Tsarina by Ellen Alpsten

This book is impeccably researched historical fiction about the life of a washerwoman named Marta who rechristened herself Catherine Alexyevna, gained the notice of Peter the Great, and became his second wife. Her cunning and ambition helped her to become the first woman ruler of her country after Peter's death. 

I love the story of this strong woman in history who I've never heard of before. Her history is fascinating and the author spares no detail when it comes to the violence,  murder,  and rape scenes (sometimes a bit too much detail).

Thank you to Ellen Alpsten and St. Martin's Press for the opportunity to read this book. I received a complimentary copy of this book through NetGalley. The views and opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.