The memoirs of a lady-in-waiting who attended the Empress Alexandra from the time of her marriage to Nicholas II up to the Romanovs’ exile to Siberia. Mouchanow discusses Alexandra’s loving relationship with Nicholas and their children, difficulties in dealing with Nicholas’ mother, her circle of friends (including Rasputin), role in the events and decisions which led to the dynasty’s downfall, and her life as a prisoner prior to Siberian exile. Throughout, the author writes of Alexandra with compassion and supports her sympathetic portrayal of the Empress with numerous anecdotes illustrating Alexandra’s intelligence, grace, and concern for her family and the Russian nation.