"This is a stylish, intelligent and readable book." -The New York Times Book Review
"A reliable, well-balanced and well-written account that should enlighen and entertain lay readers who wish to learn more about an empire that in its high noon was more extensive, more populous, and arguably more influential that that of Rome." --The Washington Post Book World
"There is not a dull page in thi book." --The Washington Times
"A sprawling and complex subject handled with admirable style and selectivity." --A.N. Wilson, author of Eminent Victories and Jesus: A Life
"An excellent work of popular history...fluid, accessible and personalized." --Booklist
