In 19th century Russia, a pair of lovers risk their lives by defying the tzar. Based loosely on true events, "Vaninka" takes place during the reign of Paul I. The lady of the title is a general’s daughter, who is due to be married, in a match approved of by the tzar. But Vaninka has fallen for another man—an officer under her father’s command. The pair’s illicit romance sets in motion a dark tale of death and dangerous secrets. One of Alexandre Dumas’ "Celebrated Crimes", "Vaninka" is in the tradition of great tragic love stories, from "Romeo and Juliet" to "Wuthering Heights".Alexandre Dumas (1802 - 1870) was a hugely popular 19th century French writer. Born of mixed French and Haitian heritage, Dumas first rose to prominence in Paris as a playwright, but later gained international fame with his historical fiction. Often co-authored with other writers, these stories wove together swashbuckling adventure, romance, and real events from France’s past. Among the best known are "The Three Musketeers", and its sequels "Twenty Years After", and "Le Vicomte de Bragelonne: Ten Years Later". Set across four decades, this trilogy follows the rise of the dashing D’Artagnan—from hot-headed soldier to trusted captain under Louis XIV.Dumas’ other novels include "The Count of Monte Cristo" and "The Black Tulip". His works have been adapted into more than 200 movies, including The Man in the Iron Mask starring Leonardo DiCaprio.