John Gillingham was formerly professor of medieval history at the London School of Economics.

"Deserves to be regarded as definitive, and... will surely find its way on to the shelves of every student of the period. As befits the magnificence of his subject, Gillingham is a truly great historian." Nicholas Vincent, Times Literary Supplement "There is enough violence and intrigue to appeal to any reader; one wonders why Richard's life has not been made into a movie. The book should appeal to any reader, and its mastery will be obligatory for any serious student of the period... A splendid book." Fred A. Cazel, History: Reviews of New Books "an authoritative reading of Richard and his times... with a lively and engaging style that makes the book highly readable. The result is medieval political history at its best." Scott L. Waugh, Albion "In John Gillingham, Richard I has found his most able biographer. This is a tremendous book and a great read compelling written." S.D. Church, English Historical Review