Ancient Romans are remembered either as murderous imperialists or master administrators and engineers. The author of ten books on Roman history, who is from that part of the Roman Empire now known as the UK, traces the history of the Empire over 13 tumultuous centuries from its first kings to its split in the fourth century into separate western and western entities. Southern concludes that Rome and the western Empire never actually fell, but rather evolved into the kingdoms of medieval Europe. The book includes color illustrations of Roman sculpture and architecture; a couple of maps; a glossary; and an annotated, categorized bibliography for further reading. Annotation ©2010 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)