Ghost on the Throne    by James Romm Order:  USA  Can Anchor, 2012 (2011) Hardcover, Softcover Read an Excerpt     Reviewed by Bob Walch Although many people are familiar with Alexander the Great's ten year campaign of conquest that eventually put part of Europe, Asia and North Africa under his control, they are less aware of how that empire collapsed in 323 after Alexander died. This is the dramatic story of the demise of the man and the vast empire he carved. As James Romm explains, Alexander died just when most men longed for him and when his talents were desperately needed to keep the empire together. Upon Alexander's death at the age of 32, his two heirs, a mentally damaged half brother (Philip III) and an infant son (Alexander IV), were granted authority over the realm that stretched from the Adriatic Sea to what is now India. Given the circumstances and absence of a strong leader, six of Alexander's Macedonian generals fought for supremacy. One man in particular, Eumenes, became the determining factor in the precarious fortunes of the royal family. Looking back at this tumultuous period, Bard College Professor James Romm offers up the fascinating story of the struggle for the great empire Alexander fought so valiantly to create. Note: Opinions expressed in reviews and articles on this site are those of the author(s) and not necessarily those of BookLoons. Find more NonFiction books on our Shelves or in our book Reviews