Engel shows not only how authorities and gender norms shaped the intimate lives of Russians in different economic, political, and social contexts, but also how individual people and families navigated constraints and opportunities. The book's focus on women, marriages, families, and households demonstrates the centrality of gender history to understanding modern Russian history more broadly ... this book is invaluable to students and scholars alike.

Journal of Modern History

Combining the personal with the political, Barbara Engel richly illustrates this history of marriage, intimacy, and family life with poignant voices from individual lives. Every page brings new reading pleasure, and Engel imbues this story with a keen sense of change over time.

Diane Koenker, Professor of Russian and Soviet History, UCL, UK

A brilliant demonstration of the central importance of family and gender relations to the course of Russian history over more than 300 years. In lucid prose, replete with sharp insights and vivid personal stories, based on archival sources, as well as the latest research, the book offers both an introduction to the field and a thoughtful interpretation of its subject. A must read for both students and teachers.

Laura Engelstein, Henry S. McNeil Professor Emerita of Russia History, Yale University, USA