The story of Marfa, the peasant girl who

grows up to become Catherine the First,

Empress of Russia, is a fascinating tale that

proves once again that truth is often stranger

than fiction. Established (and best-selling)

novelist Pamela ttill tells, with engaging

sincerity and historical accuracy, how this

lovely and forthright young woman wins the

heart and devotion of the eccentric Tsar.

Born into poverty, young Marfa soon learns

the value of hard work and dedication. She is

raised by a poor but charitable village pastor,

and as she gets older, she realizes she can no

longer be a burden to his kindness and must

somehow make her own way in the world. Her

escape colnes from all unexpected source--a

boorish Russian soldier, passing through town

on a bloody war campaign, is captivat, lbv her

beauty and startling ingenuity, and hc takes her

with him to Tsar Peter s court.

When Marfa meets the Tsar, her unde-

manding comfort and gentle ways win his

attcntion, and a lifelong love is, born.