Customer Reviews:
Terribly disappointing.......2007-10-21
Rarely have I read a book so completely unsatisfying. I could not find one character with whom I sympathized or cared about. It made me swear off books about New Yorkers: self-absorbed and totally out-of-touch with real humanity, unlike actual New York City residents I know, including family members. Who are these people? I'm sure people this self-absorbed exist - I don't want to read a whole novel about them. Like other reviewers, I forced myself to slog through her pretentious writing style and absence of plot to the end - and found the ending just as terrible.
All dressed up and no where to go...........2007-10-20
The Emperor's Children is one of those books that never seems to come together for me. Some books have a strong start and then fizzle out at the end, others have a slow start but a strong finish. This book started slow, stayed slow and ended slow. Maybe it's a true telling of post 9/11 lives in New York City, or a literary version of post traumatic stress syndrome, or maybe it's a great novel that just misses it with me. The New York Times lists this book as a 2006 notable so I had to assume it was worth the read. For me it wasn't.
Soooo boring that I couldn't finish.......2007-10-16
I read a lot of books and always finish but this book was sooooo boring that I have given up. My current favorite is the "Glass Castle"
Awful.......2007-10-12
I am in the second chapter and already am very distracted by the horrible use of commas and dashes in her long, meaningless sentences. Nobody ever speaks or thinks like that. The characters are not likeable. What a tedious exercise. Forget it, I'm trashing it, specially after reading all the reviews.
What an utter disappointment! .......2007-10-09
Rating should be NO stars!
I was quite enthused to read this book, having read some of the reviews. I have limited time and so I tend to pick books carefully. All I can say is "my bad!" This book was such a disappointment - the characters were pretentious, the plot often vapid, and there seemed to be a ton of loose ends at the conclusion of the book.
Plot spoiler!!!! The book's chronology covers September 11, 2001, and it handled the day and its sadness in such a haphazard manner. I worked downtown in NYC and was a mere 4 blocks away when the first tower fell - the description of the event and the impact on the characters was laughable. None of the characters were appealing, save for perhaps one (Annabel Thwaite, but mostly b/c she was not very involved with the other characters, but rather her work, which was noble - assisting problem foster children in the system).
This was a very slow read, and I actually threw the book in the garbage as soon as I finished. I do not often have such reactions to books, but again, this was a huge let-down, empty characters, feeble storyline, and pretentious prose, to boot.
Skip this one!
Book Description
He found Rome made of clay and left it made of marble. As Rome’s first emperor, Augustus transformed the unruly Republic into the greatest empire the world had ever seen. His consolidation and expansion of Roman power two thousand years ago laid the foundations, for all of Western history to follow. Yet, despite Augustus’s accomplishments, very few biographers have concentrated on the man himself, instead choosing to chronicle the age in which he lived. Here, Anthony Everitt, the bestselling author of Cicero, gives a spellbinding and intimate account of his illustrious subject.
Augustus began his career as an inexperienced teenager plucked from his studies to take center stage in the drama of Roman politics, assisted by two school friends, Agrippa and Maecenas. Augustus’s rise to power began with the assassination of his great-uncle and adoptive father, Julius Caesar, and culminated in the titanic duel with Mark Antony and Cleopatra.
The world that made Augustus–and that he himself later remade–was driven by intrigue, sex, ceremony, violence, scandal, and naked ambition. Everitt has taken some of the household names of history–Caesar, Brutus, Cassius, Antony, Cleopatra–whom few know the full truth about, and turned them into flesh-and-blood human beings.
At a time when many consider America an empire, this stunning portrait of the greatest emperor who ever lived makes for enlightening and engrossing reading. Everitt brings to life the world of a giant, rendered faithfully and sympathetically in human scale. A study of power and political genius, Augustus is a vivid, compelling biography of one of the most important rulers in history.
Customer Reviews:
A Man for This Season!.......2007-09-27
I am struck by the relevancy of this work to the political climate of our own early 21st American century! Chilling, timely, a potent sociological, political perspective as well as a eye-opening perspective on the military undermining of Rome's Republic and it's dying years.
A workman-like treatment of the subject of Augustus.......2007-09-14
After my second read-through of the book, I'm still not enthusiastic about it. In fact, rather than breathlessly following an `often terrifying drama,' I got bored at times, and more often than not, Augustus did not `come alive,' at least not to me.
The book is one of the many new popular history books, a worthy undertaking, bringing history back into the eye of the general public. However, it should also be readable to the more knowledgeable history enthusiast and the professional. Mr. Everitt, known to many Roman history buffs through his Cicero: The Life and Times of Rome's Greatest Politician, has done an enormous amount of research. The problem, for this reviewer at least, is how he made use of it.
The book is a more or less chronological history of the life of Octavius/Octavian/Augustus. This is preceded by a brief romp through the recent history of the republic, unfortunately sometimes a bit too glib or even careless.
One would have liked to read more about the famed "Golden Age." The quote itself is thrown in somewhere, and the poets are mentioned and cited here and there, but there is no cohesive treatment of the subject.
All in all, Augustus is presented as a reformer and forgiven his considerable flaws, the latter outweighed by the "public good." The author also stresses Augustus' and Agrippa's management of the provinces, encouraging urbanization and the Roman way of life and extending Roman citizenship to many thousands of provincials throughout the empire.
"Augustus: The Life of Rome's First Emperor" is a workman-like treatment of the subject of Augustus, intended for a general audience. For the interested reader, there is an excellent "Further Reading" list.
The spinmeister.......2007-08-08
A decent popularizaion of the subject. Eap. good on general background and overall perspective.
Amazing!.......2007-07-19
Just an amazing read! Everitt did an outstanding job with "Augustus". If you want to learn about Rome's first emperor then look no further than this book. I couldn't put it down!
Astonishing!.......2007-06-28
Simply perfect. The facts about Marcus Antonius` attitude towards Octavian and his role in the events leading to Ceasar`s assasination are depicted with great accuracy. Highly recommended for classical era fanatics.
Book Description
Journey to dazzling seventeenth-century Hindustan, where the reigning emperor, consumed with grief over the tragic death of his beloved wife, commissions the building of the Taj Mahal as a testament to the marvel of their love. Princess Jahanara, their courageous daughter, recounts their mesmerizing tale, while sharing her own parallel tale of forbidden love with the celebrated architect of the Taj Mahal. This impressive novel sweeps readers away to a historical Hindustan brimming with action and intrigue in an era when, alongside the brutalities of war and oppression, architecture and the art of love and passion reached a pinnacle of perfection.
Customer Reviews:
Beneath A Marble Sky.......2007-10-19
Thank you for the prompt way in which you responded in sending a very enjoyable book. Convenient and appreciated.
A Story of Love and Treachery Set in 17th Century India.......2007-10-02
"Beneath a Marble Sky" is a beautiful story of a forbidden romance between the Mughul princess Jahanara and the architect who designed the Taj Mahal. The Princess Jahanara, eldest daughter of the Hindustani ruler Shah Jahan, tells the story in flashback form to her two granddaughters. The story is one of great loves, great treachery, and the building of one of the world's greatest monuments, the Taj Mahal. This was a wonderful story which made me want to learn more about the building of the Taj Mahal.
After I finished the book, I did indeed check out another book about the building of the Taj Mahal. What I learned there was interesting too, and I was stunned by the beauty of this building. I did learn that "Beneath a Marble Sky" is only loosely based on the historical facts behind the building of this monument, but that didn't diminish my enjoyment of the story one bit! After all, that what historical "fiction" is all about.
Historical Fiction at its Best.......2007-09-21
Beneath a Marble Sky is historical fiction at its best. Well researched and beautifully written this story of the building of the Taj Mahal is a beautiful story of love and its enduring qualities. Since very little is known about the actual story of the Taj Mahal, most of the story is indeed fiction, but based in what facts are known.
The story is told through the voice of Jahanara, daughter of the Shah Jahan and one of his wives Mumtaz Mahal. Jahanara relays the story of the building of the Taj Mahal to her granddaughters. In so doing she tells the tale of her parent's great love for one another and her own forbidden love for the architect who comes to build the Taj Mahal after the death of her mother. We also learn the story of Jahanara's two brothers Dara and Aurangzeb who vie for the throne even though their father is still very much alive.
Vivid details make it seem as if you are seeing not only the building of the Taj, but also the harems, bazaars and living spaces of 17th century Hindustan. Also the universal feelings of love, loss and betrayal are brought wonderfully to life.
Interesting and entertaining, but just not believable. I kept turning the pages though........2007-09-08
The Taj Mahal is the inspiration for this loosely interpreted love story. Princess Jahanara is the main character, and like many main characters in historical novels, she is highly intelligent and feisty and thinks like a modern woman.
Of course I knew it was all fiction as I let myself become involved with the story, and at times I actually found it quite silly. However, I was also captured by the tale and found myself thinking about the book and rushing back to it just to see what would happen next. The author did a good job of keeping the details of life in the empire interesting and engaging. Central to the story is Jahanara's forbidden love with the architect of the Taj Mahal. There are other love stories as well, especially that of Jahanara's father, the emperor who built the famous tomb for his favorite wife who died in childbirth.
Throughout, I was aware that this was a novel, and that many of the historical details were outright wrong, but that didn't make me put down the book. Something exciting happens on every page and the characters are defined early as either the "good guys" or the "bad guys". Aurangzeb, who later became emperor and ruled for a lifetime, is a bad guy and we see this cruel streak in him right from his childhood. We're certainly not surprised then, when later, he murders his brother and imprisons his father. The reader identifies with Jahanara, and we share the ups and downs of her life. She is treated terribly by her husband, adored by her father, and loved by the architect. She is imprisoned and suffers unspeakable horrors, but somehow has the quick mind to get her out of the most outrageous situations.
I resisted checking the facts about the Taj Mahal until after I finished the book. I soon learned that the author crafted the story out of the very barest of facts and as far as I am concerned, it was ALL fiction. But I must say that I really did enjoy reading it. It was great escape fiction on a hot summer's day. Understanding that, I do give it a lightweight recommendation. Just be aware of its limitations.
Awesome adventure/love story.......2007-08-26
A beautifully described account of the building of the Taj Mahal. A little of everything: love story, action & adventure, family feuds. We had a GREAT themed bbok club meeting with indian food and dress. Overall the book was rated 8.5 out of ten. Vey absorbing, well done.
Book Description
Byzantium, 1096. A mysterious assassin releases an arrow aimed at the emperor---but he has more than just a man in his sights. A keystone of a crumbling empire, the emperor is the solitary figure holding all the enemies in check. And if he falls, the mightiest power in Christendom will be torn apart.
Demetrios Askiates, unveiler of mysteries, is hired to catch the would-be-killer. But he is entering an unknown world; a babbling cauldron of princes, slaves, mercenaries, pimps, and eunuchs. Not all enemies are within the city walls, however, and with the Turks running rampant across Asia, the emperor has sent to the west for mercenaries to reinforce his position. When a great army, tens of thousands strong, appears before the city gates---the emperor gets more than he bargained for. From the depths of the slums to the golden towers of the city palace; from the sands of the hippodrome to the soaring domes of Ayia Sophia; Demetrios must edge his way through a glittering maze of treachery and deceit before time runs out.
Intent on making their fortunes in war, and with no allegiance to this empire, the first crusaders have arrived with eyes full of jealousy and suspicion. As the armies of the east and west confront each other, and with the assassin creeping ever closer to his prey, Demetrios must untangle this golden web of intrigue that surrounds the emperor---before the city, and the empire, are drowned in blood.
“His portrayal of the Byzantine city and the intrigues that threaten its destruction is vivid and convincing.”
---The Sunday Times (UK)
“It’s a world that Harper brings exuberantly to life, clearly revelling in its teeming, tumultuous extravagance. But he also has a sharp eye for an intriguing mystery.”
---Yorkshire Post (UK)
“Tom Harper writes with strident clarity in this epic tale of murder and betrayal, bloodshed and romance. Gripping from the first page, the reader is swept up.... Well researched and cinematic in its imagery, this is a fast-paced and exciting debut.”
---INK (UK)
“A gripping tale...I look forward to Demetrios’s further adventures.”
---Elizabeth Hawksley, Historical Novels Review
“A lively adventure.... The imperial palace, with all its splendor and intrigue, is brought vividly to life.”
---Good Book Review (UK)
“An engaging romp---Byzantine not only in time and location but the ins and outs of the plot.”
---The Advertiser (Australia)
Customer Reviews:
Very fun story that will actually take you to Byzantium.......2007-07-30
No spoilers.
I'll have to agree with another reviewer here who noted that the immediate flaw in this novel is that there is little introduction or background given about the protagonist, Demetrios, until about a quarter of the way into the book. Having said that (and overlooking it because you eventually find out about him), this is definitely a book I recommend.
Although I began to suspect who the Emperor's true enemy was before it was revealed, even that, which is something that I usually hate when reading a mystery, didn't take away from the quality of the story. Harper, with ease, immerses the reader into eleventh century Byzantine society to the point where you almost believe you are reading these events unfold in the present, right outside your window.
I fully recommend this novel to anyone who enjoys historical fiction and who wants to be transported into their story.
Conspiracy, Spies, Betrayel, Epic Battles - Medieval Times.......2007-01-23
Medieval Times. What a...mysterious time in our (human) past. After the fall of Rome, the world dived into a 1000 years of turmoil, wars, Crusades, and so much more. How much fun!
Set during the time of Emperor Alexios, we have a great, huge story which brings the reader right into the story from the first page, to the very end. Our hero is Demetrios. Former mercenary, turned "investigator" there is a plot to assassinate the emperor, and take over the empire.
We are weaved through a fine tale, based on much fact, of betrayel, loyalties, and much more. Who tried to kill the Emperor, and why? With a barbarian army from France marching towards the city, the turks lurking just a few hundred miles away, we are setup for a final scene unlike more others. Will Demetrios find out who and why tried to Assassinate the Emperor?
The book is extremely well written. Great characters, again, many based on actual events and people. Tom Harper shows his knowledge of the times, with a very convincing story.
Whether you are a fan of the times or not, this book will entertain you. Not for a minute was I counting the pages left.
A Fascinating Read.......2007-01-06
Tom Harper is a pseudonym of Edwin Thomas who grew up in West Germany, Belgium and America before returning to England to study history at Oxford university. The mosaic of Shadows is about a period of history that I enjoy reading about very much, but even if I am slightly biased I believe that the book is a really good read for anyone interested in historical murder mysteries.
The book takes place in Byzantium, the year is 1096, 30 years after the bastard Norman, Duke William had captured the throne of England from the grasp of Harold at Hastings.
When an attempt is made on the life of the emperor by a mysterious assassin, whoever sent the killer to try to murder the emperor knows that it was not just a man who would have been killed by the assassin's arrow but an empire in decline. If the emperor should fall then the mightiest force in Christendom will be torn apart. Only too aware of his precarious position the emperor hire the unveiled of mysteries, Demetrios Askiates to catch the would-be-killer. But even for one such as Demetrios the task of finding the killer is all but impossible. An unknown world of prince's and paupers, slaves mercenaries, harems and eunuchs. From the slums to the golden palace, enemies are lurking in the shadows, but not all are within the wall of the city.
The first crusaders have arrived and are intent on making their fortunes. They hold no allegiance to an enemy they eye with suspicion. As they armies of the east and the west confront each other across a barren landscape, the assassin prepares to make another attempt upon the life of the emperor. Can Demetrios untangle the web of deceit and intrigue that surrounds the emperor and his city before it is too late and one of the greatest empires of all time crumbles into the dust . . .
A fine first.......2007-01-01
Mr. Harper certainly knows his Byzantine and Crusader history and culture, and has stuck close to the reality of the times. He can also spin a detective tale. There may be scenes the reader will doubt, but it's all true. Mr. Harper does not invent the mechanical lions that bristled and roared next to the Emperor's throne to frighten barbarians.
A nice mix of personal/family issues and detective work, as well as great historical events. The mix of the first two might remind one of Lindsey Davis's Falco, but unlike either Davis or John Maddox Roberts in their top-notch Roman detective series, Harper is not also a humorist. The book is a straightforward historical mystery, but unlike Rosemary Rowe's Libertus series, it isn't just a non-stop series of clue-unraveling. Harper is never dull reading.
Enjoyable story by young author.......2005-12-03
After the disaster at Manzikert, the great Byzantine Empire calls for help from the 'barbarian' west. Emperor Alexios Komnenos appeals for mercenaries to help him re-capture his Asian province (modern-day Turkey). Instead, the west responds with the First Crusade. The Crusaders are anxious to confront the Turks who occupy Jerusalem, but they have no interest in helping Alexios regain his lost province. When Alexios demands their oath that any conquests within his former territory be returned to him, they refuse. Political hardball? Perhaps. But when an assassin's bolt nearly kills the Emperor, the Emperor's eunuch hires ex-mercenary and now detective Demetrios Askiates to uncover the truth.
Pieces of the truth are easy enough to discover. The bolt could only have been fired from a western crossbow, the kind the Franks outside the city carry. And a monk who seems to follow the western rites is clearly responsible. But the eunuch knows that a foreign monk cannot be the center of the plot. Some 'Roman' must be involved--one with enough power that he would be in a position to have himself proclaimed Emperor if the current Emperor falls.
Author Tom Harper does a fine job describing the city of Constantinople under siege, the Greek intrigues that so frustrated the western Crusaders, and the various groups of mercenaries who defended the Empire while the mob often controlled its fate. Demetrios Askiates makes an intriguing sleuth, with his concern for his daughters and his ambivalent feelings toward the beautiful doctor, Anna. We can, perhaps, forgive 26-year-old author Harper for believing that a man in his mid-thirties is over the hill and unable to carry weapons effectively.
Fans of historical mystery will want to pick up MOSAIC OF SHADOWS--and hope that we soon see more by Tom Harper.
Amazon.com
A precise, understated gem of a first novel, Julie Otsuka's When the Emperor Was Divine tells one Japanese American family's story of internment in a Utah enemy alien camp during World War II. We never learn the names of the young boy and girl who were forced to leave their Berkeley home in 1942 and spend over three years in a dusty, barren desert camp with their mother. Occasional, heavily censored letters arrive from their father, who had been taken from their house in his slippers by the FBI one night and was being held in New Mexico, his fate uncertain. But even after the war, when they have been reunited and are putting their stripped, vandalized house back together, the family can never regain its pre-war happiness. Broken by circumstance and prejudice, they will continue to pay, in large and small ways, for the shape of their eyes. When the Emperor Was Divine is written in deceptively tranquil prose, a distillation of injustice, anger, and poetry; a notable debut. --Regina Marler
Book Description
Julie Otsuka’s commanding debut novel paints a portrait of the Japanese internment camps unlike any we have ever seen. With crystalline intensity and precision, Otsuka uses a single family to evoke the deracination—both physical and emotional—of a generation of Japanese Americans. In five chapters, each flawlessly executed from a different point of view—the mother receiving the order to evacuate; the daughter on the long train ride to the camp; the son in the desert encampment; the family’s return to their home; and the bitter release of the father after more than four years in captivity—she has created a small tour de force, a novel of unrelenting economy and suppressed emotion. Spare, intimate, arrestingly understated, When the Emperor Was Divine is a haunting evocation of a family in wartime and an unmistakably resonant lesson for our times. It heralds the arrival of a singularly gifted new novelist.
From the Hardcover edition.
Customer Reviews:
Racist.......2007-10-05
This book can be insulting. For example, the author talks about the Chinese like they are animals, and talks about how poor the Chinese are. This book is SOOO boring. The author stretches out information that was not needed to make the book longer, and that just made this book so useless. There is no point in reading this book.
Totally disappointing. Barely indepth about the camps at all........2007-07-18
I have a deep interest in WWII internment camps, have visited one on a pilgrimage and also visited a Japantown museum. Although a work of fiction, I was very interested in reading this to gain another perspective. Especially as the author is Japanese American, it could be a truly credible story. However, this book was a total disappointment.
I noticed a deliberate lack of details. For example, I've seen pictures of many evacuees gathered near the trains, preparing to depart for their unknown destination and unknown future. Standing next to their 1 suitcase of belongings and whatever else they could carry with them. They had to sell/leave behind their lives, jobs, business, homes, belongings, friends, school, etc. Racism, injustice, sadness, confusion, anger, anxiety... I can only imagine such overwhelming emotions.
This dramatic scene sets the stage for the beginning of the camps but is written in JUST 2 sentences. Basically: the girl & mother woke up, went to the meeting area, put on their ID #'s, grabbed their suitcase, boarded the bus to go. The train moved slowly. Where are the details and emotions??? Where are the thousands of other people? It sounded as if the family was by themselves and they were magically transported to the moving train.
A search of the author reveals her deliberate lack of details is to "universalize" the "ethnic" experience. Why??? Would you universalize the experience of Jewish concentration camps or Muslims in post 9/11? By doing so, you mislead the readers about actual events and downplay the harsh reality of their inhumane experiences. That's really offending to those who were interned. Almost as bad Michelle Malkin denying the camps ever happened.
I was appalled when she described the boy's first impression of camp life, p49. "For it was true, they all looked alike. Black hair. Slanted eyes. High cheekbones. Thick glasses. Thin lips...The little yellow man." Even if this is a fiction book from a boy's point of view in the 1940's, I would never expect a JA to write like that, about her own ethnicity even. Nothing could be further from the truth. Would you say that a room full of blonde-haired, blue-eyed, big-nosed, bushy-browed, pale-skinned Caucasians all look the same? Sadly, she only emphasizes false stereotypes.
Ironically, she wastes WAY too much efforts describing details of non-important things. E.g. p41, she spends nearly a whole page detailing how the boy and girl draw a picture of the father.
Curiously, the back of the book credits only 5 books. An interview mentioned she read oral history collections & secondary source books. How about interviewing living internees? How about visiting actual camp ruins? How about visiting the last 3 Japantowns in the U.S., which have museums and tons of JA camp resources? Oh wait, she doesn't need to do any indepth pointless research because she omits all details anyways.
I felt as if this book only made it very apparent about her lack of knowledge about the camps and her own ethnic Japanese background.
I really don't understand her purpose in writing this book. She would have been MUCH better off writing a book about a minority family in the 1950's and which has nothing to do with WWII JA camps. Why write this kind of historical novel, just to leave out all the important details? Do not read this book if you are expecting any understanding of the camps.
Fantastic!.......2007-05-09
I really enjoyed this book. She writes the book in 3rd person and it really adds to the sense of invisibility of the family. The book is reflective in nature in that we are told what happens and how it feels to the characters as opposed to experiencing them as they happen. I found this book very thought provoking and timely.
Seems to be a lot like another book- to much so.......2007-03-18
As an elementary school teacher I read a book entitled, "Journey to Topaz". It was a fabulous book. As I began to read "The Emperor was Divine" I got the strange feeling I'd read it before. I am almost certain the author of "The Emperor was Divine" has too. There are way to many similiarities. I suppose it is entirely possible that they lived an almost identical life as it's a big world. Based on copywrite "Journey to Topaz" was written first. I enjoyed it more-perhaps because the characters were far better developed and the storyline was original. It makes me wonder?
sansei1.......2006-09-18
I had mixed feelings about this book before I read it. The title is NOT how most JA immigrants felt about the emperor of Japan. There was generally no love lost. Most, like my grandparents, left because of poverty, conscription, alienation, and to look for better oportunites in America, lika a lot of other immigrants. While reading the book, I give her kudos for her ability to describe events visually well. BUT...there are many problems with this book. There is this sterility in the manner in which she describes events.She can manage to paint a visually stunning picture with her words but there is no substance. Her characters seem as if she studied them from a textbook. A Nisei (second generation) young girl would NEVER talk in the manner in which she writes, to an elder!!! Its almost like she had Dakota Fanning in mind for this character. And the father character, an Issei (first generation)....Issei's used to swallow their pain. The Issei are known for their stoic strength and "gaman", quiet strength amidst adversity. I felt isulted by his mental confession in the book. I went to see the author at a local library and she did confess she NEVER interviewed ANY living internees. My god...they are dying off and she doesn't interview them? She said she wanted a more "pure" viewpoint. She said she did study books for her historical references. Indeed, there are some references in the book which I'm not quite sure if it is plagiarism, like in the description of the flies bothering her characters and then when they put up screens, it gets better. See Mine Okubo's book Citizen 13660, which Otsuka does reference. That scene is in there. I can see where the sterility feeling I got came from---if she only studied books and didn't get a feel for the emotional aspect that is buried in a lot of interness...she only did her homework half-baked.There are SO many heartbreaking stories that are dying and being buried with the internees. She confessed she didn't really listen when her parents and grandparents talked about it and they would shut up when she'd come around. But she said she didn't really ask them either, only marginally later. What IS her interest here? A book bestseller to be touted among the Asian community? I didn't really get from her interviewed she cared deeply for what happened, it was just a good base for her story. My parents told me everything and I am grateful. I am insulted by this book. It is like looking at a painting of a pretty scene but the artist who created didn't really care about anything but rendering a pretty scene. I was fairly disgusted by the time I left the interview from the library.
She's a grad of Columbia? She needs to study more. This is a great book if you think Snow Falling on Cedars is wonderful.
Book Description
Drawing from decades of work, travel, and research in Russia, Robert Alexander re-creates the tragic, perennially fascinating story of the final days of Nicholas and Alexandra as seen through the eyes of the Romanovs' young kitchen boy, Leonka. Now an ancient Russian immigrant, Leonka claims to be the last living witness to the Romanovs' brutal murders and sets down the dark secrets of his past with the imperial family. Does he hold the key to the many questions surrounding the family's murder? Historically vivid and compelling, The Kitchen Boy is also a touching portrait of a loving family that was in many ways similar, yet so different, from any other.
Drawing from decades of work, travel, and research in Russia, Robert Alexander re-creates the tragic, perennially fascinating story of the final days of Russian monarchs Nicholas and Alexandra as seen through the eyes of the Romanov's young kitchen boy, Leonka.
Download Description
"Taut with suspense and rich in historical detail, The Kitchen Boy chronicles in an entirely new light the brutal slaying of Czar Nicholas II and his family It was a crime to horrify, fascinate, and mystify the ages. On the night of July 16, 1918, Bolshevik revolutionaries murdered the entire Russian royal family in a hail of gunfire. No one survived who might bear witness to what really happened on that mysterious and bloody night. Or so it was thought. In masterful historical detail and breathtaking suspense, Robert Alexander carries the reader through the entire heartrending story as told through the eyes of a real but forgotten witness, the kitchen boy. Narrated by the sole witness to the basement execution, The Kitchen Boy is historical fiction at its best. But more than that, the accessible style and intricately woven plot-with a stunning revelation at its end-will keep readers guessing throughout. "This is a dream of a book... [Robert Alexander's] tough, stylish prose is the perfect medium for this fast-becoming myth of evil and innocence, of frailty and courage, of betrayal and redemption."" -Judith Guest ""Through the power of the author's imagination, we see not only the tragedy of the Emperor, but that of a human being, man, and father."" -Ivan Artsyshevsky, The Romanov Family Association"
Customer Reviews:
The Kitchen Boy.......2007-09-12
The author kept you interested all the way through the book and even though you already know the outcome, you are hoping for a better ending. Great read by Robert Alexander. I am now going to read Rasputin's Daughter by Robert Alexander.
Couldn't put it down.......2007-08-29
Coincidentally, the day I started this book there was a news announcement that the graves of the missing Romanov children had possibly been discovered. I should have known that it was a good omen! I had been looking for a novel about the Romanovs for some time and this hit the mark. THE KITCHEN BOY is a wonderful mix of fact and fiction and a valuable history lesson, too. Mr. Alexander did an outstanding job of turning turbulent times and a tragic event into an entertaining novel that I couldn't put down. So believable that I had to convince myself that the fictional mystery ending really didn't happen - or did it? Simply wonderful!
Great Travel Read.......2007-07-09
I bought this book in the Hermitage Museum shop in '05. It's great for a short travel book. Filled with history, plus a good mystery mixed in.
Romantic fantasy but decent reading.......2007-07-05
Knowing little about Russian history, it was interesting to me that R.Alexander was able to weave certified history into his romantic fantasy of a novel. I felt pushed to learn more about Russian history, but not to repeat reading this novel or other books by R. Alexander, I am sorry to say. This book was reviewed by a small book group that I belong to. The ladies all felt the same way about the novel. On the whole, looking at subjects that came to us when reading the book, we were astonished at the sheer waste of money on Romanov jewels and the terrible waste of millions of lives. Also, once again, we were sad that Russia has never managed to be anything but an autocratic society, whether the Tsars or the Communists rule. We hope for better government of that large land of such wonderful potential.
That Night in Yekaterinburg.......2007-07-04
Over the years, many books, both fiction and non-fiction, have been written about the events of July 16-17, 1918. On that date, in the town of Yekaterinburg, the Russian royal family met their fateful end.
Misha Semyonov is an elderly Russian man who is living in the suburbs of Chicago's north side. Nearing the end of his own life, he begins to record a tape for his granddaughter, Kate, detailing what he knows about the Romanov family. Misha, it turns out, was the kitchen boy in the House of Special Purpose in Yekaterinburg. He served the last tsar and his family, and through his recounting of the events leading up to their death, he paints a detailed picture of the last days of Nicholas II, his wife Alexandra, and their five children.
But the story doesn't end there. The innocent kitchen boy's account of the night's events explains the disappearance of two of the Romanov bodies (those of tsarevich Alexei and his sister, Maria), as well as what happened to the bodies of the family. But along the way, Misha covers his own tracks, and it is only through Kate's investigating skills that his big secret is revealed.
Robert Alexander does an excellent job painting the anxiety and uncertainty of those last few weeks in Yekaterinburg. The novel is vivid, with many Russian phrases (and their English translations), notes that can be found in the Russian Archives, and the picture of a loving family confused by their sudden change in circumstances.
To be honest, the novel reads a bit like "The Diary of Anne Frank," though not quite as candid. However, it is an excellent theory into the murders that ended Russian imperialism and changed the face of the world forever.
Average customer rating:
- Excellent. This book makes you feel like Caesar's buddy.
- Nice ending to a great series
- Superbly Written Historical Fiction
- Sensational!
- Mesmerizing To The End...
|
Emperor: The Gods of War (Emperor)
Conn Iggulden
Manufacturer: Bantam
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Emperor: The Field of Swords (The Emperor)
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Under the Eagle: A Tale of Military Adventure and Reckless Heroism with the Roman Legions
ASIN: 044024160X
Release Date: 2007-03-27 |
Book Description
The year is 53 B.C. Fresh from victory in Gaul, Julius Caesar leads battle-hardened legions across the Rubicon river–threatening Rome herself. Even the master strategist Pompey is caught unprepared by the strike, and forced to abandon his city. The armies of Rome will face each other at last in civil war, led by the two greatest generals ever to walk the seven hills. Thus begins Conn Iggulden’s towering saga of Julius Caesar as he approaches his final destiny—a destiny that will be decided not by legions but by his friend Brutus and an Egyptian queen named Cleopatra, who will bear his only son....
For Caesar, the campaign against Pompey will test his military genius and his appetite for glory to their limits, as the greatest fighting machine the world has ever seen divides against itself in a bloody conflict that will set brother against brother until victory or death. But for Caesar, another kingdom beckons—a world of ancient mysteries and languid sensuality, where a beautiful, bewitching woman waits to snare his heart.
The Gods of War follows Julius Caesar through politics and passion, ruthless ambition and private grief, and into the corruption of power itself. Those he has loved will play a part in his triumphs—as will the jealousy and hatred of his enemies.
From the spectacles of the arena to the whispered lies of conspirators, Conn Iggulden brings to life a world of monumental drama. And at its heart is one extraordinary friendship—marked by fierce loyalty and bitter betrayal, with dark events shrouded in noble ideals.
From the Hardcover edition.
Download Description
The year is 53 B.C. Fresh from victory in Gaul, Julius Caesar leads battle-hardened legions across the Rubicon river–threatening Rome herself. Even the master strategist Pompey is caught unprepared by the strike, and forced to abandon his city. The armies of Rome will face each other at last in civil war, led by the two greatest generals ever to walk the seven hills. Thus begins Conn Iggulden’s towering saga of Julius Caesar as he approaches his final destiny–a destiny that will be decided not by legions but by his friend Brutus and an Egyptian queen named Cleopatra, who will bear his only son....
For Caesar, the campaign against Pompey will test his military genius and his appetite for glory to their limits, as the greatest fighting machine the world has ever seen divides against itself in a bloody conflict that will set brother against brother until victory or death. But for Caesar, another kingdom beckons–a world of ancient mysteries and languid sensuality, where a beautiful, bewitching woman waits to snare his heart.
The Gods of War follows Julius Caesar through politics and passion, ruthless ambition and private grief, and into the corruption of power itself. Those he has loved will play a part in his triumphs–as will the jealousy and hatred of his enemies.
From the spectacles of the arena to the whispered lies of conspirators, Conn Iggulden brings to life a world of monumental drama. And at its heart is one extraordinary friendship–marked by fierce loyalty and bitter betrayal, with dark events shrouded in noble ideals.
From the Hardcover edition.
Customer Reviews:
Excellent. This book makes you feel like Caesar's buddy........2007-09-12
I'm a history buff and thought I knew the ins and outs of Caesar. Yeah, I did, but this book...well, it just makes you feel like you were standing in Rome and having first name basis buddy-ship with Caesar.
A very remarkable dude he is. Think aobut it. How many other dudes are so controlled and all rounded? Great in war, lucky with chics, and an excellent politician. No wonder he's so successful.
And what better way than to end life in a memorable way? Getting assassinated by folks who get jealous of you, including your best friends..."Et tu Brute" = "Even you Brutus". Man, that is just Immortal...god-like.
Nice ending to a great series.......2007-04-20
I've really enjoyed the entire series, going so far as to buy a 10 euro copy of the last installation in an airport in Copenhagen. Iggulden seems to have followed actual historical events fairly closely and providing some educated insight into the personalities of these fascinating people. The only minor complaint is that the story actually seems a little rushed. It probably could have been separated into two separate novels: the final battle with Pompey and the adventures in Egypt. At the end of the historical note, Iggulden hints that he might write another novel that continues where this novel leaves off. I can only hope that he follows through.
Superbly Written Historical Fiction.......2007-03-27
I've just finished up all four in the series and am left wanting more. Julius Ceasar was one of the most remarkable men in history and Iggulden has done an amazing job of bringing him to life in these pages. With so much at our fingertips today, it is hard to imagine a human being with that kind of vision, let alone the will and determination it would have taken to accomplish what still seems impossible.
James Hart Isley
Author of The Bear Hunter
Sensational!.......2007-03-10
I ordered the first two in the Emperor series (one of historical fiction chronicalling the life of Julius Caeser) and swallowed a dose of 'shock & awe' as I devoured these page turners. I wouldn't recommend them if you like to get to bed early, as I found myself continually battling the sandman to remain awake to see how the latest adventures of the protaganists turned out. While reading the first two I knew that I HAD to go back on Amazon to purchase the remaining books. I discovered that GODS OF WAR was not yet in paperback. Like it mattered. I am the proud owner of 3 paperbacks and 1 hardcover. It was well worth it. I highly recommend this book and the entire series to anyone who enjoys a good yarn, swashbuckling adventure, superior character development, fascinating historical fiction and plainly-just a damn good read. My only hope now is the author, Mr. Iggulden, decides to continue the saga with Octavian/Augustus, Mark Antony and that little Greek/Egyptian Minx. After that there's plenty of drama in the Empire. So to Conn, Sir, I beseech you to put 'pen to paper' and continue the journey. I will do my part and spread the word here in the colonies. I already owe you a pint!
Mesmerizing To The End..........2007-01-08
I have now read all 4 novels of the Emperor series, each one just as fascinating as the previous one. I hated to see the end, knowing that Iggulden was going to write next on Ghengis Khan, which he has done and which will be published later this year.
I hope he returns to the scene of Caesar's murder and continues the series, so much of great Roman history happened in the years following.
Of this book I can only say the story is told wonderfully, with such a fresh and unique angle on all the characters that it was easy to follow them from book to book; even meeting new characters as I went.
Thank you, Conn, for a truly satisfying journey through the Via Romana and please revisit it soon.
Average customer rating:
- Calculations are only as good as your numbers
- Pants on fire?
- Accepted History & Chronology Must Be Changed.
- Very Interesting
- History as Science Fiction
|
History: Fiction or Science? (Chronology, No. 1)
Anatoly Fomenko
Manufacturer: Mithec
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ASIN: 2913621058 |
Book Description
Recorded history is a finely-woven magic fabric of intricate lies about events predating the sixteenth century. There is not a single piece of evidence that can be reliably and independently traced back earlier than the eleventh century. This book details events that are substantiated by hard facts and logic, and validated by new astronomical research and statistical analysis of ancient sources.
Customer Reviews:
Calculations are only as good as your numbers.......2007-08-03
Yes, we can all agree that mainstream history is nearly 100% BS due to politics, economics, ego, problems with dating techniques, and various conspiracies. Agreed. But, I've been researching the distinct possibility that human history (in terms of civilizations) are much more ancient than we've been told, so coming across this book was very interesting to me. I wondered how Fomenko could be wrong (if at all) because he is very persuasive in his presentations. Then it dawned on me. If at previous times in prehistory, due to the various catastrophies that are well documented (comets, asteroids, planetary disruptions, plasma discharge, pole reversals, etc) the Earth was in a different position in relation to the sun, different tilt on its axis, different orbit, different rotation (in terms of velocity and DIRECTION), and the continents were in different positions, then would this not cause the ancients to see the sky (constellations) differently? In other words, is Fomenko making erronious assumptions about the physics of the Earth in pre-history, which then corrupt his data with regards to dating the relevant astrology? The last event to seriously disrupt our planet occured roughly 3500 years ago, according to other good researchers, so is it possible Fomenko has been confused by this? The vastly different physics of our planet in the not so distant past may explain this confusion, which is not to say the "mainstream" version of history is correct; on the contrary. I am not an expert in these fields, but wanted to see if this idea could spark discussion.
Pants on fire?.......2007-07-19
Will people ever read before spamming? Yes, Jesuits could not rewrite world history alone, they had help. Anyway, Dr Prof Acad A.Fomenko does not point to jesuits as the driving force of world wide history manipulation in published volumes 1,2,3;, actually he barely mentions the poor devils. Check it with 'Search inside' feature, please. China is rarely mentioned either, in fact, Dr Fomenko is completely eurocentric. Right, his theory contradicts all mainstream schools of history, because in their actual state they are all built on blatantly erroneus chronology. You don't need a mysterious cabal (conspiracy) to falsify history, the falsification is its modus operandi. It is inherent to history(ians) to falsify (distort) events, as it is inherent to humans to boast as it is inherent to power (authority) to legimize itself by referrring to glorious past made to its own order. Dr Prof Fomenko and team have identified scores of instances of such manipulation in Russian, European, etc.. history, and delivered valid statistical proof thereof. His own 'reconstruction' is completely another story. Forget c14 as a valid method of dating. W.Libby has initially discovered a brilliant method of INDEPENDENT dating. Too bad, c14 method has become a joke after a forced marrige with dendrochronology with consensual chronological scale inbuilt. Radiocarbon method can't stand blind tests, but is so very productive as a rubberstamp.
Accepted History & Chronology Must Be Changed. .......2007-04-09
There is no doubt that history as most know it is a sham, & institution's version of History both University & Church is fradulent & inaccurate. Everything was established with an agenda, The real "Dark Ages" are now when we have access to incredible amounts of information past authorities & more important 'common folk' didn't have but our institutions & educators are slow to evolve because of what has ignorantly & arrogantly been taught for too long. This is on many subjects not just Chronology.
For anyone to question "Why would a Mathematician have anything credible to say of History?" The answer is from Dr. Fomenko's preface in the book: "It would be worthwhile to remind the reader that in the XVI-XVII century Chronology was considered to be a subdivision of Mathematics." These volumes could possibly be some of the most important works to date & should be read by everyone with an interest in History, especially professors & educators who have a duty to the public. I have read both books & must say that 'Chronology 1' has some very eye opening & revolutionary information. Even if these volumes are part true the implications are profound & opens the doors to further investigations & questions which must be done. I speak several different lanquages & must say the logic Dr. Fomenko uses with "inflection" of words & words being read from left to right in one region & right to left in another then written backwards, the removal of vowels & get down to basics of words, or different cities & locations having the same name etc. is correct. Vowel usage has always been optional & varied, actually complicating linquistics & study. The first thing one has to understand is that words never had a fixed spelling in history like we do now, the spelling of words was mutable & regional, as well as names & titles of people were vast, varied & changed, NOTHING WAS FIXED or understood linear. Matters of Life & Death as well as financial profiteering yesterday & today were & are made with ignorant, illogical & conspiratorial views of history & reality, it's time people get closer to the Truth & society collectively grow up.
Very Interesting.......2007-03-07
It is a good proposal and I believe it will mature into something even better in the future. I think it deserves to be read.
History as Science Fiction.......2007-01-10
Anatoly Fomenko has written a very intriguing book, full of pictures, charts, and computer 'proof' of his thesis: backwards of AD900 we don't really know what happened or when. Between AD900 and AD1600 there is more certainty, but there is still a lot of fuzzy ground, and things don't get reliable until we get past the 1600's where the printing press made it very difficult for the perpetrators of this timeline manipulation to change anything that had been committed to print. The Dark Ages did not happen. Books were burned for a reason. One organization has doubled the actual length of its existence by expanding the real chronology. Read why.
I had always wondered why Christ died about AD33 and yet men waited until the 11th century to form the Knights Templar, the Cathars, etc and go after the Holy Land by force. Why the 1000 year gap? Turns out there wasn't more than a 10-12 year gap and he proves it using astronomy. This also implies that the planet is not as old as we have been told, and current Christian and other creationist scientists are already championing that idea without being aware of Fomenko's book. The two groups, creationist scientists and the Russian mathematical analysts corroborate each other. Fascinating.
Of course, all this flies in the face of what we have been told traditionally is the 'proper' chronology of western civilization, and most readers will experience 'cognitive dissonance' in reading this book. It means that our history going backwards from AD1600 becomes progressively more incorrect and unreliable until it cannot be trusted at all... in the space of 700-800 years.
Naturally, the curious, open-minded reader will want to know WHO did this, WHY, and did any of the events we think of as really ancient ever happen?
Dr. Fomenko is a respected scientist/mathematician at Moscow State University who has already answered these questions to the satisfaction of his initially skeptical colleagues. Most of them are now believers, a few still refuse to believe (the usual diehards), and of course the western press has ignored Fomenko's work -- for obvious reasons when you read the book. The ones who perpetrated this chronology ruse have a lot to answer for. They are still with us. That's why this book is a well-kept secret.
I gave the book a 4-star rating because I was unable to check out some of his claims; those I checked were as he said. But if even 1/3 of his claims are true, this punches a big hole in what we think is our history, the meaning of western civilization, our educational process (for repeating the ruse as gospel), and the trustworthiness of the organization that perpetrated this ruse, well-intentioned or not.
This book relates to current research into a Young Earth paradigm, to John Keel's discoveries about our planet, and Fr Malachi Martin's insights (in his now out-of-print books). We are indeed sheep who are manipulated and kept ignorant -- for a reason. While knowing what these men have to say may be the "booby prize" (as in: 'what can you do with this knowledge?'), it will provide interesting reading. Didn't someone say: "...and the Truth will set you free."?? For you to judge if this book contains the truth.
Book Description
Translated by Robert Graves and Revised with an Introduction by Michael Grant.
Customer Reviews:
Answers about the Roman Emperors.......2007-08-24
This is an engaging book, full of intersting facts which sometimes are hard to find. The book is written with an easy flow, that keeps your interest till the end.
For avid followers of history, in particular the good and bad of Roman emperors, this is a book for you.
THE TWELVE CAESARS - SUETONIUS.......2007-07-21
I FOUND THIS TITLE BY THE ROMAN AUTHOR SUETONIUS TO BE A FASCINATING AND IN-DEPTH [ IF ACCORDING TO SOME HISTORIANS A BIT BIASED ] OVER-VIEW OF THE FIRST TWELVE RULERS OF ROME WHO HELD OR ADOPTED THE NOMEN OF CAESAR. MY REASON FOR PURCHASING WAS THAT MY OLD PAPERBACK VERSION HAD SUFFERED FROM BEING OVER-READ AND REFERRED TO AND WAS DELAPIDATED.
GAIUS JULIUS WAS OF THE FAMILY - HIS GREAT NEPHEW OCTAVIANUS TOOK HIS NAMES AFTER ADOPTION INTO THE FAMILY AND THEREAFTER THE CAESAR TITLE CAME LESS TO BE A FAMILY TITLE THAN AN INDICATOR THAT THE EMPERORS LOOKED BACK TO THE ASSASSINATED ORIGINAL AS THEIR FOREBEAR IF NOT IN BLOODLINE THEN IN SIMPLE FACT.
IT IS A TITLE THAT SURVIVED DOWN TO THE RUSSIAN CZARS AND THE GERMAN KAISERS. KAI-SER, IN FACT, IS HOW THE NAME CAESAR WAS ORIGINALLY PRO-NOUNCED IN LATIN USEAGE.
WITH NERO THE IMMEDIATE LINE OF THE CAESARS EXTINGUISHED BUT THERE WERE MANY MORE INTERESTING, IF NOT AS DEEPLY INTERESTING, RULERS TO FOLLOW HIM. THE BOOK COVERS THE JULIO-CLAUDIANS, THE THREE INTERIM EMERORS IN 68 AND 69 [ GALBA, OTHO AND VITELLIUS ] AND THE FLAVIANS, VESPASIAN, TITUS AND DOMITIAN.
ALONGSIDE GRAVES' 'I CLAUDIUS', 'THE TWELVE CAESARS' IS A VERY GOOD INTRODUCTION FOR ANYONE SEEKING TO EXAMINE, FROM MANY CENTURIES DIVORCED , THE INTRIGUING AND LITERAL BACK STABBING THAT WENT ON IN IMPERIAL ROME'S EARLY YEARS.
ROGER DESHON - 22 QUEENSCOURT ROAD ALEXANDRA HILLS QLD 4161 AUSTRALIA
The Basis of Much Of What We know About These Guys .......2007-06-16
This is really a fascinating book on so many levels. First so much historical fiction, and drama that has been based on the lives of the Ceasars is indebted to Suetonius as the author who wrote these incredible character sketches. There's much to learn about the personal lives of the famous Roman emperors in this fine translation. This has served as source material for centuries of scholars and writers who found universal truths about human nature and political power in these lives.
Very accessible to the general reader and highly entertaining.
The Gold Standard of Ancient History.......2007-04-17
This translation of Suetonius's Twelve Ceasars translated by Robert Graves with a great introduction by Michael Grant is a history-lover's dream. This is definitely my favorite historial work in translation; it is expertly and lovingly brought to life. To me, anybody should be able to be transported in moments back to ancient Rome in the time of Augustus or Nero and have one hell of a read. Suetonius was a minor government functionary who was given the spectacular opportunity to see the early imperial archives, kind of like a blogger or National Enquirer reporter given the opportunity to look at Clinton-era video surveilance or Nixon's Watergate tapes. This work is one of the most accessible views of ancient history ever. It's filled with lurid sex, gossip, murder, palace coups, degeneracy, monumental building, war, poisonings, etc. If you're going to be a liberal arts major, it pays to know a few dirty stories about the Caesars; this is the book to read.
Rome's Tabloid Historian.......2007-03-26
Suetonius grew up in the years following Nero's reign and wrote these histories while he was the secretary of the emperor Hadrian in the early second century A.D. His book covers the successive reigns of Julius Caesar, Augustus, Tiberius, Caligula, Claudius, Nero, Galba, Otho, Vitellius, Vespasian, Titus, and Domitian.
The stories focus on the emperors themselves more than the events which took place under their reigns and, although there's certainly some truth to those emperors, many of Suetonius' facts are anecdotal stories and rumors. Suetonius has therefore been called one of the first tabloid writers. Nevertheless, his biographies are rather concise and systematic; touching upon the physical attributes of the ruler, his background, the good deeds (if any) in his reign and then, of course, the bad deeds.
Robert Graves' translation is superb and probalby one of the best ones available. It is quite faithful to the generally jovial mood of Suetonius' work and presented with a good introduction by reputed historian Michael Grant. I can't help but be amused at some of the stories Suetonius recites on Nero and Caligula as they are definitely two of the most eccentric emperors (to put it lightly)that ever ruled the Principate. For example, when Nero first inaugurated his new gigantic Golden House with a mile-long corridor and a 130' statue of himself at the entrance, he was said to have exclaimed, "At last! I can live like a human being!"
Amazon.com
Having never seen the famous 1970s television series based on Graves' historical novel of ancient Rome and being generally uneducated about matters both ancient and Roman, I wasn't prepared for such an engaging book. But it's a ripping good read, this fictional autobiography set in the Roman Empire's days of glory and decadence. As a history lesson, it's fabulous; as a novel it's also wonderful. Best is Claudius himself, the stutterer who let everyone think he was an idiot (to avoid getting poisoned) but who reveals himself in the narrative to be a wry and likable observer. His story continues in Claudius the God.
Book Description
Considered an idiot because of his physical infirmities, Claudius survived the intrigues and poisonings of the reigns of Augustus, Tiberius, and the Mad Caligula to become emperor in 41 A.D. A masterpiece.
Customer Reviews:
Fast Paced historical fiction.......2007-08-30
Movies set in ancient Rome has always given a bloated/ larger than life view of the period. Thanks to movies like Gladiator, Spartacus and Ben-hur. When people say the word "Rome", we envision gladiators and people dressed up in bad togas and epic battles. I Claudius removes all these cliches. You dont have battle descriptions, Heston/Crowe-like heroes, swordfights, etc. What you get here is a gritty, realistic picture of post-Julius Caeser period. Think about a Martin Scorcese gangster picture - Departed or Goodfellas or Casino set in roman period. The book is filled with political maneouvers, double crosses, murders. The narration is by an interesting emperor. None of the characters are defined as "good" or "bad". Everyone has a gray shade. The book has three villains - Livia (you will never forget this character in your life), Caligula (depicted as a psycho) and Tiberius. Livia is so good at her villany, you would start loving her !
You would never close the book in the middle. Very fast paced. Most of the events in the book are true. You might keep the book down only in you are overwhelmed by murders (I was !). The number of murders per page increases as the book moved forward.
Roman history has never been this good. Do not get turned off by the fact that this book is "literature"..All top 100 lists will feature this book. Let me put it this way - this is the most "entertaining" and "mainstream" literature. Enjoy the wonderful read !
Fascinating.......2007-08-28
A fascinating, well researched historical novel. I love Roman history and this is as good as it gets. The characters are well researched and very well developed. The result is captivating. I highly recomend this book.
Just brilliant.......2007-06-25
The history of the reign of the Caesars is one that has more fast-paced action, betrayal, violence, sexual depravity, scheming than any modern-day thriller. However there are few examples of great fictionalised accounts that present this. I Claudius is such an account - Graves makes for extremely compelling, unputdownable reading without sacrificing historical accuracy, for the facts speak for themselves. You don't need to know much about Roman history, or anything for that matter, because the novel takes you through everything. The differences -- and similarities -- between that world and ours are also made very apparent by the narrator (Claudius before he became emperor) and enrich the book. Finally there is a great sense of irony maintained throughout -- of course the facts of history themselves are ironic (the stuttering Claudius thought of by most as a fool surviving his murdering relatives to become emperor). But Graves capitalises on this and other ironies. And of course it is a historical novel narrated by a character who is himself a historian bringing up some interesting questions.
I was enthralled, entertained, educated and more and am already breezing through the sequel (Claudius the God).
A delightful read.......2007-06-01
I, Claudius is written as if it were the autobiography of Claudius, the fourth ruler of the Julian-Claudian dynasty. I should preface this review by pointing out that I began this book knowing very little of ancient Roman history, and therefore I cannot speak authoritatively on the historical accuracy of the novel. My primary basis for praising the book is that Mr. Graves here tells a darn good story. I have read elsewhere that Graves preferred poetry to prose, and that he wrote novels so that he would be financially independent enough to pursue his ultimate calling, poetry. Be that as it may, this book is written in beautiful prose. It isn't the ebullient, ecstatic prose of a Nabokov or Joyce, but rather a very concise, clean prose. Both the writing style and the exciting narrative conspire to make this a fast, delightful read.
Claudius was born into the upper echelons of Roman society during the reign of Augustus Caesar, who was his great uncle. Because of various physical deformities and a pronounced stutter, many regarded him as an idiot. Because of his status as somewhat of a social outcast, Claudius throughout most of his early life did not participate directly in the political intrigues of the day. Rather, he observed them from afar, and this book is written as if it were Claudius' retelling of these observations. A good portion of the book concerns itself with the stories of others, and he himself doesn't feature prominently in the action until later. The book is populated with fascinating characters, including his diabolical, powerful grandmother Livia, his heroic brother Germanicus, his demented nephew Caligula, and countless others. I was almost reminded when reading it of One Hundred Years of Solitude. Although the two books' settings could hardly be more different, they each share a number of commonalities, including a rich cast of wonderfully drawn characters, perfect narrative pace, and complex, multilayered plots and subplots. And despite the ancient setting, the plots here have everything that the modern, worldly reader could hope for: political intrigues, assassination, torture, incest, adultery (so, so much adultery!), all manner of sexually perverse acts, dozens of suicides, military battles, witchcraft, curses, prophecies...the list goes on and on!
Overall, I recommend this book to anybody looking for a good story. A strong interest in or knowledge of Rome isn't necessary, as my own praise of the book indicates. I'm not sure if I am going to read the sequel, Claudius the God, anytime soon, mainly because of time constraints, but I plan in the near future to watch the entire BBC miniseries! Graves did a wonderful service by breathing new life into these fascinating historical characters. Historians can quibble all they want about whether the book faithfully recounts the historical record or whether Graves was pushing any political agendas. The book was written as a piece of historical fiction, and it succeeds marvelously on every level.
A delicious Caesar Salad .......2007-04-14
Chronicaling through 5 Caesars as told by the so-called "idiot" Claudius. Claudius is destined to be Caesar by keeping under the radar.
The story of each Caeser is captivating, the politics and betrayals are brutal. Caligula is both scary and funny.
A top 10 book for me.
This book is followed by Claudius the God: And His Wife Messalina which was also a good read.
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