The Byzantine World War

Wow. That was an epic ride through late eleventh/early twelfth century Byzantine and Middle Eastern history that covered both the reign and rule of Romanus Diogenes and the First Crusade. Mr. Holmes is an amateur historian who has done a lot of travel, research and thinking into this most interesting time period. I am (truly) amazed as he was able to impart a great deal of conflicting information in a fascinating, balanced yet nuanced way in a relatively short book. He is able to describe the politics, sociology and enmesh them in an understandable way to readers who know little of this area or time period and make it both thought-provoking and fascinating. He takes us into royal intrigues, alliances, betrayal and in brief broad strokes the military battles fought during this time period. Throughout the book there are timelines, maps, diagrams, pictures and a foreward of the main historical players. This added immensely to the readability and enjoyment of this most intriguing book. Mr. Holmes, I could tell that this was an intense labor of love for you and this reader thanks you for bringing it to fruition.

I love Byzantine history and this was a great addition to the many books I've read Focused on the end of the greatest era of the Byzantine Empire and using new sources, this very readable book offered new perspectives, great maps and a lively writing style to great success

After having lived in both Turkey and Jordan, I'm fascinated by the history of this part of the world. While definitely writing from a Western perspective, Holmes presents a lucid description of the events leading to the First Crusade. While I occasionally got bogged down in descriptions of military tactics, the overall history was fascinating. This is a great book to pair with Amin Mahlouf's The Crusades through Arab Eyes, in order to gain a fuller picture of this era.

After having lived in both Turkey and Jordan, I'm fascinated by the history of this part of the world. While definitely writing from a Western perspective, Holmes presents a lucid description of the events leading to the First Crusade. While I occasionally got bogged down in descriptions of military tactics, the overall history was fascinating. This is a great book to pair with Amin Mahlouf's The Crusades through Arab Eyes, in order to gain a fuller picture of this era.

Nick Holmes is a graduate of Cambridge University with a degree in history. He was entranced by the ancient walls that circle Istanbul, Turkey and became intrigued with Byzantium following a trip to the region. The juxtaposition of the modern and the ancient engaged him and surprised him. The massive escarpments over a thousand years old decorate the city with imposing battlements. Hagia Sophia, a key location in the events that transpire in his book still stands in testament to the events of the past that still color our world today. Holmes finds the important role of Constantinople and the fulcrum around which Europe and the Near East pivot to be a wonderful backdrop of the events that took place so long ago. Nick posits the importance of the period beginning in 1068 that leads to the First, of several, Crusades and its effect on modern history. Target Audience: If you are the kind of person that loves to read history books that are not dry and stuffy, but engaging and conversational, then look no further. The Author, Nick Holmes shares a style of writing not so different from Simon Winchester or Erik Larson. Well-constructed, and set in an important time in world history, Holmes posits his opinion on the what, when, and how of the now distant history. The Byzantine World War, is a perfect fit for teenagers or adults bookshelf, and is a must read for anyone who enjoys intelligently constructed concepts set against the context of tumultuous times. The Book: The Byzantium World War is set at a time when the power of Rome was beginning to ebb and the Ottoman Empire (Turkey) was beginning. Some of the Key locations of historic importance include; Anatolia, Byzantium, The Middle East, The Balkans, The Caucuses, and North Africa. The timeline is 1068-1097 and is written almost as a thriller in its style. The range of characters is extensive, and Holmes does a masterful job in recreating them and their foibles for the modern audience. It is a must read for all those who want to extend their knowledge of pivotal historic events, and for those who enjoy their history made three-dimensional, easily consumed. Conclusion: This book is a great primer for those who are looking to increase their knowledge of the rise of Turkey in the form of the Pax Ottomana, and the fall of Pax Romana. The book is written in an easily accessible style, in a clear, chronological order, and illustrated with images, maps and detailed timelines. It is an engaging look at past events that still have influence over our period of history. I would like to see a more extensive referencing and bibliography, as well as the addition of some footnotes. That said, I did enjoy the fact that the key players in the book are listed at the rear for examination. I really enjoyed reading this book and I have no hesitation in recommending it highly. It is a rare treat in the world of dusty, dry history books that such a pleasantly written, brief but comprehensive volume comes along. Although I received this book for review; I loved it so much, I bought a copy for my library.