This work focuses on the stories of a handful of Western men whose careers shaped the Middle East before, during, and after WWI with T. E. Lawrence at the centre of it all. The exploits of these men are placed alongside the maneuvers of the great powers to provide a robust view of the region during a critical period of modern history.

An amazing entry point into this period of Chinese history from a Western perspective. I was rather unfamiliar with the era, having more experience with the Opium Wars. This book does an admirable job of bridging that gap and linking the Taiping Rebellion to the intervention of Western states in China while providing insight into Chinese politics on both sides.

A great overview of the ruling Romanov dynasty. If you are unfamiliar with the time period, there can be some confusion as the focus tends to stay with the family itself. With a bit of background knowledge, the details of the personal lives of the Romanovs become enthralling.