A review by booktalkwithkarla
The House of Special Purpose by John Boyne

emotional informative medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? It's complicated
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.5

The House of Special Purpose starts with Georgy remembering his past as he grieves his wife Zoya’s illness and imminent death. Alternating chapters of key moments in Georgy’s and Zoya’s lives going backwards with what led to their meeting/marriage going forward until they meet at a pivotal historical moment. John Boyne’s pacing, writing, and organization of the novel are brilliant. This imagined alternate history of the Romanov family is fascinating and believable. Reading about Russian history interspersed with a love story was great. 

I really enjoyed the reading experience, regularly reading when I should have been sleeping. This is a great historical fiction pick and continues my respect and appreciation for Boyne.