On this edition of Conversations I talk with Simon Sebag Montefiore about his latest book, The Romanovs, 1613 to 1918. Montefiore is a bestselling historian and novelist. He received his PhD from Cambridge University. Dr. Montefiore regularly lectures around the world on history, Russia and the Middle East. He joined us from London, and while the phone quality is less than ideal, he was able to share some fascinating information. We discussed Peter the Great and Catherine the Great. Montefiore considers them the two geniuses of the Romanov family. He describes Nicholas and Alexandra as complicated but not brilliant individuals. Their lives have become romanticized due to the tragic end they suffered along with their daughters. Montefiore also discusses the possible origin of the myth about Anastasia Romanov surviving the family's assassination.