Catherine the Great: Portrait of a Woman tells the extraordinary story of a young princess who arrived in Russia at the age of 14 and rose to become one of history's most powerful women. Born into minor German nobility, Catherine transformed herself into an empress through sheer determination and intellect.

Possessing a brilliant and curious mind, she devoured the works of Enlightenment philosophers and, upon ascending to the throne, sought to rule the vast and backward Russian empire using their principles. Catherine corresponded with the notable figures of her time, including Voltaire, Diderot, and Frederick the Great.

Despite her aspirations to be the 'benevolent despot' idealized by Montesquieu, Catherine contended with the entrenched realities of Russian life, including serfdom. Her reign, lasting 34 years, saw her handling domestic rebellion, wars, and the tides of political change inspired by the French Revolution.

The book vividly describes her relationships with family, friends, ministers, generals, and lovers, including her weak husband Peter, her son Paul, and her significant lover Gregory Potemkin. Their correspondence and achievements together are a highlight of her story.

Massie brings historical accuracy and a deep understanding of Catherine's world, shattering myths and expressing the human drama of her life with a mastery of detail.

The best things in life happen when you least expect it. For Anna, becoming Zach’s fiancé is something she never dreamed of, and being Queen is far from the fantasy life she imagined. Fate plays a different card for her, and she takes the leap with her prince in tow. Now she’s ready to take on another name and be with her man. But fairy tale happy ever after all have their price.

All she has to do now is breathe in a little deeper, and take the plunge.