Book Review: The Secret Plot to Save the Czar: The Truth Behind the Romanov Mystery

Reviewed By: Harriet Klausner

The Secret Plot to Save the Czar: The Truth Behind the Romanov Mystery     Amazon US PB Amazon Canada PB
Shay McNeal
Class/Genre:   Non-Fiction   Mystery
William Morrow, Oct 2002, $25.95, 368 pp.

In 1995, United States and Russian scientists tested DNA obtained from the brother of Tsar Nicholas II and that of the alleged Tsar; they reported an inclusive match putting to rest what happened back in July 1918. Obviously the Bolsheviks executed the Tsar and his family in Siberia.

Shay McNeal disagrees with that assessment as a historical sleuth tracking down leads and dispatching fake clues and red herrings starting with the DNA evidence that is not quite as tight a match as reported. Ms. McNeal makes a strong case that the remains declared by experts, as that of the Romonovs may not actually be the Russian royal family. The author offers alternate possibilities to their fate though the writer also admits that her theories are just as plausible that of the Bolsheviks having killed them.

In spite of her conjecture and use of inductive reasoning to support her argument’s hypothesis, Shay McNeal leaves the mystery unsolved for a future Anastasia to appear. Still the author’s enthusiasm and meticulous research results in a tremendous well-written account. Historical, alternate history, and conspiracy buffs will gain much pleasure as the fabulous "plot" of THE SECRET PLOT TO RESCUE THE TSAR will not remain a secret much longer.

Harriet Klausner

Reprinted with permission. Do Not repost without permission from the author, Harriet Klausner