Book excerpt: Following on from the popular first book in this series covering the Norman period, "The Angevins" traces the establishment and growth of the English nation state. Covering the reigns of Henry II, Richard I and the infamous King John, the narrative flows from the ending of the civil war known as the Anarchy to the First Baron's War and the Magna Carta. With over 190 illustrations and maps, the format has been designed to enable the reader to absorb the essence of the period. This is a serious history book with easy readability. The author’s encyclopedic knowledge of the English Middle Ages has enabled him to delve into fascinating details of the time and the links with England today to be found in language, institutions and places. "England in the Middle Ages: The Angevins” is ideal for scholars, students, visitors to England, and for the general history reader.