Spellbinding, unforgettable true story of a family who pioneers the Ukraine in the 1800's and is trapped by the land as much as by its rulers. Over 200 relations of Huebert and Wiens families make their way to the southern Crimea and build the Village of Tchongraw. Under the spell of the ancient Krymskiye Gory Mountains of the Black Sea.  The personalities that surround the people of Tchongraw bring home the reality of what Lise's people must overcome...

This is an epic told through the actions of individuals caught up in events of history that raise them to unbelievable heights and acts of courage. Secreted diaries out of Russia from 1917-1952 and Lise's words, refute the myth and propaganda that covers up what really happened to Lise and her family--to millions under Tsars, Lenin and Stalin.

Publication of this book waited for the escape from Moscow of a cousin who was granted asylum in 1998.