The Visage of Empire

More about the book

Set in the late 9th century, the narrative follows Viking warriors from Sweden who are invited to establish order in the chaotic lands around Lake Ladoga. Their arrival leads to the formation of the Kievan Rus Empire, centered in Kiev. However, this peace quickly deteriorates into brutal internecine conflicts, ultimately splitting the empire into Ukraine and Russia. While Ukraine seeks a more peaceful existence, Russia embraces militarism, expanding its empire significantly by the 19th century, even acquiring Alaska, with the legacy of imperialism persisting into the 20th century.