Today – 8th April 2025 – I received the most wonderful and unexpected surprise from the nuns at the Diaconești Monastery in Moldavia, Romania. This beautiful colour drawing and personalised inscription was gifted to me by Sisters Seraphima, Ovidiu and Ioana in recognition for my helping to promote the English language edition of their book The True Story of the Romanov Family, which was published last year by the monastery’s publishing division.

The illustrations were hand painted by the nuns, and framed in a large wooden diptych. Each panel is covered with glass. The diptych has hinges, which allow it to be closed like a book and secured with a clasp.

On the left side of the diptych, Emperor Nicholas II and Empress Alexandra Feodorovna are depicted in their Coronation robes and crowns, standing under the Coat-of-Arms of the Russian Empire. The Tsar is depicted holding the Imperial Sceptre and Orb of the Russian Coronation Regalia.

In a separate letter, Sister Seraphima wrote:

“I sincerely believe that it was the Imperial Family themselves who sent you this gift through us, as a token of gratitude for the effort and love you have shown toward them. Our gift was meant, above all, as a gesture of appreciation for your dedication. But of course, it was also a sign of our thanks for helping promote our book—because it is clear that we share the same purpose.

“We chose the Coronation scene specifically for this gift. You may already know that the illustration you received is not only an original one from our book, but also a reproduction of an actual invitation used at the time of Their Majesties’ Coronation. We picked this image because we knew you already own the coronation book, and we felt it would be a fitting complement.”

On the right side of the diptych, under the Holy icon is a personalized inscription, which upon reading moved me to tears. It reads . . .

Dear Paul

Through tireless work, so true and bright,
You share the Romanovs’ gentle light.
Their legacy, through time restored,
In every tale and treasured word.

With gratitude, we warmly say,
Your light still shines along the way.
The past preserved, the story lives,
A gift of love, your heart still gives.

With gratitude,
Sister Seraphima,
Ovidiu and Ioana

Publishing House Bonifaciu Romania

I would like to note, that my more than 30 years of research and writing are all part of my personal mission to help clear the name of Russia’s much slandered Tsar and his family. While I have never aspired for awards or honours, I cannot deny that it is truly humbling to receive recognition for my efforts by means of a gift such as this.

I believe that it is very important for me to show my support for any event, exhibition, documentary and publishing project which present not only the truth about Emperor Nicholas II and his family, but also keep their memory alive. These are the reasons why I helped to promote The True Story of the Romanov Family on my blog, social media and to those who subscribe to my bi-weekly news updates. This beautifully illustrated graphic study is unique, and a must read for any one who shares an interest in the Holy Royal Martyrs.

CLICK on the LINK below the image to read more about the book The True Story of the Romanov Family, which is now available on AMAZON.

BOOK DESCRIPTION and ORDER
‘The True Story of the Romanov Family’

© Paul Gilbert. 8 April 2025