The Legat Saga chronicles the life of Nicolai Legat, a pivotal figure in Russian ballet whose artistic brilliance was overshadowed by the tumultuous events of war and revolution. The book details Legat's rise within the Maryinsky Ballet, where he achieved the highest honors as First Dancer, Ballet Master, and Soloist to the Tzar, contributing significantly to the lyrical beauty of the dance style. Facing the cataclysmic events of war and revolution, Legat left Russia in 1914, performing in Paris and London before returning in 1915. Despite attempts to re-establish himself as a choreographer, the new regime's discord and economic hardships rendered his efforts largely ineffectual, leading to his final departure from the Soviet Union in 1922. The biography explores his subsequent practice in London and Paris, where he established his own school, and reveals previously unchronicled aspects of his life and teaching methods, highlighting the mystique of the Russian soul that inspired the fabulous art of Russian Ballet.

The Midwest Book Review describes 'The Legat Saga' as a compelling biography that delves into the life of Nicolai Legat, a brilliant Russian artist whose career was impacted by war and revolution. The review notes that John Gregory's research uncovers previously unchronicled events and provides insights into Legat's teaching methods. It highlights Legat's significant contributions to the Maryinsky dance style and his eventual struggles in the Soviet era. The book is praised for its exploration of the mystique of the Russian soul as expressed through Russian Ballet, and it is noted to be profusely illustrated with period photographs.