History has not been kind to the memory of Romanus

This excellent read about the events leading to the Crusades in part helps to reprise Romanus' time, starting with his trial for treason, in which he admitted the intention and, rather than be executed, the 'best general in the army' was exiled by the senators, before being asked by the recently widowed Empress Eudocia to be Commander in Chief of the army, then her husband and Emperor.
Meticulous research from multiple sources provides a balanced approach to all of the characters involved, from Romanus himself, the Doukai family and all who confronted the Empire. The author's narrative style provides a clear, fascinating and even exciting tale of these final years of the Roman Empire: history as it should be written, enjoyable and approachable even for someone with no knowledge of the era and sufficiently inspirational to make the reader want to find out more.

Narration by Martin Carroll is clear, well modulated and easy on the ear. He does not get in the way of the text but rather, stands back to allow what is written gently come to life. A fine performance. This is a book for anyone with an interest in history, in the late Roman Empire or the Crusades themselves. I was very fortunate in being freely gifted with a complimentary copy of The Byzantine World War, by the rights holder, at my request, via Audiobook Boom Thank you so much. This was a period about which I had known almost nothing, despite my fondness for ancient Rome, fascinating, and I am left wanting to learn more, in addition to the book having enhanced my understanding about the conception of the Crusades. A good read, recommended.

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1 person found this helpful

Ok. But short and undetailed. I was disappointed.

This book is ok if you are after the equivalent of a 'TV documentary for the masses', but the author does not convey detailed knowledge of the military units and sytems. EG. Much is made of Cataphract Cavalry in the earlier period, but they were only ever a small proportion of the Cavalry. Its a short quick trot through the events rather than a detailed examination.

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