Favorites of the Royal Court

In this book, a professional historian and leading expert on the Romanov dynasty, which ruled in Russia for over 300 years, presents a narrative about episodes in Russian history that have not yet gained wide recognition. The world of the royal court will be revealed not from its ceremonial side, but in a blaze of passions and a series of romantic intrigues, so that the reader will see not "characters," but people, fated by circumstances to find themselves in the most unusual social conditions. Among the main characters are the favorites of the last nine monarchs: Empress Elizabeth, Emperor Peter III, Empress Catherine II, Emperors Paul I, Nicholas I, Alexander I, Alexander II, Alexander III, and Nicholas II. The favorites often not only shared the royal bed with the autocrats, but also took center stage in all court ceremonies, occupied prominent places during royal banquets, and "considered" various matters and petitions from different individuals. Both courtiers and state officials had to take into account the opinion of each favorite.