Few stories are more compelling than the history of the Crusades, and Nicholson (Cardiff U., Wales) ably conveys the mixed motives, complex politics, and medieval mindset throughout her clear and concise account. The volume, which was first published in 2004 by Greenwood Press, is notable for its coverage of several crusades--in the Holy Land, Spain, the Balkans, the Baltic, and against heretics. It also contains a selection of 12 primary documents; 17 short biographies of significant men and women, several of them Muslim; a glossary; and an annotated bibliography. This is an excellent introduction to the topic, accessible to the undergraduate student and interested general reader. Annotation ©2010 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)