I read some listeners’ complaints that Bruce Cullen’s narration sounds more fitting for a work of nonfiction than romance. It didn’t bother me though. Derek is so rigid and repressed, and I felt like the narrator effectively conveys all the frustration, confusion, and longing of the character. I’m no expert on Russian accents but I was satisfied by Joel Leslie’s portrayal of Maxim. I enjoyed his enthusiasm as well as his tentative speech, which includes him taking pauses now and then as if making sure his English is correct. It adds another layer of charm to the character.
The plot progresses pretty much as expected, but is nonetheless quite enjoyable. I would have loved to know more about Maxim’s life in Russia before he decided to come to the United States.