While I found some of the language Farquhar uses to describe many of the Romanov rulers objectionable, it is very clear that most of them suffered from developmental disabilities and/or severe mental illness. This book is a gossipy wild ride through 300 years of madness, ineptitude, and dreadful, traumatic parenting. Don‘t expect serious discussion of politics, international relations, or statecraft - this version of history is a train wreck.