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Book Reviews of The Romanovs: the Final ChapterBook Review: Current-day investigation of a mystery of yesterday. Summary: 5 Stars
This was truly a great book, an excellent resource
for anyone who's always been interested by the story of Nicholas, Alexandra, and their family, but has always wanted to know the final chapter of the mystery. Beginning with the discovery of the Romanov remains, Massie traces the diplomatic, scientific, and political paths that are taken in the course of learning more about the immediate aftermath of the death of the Russian Imperial family.
Highlighted is the genetic testing undergone by the remains, as well as good explanations of the proceedures; the political negotiations in a post-Soviet Russia to ensure correct identification of the bones; and the power play between Romanov family members, members of the investigating teams, and the political leaders. As well, insight is gained on the court cases of pretenders.
For anyone interested in the period surrounding the Russian Revolution, this work provides a modern-day postscript to the historical questions of that period. Highly recommended.
Book Review: Technical and yet easy to read, a compelling true story Summary: 5 Stars
Massie relates two fascinating stories: the first involves finding the remains of the family of Russia's last Czar, and the second recounts the assertion of Anna Andersen to be the Czar's youngest daughter, Anastasia.In order to find the remains, layers of lies and bureaucracy must be untangled. Once unearthed, the task of identifying the bodies becomes a test of both science and diplomacy. The question of whether Anastasia survived the Russian Revolution proves to be fiercely debated. Personalities from all over the globe are involved in the discussion. Massie relates the various positions in an even-handed fashion and brings compelling scientific evidence to bear. The final chapter of the Romanovs proves that non-fiction can be more spellbinding than fiction. A must-read for anyone interested in Russia, forensic science, or well-crafted non-fiction. I liked Massie's _Nicholas and Alexandra_, but I LOVED this book.
Book Review: Much-Awaited Finale to 'Nicholas and Alexandra' Summary: 5 Stars
Massie is a master historian and storyteller, and this book is nearly impossible to put down. Though reading Massie's prequel, 'Nicholas and Alexandra', is not essential to understandng 'The Romanovs: The Final Chapter', it is highy recommended. Beginning with the murder of the Romanov family, then moving to the discovery and exhumation of their remains, forensic and DNA analysis and the ensuing religious and political debate over their disposition and burial, Massie weaves an accurate historical narrative that reads like the finest detective thriller. Throughout, he carefully explains-in laymen's terminology-basic aspects of genetics, DNA analysis and forensic medicine. The true identity of 'Anastasia' claimant Anna Anderson is finally revealed in this book through a careful analysis of her life and the historical and genetic evidence. A wonderful read, and extremely informative-highly recommended!
Book Review: The Romanovs: The Final Chapter by Robert K. Massie Summary: 5 Stars
This is a wonderful edition to any Romanov/Russian History/Grand Duchess Anastasia/Anna Anderson Libary. This book scientificly proves that Anna Anderson was NOT Her Imperial Highness, The Grand Duchess Anastasia Nikolaievna, but more of the simple, mentally deranged, and wanton Polish peasant, Franziska Shankowvska. It speaks of Tzar Nicholas Alexandrovich, Tzaritsa Alexandra Feodroevna (Princess Alix of Hesse), Grand Duchesses Olga, Tatiana, Maria (Marie, Mashka),and Anastasia Nikolaievna, and Tsarevich Aleksey and of course Anna Anderson/Franziska Shankowvska. It speaks of the many men and women who claimed to be Grand Duchess Anastasia and Tsarevich Alexei and the other, less over publisized Grand Duchesses (Olga, Tatiana and Maria.)
Book Review: The Romanovs: The Final Chapter by Robert K. Massie Summary: 5 Stars
This is a wonderful edition to any Romanov/Russian History/Grand Duchess Anastasia/Anna Anderson Libary. This book scientificly proves that Anna Anderson was NOT Her Imperial Highness, The Grand Duchess Anastasia Nikolaievna, but more of the simple, mentally deranged, and wanton Polish peasant, Franziska Shankowvska. It speaks of Tzar Nicholas Alexandrovich, Tzaritsa Alexandra Feodroevna (Princess Alix of Hesse), Grand Duchesses Olga, Tatiana, Maria (Marie, Mashka),and Anastasia Nikolaievna, and Tsarevich Aleksey and of course Anna Anderson/Franziska Shankowvska. It speaks of the many men and women who claimed to be Grand Duchess Anastasia and Tsarevich Alexei and the other, less over publisized Grand Duchesses (Olga, Tatiana and Maria.)
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