Both Richard Fortey's "Life" and G. A. Williamson's translation of Procopius' "The Secret History," as published by the Folio Society, delve into the intricacies of human existence and history with an unyielding curiosity. In their exploration of the human condition, both books unravel the layers of society, offering readers a glimpse into the hidden aspects of life, whether it be the secrets of nature or the clandestine maneuvers of rulers and empires. On the other hand, G. A. Williamson's translation of Procopius' "The Secret History" provides a fascinating glimpse into the Byzantine Empire during the reign of Justinian I. Procopius, a court historian, unveils the dark underbelly of Justinian's rule, exposing corruption, deceit, and scandal within the highest echelons of power. Through Procopius' lens, readers are transported to a world of intrigue and conspiracy, where the veneer of authority masks a web of treachery and betrayal. This book is in good condition with some wear on the slipcase. Life by Richard Fortey, on the other hand, offers an extensive exploration of the history of life on Earth. Starting from the big bang and spanning over four billion years, Fortey takes readers on a captivating journey through the evolution of life, from its earliest forms to the emergence of humans. As a leading paleontologist, Fortey brings his wealth of knowledge and expertise to the narrative, uncovering traces of prehistoric life from around the world. This book is generally in good condition, though there is some wear on the cover and slipcase, along with minor staining on the bottom corner of the cover. These Books are Shipped from France