Tsarina by Ellen Alpsten

Peter the Great's wife began in poverty as a servant who seized an opportunity while being handed around Peter's generals by catching the eye of the Tsar. She was smart, manipulative and more than a bit lucky in her rise to the top and then staying in favor. In a world where the only way a woman could assure her place at court was to bear the Tsar a son, Marta as she was called, had a shrewd mind for battle and she didn't shy away from fighting dirty. That is what was needed to succeed in Peter's court where sex, violence and politics were part of every day life. This is a magnificent account of a woman who came from nothing and became one of Russia's most important leaders, succeeding in a man's world. A powerful debut for historical readers who love a little scandal, a bit of temptation and a healthy dose of politics - this book will satisfy on all counts.  4 stars