This is called a pocket guide and by its modest size, and equally modest price, is intended exactly as that, whether the pocket is of a coat, rucksack or car. But, like others in the series, it has much to commend it to the library as well. First and foremost, of course, for its contents: modest it may be, but it is also admirably comprehensive and up‐to‐date with the latest scholarship and archaeology. Its origin and authorship guarantee its accuracy.
In reference terms – and in terms of a practical guidebook – its one major weakness is its structure. Arrangement is by narrative chapters, in itself a valuable feature, allowing a thematic approach. A total of 12 chapters range from “Prelude: Iron Age Wales” to “The later history of Roman Wales.” Along the way they include such topics as forts, cities, countryside, religions, and trade and industry. The great legionary fortress at Caerleon has a chapter to itself. The weakness is that, despite several clear thematic maps and a comprehensive index, a topographical approach (for example, “I am in Llangollen: what will I find of Roman interest hereabouts?”) is difficult.
So this is more a narrative manual than a guidebook; a very good one it is, too, clear and accessible, concise and selective by necessity, but concentrating on “those things which seem … to characterize Roman Wales”. The text is embellished by some photographs (including a small section of colour plates), plans, and various “fact boxes” taking a closer look at certain topics (marching camps, the villa, for example). There is also a fairly extensive bibliography.
All is designed and printed elegantly and clearly in an attractive paperback volume. Despite my comments about finding places, and the lack of a gazetteer, I recommend this little book as a succinct yet surprisingly detailed overview of a perennially popular period of history in a perennially interesting country.
