Byron

For the first time I feel that I can really come to a conclusion about the man, the creator of one of the greatest legends in the history of our civilisation. Napoleon is hardly more celebrated; and Byron, like the Corsican, is not less alive now than during his lifetime... Mr Marchand's is the most balanced portrait that we have of this eternally fascinating being, and the most sympathetic.

Terence de Vere White, Irish Times

One cannot but be won over by the sensitive, infinitely complex reality which Leslie Marchand uncovers...he gives us the essential Byron...The spell of this strange, unquiet, blazingly honest and infinitely endearing man, is powerful.

Selina Hastings, Daily Telegraph

Here is his life, recorded in meticuloous detail, drawn with affection, great erudition and a critical eye.

Joanna Richardson, Sunday Telegraph

An incisive narrative which I found as compelling as if I had never read a book about Byron before and every circumstance were new to me...The short biography par excellence.

Doris Langley Moore, Sunday Times