From the author of A Most English Princess comes a rich novel about young Princess Alix of Hesse—the future Alexandra, last Empress of Imperial Russia—and her sister, Princess Ella. Their decision to marry into the Romanov royal family changed history.
They were granddaughters of Queen Victoria and two of the most beautiful princesses in Europe. Princesses Alix and Ella were destined to wed well and wisely. But while their grandmother wants to join them to the English and German royal families, the sisters fall in love with Russia—and the Romanovs.
Defying the Queen’s dire warnings, Ella weds the tsar’s brother, Grand Duke Serge. Cultivated, aloof, and proud, Serge places his young wife on a pedestal for all to admire. Behind palace gates, Ella struggles to secure private happiness.
Alix, whisked away to Russia for Ella’s wedding, meets and captivates Nicky—heir apparent to the Russian throne. While loving him deeply, Alix hears a call of conscience, urging her to walk away.
Their fateful decisions to marry will lead to tragic consequences for not only themselves and their families, but for millions in Russia and around the globe.
The Romanov Brides is a moving and fascinating portrait of two bold and spirited royal sisters, and brings to vivid life imperial Russia—a dazzling, decadent world on the brink of disappearing forever.
Born in London, Clare McHugh grew up in the United States. She also grew up fascinated by this story as her great-grandfather was a coachman who actually drove Vicky's brother, the King of England, and her son, Kaiser Wilhelm. Clare went to Harvard, studied Bismarck, and taught high school history, before becoming a newspaper reporter at The New York Post. She served most recently as the Senior Director of Editorial Operations for Time Inc's News and Lifestyle brands, 12 in total, including Time, Fortune, Money, Real Simple, Essence, Southern Living, Travel & Leisure, and Food & Wine. In that capacity, she was responsible for an editorial staff of over 250 people. Married to a fellow editor, she now works as consultant to a number of prominent media companies in New York City and has two grown children. This is her first novel.
This item is eligible for simple returns within 30 days of delivery. Return shipping is the responsibility of the customer. See our returns policy for further details.
