This review is for the book "Lustrum" by Robert Harris. The book is the sequel to Imperium, but can be read separately, and is the second in the series of three titles, the third of which is expected to be published in late 2010. Robert Harris is an author specialising in political and historical fiction, and this book is no different, merging the two concepts together. The book is set in Roman times, around the 63 BC period. The book focuses on the character of Cicero, who is the Consul of Rome. He obtained this position in the previous book in the series, and this book starts off from his taking over office. In terms of prices, there are ...  Read the complete review

I have always disliked Roman history. Get past the usual stuff that appeals to young boys (gladiatorial battles, people being eaten by wild animals in the Coliseum) and it all seemed pretty boring. The endless political intrigues by people with strange names, the complex structure of the political system and the constantly changing leaders always seemed like far too much effort to bother with. Until, that is, Robert Harris came along. His first effort at Roman history (Pompeii) only confirmed my opinion with a somewhat pedestrian look at imagined events behind the volcanic eruption. His second, (Imperium) gripped me from the start. Examining the life of public ...  Read the complete review