A review by themomwithabook
The Storyteller by Kathryn Williams

hopeful inspiring medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

Review of The Storyteller by Kathryn Williams:

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

In this reimagining of Anastasia: Jess comes across her late great-great-aunt Anna’s diaries that are written in Russian.  Hiring an interpreter, Jess and Evan realize that Aunt Anna’s diaries may be holding secrets that are much more valuable than the typical end-of-night kiss and tell.  Could Aunt Anna really have been a Romanov princess who escaped death or is this some elaborate hoax?  And what will Jess learn about herself as she looks into Aunt Anna’s past?

Oh man - how hopeful this book makes you feel!  Despite the probability that it was unlikely, the possibility that Anastasia Romanov could have survived the same fate as her family and made a life for herself was enough for me.  Williams creates a perfect blend of history and fiction.  And the character development!  It was like watching baby grow up but in a way, readers are blessed with two tales of self-actualization.  Two storylines - one a young girl fleeing a past and running into an uncertain future; and generations later, another young girl looking to the past to help guide her future; both unsure of who they want to be but most importantly, who they truly are.  The back and forth between timelines and use of diary entries to do so was captivating.  And if you like descriptive scenes - check! ✔︎  The details Williams uses to illustrate each scene is impeccable!  Kathryn Williams is truly an astounding storyteller and one can’t help but feel both transported to another time and captivated by the story.  A must read!
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