Description
Book SynopsisByzantium Triumphant describes in detail the wars of the Byzantine emperors Nicephorus II Phocas, his nephew and assassin John I Tzimiskes, and Basil II. The operations, battles and drama of their various bitter struggles unfold, depicting the new energy and improved methods of warfare developed in the late tenth century. These emperors were at war on all fronts, fighting for survival and dominance against enemies including the Arab caliphates, Bulgars (Basil II was dubbed by later authors the Bulgar Slayer) and the Holy Roman Empire, not to mention dealing with civil wars and rebellions. Julian Romanes careful research, drawing particularly on the evidence of Byzantine military manuals, allows him to produce a gripping narrative underpinned by a detailed understanding of the Byzantine tactics, organization, training and doctrine. While essentially a military history, there is, inevitably with the Byzantine emperors, a healthy dose of court intrigue, assassination and political skulduggery too.
Trade Review"...a very good military history of the period."-- "Balkan Wargamer" "Overall this is a good contribution to Byzantine history, bringing the period alive in a way that not many books of military history manage. Byzantium emerges as a living culture in its own right, and not as the footnote to Rome or declining power so often seen."-- "History of War" "Romane's account of survival and triumph under such circumstances is fascinating..."-- "United Nations of Roma Victrix (UNRV)" "This book has been carefully researched and provides fresh insights into an empire that bridges the period from the fall of Rome to the new nations and religions of the Middle Ages. The text is supported by an interesting monochrome photo-plate section. Strongly Recommended."-- "Firetrench"
