After something that crazy, will they be able to move forward together or not? It is like a severe form of couple’s therapy, where they both get to see each other’s deepest secrets. I really like how this time traveling also helps Ethan and Anne’s relationship come into sharper focus. The key to defeating him lays within the past, and hopefully Anne can figure it all out before it’s too late. Anne’s new ability to travel back and forth through time definitely gives them an advantage, especially since it seems that Viktor has learned how to do the same thing. Can she accept the consequences of her actions, even if it means the life of a loved one? What is she willing to sacrifice to stop Viktor?Īll of the hints and stories that Anne and Ethan have learned so far are brought together in a rather unique manner they time travel to see the events for themselves. Each lady’s response to loss within this story feels like a lesson for Anne. Anne’s fear of losing anyone else makes her react rashly, without thought to her own safety. The losses that each of the females in her family, her mother and her grandmother (the rusalka), have suffered have had a profound effect on all.

Only when she stands up and takes responsibility for her actions and the magic she now wields, can Anne truly understand how she has been treating everyone. Her character has been acting selfless in regards to doing whatever it takes to save her friends, but it also shows her selfishness as well. Even though she made a deal with Baba Yaga, she still tried to hide her head in the sand. The “stories within stories” theme that reappears time and time again gives the character’s hints on how to deal with their current situations and in this case Viktor and his recovered vitality.Īnne’s reluctance to get involved with all things magic has come to an end. This one highlights the story of Koschei the Deathless and the lengths he goes to secure immortality. Secrets uncovered and truths revealed, Anastasia Forever leaves us with a hunger for a brighter future than a fear of the unknown.Įach book in this series shines a light on a new Russian folktale. Now that Viktor is loose again, Anne and her friends must find a way to stop him, permanently, before he destroys them all. She takes the initiative and starts being proactive, instead of reactive.

This installment sees Anne starting to put the pieces together that has been handed to her in the last two books. Up until now, Anne Michaelson has had a hard time adjusting to all this “magic stuff.” For a girl that would rather be making out with her boyfriend, time and time again she finds herself in the middle of events beyond her comprehension and control.

Opening Sentence: After a certain number of lifetimes, one becomes capable of much if only out of sheer repetition. Quick & Dirty: Anne’s power comes with great responsibility and it’s time for her to accept it.

Dreaming Anastasia by Joy Preble