Malcolm Barber (1) (1943–)

Extraordinarily well-documented. Includes slipcase.

This is probably the most boring history book I've read. The story is told through endless sequences of names and dates. It's all correct and meticulously researched, of course, but such bare facts aren't very interesting in my opinion. They don't help me understand medieval European society.

A reasonably comprehensive introduction to the middle ages. Because of the large geographical area and lengthy period it covers it does resort to generalisations and is not a traditional narrative history.

If you want to know what the Templars were *really* about, start here. You'll need a cup of tea/coffee/whatever - Barber is an historian, not a novelist, and it shows.

(If you are looking for the Grail, for conspiracies, etc., this book will disappoint you sorely. Read it anyway)....