The Normans (Elite Series, 9)

Rating:
Summary: Perfect research + fantasy-style pictures
Review: This book is another masterpiece from Dr. Nicolle, very comprehensive and well-written. But the plates - I still can't believe that Osprey passed them to be published in such a serious book. That "noblewoman" in the elven dress never existed in history; an "anglo-norman knight" having a big saxon moustache; the footman with some kind of "slashing spear" (probably his gandfather killed a samurai) and so on. I think, Mr. McBride art is perfect for fantasy books, but not for historical reference ones.

Rating:
Summary: Perfect research + fantasy-style pictures
Review: This book is another masterpiece from Dr. Nicolle, very comprehensive and well-written. But the plates - I still can't believe that Osprey passed them to be published in such a serious book. That "noblewoman" in the elven dress never existed in history; an "anglo-norman knight" having a big saxon moustache; the footman with some kind of "slashing spear" (probably his gandfather killed a samurai) and so on. I think, Mr. McBride art is perfect for fantasy books, but not for historical reference ones.

Rating:
Summary: McBride does it again
Review: This is an excellent book for anyone interested in the state of Normandy. Like most Osprey titles it is good introduction to the subject it represents. I was dissapointed however by Dr. Nicolle's lack of emotion in his writing. Unlike other titles in the Osprey series, this book has the drama of history made relatively dry. Despite this, the information presented is very informative, and would be an excellent secondary source for a paper. Perhaps the best aspect of this book is Mr. McBride's artwork. Unlike his peers, his illustrations seem very realistic. Nothing ruins a good book like drawings of soldiers milling around aimlessly with strange facial expressions. McBride puts depth and emotion in his illustrations, not just "soldiers on parade". I also like the fact that he puts a backround in his pictures, instead of stark white. If I could find large prints of his work I would certainly frame them and adorn my walls with them.