The Kitchen Boy: A Novel of the Last Tsar

by: Robert Alexander

Published by: Penguin Books

Reviewed by Andrea Sisco

It is 1998 in Lake Forest, Illinois. A 94-year-old man, nearing the end of his life, is compelled to set history straight. He reports, as the only living witness left, the mystery that people all over the world have speculated about for years.

The man quietly speaks into a tape recorder, reliving the Russian Revolution and the events of the final days of the Romanovs, who had been imprisoned in the House of Special Purpose in Siberia. The man speaking is Leonka (now known as Misha), the kitchen boy to the Tsar of Russia and his family. Via the tape recorder he is speaking his truth to his beloved granddaughter. She will receive the tape and learn the truth following the death of Misha.

Misha begins his story following the Romanovs' capture. As a lowly kitchen boy, people often don't really see him so they speak in front of him, as if he isn't there. Misha uses this as an opportunity to listen and learn.

One day Sister Antonia and a young novice bring a message to Leonka (Misha) for the Tsar. It suggests that rescue is eminent. But trust is a commodity that must be carefully parceled out in those days. Thus begins the horrific end of the Tsar of Russia and his family.

Robert Alexander, a pseudonym for mystery writer R D. Zimmerman, has written an amazing and detailed account, based on years of research, of what really might have happened to the Tsar of Russia, his family and the millions in lost jewels. The story will have both adults and young adults enthralled as he unfolds a logical and plausible account of the events involving the Tsar and his family. The twists and turns will surprise the reader and keep them turning the pages. Read The Kitchen Boy and you will learn the ending.

Armchair Interviews says: The Kitchen Boy is a novel that shouldn't be missed. It is one of my favorite reads of this year.