Imperium: A Novel of Ancient Rome by Robert Harris Summary and Reviews
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Book Reviews of Imperium: A Novel of Ancient Rome
Book Review: END OF THE REPUBLIC
Summary: 4 Stars
Very good yarn, based of the life of Cicero as told by his aide de camp. I first was introduced to Harris, when somebody recommended Fatherland to me some years ago, I was blown away by that book, it was fascinating to think of a Germany victorious after World War II, the story unfolds as Hilter is celebrating his 75th, God help us, birthday, this book is not as original or as quick paced at that book, Imperium is more deliberate in its pace, but still it tells an interesting story of a great orator, who much to his horror, ushers in the Empire. Book Review: Excellent Profile of Cicero's Rise
Summary: 5 Stars
Imperium chronicles the rise of Cicero in the late days of the Roman Republic. Cicero's rise to power in the Roman Republic was even more surprising since it was accomplished without large personal wealth (though he had enough) and because he was adept at charting a middle course through the powerful political factions in Rome without being crushed by them.
Harris weaves a compelling picture of the late Roman republic -- with a particular focus on political intrigue. If you're a fan of Roman history, or of politics, you'll enjoy this work.
Book Review: I, Paralegal
Summary: 4 Stars
His ingenious slave recounts the political adventures of Cicero in this historical entertainment. The setting may be ancient, but Harris has some ironic takes on modern times. It's like watching B.C.-SPAN. However, there isn't the white-knuckle tension that informed his earlier instant classics and we feel at a remove from the characters. (They say no man is a hero to his valet -- would a slave be this enamored of his master?)Book Review: Robert Harris can really write!
Summary: 4 Stars
I picked this book up largely because I'd read and enjoyed Pompeii. This book was EXCELLENT, a joy to read. I breezed right through it.
As good as pompei was (and Fatherland, which I read years ago when it first came out) this is his best effort to date (I've yet to read his latest, but fully intend to in the near future). I found his character development and writing style very easy to follow.
Highly recommend this book (as well as pompeii and Fatherland).
Book Review: Well Constructed And Quick Reading Historical Fiction
Summary: 4 Stars
There's a lot of book packed into the 305 pages of Robert Harris' Imperium. My sister loaned this to me on a recent visit, and I read it on the plane back. It's quite a good novel, and is certain to hold your attention easily.
Imperium charts the fictionalized political life of the Roman orator Cicero, and in doing so pushes the limits of historical fiction from drama, to mystery to political thriller. It reads quickly, and you'll find that you know the names of many of characters, which helps to keep from confusing the Roman names. And while the reader will get a healthy dose of Roman political vocabulary, Harris takes care to explain it all, and lends terminology enough context to keep the reader from having to turn backwards to re-read past chapters.
The pages turn quickly and enjoyably. If you like historical fiction, or just classical history, or if you're just addicted to HBO's Rome series, you're likely to enjoy Imperium immensely. Enjoy!