For over a century the strange and tragic story of the Romanovs (the last imperial rulers of Russia) has captivated the world. It is a story of courtly intrigue, political uprisings, assassinations and the occult. But at the center of it all is the story of a family.

In this two part series I will be discussing the Romanov women, Alexandra and her daughters.

Alexandra, or Alix, not cut out for the role of Empress, devoted herself instead to motherhood. Believing that through sheer devotion and piety she might overcome the tragedies of her past and provide a life of sheltered tranquility for her family. But despite her many good intentions, nothing could keep out the "family curse" that flowed in her veins, or the creeping dread and paranoia that would begin to consume her every waking moment.