Fortress Builder

Reviews / Votes

... places de Gomme in the larger context of military engineering and describes in detail his specific works in England. While truly scholarly, the book is well and clearly written, and does not demand prior expertise in the field. Many historian-authors will envy Saunders for the investment that the University of Exeter Press, supported by a grant from English Heritage, has made in this quality book. It is an unusually attractive work, with numerous plans vital to understanding de Gomme's work. It is good to see such an important book so well produced. This book, then, is the happy combination of an authoritative author and a committed publisher. The resulting work does justice to a major figure in the history of English fortifications, and is highly recommended to anyone with an interest in either 17th-Century fortifications or English fortifications. While not inexpensive, it is clearly an excellent investment. * The Coast Defence Journal * This rounded analysis sets the work and achievement of de Gomme in its wider historical, political and technical context and skilfully traces his growing influence on design through his fortification commissions and his state appointments. * Antiquaries Journal. Volume 86 * On all counts this volume is warmly recommended. * Antiquaries Journal. Volume 86 *