Books Like...

Angelique by Anne Golon is a historical fiction novel set in 17th century France, following the life of the heroine Angelique from childhood to her mid-twenties. The book is filled with intrigue, adventure, romance, and even violence, making it a captivating and 'unputdownable' read. Angelique, a strong and courageous woman, is married to a powerful Comte who ends up imprisoned by the Inquisition, leading her to vow revenge and embark on a journey filled with twists and turns. The novel provides intricate details of the era, incorporating elements of French history such as church witchcraft inquisitions, the French Revolution, and the struggles of survival during a revolution.

'The Gates of Rome' by Conn Iggulden is the first in the series 'Emperor' and follows the life of Julius Caesar. It provides a semi-fictional look at Caesar's childhood and early adulthood, detailing his upbringing on his father's estate, his training in combat, and his gradual rise in the Roman senate. The writing style is described as engaging and captivating, painting a vivid picture of everyday Roman life while incorporating elements of action and intrigue to keep the readers hooked.

'The Assassination of Julius Caesar: A People's History of Ancient Rome' by Michael Parenti is a challenging and thought-provoking exploration of the Roman republic, shedding light on the brutal living conditions of slaves and plebeians, the disdainful attitude of Roman aristocrats towards the masses, and the true complexities behind Julius Caesar's assassination. Parenti delves into the social history of Rome, exposing the biases and intellectual ossification prevalent in academia that have perpetuated a distorted view of ancient Rome. Through a critical lens, he reevaluates the roles of historical figures, highlighting the struggles between aristocratic reformers and conservatives, and debunking myths perpetuated by classicist historians.

'Roma' by Steven Saylor is a historical novel that spans the history of Rome from its earliest times to the end of the Republic. The book follows the descendants of two families through various stages of history, blending historical accuracy with imaginative storytelling. The narrative structure introduces readers to different time periods and characters, providing insights into the evolution of Rome through the ages.

The book covers significant events in Roman history, intertwining them with the lives of fictional characters from the Potitii and Pinarii families. Steven Saylor's writing style is praised for being accessible, well-researched, and filled with historical details that bring ancient Rome to life. The novel presents a readable and plausible presentation of a thousand years of Roman development, making it an engaging read for those interested in the history of Western civilization.

Claudius the God by Robert Graves is a historical fiction novel that serves as a sequel to I, Claudius. The book follows the reign of Emperor Claudius from 41 A.D. to 54 A.D., depicting a world where life is cheap and morals are questionable. The story is narrated through the eyes of Claudius, showcasing his rise to power, struggles with manipulation from those around him, and his ultimate fate. Graves weaves a tale filled with intrigue, scandal, and historical accuracy, providing insights into the complexities of Ancient Rome during Claudius' rule.

The writing style of Claudius the God is praised for its ability to bring historical characters to life, making the reader feel immersed in Ancient Rome. The book is described as a rich continuation of the story, seamlessly picking up from where the first installment left off. Through detailed characterization and engaging storytelling, Graves paints a vivid picture of Claudius' reign, highlighting his personal challenges and political triumphs in a world filled with power struggles and betrayals.

Adrian Goldsworthy's 'Caesar: Life of a Colossus' delves into the life of Julius Caesar, a man who shaped the course of history and politics in ancient Rome. The book explores Caesar's rise to power, his military campaigns, and his impact on the Roman Republic. Goldsworthy's writing style is detailed, well-researched, and thought-provoking, providing readers with a comprehensive biography of one of the most influential figures in ancient history.

'The Ides of March' by Thornton Wilder is a historical fiction novel set in the last year of Julius Caesar's life. The story is told through a combination of letters, diary entries, and official documents, exploring the events leading up to Caesar's assassination and his interactions with historical figures like Cleopatra. The novel delves into deeper questions about man's role in the universe, the nature of power, and destiny. Wilder's writing style includes detailed historical references, philosophical musings, and intricate character relationships, creating a complex narrative structure that challenges readers to engage with the story on multiple levels.

Imperium: A Novel of Ancient Rome by Robert Harris is a gripping historical fiction novel that follows the life and career of Roman politician and orator Cicero. The story is narrated in the first person by his slave and secretary, Tiro, offering a unique perspective on Cicero's early and mid-life, detailing his rise to consul. The book delves into the intricate political machinations of ancient Rome, bringing to life well-known historical figures like Julius Caesar, Pompey the Great, and more. The vivid depiction of Rome and the engaging narrative style make this book a compelling read for those interested in historical fiction and the classical era.

The Silver Pigs by Lindsey Davis is the first book in the Marcus Didius Falco series, introducing readers to the witty and intrepid detective set in ancient Rome. The plot follows Falco as he investigates a bullion scam that takes him from Rome to the slave mines of Cornwall and back again, uncovering a mix of mystery, humor, action, and even some romance along the way. The writing style combines elements of classic American hardboiled detective novels with a touch of humor and historical accuracy, bringing ancient Rome to life through vivid descriptions and well-developed characters.

'Julius Caesar' by William Shakespeare is a play that revolves around the assassination of Julius Caesar and the aftermath of the conspiracy. The plot focuses on the characters of Brutus and Mark Antony, delving into themes of betrayal, loyalty, power, and political intrigue in ancient Rome. The writing style of the play is characterized by powerful speeches, memorable quotes, and a mix of political drama and personal struggles among the characters.