I would have given this book five stars but for the fact that the ending seems somewhat rushed. I would have liked to have known more about Duke Robert's life during his captivity. I have read elsewhere that he might have accepted and even enjoyed his new "life" and that he spent much of his time reading and learning. This book fills a hole in Norman history that is at times glossed over as the focus is on others. My take from the book is that Robert was not a bad leader but lacked the ruthlessness of his brothers. He was a capable general but lucked out to Norman barons who were more interested in their own prospects than what might be good for Normandy and England. A common theme amongst the Normans. ( )