In Search of the Dark Ages

Originally published in 1981, this Folio Society edition is based on the 2005 revision and itself has two new chapters and new introduction and epilogues. It’s set between the eras of Boudica and William the Conquerer, as Angles, Saxons and Vikings roamed the land, trading and settling. The new chapters cover Aethelflaed, Lady of the Mercians, who has largely been ignored but was covered by another book earlier this year, and Penda, the pagan king.

There are 24 pages of sumptuous colour illustrations showing manuscripts, coinage and jewellery, plus two hand-drawn maps. This is all wrapped up in a superb hardback cover with slipcase. The prose itself is lively, full of intrigue but also happy to quote sources and distinguish between fact and speculation. An excellent addition to any library.

• The Folio Society
• www.foliosociety.com
• 310 pages. Hardback. £59.95

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