When you think of democracy, what comes to mind? Comparing democracy to monarchy, are you thankful to be living free rather than suffering oppression under a medieval tyrant? What if you could be evidentially shown that the democracy you hold so dear is not only less ideal than you’ve been taught, but is actually inferior to the kingdoms of the Middle Ages?

Get ready for a real history lesson you won’t soon forget. In Jeb Smith’s latest work Missing Monarchy, he uncovers eye-opening facts about the Medieval period, kingship, democracy, and more. When you learn how societies of our past addressed their governmental needs, you may begin to perceive that our current system isn't the utopia it is commonly portrayed as. And as you come to understand how power is wielded under our democracy, you just might start missing monarchy too.

What People are Saying About Missing Monarchy

Exceptional...If you think the medieval era is synonymous with the Dark Ages, think again. Smith's informative and extensively researched Missing Monarchy first dispels long-held myths about the medieval period, kingship, and life in the Middle Ages, then delivers an eloquent and devastating critique of democracy. After reading, one begins to question the democratic authoritarianism and politicization of modern society that we all take for granted, while also feeling a sense of nostalgia and a longing for the freedoms of our medieval predecessors...For anyone who has ever dreamt of escaping modernity's Matrix, this book is an eye-opening must-read.

Micheal Warren Davis is an Editor with Sophia Institute Press and the author of The Reactionary Mind and After Christendom

Most think it is obvious modern democracy is better than medieval feudalism. But, even if it is, perhaps we're exaggerating the goodness of the former and overstating the badness of the latter. This fascinating book will give readers plenty to think about on these topics.

Dr. Jason Brennan Professor of strategy, economics, ethics, and public policy at Georgetown University

This book is a marvelous step in the effort to rehabilitate the place of the Middle Ages in the western tradition...Slowly, medievalists are finding their voices in modern social dialogues heard because of poignant works such as this one.

Dr. Joe Morrel PhD/ in Medieval History from the University of North Texas, and Adjunct Professor of History at the University of Dallas

Jeb Smith's book holds a wealth of valuable lessons, not only about the Middle Ages but also about our modern predicaments.

Dr. Frank van Dun, Philosopher of Law (ret.), Universities of Ghent (Belgium) and Maastricht (The Netherlands)

Jeb Smith provides us with a fascinating book about the Middle Ages, looking at what we so often get wrong about the period through chapters ranging from feudalism to warfare, and democracy to politicians. Perhaps more importantly he allows us to consider how modern society functions - and questions whether modern governance is truly better to that of the Middle Ages.

History Is Now Magazine

Missing Monarchy uses the keen edge of medieval monarchy to cut asunder the ruse of contemporary arrogance.

The Postil Magazine

Missing Monarchy...is a unique, eye-opening take on the feudal system of the Middle Ages...Missing Monarchy is a must-read

San Diego Book Review 5-Star Review

Missing Monarchy is both scholarly and provocative...Smith's arguments are well-researched and compellingly presented. It is a thoughtful, well-argued, and timely critique of democracy through the lens of historical monarchy, providing a fresh perspective on what governance could look like if informed by the past.

Luciano Anastasi Medieval History

In author Jeb Smith's new book, Missing Monarchy... you'll uncover startling truths about the systems we hold so dear...and why our democratic utopia could be a mirage.

Brian Lehrer, The Brian Lehrer Show iheart Radio

The book’s greatest strength lies in its willingness to question assumptions that are rarely examined…Smith’s use of historical sources and his effort to rehabilitate the reputation of the medieval period are particularly effective. Even readers who reject his conclusions may find themselves reconsidering what they thought they knew about the past…Missing Monarchy is not a book that asks for agreement. It demands engagement. It challenges the reader to reconsider foundational assumptions about history, power, and legitimacy…it performs a valuable function: it disrupts intellectual complacency.

Keith Preston, editor at Attack the System Missing Monarchy — A Review of J eb Smith’s Power, Myth, and the Architecture of Control

This book beckons to those daring enough to question the foundation of their beliefs and discover that perhaps, in the echoes of history, lies a truth far more liberating than previously imagined.

Geoff Carter The flagship UK Talk Radio Breakfast Show Reviews