From the acclaimed author of "Grandes Horizontales" comes a book that the "Washington Post" calls "a vivid portrait of a sensual and intellectual woman." Dutiful daughter, passionate lover, doting grandmother, tireless legislator, generous patron of artists and philosophers---Empress Catherine II wa[...]

Few characters in history are as fascinating or controversial as Nicholas and Alexandra. From their passionate love to their horrifying execution, they are alternately viewed as innocent victims of Bolshevik assassins or blamed for causing the Revolution themselves. Much has already been written abo[...]