A Hope that Tarries | Book One in the Khrebtova Saga

This novella is set in 14th century Russia, during the years of which Ivan IV would have been prince and then king/tsar of the country. Additionally, it was during Ivan IV’s reign (1533-1584) that “Rus” became known as “Russia”, and he was the first Russian monarch to be called a “tsar”. However, this novella does not reference or mention Ivan IV—aka, Ivan the Terrible. My story is historical fiction and definitely set in its own universe.

When I was first writing this story, I was strongly inspired by Melanie Dickerson’s Hagenheim Fairytale series. I did my best to create my own royal famil—I chose a different fairytale to start with, but yes. That’s where my inspiration came from, initally.

Project Zvezda was inspired by the Cinderella fairytale, but I’ve added my own twists.

This being said, I hope you enjoy Project Zvezda. It’s a labor of love.

Feedback Appreciated: I would LOVE it if in your final review you would please let me know if you find inconsistencies or plot-holes. I'm not worried about grammar right now, my editor will look at that later. I just need to know if the story works.