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The Romanov Legacy: Fall of an Empire
Fred G. Baker’s The Romanov Legacy is a compelling historical fiction novel that plunges readers into the turbulence of revolutionary Russia. Told through the eyes of multiple characters, including Dr. Maxim Petrov, a jeweler entrusted by the Romanovs to smuggle their wealth out of a crumbling empire, the story offers more than just a treasure hunt. It delves deeply into the chaos of war, the bonds of loyalty, and the desperate fight to preserve a legacy amid widespread destruction. From the opulence of palaces to the frozen desolation of icy wastelands, the novel vividly captures a nation in the grip of war. The Romanovs—no longer secure in their position as rulers—are forced to battle for their survival and their place in history. Betrayals, shifting alliances, and a pervasive sense of danger maintain a relentless tension throughout the narrative, leaving readers unsure of whom to trust. Beneath the intrigue lies a profound question: can hope endure when all seems lost?
Set against the backdrop of the Russian Civil War, the story highlights the loyalists’ struggle to protect the Tsar’s family from terrorists and the rising Communist regime. Blending historical fiction with romance and intrigue, Baker’s tale hooks the reader from the opening pages with its richly descriptive setting. More than the fall of a dynasty, it reveals the human side of history where every decision carries monumental stakes.
The author immerses readers in the atmosphere of revolutionary Russia, where long, bitter winters and the looming specter of collapse add to the tension. What sets this novel apart is its balance of sweeping historical events with intimate, personal stories. Baker doesn’t merely reimagine the end of an empire; he weaves threads of escape, love, and sacrifice into a tapestry where every choice feels like the turn of a knife. Survival comes at a cost that none of the characters are fully prepared to pay. This delicate balance between grandeur and personal stakes makes the story both powerful and deeply affecting.
The plot brims with twists and turns, delivering genuine surprises while keeping the stakes high. As the Romanovs’ world disintegrates, the constant sense of urgency keeps the reader engaged. Moments of opulence and survival juxtapose sharply, creating a dynamic rhythm that propels the story forward. Some scenes are genuinely heart-pounding, and the transitions between settings are handled with finesse, making the contrasts all the more striking.
In the first half of the book, the dialogue sometimes feels too modern for me. These moments pulled me out of the narrative just as the tension started to build. Yet, when the prose focuses on the setting and emotions of the characters, it excels. Baker’s descriptions of Russia’s failing empire—its deserted streets, biting cold, and pervasive sense of collapse—are hauntingly evocative. In these moments, the setting becomes a character in its own right, amplifying the story’s emotional depth. The Romanovs are portrayed as more than symbols of a fallen empire. Baker gives them humanity, capturing their fears, hopes, and resilience in the face of overwhelming odds. The passing days and shifting landscapes create a sense of inevitability, yet the story leaves space for the reader to ponder what is real and what is lost to history.
The Romanov Legacy shines as a richly atmospheric and emotionally resonant novel. It leaves readers reflecting not only on the fall of an empire but also on the fragile threads of memory and legacy that endure when history tries to erase them. For those who enjoy historical fiction infused with intrigue and emotional weight, this book is a worthy addition to their shelves.
Pages: 286 | ASIN : B0DKCG6KDW
US Commissioned Warship
Intrepid Spirit follows a modern-day Navy Commander who is sent to “Old Ironside” for a PR cruise that turns into a battle with terrorists using antiquated weaponry. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
The inspiration for the story was the events of 9/11. It was a reminder that, in effect, the Barbary Coast war of the early 1800s never really ended. That war prominently featured the U.S.S. Constitution, “Old Ironsides” a ship I read about extensively as a boy when I was fascinated by the age of sail. Research revealed that the ship is the oldest ship in the world and, significantly, still a US commissioned warship. Readers of the book will learn how important that factor is to the plot.
What character did you enjoy writing for? Was there one that was more challenging to write for?
The main character, Captain Moses Redding, was a challenge. Motivated by politics, the treatment he received from the navy over what most would consider a heroic action ignites a bitterness in him. His transfer to command of the Constitution on a PR cruise is purgatory for this man of action. The difficulty for me was in showing expressions of that bitterness without allowing it to overwhelm the character. I needed to show him to be a complex character that includes very likable traits and a depth that is key to the transformation in his character arc.
What research did you do for this novel to ensure that you captured the essence of the story’s theme?
Intrepid Spirit was heavily researched in every aspect of the plot down to the smallest details. They included specifics regarding the US Navy now and in the age of sail, modern-day and historic Islamic influences around the world, the Qur’an itself, Muslim beliefs, geographic, astrological, flora, fauna, and meteorological details, miscellaneous historic points and every detail of the ship herself, including her reputation as a haunted vessel, which prompted a key element of the plot.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when can your fans expect it to be out?
Not currently working on another book, but have compiled notes on another military action novel that I believe will share the kind of elements that make Intrepid Spirit distinct in the genre.
Author Links: GoodReads | Website | Amazon
Onboard is the alluring but high-spirited Dr. Miriam Hannah. She’s a naval historian and the top aide to Vice President Virginia Mitchell, point person on the peace talks. A battle of the sexes ensues between the mutually attracted, but conflicted lovers.
While terrorists abduct VP Mitchell in a plot to destroy the talks and ignite a world-wide jihad, the haunted Constitution mysteriously intervenes in Redding’s personal transformation. He returns the favor by ordering the crew trained in her antique weapons, unaware how vital that soon will be.
Intrepid Spirit
David Tunno’s Intrepid Spirit audiobook takes listeners on a thrilling voyage through historical and contemporary naval adventures. The story begins in 1805, off the coast of Libya, where Commodore Edward Preble commands the USS Constitution in a daring mission against Barbary pirates. This gripping prologue sets the stage for a narrative that seamlessly transitions to the present day, weaving together tales of naval warfare, strategy, and personal valor across centuries.
Tunno’s story is both engaging and meticulous, capturing the essence of naval life with vivid descriptions and well-researched historical contexts. The depiction of Commodore Preble’s strategic brilliance and the detailed recounting of Lieutenant Stephen Decatur’s audacious mission to burn the captured Philadelphia are particularly compelling. Tunno’s portrayal of these historical figures is not only informative but also brings their characters to life, making readers feel the tension and excitement of their exploits.
Redding’s struggle with bureaucracy and the ethical dilemmas he faces in the Persian Gulf provide a stark contrast to Preble’s clear-cut battles, yet they do not always achieve the same level of engagement. Despite this, Redding’s character development and the challenges he encounters reflect the complexities of modern naval operations and the often murky waters of international politics.
One of the strengths of Intrepid Spirit is its ability to highlight the enduring spirit and resilience of naval officers across different eras. The parallels drawn between Preble’s and Redding’s experiences underscore the timeless nature of courage, leadership, and the moral quandaries faced by those in command. Tunno’s ability to intertwine these narratives adds a layer of depth to the story, emphasizing that while technology and geopolitical landscapes may change, the core values and challenges of naval service remain constant.
Intrepid Spirit is a captivating audiobook for anyone interested in naval history and military strategy. David Tunno’s narration is great and makes the story even more engaging, drawing listeners deeper into the world of naval adventures and historical drama. Tunno’s detailed narrative and character-driven storytelling make it a compelling audiobook that both educates and entertains. I would highly recommend it to history buffs, military enthusiasts, and anyone who enjoys a well-crafted tale of bravery and strategic ingenuity on the high seas.
Duration: 10 hours and 18 minutes | ASIN: B0BGM7518F
Toxic and Polarized Political Fishbowl
Enemies Domestic follows a woman on her first day as the White House Press Secretary who is confronted by a reporter with an agenda about whether or not she is planning to have an abortion, placing her career and life in danger. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
I got the idea for Enemies Domestic when Supreme Court Justice Samuel Alito’s decision leaked overturning the 1973 Roe v. Wade ruling legalizing a woman’s right to have an abortion. My protagonist, Lark Chadwick, was pregnant, but ambivalent about becoming a single parent. I wanted to show what it might be like to have an unwanted pregnancy in a post-Roe era.
Lark Chadwick is a woman with strength. What do you think makes her a valuable and worthy heroine?
Like all of us, Lark is an imperfect person. She has shortcomings and weaknesses. Her struggle to overcome her anger issues and impulsiveness is put to the supreme test in Enemies Domestic. What makes Lark a valuable and worthy heroine is her willingness to face and fight her personal demons.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
I feel that choice is the ultimate theme in Enemies Domestic. Lark is forced to make the excruciatingly personal choice of abort-or-not-to-abort in a highly toxic and polarized political fishbowl–much like what we, as a country, are currently experiencing. Lark’s decision is complicated and nuanced. And it’s happening at a time when a dictator becomes president. That theme of choice is being played out in real time as this country is about to choose between Democracy and Authoritarianism.
What is the next book that you are working on and when can your fans expect it to be out?
I’ve begun making preliminary notes on the next book in the Lark Chadwick series, but it’s too soon to get into specifics other than to say the story will pick up where Enemies Domestic left off. I’m also working on a memoir (Working Title: Pivot Points: Plot Twists on the Path to Personal Integrity.) I’m hoping the memoir will be published in 2025, but the next novel might take a while longer.
Author Links: GoodReads | X (Twitter) | Facebook | Website | Amazon
Enemies Domestic, Book Six in the Lark Chadwick Mystery series: On her first day as White House Press Secretary, Lark Chadwick is confronted on live television by a reporter with an agenda: “Are you, or are you not, planning to abort your unborn child?” His question puts Lark in the crosshairs of extremists on both sides of the highly fraught abortion issue. Ambivalent about becoming a single mother in the post-Roe era, and grieving the death of her boyfriend, Lark is now forced to make her abort-or-not-to-abort decision in a highly toxic, politicized, and polarized fishbowl. At stake: her sanity—and her life. In the political thriller Enemies Domestic, his most important and controversial book to date, former CNN editor John DeDakis dramatically and thoughtfully tackles the hot topics of abortion, QAnon, White Christian Nationalism, and mental illness at a time when America itself is teetering between democracy and authoritarianism.
Blood Sapphire’s Revenge
Blood Sapphire’s Revenge by Dr. Bruce Farmer delivers a fierce female lead, military intrigue, globe-trotting protagonists, and a fast-paced adventure. Haddy Abrams, a powerful protagonist and military sniper, is fending off direct attacks on her life after successfully neutralizing a target. It’s refreshing to see a woman in this genre who doesn’t need rescuing and whose role isn’t limited to being a love interest.
Detective Wolf James, the male lead, finds himself entangled in an unpredictable case. Both protagonists grapple with their own demons as they navigate life-threatening challenges. In a genre reminiscent of Jack Reacher or Tom Clancy, female characters often fall into the roles of romantic interests or damsels in distress. Farmer breaks this mold with Haddy, who is powerful and self-assured, facing her inner turmoil without undervaluing her worth. The narrative is fast-paced, spanning approximately 27 days and covering extensive ground both figuratively and literally. While the short, engaging chapters keep the story moving, the multiple perspectives can sometimes be challenging to follow. This technique maintains reader engagement but requires attention to keep track of whose viewpoint is being presented and its connection to the overall plot.
Readers who enjoy military settings, strong female leads, and action-packed stories will find Blood Sapphire’s Revenge a compelling read. Despite its twists and occasional complexity, Farmer’s debut novel makes a strong impression. Readers will be eager to see whether he continues with these characters in future works or delves into new stories. This book is a valuable addition to any action lover’s collection.
Pages: 398 | ASIN : B09S5KCRK6
Unrelenting Optimism
Stolen Lives follows a journalist who uses her intuitive gifts to draw a connection between endangered children during the Spanish Civil War and babies missing in present-day Spain. Where did the idea for this novel come from?
In 2019, I made my second trip to Spain to research settings and story ideas for Stolen Lives, the sequel to Zahara and the Lost Books of Light. I was very fortunate to have an opportunity to meet María Bueno, who at the time was President of SOS Bebés Robados (SOS Stolen Babies). María shared her personal story with me in the same openly emotional way that, in the book, Fabiana Carrasco tells Alienor about the kidnapping of her own baby. I admired María’s honesty and courage and promised her I would bring as much of the story of Spain’s stolen babies to light as I could in my next work of fiction.
Back in Seattle, I started to write while continuing to do background research—and that’s when found what I immediately recognized as an important story thread—the shipping of children by their parents to the USSR for “safe-keeping” during the Spanish Civil War. Hadn’t their lives been stolen too, when Stalin refused to let them return to Spain for more than twenty years? What if one of the Niños de Rusia was recruited by the KGB and had conflicting loyalties? Finally, I had enough “what ifs” to get down to serious storytelling.
What are some things that you find interesting about the human condition that you think make for great fiction?
I’d say that humankind is constantly evolving, moving forward into the unknown no matter how much we pretend to control our lives. Hence our fascination with history, our way of trying to cope with events that were overwhelming at the time they happened. This is one reason that Alienor, the protagonist of the Zahara Series, has the gift of second sight – Vijitas. She sees through the eyes of her female ancestors and this allows the reader to do the same—to feel and touch the past. Although a seasoned journalist, Ally also believes that if we preserve knowledge we just might start to learn from our mistakes. This unrelenting optimism is one of the things I find most interesting about the human condition.
The other human quality that fascinates me is the duality built into the human psyche. As a novelist, I am sworn to endowing each character I create with enough flaws and illusions to balance their occasional heroism or selfless acts. This constant tension from dueling energies serves to soften the clay, allowing me to populate the page with humans who readers can identify with and care about.
What were some of the trials that you felt were important to highlight in main character Alienor?
Alienor is an investigative reporter with lots of heart, which in her case means being willing to take sides when she can make a difference rather than merely observe, write, and email her copy to the Seattle Courier. In Zahara and the Lost Books of Light, she literally swears allegiance to the librarians who are guarding precious books saved from the Inquisition. In Stolen Lives, she is cunningly pulled into a decades-old struggle over ownership of a crate of stolen gold coins. Although she always emerges with words on paper, the stories she ends up writing are much more complex, exciting, and dangerous than expected. Her love affair with Mico also challenges her to learn how to compromise, a skill she’s never successfully practiced.
Can fans of the Zahara series look forward to a third installment? What are you currently working on?
Currently, I am enjoying playing simple classical guitar pieces as I let my subconscious cook up some ideas for Book Three.
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Website | Amazon
Stolen Lives begins during World War II on the Island of Rhodes and takes the reader on a suspense-filled journey through the decades to present day Spain.
Blood Sapphire’s Revenge
Blood Sapphire’s Revenge, by Dr. Bruce Farmer, is a multifaceted thriller that takes readers on a gripping journey across various global landscapes, expertly weaving multiple storylines filled with complex characters. Set against a backdrop of military operations, international crime, and deep personal struggles, this novel showcases Farmer’s talent in creating a vivid and interconnected narrative. In Yemen, we’re introduced to Staff Sergeant Haddy Abrams and Sergeant Shira Alian on a high-stakes mission against Al Qaeda leader Anisur Salam. Farmer’s detailed depiction of their harrowing journey through Yemen’s rugged terrain and their fight for survival is both captivating and intense.
The narrative then shifts to Ukraine with the character “X,” an oligarch involved in illicit activities. X’s haunted past and his ties with Salam add a dark layer of complexity to the plot. This subplot provides an insightful glimpse into the world of international crime and the psychological depth of its players. Parallel to the action-packed sequences, the book explores Haddy’s internal battles. Her character development, marked by personal demons and a nuanced relationship with Shira, adds a significant emotional dimension to the story. Adding to the novel’s diversity, the storyline of Detective Liam “Wolf” James in New York introduces crime and police procedural elements. His dedication and personal vendetta against a drug lord contribute to the novel’s rich tapestry of interconnected plots.
Farmer’s skill in blending military action, psychological drama, and intricate global intrigue is noteworthy. Each subplot, while distinct, seamlessly contributes to the overarching narrative, making Blood Sapphire’s Revenge an engaging read for fans of complex thrillers that span continents and delve into the depths of both external conflicts and internal struggles.
Pages: 398 | ASIN : B09NYJT6BX
Long-Term Effects of War
Foxholes follows a combat veteran now working as a paralegal who is haunted by things that happened back in Afghanistan and the man who got away with murder. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
I was stationed in Afghanistan during my time in the Air Force. When the U.S. started withdrawing from the country in 2021, I thought a lot about my time there. As the memories came back, the writer part of my brain realized that a military outpost in Afghanistan would make a great setting for a murder mystery, and the idea behind the story was born.
Vince struggles with his past and the ghosts he brought home from Afghanistan he tried to forget. What were some driving ideals behind your character’s development?
I wanted Vince to have a strong personal motivation for solving the mystery, so I connected the murder to his combat experiences, which were life-changing for him. I wanted to show how those experiences continued to impact him years later. Ultimately, Vince’s inner conflict is deciding between two opposing ideals that arose from his time in Afghanistan: a desire to live a safe and quiet life and taking risks to see justice served. Navigating that internal conflict, coupled with the external conflicts he has with Nick Batson, gives him some complexity and provides an opportunity for him to grow and change during the story.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
The long-term effects of war is one of the themes I explored in the book; it was challenging to do that in the context of a thriller, so I tried to keep a light touch on it and make it a factor in the story without overpowering the action. I also explore the idea of conflict and how we show what we really believe under extreme pressure. The title of the book alludes to a military saying, “There are no atheists in the foxhole.” Vince has to decide what he really values and who he’s going to be in the face of danger; his foxholes are both in combat and in civilian life as an amateur sleuth. Finally, the entire Marcotte/Collins series explores the idea of the past shaping our present.
What will the next book in that series be about, and when will it be published?
I enjoyed Hadley Collins’ character in Foxholes so much that the next book, Captives, will tell her story. It’s about Hadley, Vince, and Eddie investigating a missing child case and discovering some personal connections Hadley has to the case. Like Foxholes, the team makes some powerful enemies during their investigation, and the danger factor is ratcheted up a few notches this time. I’m really excited to share it with everyone; it comes out on June 6, 2024.
Author Links: GoodReads | Twitter | Facebook | Website | Amazon
Combat veteran Vince Marcotte has hung up his uniform in favor of a quiet, comfortable life. But, ghosts from his past are raised when Nick Batson announces his Senate campaign. Vince is convinced Nick got away with murder 15 years ago when they were both deployed to Afghanistan. When another person close to Nick dies under mysterious circumstances, Vince enlists the help of amateur detective Hadley Collins to prove Nick’s guilt. As they grow closer to the truth, they become Nick’s targets and soon learn that he’ll stop at nothing to achieve his political goals. As Nick barrels toward a campaign victory, Vince races to discover what really happened in Afghanistan. Will he survive long enough to bring Nick to justice?
Foxholes, the first in the Marcotte and Collins Investigative Thriller series, is a page-turning crime thriller. Smart, engaging, and suspenseful, Travis Tougaw’s debut novel will grab your attention on the first page and not let go. Buy it today and get to know your new favorite detectives!
LITERARY TITAN 