War and Passion - Borodins, Bk 2 Author:Leslie Arlen In the flame-lit world of clashing Red and White Russian armies, a proud, aristocratic family -- the Borodins -- accustomed to the privileges and power of their rank, now find themselves desperately clinging to their undying dreams. — Peter, the last Borodin prince, becomes obsessed with finding the woman he loves, Judith Stein, a Jewish activist... more ». But Judith, after serving three years as a political prisoner in Siberia, where she endured rape and other unspeakable abuses, fears her beloved will reject her. Because of her involvement with the prince, she is forced to act as bait in a dangerous plot to eliminate the "mad monk" of Russia, Rasputin, who has a strangling hold over the royal family. Judith agrees to the plan when she discovers that Rasputin has indulged in sensuous lovemaking with countless woman of high breeding, including Judith's soon-to-be-married younger sister.
Meanwhile, treacherous Michael Nej, the servant, returns from exile to lead the Red army and finds unexpected love. And willful Princess Ilona, once Michael's lover, is trapped, along with George, her American journalist husband, in a country gone mad with the fever of revolution.« less
The Borodins are born to privilege and power. But they are swept up in a war. As the old ruler falls, the golden empire turns to dust. How will they survive.. A great historical novel.