I thoroughly enjoyed this intriguing read about the brief but fascinating lives of OTMA (Olga, Tatiana, Marie and Anastasia). Helen Rappaport provides new incite into the lives of these four devoted sisters. Born into royalty and privilege, an accident of birth, they were still able to accept and make the best of their changing circumstances. It was especially gratifying to learn about their kindness, compassion and work ethic as the war plunged their country into darkness and despair. Each step of their journey provided paralyzingly change, yet these young victims learned to just and function in adverse and demoralizing conditions. Their heartbreaking story is an engrossing read.