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The Great Siege

Malta 1565

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The Great Siege

By: Ernle Bradford
Narrated by: Simon Vance
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About this listen

Suleiman the Magnificent, sultan of the Ottoman Empire and the most powerful ruler in the world, was determined to conquer Europe. Only one thing stood in his way: the island of Malta, occupied by the Knights of Saint John, the Holy Roman Empire’s finest warriors. Determined to capture Malta and use its port to launch operations against Europe, Suleiman sent overwhelming forces. A few thousand defenders in Fort Saint Elmo fought to the last man.

When the Turks captured the fort, they took no prisoners, mutilating the defenders’ bodies. The Knights’ leader reciprocated by decapitating his Turkish prisoners and using their heads to cannonade the enemy. Then the battle for Malta began in earnest.

©2012 Ernle Bradford (P)2012 Blackstone Audio, Inc
Military Ottoman Empire Imperialism
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What listeners say about The Great Siege

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History as gripping and inspiring as it gets

A moment of history to humble the modern, secular and individualistic society of today. Thrillingly read by Vance, although with some silly pronunciation of Maltese placenames (would have been easy to check). Listened to it in one go - brilliant.

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dated but still fascinating

despite the very old fashioned style and borderline racism, this is still a vibrant account of one of the central moments in the long and ongoing struggle between rival faiths and ideologies. At least the suffering of the unfortunate Maltese is acknowledged!

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Incredible.....I couldn't stop listening...

What an amazing book about an incredible event that I had no idea about..... What a tale of valour, courage and dedication....... And of victory...... I salute those brave Maltese and knights of St John.....

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Riveting, unbelievable courage

This is one of those tales that have me on the edge of my seat, even more so as it is a true story.

The courage and tenacity of both sides gives equal honours though the sheer guts of the Knights of St. John, their soldiers and the people of Malta left a deep impression on me. The Audio book is fantastic, The narrative rolling inexorably on like a Janissary attack and absolutely riveting.
As a final word, the story of St. Elmo is an epic in itself.
I intend to get a hardback volume of this book and will add it to my collection!


Thank you, wonderful experience for those interested in history

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A dramatic siege brilliantly told

A brilliantly researched and beautifully written book that tells the story of one of the pivotal moments in European history. Thoroughly enjoyable!

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Brilliant and gripping

As a fan of historical accounts, all too often then can be slow paced and laden with info that detracts from the storytelling. Here, Ernle Bradford gives a passionate and evenhanded account of the Great Siege of Malta. His passion for the Hospitallers and Malta is evident in his writing and the well documented accounts do make me wonder just how influenced Tolkien was with this battle in relation to Helms Deep
Great book

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Evocative and engaging

An absorbing account by Bradford who manages to flesh out the protagonists and the setting with consumate ease.

Vance manages to hit a six into the rafters with his narration. Stunning stuff.

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Amazing

Wow, this is an absolutely amazing listen. If you’re interested at all in military history then this is essential.

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Most entertaining and insightful.

a real eye opener of an old style war based on religious fervour regardless of the amount of blood spilt and lives lost!

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a superb account of the Great Siege

A great piece of historical research well written and beautifully read. This is an absorbing account which makes you feel that you are there with those involved. I thoroughly enjoyed it and recommend it.

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1 person found this helpful