"This biography of Nicholas II includes a close, critical examination of his early years growing up in the imperial court, constantly in the shadow of his father, Alexander III. The author also provides background on the Romanov dynasty as a whole, which was well into its second century by the time of Nicholas II. It was his allegiance to the past, Carrere d'Encausse argues, that formed the czar's inability to adjust to the demands of a changing Russia."--Jacket.