I’ve loved many of Robert Harris’s other works; the thought of a trilogy set in ancient Rome was so very tempting. This is the first book retelling of the life of Cicero, a lawyer and politician.
In the author’s notes Harris states that everything in the book either happened, could have happened, or definitely didn’t not happen. It’s a very shorthand way of conveying how much research must have gone into this book.
You are immediately immersed into daily Roman life, which is described with a lightness that blends a modernity with classical references, terminology, and views. The juxtaposition of seemingly contemporary views of election strategy and campaigning, alongside brutal punishments and war mongering really gives a sense of what made Rome so powerful… I appreciate Harris may have taken some liberties but the sentiments ring true.
It’s such an enjoyable read, and rattles through the various legal and political battles that Cicero plots to drive his rise through the ranks of Rome’s governing system. Books two and three have been ordered.
