A Romanov diary

"'A Romanov diary' spans 50 years in the life of Royal Europe (1884-1934) during one of its most turbulent periods of history. Grand Duchess George (Marie) of Russia, writes of Emperors, Kings, Queens and Royal cousins in their everyday, private lives, as well as their intricate relationships which determined the course of history. "The most compelling portions of 'A Romanov diary' are the letters written by her husband, Grand Duke George, from prison after the Bolshevik revolution of 1917. These letters were smuggled from prison, and detail events up to shortly before the Grand Duke's murder in 1919. Grand Duchess George has set forth extensive portions of these letters, and the last days of the Romanov dynasty come alive. "Grand Duchess George (Marie) of Russia was the daughter of King George I of Greece and Queen Olga, Grand Duchess of Russia; granddaughter of King Christian IX of Denmark, great-granddaughter of Tsar Nicholas I, niece of Queen Alexandra and Empress Marie, and first cousin and confidant of Tsar Nicholas II. Her Highness was thus perfectly positioned to witness some of the world's most momentual historical events, and she writes of them with skill and candor. "Born at Athens in 1876, the Grand Duchess spent most of her life abroad: Russia, England, Italy--and on her return to Greece in 1940, she vowed never again to be driven into exile. As the German army advanced on Athens and the Royal family prepared to flee, Grand Duchess Marie passed away at the age of 64." (Flyleaves of paper cover). Direct descendants chiefly immigrated to the United States, where they currently live.