Your Presence Is Mandatory: A Novel By Sasha Vasilyuk

In Sasha Vasilyuk's debut novel, "Your Presence Is Mandatory," the Shulman family grapples with the legacy of their patriarch, Yefim, a World War II veteran harboring a dangerous secret that threatens to upend their lives.

Set in Ukraine in 2007, the story begins with Yefim's death, which prompts his widow, Nina, to discover a letter to the KGB in his briefcase. As the family reels from this revelation, they are forced to confront the truth about Yefim's past and the country he fought to defend.

Flashbacks transport readers to 1941, where a young Yefim serves as an artillerist on the Soviet-German border, determined to protect his family and homeland from the onslaught of Hitler's forces. However, surviving the war comes with unexpected sacrifices, leading Yefim to make choices that he must conceal from both the KGB and his loved ones.

Spanning seven decades, "Your Presence Is Mandatory" explores the far-reaching consequences of Yefim's actions on Nina, their children, and grandchildren. Caught between two totalitarian regimes, the Shulman family grapples with the weight of secrets and the enduring impact of wartime trauma.

Through Vasilyuk's poignant prose, the novel delves into themes of resilience, sacrifice, and the enduring power of familial bonds in the face of adversity. As the family navigates the complexities of their shared history, they ultimately find solace and grace in the midst of turmoil.

"Your Presence Is Mandatory" is a riveting tale of love, betrayal, and redemption, shedding light on the untold stories of those caught in the tumultuous currents of history. 📚❤️