Catherine and Peter - A History of the Russian Empire

Peter and catherine were a terrible match. Peter turned out to be immature and dull, had no interest in his future responsibilities. Katherine was endlessly curious and intelligent, bordering on brilliant from the outset. She read everyone and everything she could, and especially liked montesquieu. Wanted what was best for russia, and when she got the chance, she planned to rule with the interests of russia always foremost in her mind.