Keith J. Stringer 
Reign of Stephen [PDF ebook] 
Kingship, Warfare and Government in Twelfth-Century England

In this study of Stephen’s reign, Keith Stringer looks at the relationship between government, warfare, and the rise and fall of medieval states. Using primary sources and the most recent research, he offers an important re-evaluation of the so-called `Anarchy’ and a radical reassessment of Stephen’s ability as a ruler.