A History of France by John Julius Norwich

I needed a complete overview of France as a refresher, and that's what I've experienced with this book.  I enjoyed Norwich's three books on the Byzantine Empire many years ago, and because of this selected this particular history of France.

And although his history features mainly the political and military history, this was something of a necessary evil to put French history into it's full context.  At least Norwich injects a dash of humor into his presentation.

With this complete I now feel more prepared to delve into pockets of French civilization that most intrigue me.