The author and host of the TV show “Prisoners of Fate”, the famous historian Evgeny Anisimov, introduces the reader to the dramatic destinies of famous Russian women of the 18th - 19th centuries. This book will not contain molasses and honey mixed with tears, which is typical for so-called “women's stories.” The heroines of the story - Evdokia Lopukhina and Catherine I, Natalya Dolgorukaya and Praskovya Zhemchugova, “Princess Tarakanova” and Princess Golitsyna, as well as many others - became hostages of those fatal circumstances from which the history of Russia was often shaped. The book tells how they, despite the vicissitudes of fate, passionately fought for their faith, happiness and love.