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Series
The Last Emperor of Rome series traces the rise of Constantine XI Palaiologos during the final generation of the Byzantine Empire. Beginning while he is still a prince, it places his personal courage and dynastic obligations against Ottoman expansion, internal rivalry and the shrinking resources of Constantinople.
The series combines court politics, military adventure and the perspective of those charged with keeping Constantine alive. It explores how an heir prepares to defend an ancient imperial tradition when diplomacy, money and fortifications can delay decline but cannot remove the strategic pressure surrounding the last Roman state.
Reading order
Constantinople and the Morea, 1428. The eastern Roman Empire has been reduced to a capital protected by formidable walls and a scattering of territories exposed to Ottoman power. Constantine Palaiologos is still a prince, expected to serve his dynasty in a world where marriage, tribute and…