The marshals of Alexander's empire

[neneh]

I just got hold of a copy of "The marshals of Alexander's empire" by Waldemar Heckel, and I just wanted to ask this forum for opinions on this book.
(One might suggest I just read it and find out for myself, but time is scarce these days, so I need to know it's worth the trouble before I embark upon it)All opinions are much welcomed.Kindest regards,Neneh

[marcus]

For my part, I think it's fabulous. It's probably not one for reading cover to cover (unless you think you're up to the challenge) - rather for dipping into. When I first embarked upon it I did it by 'chapter', but very soon changed to the "Oh, I think I'll 'do' Perdikkas son of Orontes today".I promise you, you won't be disappointed.All the bestMarcus

[neneh]

Thanks Marcus, I appreciate it.
So far I've only just skimmed through a few pages, and the only negative thing about it is that the author doesn't seem to translate quotes from books written in Greek/Latin/German/etc. Oh well.Kindest regards,Neneh

[smittysmitty]

hi Neneh,
don't listen to Marcus, its a terrible book, and if you decide to throw it away, I'll take it off your hands and cover postage charges. :)cheers!

[susan]

I found the lack of an index rather annoying - plus some pedigree charts would have helped. I think it's well complemented by the Beth Carney book of Women & Monarchy in Macedonia - I know that Heckel's book is meant to be about men, but it's useful to have a reference for the women as well, as they played such an important part in the history of Alexander's reign, compared to earlier royal women.Susan

[neneh]

I'm sure the library where I got it would _really_ like that.

[marcus]

He he he!Still, when I last looked a new copy would cost around -ú50, so your underhand tactics might be justified.M

[neneh]

-ú60 at amazon, I think. A bit OT, but does anyone know why this book is so expensive?

[marcus]

-ú60 was it? Crikey!It's so expensive because it's so good! :-)If you fancy a trip to Nottingham you can always have a look at my copy, free of charge - special gloves provided as part of the service...All the bestMarcus

[neneh]

Well, I've just left the East Midlands for Scandinavia... And managed to order this book from a library here so it was waiting for me when I arrived three days ago (didn't get any special gloves though...).
If I'm going to cough up -ú60 for a book I want to know it's worth it. But with the response I got here I guess I'll be breaking my book budget soon...

[marcus]

I didn't realise you were in the East Midlands - for some reason I assumed you were in London.Where were you living?MArcus

[ruthaki]

Good info on the books, thanks.
And Marcus, you're from Nottingham? That's where my Mom was from. I've not visited there as I usually head for Wales instead (dad's home). ruth

[neneh]

I've been living in Leicester for the past two years. Somehow I got the idea you were living in London... Best wishes,Neneh

[marcus]

Ah! Well, I currently work in London and stay there during the week. But I'm in Nottingham at weekends - and it is at least my spiritual home :-)All the bestMarcus