The Great Siege

Malta 1565

By: Ernle Bradford

Narrated by: Simon Vance

Length: 7 hrs and 9 mins

Publisher's summary

Suleiman the Magnificent, sultan of the Ottoman Empire and the most powerful ruler in the world, was determined to conquer Europe. Only one thing stood in his way: a dot of an island in the Mediterranean called Malta, which was occupied by the Knights of Saint John, the cream of the warriors of the Holy Roman Empire. A clash of civilizations was shaping up, the likes of which had not been seen since Persia invaded Greece. Determined to capture Malta and use its port to launch operations against Europe, Suleiman sent an armada and an overwhelming army. A few thousand defenders in Fort Saint Elmo fought to the last man, enduring cruel hardships. When the Turks captured the fort, they took no prisoners and mutilated the defenders’ bodies. Grand Master La Vallette of the Knights reciprocated by decapitating his Turkish prisoners and using their heads to cannonade the enemy. Then the battle for Malta began in earnest: no quarter asked, none given.

The Great Siege is not merely a gripping tale of brutality, courage, and tenacity but the saga of two mighty civilizations struggling for domination of the known world.

Ernle Bradford (1922–1986) was a prominent British historian specializing in the Mediterranean world and naval history. He served in the Royal Navy for the duration of World War II and later traveled throughout the Mediterranean, living for a while on Malta. He was a BBC broadcaster and magazine editor, as well as the author of many acclaimed books, including biographies on Cleopatra, Hannibal, and Caesar.

©2012 Ernle Bradford (P)2012 Blackstone Audio, Inc

Amazing!

An amazing, detailed Account of the great siege of Malta. This book was amazing. The voiceover artist was amazing.

The Great Siege

I enjoyed this book from the story and performance standpoints. I don't know much about the 1500s, but if I did I hope I would be able to say that Ernle Bradford gives substance to legends that were previously not readily accessible to the average modern English-speaking reader, as that is definitely the vibe of this book. And of course Simon Vance is wonderful.

A Key Event in the History of the Mediterranean

History lovers have to read this one! The story has all the drama and dynamic leaders of any great military battle. The Audible narration is superb, and the story will keep you listening even after you've pulled into the parking lot at work.

awesome

super fascinating history great narrator
really enjoyed it. highly recommend. felt pretty fair balanced account of the history.

Outstanding

Listening made me feel as if I were there! The level of detail brought the event to life.

History by story

I really Loved the flow and description details of the real battles of history. Nice history covering religion and territory forgotten by most.

Excellent

I loved everything about this book. The history, the story, the narration. A perfect mix of historical exposition with the compelling narrative flourish about one of the greatest sieges in history. The characters were likewise intriguing. A true story of the Hospitaliers, or Knights of St John, who suffered months of bombardment from Ottoman besieges. Highly recommend

Epic heroism

I found this a most wonderful a listen. Stellar narrative performance and content. Enjoy this epic tale.

Enthralled!

A great historical event well narrated. I lost track of time listening to it! Enjoy the adventure

Interesting Piece of History

I've heard of the Hospitalers (sp) from the Crusading era . I've also heard a little about the Ottamon Empire . I've never heard about the clash between the two that took place on the island of Malta .
There is not much background or personal history , which makes the story stay with the subject at hand . Never having heard of this part of history , I truly didn't know who was going to win until the last chapters .