Tsarina: Book Review
Hi y’all! Today I’m sharing my review of the book Tsarina by Ellen Alpsten!
GoodReads Rating: 4/5 stars
“Tsarina” by Ellen Alpsten is a captivating historical novel that delves into the dramatic and tumultuous life of Catherine I of Russia, the first woman to rule the Russian Empire. Set in 18th-century Russia, this book is about the rise of an extraordinary woman from humble beginnings to the heights of power. With vivid storytelling and meticulous historical detail, Alpsten brings to life the remarkable journey of a woman who defied the odds to become one of the most powerful figures in Russian history.
The story begins with Marta, a peasant girl whose life takes a dramatic turn when she is sold into slavery. After a series of fortunate and unfortunate events, she finds herself in the service of Tsar Peter the Great. Her beauty, intelligence, and resilience catch the Tsar’s eye, and she eventually becomes his mistress and, later, his wife. As Catherine, she navigates the treacherous waters of the Russian court, facing intrigue, betrayal, and constant danger. Despite numerous challenges, she rises to power, succeeding Peter the Great and ruling the Russian Empire as the first Empress.
Catherine’s (Marta’s) transformation from a peasant girl to Empress is compelling. Alpsten portrays her as a complex character driven by love, ambition, and an unyielding will to survive. Her intelligence and emotional strength make her fascinating. Catherine’s journey is a testament to the power of resilience. The novel shows how she leverages her wit and charm to survive in a hostile environment.
I really enjoyed Ellen Alpsten’s writing, as she brought the brutality of the Russian court to life. Her meticulous attention to historical detail and ability to create vivid scenes make for an engaging read. The narrative is well-paced, balancing the intimate details of Catherine’s personal life with the broader historical context.
While “Tsarina” is a compelling novel, the sheer volume of historical detail was sometimes overwhelming. Additionally, the graphic depictions of violence were unsettling. The review on the front cover that says this book “makes Game of Thrones look like a nursery rhyme” is no joke. However, I understand how these elements contribute to the story’s authenticity, highlighting the harsh realities of Catherine’s world.
Whether you’re a historical fiction fan or looking for a captivating read, “Tsarina” is a great choice. I’ve wanted to get into books on historical events that I know nothing about, and I learned a lot from this one!
Thanks for reading!
