Different from Jones other works, but it grows on you!

To be honest with you, when I started this book I was unsure if I would ever get to the end, let alone write a review for it. It is a monster of a book! So if you do decide to give it a go, be aware of it’s size and don’t feel disappointed if you take breaks or read other things. Saying that every time I did get distracted, something in this book drew me back in over and over again!

Now, I love Dan Jones! I have read pretty much all his books and I love his tv stuff. I am aware I might be slightly bias but I do try my best to be honest in these reviews and pick up areas of both strength and weakness. If you are too a Dan Jones fan then obviously I suggest you give it a read. Although, a warning. It is very different to his Plantagenets or Hollow crown books just due to its vast nature so don’t go in thinking it’s the same or you may be disappointed.

This book is definitely one that will grow on you as you read. The earlier chapters are a bit strange given the title, it is more a book on romans and religion than power and thrones. It did feel like lots of names and places just dumped on the reader. However, I have read many books about the medieval era and next to none about Rome so it just may be a consequence of my own lack of knowledge. Anyway, for me personally the beginning is a bit of a slog. But I promise is you can get through it the rest is worth it!!!

As Jones progresses more into the Plantagenets era, which in my opinion he writes best, the book becomes brilliant. I loved learning about Europe and areas of the East which I have often ignored in my thirst for British history (something I will rectify). I especially loved the chapters that were broken down into occupations like Merchants, Scholars and Builders. Those were the best written and most interesting chapters for me.

This book covers over 1000 years. While at times a little clunky I think Jones does an incredible job at it. The fact he even attempted it makes me pretty impressed. It does mean that you only get short tellings or highlights of events. For example when he discusses Edward I and his castles or the crusades which I think some people may dislike. However, I think it adds to the brilliance of this book. It allows the reader to find aspects of the medieval world they want to explore. You like the crusades? Then read Jones book on the crusades or templars (or books by other authors). The same with Edward I, then read the Plantagenets. I was originally going to say this was too overwhelming for readers new to the history genre but now I have changed my mind. It may be overwhelming in places but it allows you to find what you love about it and delve further into your interests in this time zone.

Overall, I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who loves medieval history. I would also recommend to Dan Jones fans however it is very different to be previous works and I honestly don’t even think it can be compared just because of how different it is.

Dan’s narration is perfect as always I love his voice and his passion every single time!!

I’m really proud I got through this book and I did enjoy my time spent with it! Overall I would give this book a 4 out of 5.

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2 people found this helpful

wonderful, very wonderful, pleasantly wonderful,

wonderful, very wonderful, pleasantly wonderful, summarily wonderful, quite wonderful indeed and wonderful nonetheless. oh so wonderful perhaps.

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Great book

Fantastic book, amazing detail. Excellent insight Dan Jones does a great job retelling a story that could be complex

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Massive genre

Great historian very readable enjoyed it always well told especially as period is so vast

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interesting & engaging.

This long book will be very useful to students of the Middles Ages with innumerable references. The reader will appreciate some chapters more than others according to personal interests. For me there wasn't need for the long introduction through the history of Rome & it's decline. However as a broad view of European history with a good dose of World history on the side this is a recommended read.

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Magnificent

Probably the best historical book I have ever read or heard. A wholesome overview of the medival period. Apart from being an excellent writer, Jones also posses a great voice that is very nice to listen to on x1 speed as well as x2 which is rare.

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Nothing new but we'll written

Another good 'story' from Dan Jones. As usual, everything is well written and very good narrator makes it even better. The only problem I have with this book: almost half of it is not exactly about middle ages, but about renaissance.

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The ease of taking in all the information. Not too academic.

The audio book kept my interest all the way through despite the length. Well presented in an easy to listen to style by the author. Recommended!!

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Excellent

A brilliant journey through the Middle Ages excellently narrated ! Possibly Dan jones’ best book yet !

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Great dash through European history up to 1530

I am a fan of the author's works and this does not disappoint. It was particularly sobering to listen to the book as events in Ukraine unfolded. There were so many compare and contrast moments.
Good narration style, although I did wince at the pronunciation of some German towns, particularly Mainz.

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8 people found this helpful