Empires of the Sea.

"Empires of the Sea" by Roger Crowley is a riveting narrative that illuminates the fierce 16th-century struggle between the Ottoman Empire and the Christian states for control of the Mediterranean. The book masterfully details key naval battles, sieges, and the era's geopolitical intricacies, with a gripping focus on the pivotal Siege of Malta in 1565. Crowley's vivid storytelling brings to life the bravery and strategic genius that characterized Malta's defense, underscoring its decisive role in halting Ottoman expansion and shaping European history.