(Drivebycuriosity) - Books about ancient Rome focus usually on emperors (Ceasars), kings, dictators, consuls & senators. The series "Roman Blood" by Steven Saylor focuses on common Romans. The books are set in the times of Cicero and follow a fictional Roman citizen with good connections and a talent for investigations.
"Catalina`s Riddles" is the third book of this series (amazon ). The novel is not quite as strong as the previous but still entertaining and educating. The complex plot mixes two story lines and dives deep into ancient Rome´s politics and conflicts (this is a spoiler free blog). Saylor integrated a lot material about Cicero and his quarrials with his political opponents - including lengthy speeches.
Reading this book was like traveling more than 2,000 years back in time. I felt like being in the ancient place.
I also learned a lot. The
majority of the 1 million Romans where slaves, imported from conquered
countries, and their offsprings. Apparently most Roman citizens owned at
least one slave - and the rich many of them - because slaves where
extremely cheap. Slaves did all the work and often fulfilled
administrative jobs. Many were mistreated and often sexually abused. But
some lucky slaves enjoyed the respect of the owners and got their
freedom granted, making them regular citizens.
Even though the book is not the best of the series I might read more "Roman Blood" books in the future.
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