The Black Russian

The Black Russian is the extraordinary story of Frederick Bruce Thomas, the son of former slaves who fled America to build a life in Tsarist Russia. It is a tale of personal reinvention set in one of history's richest periods, and is thoroughly enjoyable, inspiring, and gripping.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 352 pages
Publication date: 06 July 2023
Publisher: Head of Zeus

The extraordinary story of Frederick Bruce Thomas, the son of former slaves who fled America to build a life in Tsarist Russia, is a captivating tale that has captured the attention of many. Born into a world of hardship and discrimination, Thomas faced numerous challenges as he grew up. However, his determination and resilience led him to escape the oppressive conditions of the American South and head for New York City, where he worked as a valet and trained as a singer.

Despite facing discrimination and adversity, Thomas's charisma and cunning allowed him to emigrate to Europe. There, his acquired skills as a multilingual maitre d'hôtel enabled him to travel from London to Monte Carlo and eventually settle in Moscow in the glorious days before the 1917 Revolution. In Moscow, Thomas became a rich and respected nightclub impresario, opening a lavish nightclub called Maxim.

The Black Russian is an inspiring story of personal reinvention set in one of history's richest periods. It follows Thomas's journey from a humble beginning to a life of luxury and success, as he navigates the complexities of a changing world and rebuilds his life after the revolution. The book offers a glimpse into the social and cultural landscape of Tsarist Russia, providing a rich and detailed account of the era.

Through his experiences, Thomas emerges as a hero, a man who overcame adversity and built a life for himself in a foreign land. His story is a testament to the human spirit's resilience and determination, and it serves as a reminder that even in the face of great challenges, there is always the possibility of personal transformation and success.

The Black Russian is a must-read for anyone interested in history, culture, and the human spirit. It is a captivating tale that will leave readers inspired and uplifted, and it provides a valuable insight into a period of history that is often overlooked.

Weight: 246g
Dimension: 200 x 130 x 30 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781804549865