This is an outstanding book that captures in pictures many of the historical scenes that took place during the reign of the last Emperor of Russia, Nicholas II. Many of the pictures are delightful and, , the family pictures are deeply touching. The fate of the last Emperor of Russia and his family is a mystery which has intrigued people over the years. The tragic and violent circumstances of their deaths have given their life a poignant interest, but the passage of time and events has parted us from Nicholas's friends and relatives, and his property and possessions have been either destroyed or dispersed. All that remains now by way of record are photographs and this fascinating pictorial biography has drawn on some 35,000 unpublished photographs to present a vivid and immediate panorama of Nicholas II and his family. Few rulers held such power as the Emperor of Russia, and the photographs show Nicholas busy with affairs of State and attending great national occasions. But we also see him in the atmosphere he loved best with his family or with his soldiers, enjoying a game of tennis or at a regimental review. This is a photographic collection of immense historical interest, and at the same time it is the family album of a man and his family, who were so very much a part of the land they loved so well. Without a doubt, the family loved Russia, and were people of deep religious faith. Their story comes alive in this book.