For the teen who loves historical mysteries with a magical twist, this novel explores destiny, courage, and finding your place when two worlds collide.
A parent might reach for this book when their teen feels like an outsider or craves a story that blends real-world history with high-stakes fantasy. For readers who love historical mysteries but want a magical twist, 'Dreaming Anastasia' offers a thrilling adventure. The story follows sixteen-year-old Anne, who discovers she is part of an ancient magical lineage destined to rescue the lost Russian princess Anastasia from the clutches of the fearsome witch, Baba Yaga. Alongside the handsome and mysterious Ethan, she must embrace a dangerous quest that spans from modern Chicago to a mythical Russian landscape. This book explores themes of destiny, courage, and finding your strength, making it an excellent choice for teens who enjoy fast-paced plots, folklore, and a touch of romance.
The villain, Baba Yaga, is a menacing and frightening witch. Her actions can be creepy.
Character DeathModerate
Historical deaths are central to the plot. Supporting characters die in the present story.
Romantic ContentMild
Kissing and strong romantic feelings between the main teen characters.
Sensitive Topics
The historical murder of the Romanov family is a core part of the backstory. It is discussed directly as a violent, tragic event, but not depicted graphically in the present action. The approach to death is framed within a fantasy context of good versus evil and heroic sacrifice. The resolution is ultimately hopeful, but acknowledges loss and the weight of history.
Ideal Reader
A teen (13-16) who is fascinated by the Anastasia Romanov mystery and also loves paranormal romance and fantasy. This reader enjoys quest narratives, fated love stories, and mythology. They are likely looking for an escape that feels both epic and grounded in a real historical puzzle, and may be drawn to stories about discovering a hidden, powerful identity.
Parent Prep
A parent should be aware of the historical context of the Romanov family's execution, as it is a central, tragic element of the plot. The scenes involving Baba Yaga are menacing and can be genuinely frightening, featuring classic witch-horror tropes. The book can be read cold, but a quick search on Anastasia and Baba Yaga could enrich the experience. A parent hears their teen express a love for fantasy or historical stories, perhaps saying, "I wish my life was more exciting," or is looking for a book that makes history feel alive and magical. This book is a perfect bridge between historical fact and fantastical fiction.
Age Experience
A younger teen (13-14) will likely connect most with the adventure, the growing romance between Anne and Ethan, and the clear good-versus-evil conflict. An older teen (15-18) may appreciate the nuances of the alternating perspectives, the themes of destiny versus choice, and the darker elements of the Russian folklore woven into the narrative.
What Makes It Special
Unlike many paranormal romances, this book's unique strength is its deep, specific integration of a major historical mystery with authentic Russian folklore. Using Baba Yaga as the antagonist rather than a more generic villain gives it a distinct flavor. The inclusion of Anastasia's own point-of-view chapters provides a poignant and compelling voice that elevates the classic 'lost princess' trope.
Read plot summary
Sixteen-year-old Chicagoan Anne has vivid dreams of the Grand Duchess Anastasia Romanov, who is being held captive in a magical hut by the witch Baba Yaga. Anne soon meets Ethan, who reveals they are both part of ancient lineages fated to protect and rescue the princess. Alternating between the perspectives of Anne, Ethan, and Anastasia herself, the novel follows the teens as they accept their destinies, uncover family secrets, and travel between worlds to confront Baba Yaga in a dangerous magical showdown.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.
Discussion Prompts
1
Anne initially resists her destiny. What key event or conversation makes her shift from disbelief to acceptance? What would you have done in her position?
2
The story is told from three perspectives: Anne, Ethan, and Anastasia. How did seeing the world through each character's eyes change your understanding of the story? Whose voice did you connect with most?
3
Baba Yaga is a famous figure in Russian folklore, sometimes a villain and sometimes a helper. How does this book portray her? Do you see any moments where she is more complex than just pure evil?
4
Ethan feels the weight of his family's long-held duty. How does this pressure shape his choices and his relationship with Anne? How is his burden different from hers?
