This latest hardbound book from Osprey Publishing is a compilation of three of author David Nichole's previous editions on the general subject and part of the 'Fortress' series. The book includes that and some other additional material and images to make into what is an excellent read and reference.

Subtitled 'An illustrated History of the Crusader Fortifications of the Middle East and Mediterranean, it follows very much along the same lines as the smaller books. It seems to this reviewer that the hard bound editions are printed on thicker paper stock as well.

The author has divided this one into two general sections. One is on castles in the Holy Land and the other is on other areas of Cyprus, Greece and the Aegean. In both cases, there are parts on design and development, the principles of defense, a look at what the castles were like, how it was to live in these structures, how well they worked as defensive structures and what has since happened to them. There is also a part in the first section on feudal society and how all of that came into play for the building and maintaining of these castles. This is followed by a section on what these locales are like today and how to go about visiting those sites still extant.

All of this is superbly illustrated with period artwork, photos of the sites today and the diagrams and illustrations of various Osprey artists. It makes for a fascinating read and if you missed the earlier editions from which this material was taken, it is a great value for your money. In all a book I know you will enjoy reading as much as did I.

 December 2008

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