Constantinopolis

Book excerpt: For over a thousand years, the medieval city of Constantinople has been the jewel on the crown of the Roman Empire. Now, the once-mighty metropolis is broken down, with its defensive walls in shambles. Long have the neighboring Turks wanted to claim the city, and Mehmet--the impetuous new Turkish sultan--thinks he and his legions might finally have their chance. In defiance of his late father's advisors, Mehmet vows to be the first leader in a millennium to wrench Constantinople from the Christians. He is determined to take the city from the weakened but beloved Emperor Constantine--even if he loses his throne and his life in the process. An epic historical military adventure, Constantinopolis plots out the future of civilization as shaped by a number of fascinating characters, including one leader desperate to save his people from destruction and another determined to lead his nation to glory. Revised edition: This edition of Constantinopolis includes editorial revisions.