Escape of the Grand Duchess
By Susan Appleyard
By Susan Appleyard
Publication Date: 27th July 2025
Publisher: Ingenium Books Publishing Inc.
Page Length: 412
Genre: Biographical Historical Fiction
Escape of the Grand Duchess by Susan Appleyard is a gripping historical novel that shatters the notion that royalty is synonymous with privilege and ease. At its heart is Grand Duchess Olga Alexandrovna, the youngest sister of Tsar Nicholas II—a Romanov who defied a doomed destiny and survived.
Unlike her ill-fated brother and his family, Olga’s story is one of resilience, sacrifice, and daring escape. Trapped in a loveless marriage to a reckless gambler—who harbours secrets of his own—she finds hope in the arms of a dashing army lieutenant. But before she can claim her own happiness, she must first endure the brutal realities of World War I, where she serves as a nurse on the frontlines.
As the Russian Empire teeters on the brink of collapse, the infamous Siberian mystic Rasputin tightens his grip on the imperial court, setting the stage for revolution. With the Bolsheviks seizing power and the Romanovs marked for death, Olga faces an impossible choice: risk everything to stay or flee into the unknown with her true love and their children.
Rich in historical detail and driven by an unforgettable heroine, Escape of the Grand Duchess is a sweeping riches-to-rags tale of survival, love, and the strength it takes to forge a new life in the face of unimaginable upheaval.
During the tumultuous final years of the Russian Empire, Nicholas II and his family faced a tragic demise in a dimly lit basement, marking a dark chapter in history. Yet, this harrowing event was not the end of the tribulations the Russian royal family endured. In “Escape of the Grand Duchess” by Susan Appleyard, readers are introduced to the compelling story of Grand Duchess Olga Alexandrovna.
Grand Duchess Olga Alexandrovna of Russia, born on June 13, 1882, was the youngest daughter of Tsar Alexander III and the beloved sister of Tsar Nicholas II. She was part of the illustrious House of Romanov, which ruled Russia for over three centuries. From early childhood, it was clear that Olga’s life was to be governed by duty and expectation. Raised in the luxurious yet restrictive environment of the imperial court, she was expected to make a politically advantageous marriage, bear children, and lend unwavering support to her brother as he managed the weighty responsibilities of ruling a nation on the brink of upheaval. As the Russian governmental landscape began to shift dramatically in the early 20th century, Olga found herself at a poignant crossroads, torn between familial loyalty and personal desires. Olga emerges as a richly complex character—deeply human, she grapples with her sense of duty while yearning for love, self-fulfilment, and authenticity within a rigidly defined role. The emotional weight she bears is palpable; the expectations thrust upon her often leave her feeling trapped in a gilded cage. Her interactions with family members offer profound insights into her character, displaying moments of quiet strength as well as vulnerability. Olga’s keen observations of the world around her reveal her intelligence and thoughtfulness, while her distinctive voice reflects a blend of pragmatism and sensitivity. In navigating the tumultuous waters of her royal existence, she endeavours to maintain her dignity and poise amidst the grand spectacle of imperial life. However, as events spiral out of control, rumours suggest that her brother, his wife and his children have been brutally murdered, which leaves Olga to grapple with fear for her own family’s safety. Faced with an agonising decision, she must choose between remaining with her mother, who is steadfastly determined to stay in Russia despite the growing dangers, or fleeing the country with her husband and children in search of safety. Throughout her tumultuous journey, readers witness a courageous woman struggling to assert her agency, seeking a path that honours her royal lineage while striving for her own dreams. As she navigates the dangerous circumstances of betrayal, loss, and fear in a nation that has turned hostile toward her family, Olga’s resilience shines through. Her courage in the face of overwhelming adversity is extraordinary, and through vivid storytelling, Appleyard masterfully brings the intricacies of Olga’s character to life.
The Empress Dowager Maria is a proud and initially revered figure within the royal family, known for her sharp intellect and strong presence. From the very beginning of the novel, it becomes evident that she perceives her son’s inadequacies for leadership, as he frequently seeks her counsel on political matters. Despite her wisdom and experience, her position is threatened when Empress Alexandra gradually starts to exert her influence over her husband, leading him to disregard his mother’s advice. This shift sets off a chain of events that culminates in disastrous consequences for the royal family. Maria embodies the qualities of a traditional ruler; she understands the intricacies of governance and the expectations placed upon an empress. She revels in the art of social engagements, meticulously planning gatherings that showcase her family’s prestige and strengthen their ties with the nobility. In stark contrast, Alexandra’s reluctance to learn the roles and responsibilities of an empress frustrates Maria, as she watches the younger woman neglect the traditions and decorum that she believes are vital for the stability of the monarchy. As the political landscape begins to crumble around them, Maria’s determination to remain in Russia intensifies. However, her steadfast resolve not to abandon her homeland places not only her own safety at risk but also endangers her entire family. Maria’s journey is vividly portrayed as one of opulence turned to exile. Throughout the novel, her character serves as a poignant reminder of the burdens of leadership and the complexities of familial loyalty in times of crisis.
Nicholas II is depicted as a ruler who is constantly treading water, struggling to navigate the challenges of his position even during peacetime. Having ascended to the throne with little preparation for the immense responsibilities of being Tsar, he initially leans heavily on the guidance of his mother, who serves as a significant influence in his early decisions. As his reign progresses, however, he increasingly turns to his wife. Despite Alexandra’s noble lineage, she possesses only a limited understanding of governance, relying on the dubious counsel of figures like Rasputin. As Nicholas assumes the mantle of army leadership during World War I, disregarding the advice from his cabinet, the situation begins to deteriorate rapidly. His refusal to heed warnings leads to a cascade of missteps and poor decisions that contribute to the growing unrest within the empire. This mounting chaos ultimately opens the door for the Bolsheviks to seize power. Throughout this turbulent period, Nicholas is presented as a sympathetic figure, grappling with his shortcomings and the overwhelming weight of demands placed upon him. His story is one of profound tragedy, as he navigates the treacherous waters of leadership in a world that seems to be slipping further from his grasp.
The depiction of Rasputin is decidedly impactful, with his wild, matted hair, unwashed body, and piercing eyes. Olga’s encounters with him pulse with tension and layers of complexity. She is acutely aware of his so-called miracles, which she perceives as nothing more than good timing. With a steadfast resolve, she firmly opposes the unsettling notion of granting this controversial figure unrestricted access to the opulent palaces and the vulnerable imperial children, a reality that ignites within her a profound sense of unease and an instinctive desire to protect. As Rasputin’s grasp over the empress grows stronger, the turmoil engulfing the tsarist regime escalates to alarming levels. His hypnotic presence weaves a tangled web of influence, compelling Alexandra to increasingly seek his counsel amidst a backdrop of social and political unrest. Rasputin’s advice is taken to heart, which in turn causes the nation to contend with a series of devastating crises—widespread famine that ravages the land, rising political dissent that threatens to ignite rebellion, and civil unrest that rocks the foundations of trust in the monarchy. The atmosphere is electric with tension as the populace becomes increasingly disillusioned, their faith in the tsar’s leadership eroding under the weight of Rasputin’s influence. Olga, with her keen perception, understands the peril that Rasputin’s influence poses to the country’s future.
The extensive hours dedicated to researching this captivating era are clearly reflected in the polished, crystalline prose and the compelling narrative. Appleyard weaves historical facts together masterfully, allowing readers to vividly experience the sights and sounds of the time. With rich descriptions and careful attention to detail, she brings to life not only the key events but also the intricate personalities of the historical figures involved, making the past feel immediate and tangible.
The social context highlights the stark contrast between the privileged lives of the Romanovs and the rising power of the Bolsheviks. This setting grounds the reader in the historical reality of the story, enriching the narrative and highlighting themes of loss, displacement, and survival. The mention of St. Petersburg and the broader political climate further contextualises the story within a specific historical period. The portrayal of Crimea under duress during the Russian Revolution is striking, with details of the ships, the house where the family is staying, the railway station, and the train journey all helping to immerse the reader in the historical truth. The contrast between past opulence and security and the present terror is particularly impactful.
“Escape of the Grand Duchess” is not merely a tale of survival; it is an emotional and gripping exploration of Olga’s unwavering desire to seek solace amidst the ruins of her past. The novel beautifully captures her internal struggles and the relentless hope that drives her onward, making it a poignant and vivid narrative of resilience. This book comes highly recommended.
Review by Mary Anne Yarde
Yarde Book Reviews & Book Promotion
Pick up your copy of
Escape of the Grand Duchess
Susan Appleyard
Susan was born in England, which is where she learned to love English history, and now lives in Canada in the summer. In winter she and her husband flee the cold for their second home in Mexico. Susan divides her time between writing and her hobby, oil painting, although writing will always be her first love. She was fortunate in having had two books published traditionally. Since joining the ebook crowd, she has published nine books, some of which have won various awards.
Congratulations.
ReplyDelete