitting, but I've never been one to read or listen to anything over that about 100 pages at a time. If I were on a very long drive, though, I could've listened to large chunks at a time.

Fantastic

Great read and good performance. Glen Meade is quickly becoming one of my favorite authors.

Goes along but not great

I kept getting distracted by other things. Not a good sign for a story that holds your attention. Twists and turns often seem contrived.

Wonderful

Wonderful book, very captivating, felt like i lived it. Can't wait to listen to more.

Ho- Hum

Would you say that listening to this book was time well-spent? Why or why not?

Yes and no. Most of the characters were male and the narrator was female attemtping to also pull off Russian accents for male characters, began to grate on the nerves.

What did you like best about this story?

It was an interesting twist to the story of what happened to the Romanov family. Quite surprising actually and believable.

What didn’t you like about Kate Reading’s performance?

Her attempt at narrating for male characters with Russian accents.

If this book were a movie would you go see it?

Possibly, it would have to move along faster.

Any additional comments?

The story took a while to develop, too long, last 1/4 of the book was the best part. Could have been better, the story line was rather good. Better choice of naarator needed for this particular story.

Kept me intrigued

I liked everything about this book. Lots of names to keep track off which could be a challenge at times. I will actually listen to this again down the road!! Very entertaining. Narration was excellent! Story riveting!

Interesting twist on history...

Would you consider the audio edition of The Romanov Conspiracy to be better than the print version?

I wouldn't know

Who was your favorite character and why?

Lydia. She was a tough, strong, woman, with passion and heart.

What aspect of Kate Reading’s performance would you have changed?

The different Russian men were hard to keep straight.

Did you have an extreme reaction to this book? Did it make you laugh or cry?

Ultimately, I felt sad...same as when I read about this period of time as a History major. It also made me feel disgust for the Reds and their leaders right up there along with Hitler and his cronies.

Any additional comments?

I liked the interwoven relationships, although sad, the connections revealed were one of the devices that kept the book interesting.

Excellent book

I loved the book & loved the reader. I knew exactly who was talking, the reader did such a good job. I want more of Mr. Meade's work.