If you want to learn about the Roman Empire without reading a dry textbook, then this is the book for you. This book covers a 700 year period beginning shortly before the birth of Jesus and ending shortly after the death of Muhammad. The story includes a period of unprecedented peace and prosperity in Europe followed by a horrible darkness that would take a millennium to overcome. You will read about emperors that were at times brilliant, and at times mad. In the story of the Roman Empire, you will learn about the foundations of Christianity and Islam. In essence, you will learn about the roots of modern society. It is very much a story worth reading.