This book has been an invaluable resource for my "Theodosian Women" series of historical fiction. There's very little scholarship available to the lay/amateur historian set in this time period, particularly covering women in power. Hollum writes clearly and with authority. It is well-indexed and footnoted, allowing me to wander farther afield into the primary and well-regarded secondary sources. The high rating is in regards to its value to me for research. People who like popular history with the notes at the end (or no notes at all) will probably find this boring. ( )