"Stimulating, encyclopedic, and often downright funny, this is a book worth remembering." --Stephen O'Shea, Globe and Mail (Toronto, Canada)

"A lively, full-to-bursting history of the turbulent tenth century in Europe.... Collins presents chaotic upheaval across Europe in an organized and riveting fashion." --Kirkus (starred review)

The tenth century dawned in violence and disorder. Charlemagne's empire was in ruins, most of Spain had been claimed by Moorish invaders, and even the papacy in Rome was embroiled in petty, provincial conflicts. The stability once...