Short Synopsis
A mesmerizing novel that reimagines Tolstoy's classic tragedy Anna Karenina for our time.

Full Synopsis
Vivacious thirty-seven-year-old Anna K. is comfortably married to Alex, an older, prominent businessman from her tight-knit Russian-Jewish immigrant community in Queens. But a longing for freedom is reignited in this bookish, overly romantic, and imperious woman when she meets her cousin Katia Zavurov's boyfriend, an outsider and aspiring young writer on whom she pins her hopes for escape. As they begin a reckless affair, Anna enters into a tailspin that alienates her from her husband, family, and entire world.

In nearby Rego Park's Bukharian-Jewish community, twenty-seven-year-old pharmacist Lev Gavrilov harbors two secret passions: French movies and the lovely Katia. Lev's restless longing to test the boundaries of his sheltered life powerfully collides with Anna's. But will Lev's quest result in life's affirmation rather than its destruction?

Exploring struggles of identity, fidelity, and community, What Happened to Anna K. is a remarkable retelling of the Anna Karenina story brought vividly to life by an exciting young writer.

"An exquisite contemporary love story...a 'Moscow on the East River' that explores issues of love and capitulation that transcend its particular ethnic milieu." ---The Philadelphia Inquirer

"Reyn's sparkling insight into the Russian and Bukharan Jewish communities, and the mesmerizing intensity of her prose, make this debut a worthy remake." ---Publishers Weekly

"White has a cool, pleasant tone that helps calm the over-the-top emotions of the story, and she reads crisply, moving the story along." ---AudioFile

"With all the finery of a Gucci handbag and a perfectly fitted mink coat, Reyn captures and reveals the intricately layered culture of sausage immigrants." ---Booklist Starred Review

Booklist Review

Entertainment Weekly Bestseller