Edward J. Watts’ The Romans offers a clear, engaging overview of Roman history from the legendary founding by Romulus and Remus to the fall of Constantinople in 1204. Covering both the Roman and Byzantine empires, Watts deftly summarizes key events, figures, battles, and political shifts without overwhelming the reader. While not an in-depth military history, it provides enough detail to spark deeper exploration, drawing on a wealth of primary and secondary sources. The narrative is accessible yet informative, making it an excellent primer for newcomers while still offering insights for seasoned history fans. Highly recommended for anyone curious about this remarkable civilization.

I have just finished reading the Kindle edition of "The Romans: A 2,000-Year History" by Edward J. Watts, which was graciously provided by NetGalley. I was a bit dubious that anyone could effectively cover such a large period of Roman history is just over 700 pages, but I was pleasantly surprised.

This may not be an in-depth history of the Roman Empire, but it is an engaging and interesting overview of the Romans from the founding of Rome by the legendary twin brothers Romulus and Remus to the fall of Constantinople to the Crusading Franks in 1204.

The author covers all the significant events, battles, campaigns and characters that led to the formation of the Roman Empire as we know it, and also those issues and events that led to its fall, both in Rome and later Constantinople. 

This is an excellent primer for those who want to get a decent summary of the Roman Empire with the author using numerous primary and secondary sources to tell the story. This allows the reader to follow on with more comprehensive reading on any particular subject that may take their fancy.

I really enjoyed that the author covered both the Roman and Byzantine empires and although I would have loved more detail on the various military campaigns undertaken by the Roman Empire there was enough to satisfy my interest.

This was an easy-to-read book that held my interest from beginning to end and I would have no hesitation in recommending this book to anyone who has a passing interest in the Romans.

Wow! Everything one would like to know about the Roman Empire from beginning to end in one book. Very informative, interesting and well-written.

Unfortunately due to time I won't be able to finish this book. But the pages I read from it seemed to promise a really good book about the entire Roman Empire

Wow! An exhaustive account of the Roman Empire/republic/state, Long, but never boring and a fun read.

One of the most thorough and accessible histories of the Romans I have read. Incredibly balanced in its treatment of both the Republic and Empire. Watts offers an excellent blend of political, social, and military history.

A well researched and engrossing history book that tells the history of Romans since the early century to the Bizantine Empire
There's a lot of people who think of Rome as the late Republic/Empire: it was more complex and not a sort of military/imperial playground.
A good book to learn about this civilization
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this ARC, all opinions are mine