V. A. Platonov's 'The Russian Crown of Thorns' delves into the enigmatic and often obscured history of Freemasonry within Russia, spanning from its early roots in 1731 to its transformations and challenges leading up to 1996. This compelling work goes beyond mere historical recounting, meticulously unveiling the secret societies' influence, their clandestine operations, and their intricate connections with the political and social fabric of the Russian Empire and later the Soviet Union. Platonov sheds light on the prominent figures involved, the rituals practiced, and the power struggles that defined the trajectory of Russian Freemasonry, offering readers an unprecedented look into this secretive world.