I really enjoyed McCullough's obviously extensive research, but I was disappointed at her writing style. I couldn't finish the book because she was constantly switching perspective, lecturing, and generally using writing techniques poorly. Not going to be one I recommend to others, despite the fact that I'm dying to read more books set in the Subura! ( )

I really enjoyed McCullough's obviously extensive research, but I was disappointed at her writing style. I couldn't finish the book because she was constantly switching perspective, lecturing, and generally using writing techniques poorly. Not going to be one I recommend to others, despite the fact that I'm dying to read more books set in the Subura! ( )

Book four in the Masters of Rome series, this book most closely resembles the HBO series "Rome". While it touches uponthe key players in the final years of the Roman Republic, it also spends a lot of time on the women behind the scenes. ( )

The fourth volume in the Masters of Rome series, this one focuses more on the homefront so to speak - no wars, just political maneuvering as we follow the careers of Cicero, Cato, and mainly Caesar. We indeed learn about Caesar's women - his mother, his daughter Julia, (married off to Pompey - ugh!) and mostly his mistress Servilia and her ill-fated relationships with the now consul Gauis Julius, and her backbitten son Brutus.

I enjoyed this one about the same as the others -- perhaps a little slow moving - but the more detailed homelife was a refreshing change from the troop movements, sieges and massive battles that populated the other novels.

Now that I know more about the fate of the characters (I had never even heard of Marius and Sulla et al.) I find the knowledge bittersweet. I simultaneously cheer and rue Caesar's behavior. I actually have some pity for Pompey Magnus. I abhor Servilia. And I feel dread for Julia . . . I will eagerly read onward for what I know must come next. ( )

It's a coin toss as to which is my favorite in the Masters of Rome series, Caesar's Women or The First Man in Rome.The women referred to in the title are not just Caesar's wives or lovers. It also refers to his mother, who was one of the most important influences in his life, his daughter, Julia, and even the Vestal Virgins that were in his care as Pontifex Maximus. It's a great look into the lives of the upper class women and a thoroughly interesting read. Unlike the major male players, less is known about the women so McCullough can have a lot more license regarding their personalities.I love this series more for its portrait of everyday life more than the interesting story of how Rome began to move away from its republican beginnings. ( )