Revolutionary times

Historical fiction - this is set in Russia just before the Revolution and follows the lives of two young sisters from the small poorer state of Montenegro who were married into the Russian Royal family on a political agenda. They brought with them some spiritism and magic and became extremely influential using seances and spells to help the Tsarina Alexandra conceive a very necessary son. They formed an uneasy partnership with the extraordinary cult leader Rasputin who also rose to high power. A really interesting bunch of people who lived in a time of inequality similar to what we have today. I found this both fascinating and entertaining - a gripping read.