Nicholas and Alexandra
Nicholas and Alexandra
Book Brief
640
Biography • Nonfiction
Russia • Early 20th Century
1967
Adult
18+ years
1140L
Super Short Summary
Nicholas and Alexandra by Robert K. Massie explores the lives of Tsar Nicholas II and his wife Alexandra, focusing on their struggles with their son Alexei's hemophilia and its impact on their rule. As discontent grows within the empire, their reliance on mystic Rasputin and missteps during World War I lead to catastrophe. Themes include political ineptitude, familial devotion, and the tragic downfall of the Romanov dynasty. Includes depictions of violence and familial distress.
Informative
Melancholic
Mysterious
Bittersweet
Dark
Reviews & Readership
32,235 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Robert K. Massie’s Nicholas and Alexandra receives praise for its meticulous research and engaging narrative, providing a gripping portrait of the last Russian Tsar and his family. Some critics note that the book occasionally leans towards romanticizing its subjects, potentially overlooking deeper political complexities. Overall, it is hailed for its accessibility and depth.
Who Should Read Nicholas and Alexandra?
Readers who enjoy intricate historical narratives, royal biographies, and the dramatic fall of empires will find Nicholas and Alexandra captivating. Fans of The Romanovs: 1613-1918 by Simon Sebag Montefiore and The Last Tsar by Edvard Radzinsky will appreciate the detailed portrayal of the final days of the Russian monarchy.
32,235 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Nicholas and Alexandra were the last Emperor and Empress of Russia, and their story is intertwined with the dramatic events leading to the Russian Revolution.
The book delves into the personal lives of the Romanov family, highlighting their deep family bonds and the influence of figures like Rasputin on their lives.
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Robert K. Massie's interest in the Romanovs was sparked by his personal connection to hemophilia, a condition that affected the royal family's only son, Alexei.
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640
Biography • Nonfiction
Russia • Early 20th Century
1967
Adult
18+ years
1140L
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