I have read many books the last two years, some I enjoyed a little and some I enjoyed a lot. This book is in the later category. It is not only well written and well researched, bu it is exciting, the characters are so real I have to love some and despise some (the meaning of despise is not hate). The thrill of adventure never slakes and the mysteries are gripping. I recommend this book to anyone who likes a good read, a little romance, an adventure, or a mystery - not to mention anyone who loves history demonstrated.