Against a Crimson Sky

By: James Conroyd Martin

Narrated by: Dawn Harvey

A magnificent epic, Against a Crimson Sky is an unforgettable tale of love, valor, and the enduring strength of the human spirit, set against the backdrop of war-torn Poland at the cusp of the nineteenth century.

The year is 1794, and the beautiful and resilient Countess Anna Maria Berezowska has narrowly escaped death amidst the chaos caused by the violent dissolution of Poland.

Anna is soon reunited with her longtime love, Lord Jan Stelnicki, and the two lovers marry even as their beloved Poland is ripped apart. As the couple struggles to raise a family in the face of an uncertain future, Anna's capricious cousin, Zofia, returns with a surprise of her own. Although Zofia's past schemes still resonate, Anna's doubts turn to fear as Jan's patriotism draws him to the battlefield.

Offering new hope for a conquered Poland, Napoleon Bonaparte arrives in all of his pomp and glory. With the aid of new Polish legions—Anna's friends and family among them—Napoleon battles his way across Europe in an effort that culminates in the doomed 1812 winter march into Russia.

Against this backdrop, Anna and Jan valiantly fight to hold on to a tenuous happiness, their country, and their very lives.

©2006 James Conroyd Martin (P)2014 Audible Inc.

Fabulous Writing and Narration

A most magnificent story written with lyrical prose and lush descriptions of individuals' feelings and scenery. Excellent historical perspective on Napoleonic times from the viewpoint of the downtrodden Poles. Wry sense of humor and incredibly deep emotional involvement in the characters makes this a true masterpiece. I loved book one in the series and book 2 was incredibly great and I cannot wait to listen to book 3!!!!

A Heartbreakingly Beautiful fact based love story

When I read a novel based on facts it is always astounded that the people of that time actually lived through those dark times. This woman lost so much, survived it, only to lose again. The author starts with a scene of a 5 year old being berated by her mother on her birthday. Little Anna was so thrilled to have a crystal bird she chose instead of a new doll for her present. All she desired was the beauty and flight of what that bird represented, yet like her Mother, life cheated her of that. The author did a great job with the book and the history of that time. Narration was great also. I wish the 3rd book was available in audio also.

Late 1790s and Early 1800s Poland . . Great Story

This is the sequel to Push Not the River, and it is just as good . . . amazing history, including Napoleon Bonaparte's wars, which many Polish men took part in hopes of liberating Poland . . . the heartbreak and hopes of the people and especially Anna and Jan Stelnicki during the war years makes the story personal and memorable . . . Zofia, Anna's cousin, still both free spirited and loved by her family, adds flavor and humor . . . Overall, an excellent listen, not to be missed . . .

Outstanding followup!

Oh my! My heart was in my throat throughout this entire tale. Of course, it is the continuation of “Push Not the River”, and it captured me every bit as much as the first. The heartbreak of the Polish people during this time is undeniable. Yet their resilience is likewise undeniable. Onward now to the third in this series. I have a feeling that I will feel quite bereft once I have finished with them. 5 stars.

1790's Poland through Russian Campaign

For those intrtested in Napoleonic history, this is an interesting read from the Polish perspective,

Continuation of Battles

This second book, in the trilogy, was a bit hard to get thorough. Way to much military battles and deaths for my comfort zone. Looking forward to reading the third book to see how all the principle character's lives finally turn out.
On a very positive note, the narration was excellent. The pronunciations of Polish words was spot on and the descriptions of day to day life, of the elite class, working class and the military are very descriptive.