…ambitious…structurally complex and psychologically intense…. Empress of the Night aims for Hilary Mantel. Stachniak’s writing is distinct, however, especially in vivid description of sensory details: perfume, sweat and the click of heels on polished floorboards.—Quill & Quire
*
…unfailing attention to detail, whether describing the pain of childbirth or the manner of a courtier’s behaviour and appearance. –National Post
*
The beauty of this historical novel lies in Stachniak’s wonderfully vivid and evocative prose. She excels at creating a strong sense of time and place, rich with sensory details. –Winnipeg Free Press
*
Forever torn between love and power, the Romanov monarch’s voice will captures fans of historical fiction from the first page. Stachniak has taken on the point of view of one of history’s most complicated and accomplished women, and the result is not to be missed.– Open Book Toronto
*
As the reader, you’re left with an intimate, up-close look at the imagined life of Catherine the Great. It is, quite simply, wonderful. –Bookreporter
*
Empress of the Night is a beautiful novel that shines in its fragile and poetic descriptions. Catherine is a memorable heroine whose reign is arguably one of the most intriguing periods in history. Stachniak succeeds brilliantly in maintaining an absorbing storyline which captivates until the very end. –Edinburgh Book Review
Polish Language Site