Alexandra Feodorovna Diaries and Correspondence: Volume 2: Engagement and Marriage 1894

Alexandra Feodorovna, born Princess Alix of Hesse and by Rhine, married Nicholas II and became the last Empress of Russia. Her love for her husband and family, association with Rasputin, and her brutal murder in 1918 are well known, but up to now, her youth and early life has not been well known. Here for the first time, all her childhood and teenage diaries are presented along with a wealth of correspondence, including her letters to Queen Victoria, other relatives and members of the Russian Imperial Family. These letters reveal her to be an affectionate, emotional, caring, and passionate individual with a reflective and contemplative nature. Her ability to express her feelings, convey her desires, and discuss both personal and spiritual matters indicates a depth of character and a strong emotional bond to her loved ones. They also reveal a playful and flirtatious young woman with a strong sense of humour. Now for the first time, an English speaking audience can get to know the real Alexandra Feodorovna through her own words. This second volume presents all of Alix and Nicholas's engagement letters - a 'conversation' where they get to know each other deeply and where we learn much about them as people. The letters are supplemented with diary entries from both Alix and Nicholas providing an insight into the lives of this couple whose lives had a profound effect on 20th century history.