This book made me feel dirty while reading it.
I understand writing about Russian history can be difficult, particularly when it comes to the end of the era of the Romanovs and the early twentieth century revolutions. Furthermore, I know that Rasputin is a difficult historical figure and the legends about him abound and it can be sometimes difficult to separate fact from fiction. However, Colin Wilson's attempts are terrible and reading this book made me feel more distaste for Rasputin, not less, as Wilson was trying to do.
Although Wilson says he is not trying to make Rasputin appear to be a good man, at many times, he stops just short of calling him a saint and sent from God, as he claims the Tsarina did so many times. Furthermore, he actually goes out and states quite clearly that he believes Rasputin had paranormal powers, such as repeatedly healing the Tsaervitch. At many times, Wilson also drifts off the topic of Rasputin and the Romanovs, and waxes on about American history and psychological studies- sometimes for more than three quarters of a chapter.
Lastly, he mispells many names (Maria Rasputin's name the second time he mentions it, for instance!) and many of his claims contain no historical backing. He also believes Anna Anderson to be the real Anastasia. At points, he references his own work and points the reader to look into it as extended reading.
I'm not sure what Wilson is trying to do here- clear Rasputin's name or raise his own.
If you want a light, easy, humorous read involving Russian history, have a look at it, but don't use it as a historical reference.
Disappointing and confusing.