Told in a compelling and dramatic way, this is an account of the last 13 days in the lives of the former Tsar Nicholas and his family, set against the backdrop of Russia in turmoil. 'That perfect but rare blend of history, sense of place, human tragedy, drama and atmosphere' Susan Hill A vivid and compelling account of the final thirteen days of the Romanovs, counting down to the last, tense hours of their lives. On 4 July 1918, a new commandant took control of a closely guarded house in the Russian town of Ekaterinburg.