The title slightly oversells the contents of this book, which are microscopically focused on specific obscure phenomena in the history of swordfighting. Including what targets (body parts, mounts) were off-limits and when, when organized sport swordfighting originated in Europe, the techniques taught to US soldiers in WWII for fighting a Nazi officer armed with a sword, and other esoterica. The tone is dry, but the illustrations help to add extra interest and clarify the descriptions of techniques and movements. ( )