Much about daily life in Byzantium, 1039, differs from our lives almost 1,000 years later; Imperial Passions reveals moments that remain the same: joy at a child's birth, sadness at death, fear of war and disease, yearning for safety and comfort. Readers receive tantalizing views of female doctors and empresses, minority groups and generals. It is this detailed portrayal of fascinating historical figures which make this book a great read.