Welcome to Litsy!

26-30 Jul 23 (audiobook)
Not sure why I chose this, but it was well-researched, if a little repetitive, and Richard Fidler is an amicable guide (who I was previously only familiar with as one of the DAAS) through this period of history. I knew little of the Byzantine empire and do feel more informed at the end. Not a period I could imagine reading up on further - there seemed to be a lot of palace intrigue, war and blood.

Excellent book. I had no clue what to expect and was pleasantly surprised. It‘s more of a story rather than history of Constantinople ribboned with a father/son trip and real life. Fidler pulled off an entertaining and enlightening read. I hope to see the Ghost Empire some day for myself!

A part travelogue, part history as Richard Fidler (Ann Australian radio personality) explores Istanbul with his son and discusses the highlights of Byzantine history. Not a comprehensive history ( see JJ Norwich for this) of the Eastern Roman Empire, but a page turner describing the highs and lows of this little known empire which lasted until the 15th century and which for much of its time was the point of assimilation between Europe and the East

History is fascinating, but reading non fiction about it can be dry and boring, let's be real.

BUT Richard Fidler is not a historian, he is a consummate storyteller. He knows how to spin a yarn, how to insert just enough of himself into it, and how to change course just when you're starting to tire of hearing about Yet Another Battle.

If anyone has recs for other great books set in the Byzantine Empire, I'm all ears!

I was a little stumped by the #underground prompt, but this one suits nicely. This is a delightful history of the Byzantine empire combined with Fidler's journey through the modern spaces with his son, looking for the historical beneath the surface.

#septembowie

Early birthday present from dear friend... 🎂🎈🎉💕

It's taking all my control not to jump straight into this book after hearing the author talk about it! If the book is half as engaging to read as he was to listen to it's going to be brilliant. Also picked myself up this super cute Moleskin book journal.

Now Nobooktober starts in earnest!

Richard Fidler talking about his new book at Avid Reader #getindie

Pretty stoked I'm able to get along to see Richard Fidler talk about his new book on Oct 2. (He was a member of one of my favourite comedy trios when I was a teen, so I'll be the one fangirling in the corner.)