The Walls of Byzantium by James Heneage is a sweeping historical epic set during the waning days of the Byzantine Empire. As the unstoppable Ottoman Empire threatens Constantinople, four young friends are thrust into a dangerous world of political intrigue, hidden treasure, and war. Their intertwined fates span from the monasteries of Mount Athos to the deadly streets of Trebizond. Brimming with adventure, romance, and betrayal, the novel blends rich historical detail with the pace of a thriller. It was praised for its immersive storytelling and vivid re-creation of a crumbling empire, launching a beloved historical fiction series known for its blend of fact and legend.