Once again Conn Iggulden knocks it out of the park with this riveting read! I found myself enthralled by this retelling of the final days of Gaius Julius Cesar, and feel as if I gained some insight, some small measure of the man who’s very name went on to mean king.
Although Conn gives you such insight into the character of Cesar that you can’t help but sympathize with him, it becomes painfully clear why the very people who once held power in Rome decided to stab him twenty three times. I believe the saying, “Absolute power corrupts absolutely,” is a fitting summation of the book. It also goes a long way to explain the orgination of the famous quote, “et tu brute?”
If you are a fan of historical fiction or just like the internecine political dealings of corrupt entities, you will find a great read in Emperor: The Gods of War. With each character Conn gives you such insight into their thoughts and feelings that you can’t help but relive the moment with them. From the defeat of the Dictator Pompey to the eccentric Queen of the Nile, Cleopatra, there is a character for everyone. Truly, Cesar lived an interesting life and it was a joy being transported there by one of the greatest historical fiction writers of all time!
I implore you to give the Emperor series a read. And if you find yourself enjoying that series, you may find some joy in reading my own works. Like all artists I am an amalgamation of influences, and Conn Iggulden is one of the biggest.
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