Epic historical novel about three generations of the Koljenovic family's influence on the history of the Balkans, and the rise and fall of Yugoslavia.

"The history of my people is written in blood." So begins this rich and personal epic drama of three generations of the Koljenovic family and their influence on the history of Montenegro, the Balkans, and the world. Like the tiny blood red ruby in the great gearworks of nations, Montenegro has borne the weight and has been the center of the movements of the mighty. In this hard and most beautiful land, a fine and proud people have grown. This is their story.

In May 2006, following a closely and bitterly fought referendum, Montenegro finally regained the status of an independent nation that it had lost in 1918 - the most recent chapter in a highly turbulent history. The tiny Balkan republica??s declaration of independence from Serbia represented - barring the final resolution of Kosovoa??s status - the final stage in the disintegration of what was once Yugoslavia. But how did the Balkans forge this tiny republic? What sets it apart from the other dominant powers in the region? And what will be its future role on the worlda??s stage? 'Montenegro: A Modern History' charts the countrya??s contemporary history in accessible and comprehensive form. Kenneth Morrison explores the forces that have shaped the republic of Montenegro and questions where this will lead in the future, examining the fundamental issues of Montenegrin identity and statehood in a wider European as well as a Balkan context. This full and authoritative modern history is essential reading for everyone interested in the political and social dynamics of one of Europea??s youngest states.