Rasputin

'The definitive biography' – Simon Sebag Montefiore, bestselling author of The Romanovs

Get lost in the labyrinthine life of Grigori Rasputin, an enigmatic figure that continues to puzzle historians to this day.

Drawing on major new sources hitherto unexamined by western historians, Russian history expert Douglas Smith offers an unparalleled biography that exposes the mysteries and myths surrounding this extraordinary figure.

Rasputin. A horse thief and a hard-drinking ruffian in his youth. A devout Orthodox Christian – or just a fake holy man. This book scrutinises the myths – of his debauchery and sexual exploits, his healing powers and uncanny influence over Russia's empress and emperor, and whether he manipulated the Russian government at his own behest, or under the influence of forces more sinister.

Smith scrutinises his murder and the players involved, with focus on Prince Yusupov and his fellow conspirators – questioning broader conspiracy theories involving British secret agents and Freemasons, and discussing the long shadow his murder cast over the Romanov dynasty.

Meticulously researched and rich in detail, this is a magisterial biography of one of history's most intriguing characters.

Shortlisted for the James Tait Black Prize.

'The most comprehensive account of Rasputin to date, brimming with complexities and fascinating detail, and stands as an enlightening re-evaluation of this crucial figure in Russian history' – The Telegraph