Karla B. (gaslight) - , reviewed on 6/17/2008 + 145 more book reviews

Helpful Score: 1

What can I say? This book is one of the best, most engrossing historical novels in recent history. The characters are compelling, even lovable - or am I the only one who finished this book madly crushing on Lucius Cornelius Sulla? McCullough does a killer job of capturing the atmosphere and attitudes of a Rome trying to hang onto its republican ideals and practices while pursuing its perceived right to rule the world and forge an empire. The character of Gaius Marius is a great portrait of this conflict between birth privilege and the emerging meritocracy.

Can't recommend this, or the sequels, highly enough (although I think the first 3 books are the best in a stellar series).

Back to all reviews by this member
Back to all reviews of this book
Back to Book Reviews
Back to Book Details