The German Woman by Janet Ashton

Most of what we know about Empress Alexandra of Russia, consort of Nicholas II, comes from what others have written about her.  Our views, our opinions, are largely based on biographies, histories, and original news accounts.  The latter are, in my view, are largely biased because the early 20th century reporters were limited to what they could write about.  

Nicholas and Alexandra did not have the benefit of living in a free society, nor did they have a public relations staff to counter the criticisms directed toward Alexandra.  

We do get to learn a little about Alexandra's personality through her letters to Nicholas and final diaries, but her voice has always been muted.  Others have chosen to speak for her, but the voice has not always been adequate.

Janet Ashton has given Alexandra a voice in The German Woman (Belgarun), a print on demand book that was first published in 2008.

Yes, this is historical fiction, but this is Alexandra's story through her own eyes,, aided and abetted by a very capable writer, Janet Ashton, who made copious use of excellent sources.

This is what I call a comfy read.  Settle down into a comfy chair with a cup of hot chocolate (or a glass of wine) and enjoy a good read.