Did I know anything about medieval history or feel the need to learn about it before this book? Nope. Did the description lead me to give it a try? Yes. Did I love every second of the book and the audiobook? Absolutely! I cannot recommend this book more if I tried. Gabriele and Perry do such a fantastic job of making medieval history and the warring Carolingians feel real and accessible and I got so involved in how Louis' sons were intent on burning everything to the ground for their own power (ps. always choose only one successor to try to avoid this, people don't like to share). I both read and listened to this title and both are amazing. The written book has a handy "cast of characters" section that is useful because apparently the Fanks loved using the same name over and over and also changing them whenever they felt like it, but the narration of Paul Bellantoni is amazing and practically makes it feel like a play as he reads. A huge thank you to Harper and HarperAudio for the early access to this title in exchange for my honest opinion. I will recommend this book highly to patrons at every opportunity!

Oathbreakers: The War of Brothers That Shattered an Empire and Made Medieval Europe by Matthew Gabriele and David M. Perry delves into the turbulent period of the Carolingian Civil War, presenting a vivid narrative that combines scholarly insight with the gripping storytelling often found in popular historical fiction. Here is a detailed review:

Content and Structure:

Matthew Gabriele and David M. Perry, both respected medieval historians, bring to life the Carolingian Empire's decline through the lens of familial strife and political intrigue. The book starts with the backdrop of Charlemagne's expansive empire, setting the stage for the chaos that ensued after his death. The narrative focuses on the civil wars triggered by Louis the Pious' sons, detailing how these conflicts not only led to the empire's fragmentation but also shaped the trajectory of medieval Europe.

The authors expertly navigate through the complex web of alliances, betrayals, and battles, using a blend of primary sources and historical analysis. Their storytelling is engaging, making the book accessible to both scholars and general readers. The structure follows a chronological progression, interspersed with thematic chapters that delve into the cultural and societal impacts of these wars, offering insights into how medieval society perceived oaths, honor, and kingship.

Analysis and Insight:

Historical Detail: Gabriele and Perry provide a meticulous examination of the events, drawing from chronicles and documents which are often fragmentary and biased. They manage to construct a coherent narrative from these sources, offering a fresh perspective on well-trodden historical ground. Their analysis strips away the romanticism often associated with the Carolingian period, presenting a raw and sometimes brutal picture of medieval power politics.
Characterization: The portrayal of key figures like Louis the Pious and his sons is nuanced. The historians manage to convey the motivations, fears, and ambitions of these historical figures, making them relatable despite the distance in time.
Themes: The book explores themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the fragility of political structures. It also addresses the sacredness of royal oaths, which were pivotal in maintaining the empire's cohesion until their breakdown precipitated the civil war. This exploration gives readers a deeper understanding of medieval governance and societal norms.

Writing Style:

The writing style is both scholarly and engaging. Gabriele and Perry manage to convey complex historical analyses in an accessible manner, often drawing parallels with contemporary issues to make the past resonate with modern readers. Their prose is lively, sometimes even resembling the dramatic intensity found in medieval epics, which enhances the readability for those interested in history without an academic background.

Conclusion:

"Oathbreakers" stands out as a compelling historical narrative that not only educates but also entertains. It provides a detailed look at how familial disputes led to significant historical changes, offering lessons on the consequences of political fragmentation and the human elements that drive history.

Rating Breakdown:
Historical Accuracy and Research Depth: ★★★★☆ - The depth of research is impressive, though some interpretations might still be debated among historians.
Engagement and Readability: ★★★★☆ - The book is highly engaging with a narrative style that pulls readers into the medieval era.
Insight into Medieval Society: ★★★★★ - Offers significant insights into the medieval mindset, particularly around concepts of loyalty and governance.
Character Development: ★★★★☆ - Characters are well fleshed out, providing a personal connection to the historical events.
Overall Experience: ★★★★☆ - An excellent blend of academic rigor and storytelling, though slightly diminished by the potential for bias inherent in historical interpretation.

Overall, "Oathbreakers" is recommended for anyone interested in medieval history, political intrigue, or simply a well-told tale of ambition and power. It serves as an enlightening read that bridges the gap between academic history and popular narrative.