“July 17, 1918 — from the writings of Marie Nicolaevna Romanovna, age 19. Midnight, in bed with her sister, Anastasia (Shvybz), in the Ipatiev Mansion in Ekaterinburg, during the last night of their lives.
So much of my story unfolds by moonlight. This is a tale of midnight wakings and forced marches before dawn. Since this nightmare began, I do not dare undress, even to go to bed. I wear my … wear my dressing gown, my hair is prepared, and my shoes are set beside me. I have no idea when we will be summoned to rise. We have moved, as in the worst of dreams, slowly toward this place. There is no logic other than the sleepwalker’s obedience — to follow instruction which we cannot resist: an actual lunacy.
Now, I have control only of this — my record of what happened to us, to me. I have committed a single sin, my one terrible transgression. I pray to be absolved.
In this recording of memory lies all meaning to my life. Let my will prevail in this, my ultimate wish, to salvage something of value from this tragedy. The rest, as my mother says, is in God’s hands.
When I look back, as I must in the short time allotted to me now, I can see the exact moment when our lives changed: at last light, on the thirteenth of March, 1917.”
Here, in startling new historical detail, based on original diaries and letters, is the Romanov tragedy told from the point of view of the Tsar’s third daughter, Marie, Anastasia’s closest, older sister. Marie’s story is unique-only Marie crossed the frozen Siberian river with her parents, and only Marie shared the full 78 days and nights in ‘The House of Special Purpose.’
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hGreat book. I loved the well developed characters and the suspense, even though we know the ending.
This was the most well-written book on the Romanovs! With the find that proves the answer of what happened to the family!
An intimate and believable look at the Romanovs’ last year.
A little different book from what I normally read. Stayed with me long after I finished it.
Enjoyed it even though I knew the ending
Well written detailed account mixing historical with personal.
Sad to relive the gruesome end but it’s accuracy and touching relationships make it worthwhile.
Haunting. Very well written. Unforgettable.
I had read other books about the family. This book gave a page turning story.
Great history about a tragic time. Made the family so real not just something one studied in school.
Better understanding of other country happenings.
Loved, loved loved this historical novel. So much so that I ignored life and read from start to finish. Then I ordered more of her books. I have since recommended this author and her books to everyone.
WOW
I didn’t realize or remember from history class how long they were held captive. Then the horrible execution.
Very interesting read.
I would highly recommend especially with the 100th anniversary coming up 2018.