History: Fiction or Science? (Chronology, No. 1)

Book Description

Recorded history is a finely-woven magic fabric of intricate lies about events predating the sixteenth century. There is not a single piece of evidence that can be reliably and independently traced back earlier than the eleventh century. This book details events that are substantiated by hard facts and logic, and validated by new astronomical research and statistical analysis of ancient sources.

Customer Reviews:

Calculations are only as good as your numbers.......2007-08-03

Yes, we can all agree that mainstream history is nearly 100% BS due to politics, economics, ego, problems with dating techniques, and various conspiracies. Agreed. But, I've been researching the distinct possibility that human history (in terms of civilizations) are much more ancient than we've been told, so coming across this book was very interesting to me. I wondered how Fomenko could be wrong (if at all) because he is very persuasive in his presentations. Then it dawned on me. If at previous times in prehistory, due to the various catastrophies that are well documented (comets, asteroids, planetary disruptions, plasma discharge, pole reversals, etc) the Earth was in a different position in relation to the sun, different tilt on its axis, different orbit, different rotation (in terms of velocity and DIRECTION), and the continents were in different positions, then would this not cause the ancients to see the sky (constellations) differently? In other words, is Fomenko making erronious assumptions about the physics of the Earth in pre-history, which then corrupt his data with regards to dating the relevant astrology? The last event to seriously disrupt our planet occured roughly 3500 years ago, according to other good researchers, so is it possible Fomenko has been confused by this? The vastly different physics of our planet in the not so distant past may explain this confusion, which is not to say the "mainstream" version of history is correct; on the contrary. I am not an expert in these fields, but wanted to see if this idea could spark discussion.

Pants on fire?.......2007-07-19

Will people ever read before spamming? Yes, Jesuits could not rewrite world history alone, they had help. Anyway, Dr Prof Acad A.Fomenko does not point to jesuits as the driving force of world wide history manipulation in published volumes 1,2,3;, actually he barely mentions the poor devils. Check it with 'Search inside' feature, please. China is rarely mentioned either, in fact, Dr Fomenko is completely eurocentric. Right, his theory contradicts all mainstream schools of history, because in their actual state they are all built on blatantly erroneus chronology. You don't need a mysterious cabal (conspiracy) to falsify history, the falsification is its modus operandi. It is inherent to history(ians) to falsify (distort) events, as it is inherent to humans to boast as it is inherent to power (authority) to legimize itself by referrring to glorious past made to its own order. Dr Prof Fomenko and team have identified scores of instances of such manipulation in Russian, European, etc.. history, and delivered valid statistical proof thereof. His own 'reconstruction' is completely another story. Forget c14 as a valid method of dating. W.Libby has initially discovered a brilliant method of INDEPENDENT dating. Too bad, c14 method has become a joke after a forced marrige with dendrochronology with consensual chronological scale inbuilt. Radiocarbon method can't stand blind tests, but is so very productive as a rubberstamp.

Accepted History & Chronology Must Be Changed. .......2007-04-09

There is no doubt that history as most know it is a sham, & institution's version of History both University & Church is fradulent & inaccurate. Everything was established with an agenda, The real "Dark Ages" are now when we have access to incredible amounts of information past authorities & more important 'common folk' didn't have but our institutions & educators are slow to evolve because of what has ignorantly & arrogantly been taught for too long. This is on many subjects not just Chronology.

For anyone to question "Why would a Mathematician have anything credible to say of History?" The answer is from Dr. Fomenko's preface in the book: "It would be worthwhile to remind the reader that in the XVI-XVII century Chronology was considered to be a subdivision of Mathematics." These volumes could possibly be some of the most important works to date & should be read by everyone with an interest in History, especially professors & educators who have a duty to the public. I have read both books & must say that 'Chronology 1' has some very eye opening & revolutionary information. Even if these volumes are part true the implications are profound & opens the doors to further investigations & questions which must be done. I speak several different lanquages & must say the logic Dr. Fomenko uses with "inflection" of words & words being read from left to right in one region & right to left in another then written backwards, the removal of vowels & get down to basics of words, or different cities & locations having the same name etc. is correct. Vowel usage has always been optional & varied, actually complicating linquistics & study. The first thing one has to understand is that words never had a fixed spelling in history like we do now, the spelling of words was mutable & regional, as well as names & titles of people were vast, varied & changed, NOTHING WAS FIXED or understood linear. Matters of Life & Death as well as financial profiteering yesterday & today were & are made with ignorant, illogical & conspiratorial views of history & reality, it's time people get closer to the Truth & society collectively grow up.

Very Interesting.......2007-03-07

It is a good proposal and I believe it will mature into something even better in the future. I think it deserves to be read.

History as Science Fiction.......2007-01-10

Anatoly Fomenko has written a very intriguing book, full of pictures, charts, and computer 'proof' of his thesis: backwards of AD900 we don't really know what happened or when. Between AD900 and AD1600 there is more certainty, but there is still a lot of fuzzy ground, and things don't get reliable until we get past the 1600's where the printing press made it very difficult for the perpetrators of this timeline manipulation to change anything that had been committed to print. The Dark Ages did not happen. Books were burned for a reason. One organization has doubled the actual length of its existence by expanding the real chronology. Read why.

I had always wondered why Christ died about AD33 and yet men waited until the 11th century to form the Knights Templar, the Cathars, etc and go after the Holy Land by force. Why the 1000 year gap? Turns out there wasn't more than a 10-12 year gap and he proves it using astronomy. This also implies that the planet is not as old as we have been told, and current Christian and other creationist scientists are already championing that idea without being aware of Fomenko's book. The two groups, creationist scientists and the Russian mathematical analysts corroborate each other. Fascinating.

Of course, all this flies in the face of what we have been told traditionally is the 'proper' chronology of western civilization, and most readers will experience 'cognitive dissonance' in reading this book. It means that our history going backwards from AD1600 becomes progressively more incorrect and unreliable until it cannot be trusted at all... in the space of 700-800 years.

Naturally, the curious, open-minded reader will want to know WHO did this, WHY, and did any of the events we think of as really ancient ever happen?
Dr. Fomenko is a respected scientist/mathematician at Moscow State University who has already answered these questions to the satisfaction of his initially skeptical colleagues. Most of them are now believers, a few still refuse to believe (the usual diehards), and of course the western press has ignored Fomenko's work -- for obvious reasons when you read the book. The ones who perpetrated this chronology ruse have a lot to answer for. They are still with us. That's why this book is a well-kept secret.

I gave the book a 4-star rating because I was unable to check out some of his claims; those I checked were as he said. But if even 1/3 of his claims are true, this punches a big hole in what we think is our history, the meaning of western civilization, our educational process (for repeating the ruse as gospel), and the trustworthiness of the organization that perpetrated this ruse, well-intentioned or not.

This book relates to current research into a Young Earth paradigm, to John Keel's discoveries about our planet, and Fr Malachi Martin's insights (in his now out-of-print books). We are indeed sheep who are manipulated and kept ignorant -- for a reason. While knowing what these men have to say may be the "booby prize" (as in: 'what can you do with this knowledge?'), it will provide interesting reading. Didn't someone say: "...and the Truth will set you free."?? For you to judge if this book contains the truth.

Average customer rating:

Fantastic Book
To Many Liberties With History
Tales of Caesar's Young Adulthood
Conquering all others...
I Loved It!

The Death of Kings (Emperor, Book 2)
Conn Iggulden
Manufacturer: Dell
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Mass Market Paperback

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ASIN: 0440240956
Release Date: 2005-01-25

Book Description

The acclaimed author of Emperor: The Gates of Rome returns to the extraordinary life of Julius Caesar in a new novel that takes us further down the path to glory . . . as Caesar comes into his own as a man, warrior, senator, husband, and leader.

In a sparsely settles region of North Africa, a band of disheveled soldiers turn their eyes toward one man among them: their leader, Julius Caesar. The soldiers are Roman legionaries. And their quarry is a band of pirates who dared to kidnap Julius Caesar for ransom. Now, as Caesar exacts his revenge and builds a legend far from Rome, his friend Marcus Brutus is fighting battles of another sort, rising to power in the wake of the assassination of a dictator. Once Brutus and Caesar were as close as brothers, devoted to the same ideals and attracted to the same forbidden women. Now they will be united again by a shock wave from the north, where a gladiator named Spartacus is building an army of seventy thousand slaves—to fight a cataclysmic battle against Rome itself.

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"Brilliant... stunning," raved the Los Angeles Times about Conn Iggulden's first novel, Emperor: The Gates of Rome. "Iggulden is a grand storyteller," declared USA Today. Now Iggulden returns to the landscape of ancient Rome and the life of Julius Caesar in a new novel filled with all the sumptuous storytelling that distinguished his first book. Sweeping from the windswept, pirate-ruled seas to the stifling heat of the Roman senate, Iggulden takes us further down the path to glory as Julius Caesar comes into his own as a man, warrior, senator, husband, leader.

In a sweltering, sparsely settled region of North Africa, a band of disheveled soldiers turn their eyes toward one man among them. Ragged, dirty, and half starved, the men will follow their leader into the mad, glorious fight for honor and revenge that only he wants to fight. Their leader is named Julius Caesar. The soldiers are Roman legionaries. And their quarry is a band of pirates who made the mistake of seizing Julius Caesar—and holding him for ransom. Now, to get his revenge, Caesar will turn peasants into soldiers, building a shipborne fighting force that will not only decimate a pirate fleet but will dominate the Mediterranean, earning him the coveted title Military Tribune of Rome.

While Caesar builds a legend far from Rome, his friend Gaius Brutus is fighting battles of another sort, rising to power in the wake of the shocking assassination of a dictator. Once Brutus and Caesar were as close as brothers, both devoted to the same ideals and attracted to the same forbidden woman. Now, when Caesar returns—with the winds of glory at his back—they will find themselves at odds. For each has built an army of elite warriors—Caesar's forged in far-flung battles, Brutus' from Rome's political killing fields. But in an era when men die for their treachery and their allegiances, the two men will soon be united by a shock wave from the north. There, a gladiator named Spartacus is gathering strength, building an army of seventy thousand desperate slaves—to fight a cataclysmic battle against Rome itself.

Filled with unforgettable images—from the death throes of a king to the birth of Caesar's child, from the bloody battlefields of Greece to the silent passion of lovers—Emperor: The Death of Kings is an astounding work, a stunning blend of vibrant history and thrilling fiction.

Customer Reviews:

Fantastic Book.......2007-09-03

The entire series 'Emperor',including 'The Death of Kings',are very exciting and well-written.It's true that Iggulden made many changes from the original story but I believe the most important thing is to understand the character of Julius Caesar and of Marcus Brutus,and how life was at the time.The author takes us close to the characters and the story is so vivid that you can't stop reading..For me,the most interesting thing in the series is the relationship of the two friends and how they changed during the years.

To Many Liberties With History.......2007-05-15

There are so many better books in this genre.

While one must suspend belief with much of the dialogue put into the mouths of the great men of history, it is unforgivable how the author changes well documented important events.

Cato is killed during the Spartacus rebellion by Pompey? No he lived for many years more, died in Africa and should be a MAJOR character in the next books in the series - except the author has decided to kill him off. Ridiculous.

Caesar personally kills Mithridates during a great battle the same year he escaped from pirates??? No such thing happened.

There are many other major changes in History that make this mediocre book and series a must avoid.

Tales of Caesar's Young Adulthood.......2006-12-22

My interest in Julius Caesar & ancient Rome was piqued by viewing HBO's Rome. I really enjoyed the series & read Gods & Legions by Michael Curtis Ford. I started this series with The Death of Kings. If someone read this books & the one that follows, without knowing anything about Rome & Caesar, I think they would really enjoy these books.

I'm far from a historical expert on Caesar & Rome, but there were some historical inaccuracies that distracted me from fully enjoying this book. The main event was the suicide of Cato about 20 years before it actually happened. Cato's suicide infuriated Caesar in real life. He is noted as saying "Cato, I must grudge you your death, as you grudged me the honor of saving your life." Cato's death was one of the final events before Caesar declared his triumph.

The other part of this book & the next is the inclusion of Octavian who was born in 63 B.C. Octavian was born about 1-2 years before Caesar went to Gaul, yet he's at least 6 when Caesar is 19. (Note Gaul is mostly in Book 3.) The author obviously wanted to have Octavian in the series, but this discrepancy was hard to overlook. In the end of each book there is a historical note where the author says where he's changed historical facts for the story. He mentions Cato, but I don't recall him mentioning the age discrepancy of Octavian. He does mention he changed the relation to cousin or something from great uncle. Aside from the historical changes the story is well told & fun to read. I'd recommend these books to anyone interested in ancient Rome unless historical liberties taken to improve story would make it unreadable.

Conquering all others..........2006-12-13

Emperor: The Death of Kings by Conn Iggulden is a book in the Emperor series. This book is about Julius Caesar's life from one of his first military campaigns until his posting in Spain as a governor, a few years later. The book begins with the words "The Fort of Mytilene loomed above them on the hill" pulling me right into the story. Though only a leader of a small unit, Julius Caesar and his group joined by about 20 other men attack this fort being held by rebels. Disaster follows soon after the successful battle because pirates capture the ship Caesar is sailing on as they are leaving the port. For a long time, Caesar and the rest of the officers are trapped in the hold, but they soon escape. After that, Caesar assembles an army and goes after the pirate captain. He finds the pirate captain and has a pitched sea battle. Caesar wins and gets all his money back from when he had to pay his ransom. This is the first of three major battles described in the book. After the second battle, Caesar hears that his old nemesis Sulla has died in Rome. This is important because Caesar is now free to go back to Rome, having sworn not to return to Rome while Sulla was alive. The reason for the hatred between the two men must have been explained in the first book of the series. While in Rome Caesar is in Rome he must struggle with all the events that have happened while he was away. For example, his father's house was being occupied by one of Sulla's friends Antonidus also known as Sulla's "dog". Caesar kicks Antonidus out of the house resulting in a trial, which Caesar wins. After this trial, Caesar goes to battle having been recently promoted. The battle was incredibly successful because the Roman soldiers were better trained than the slaves who they were fighting. Immediately after the battle, Caesar is posted to Spain as a Governor where the book ends. There are many characters: some military people, some family and some friends. Some characters are famous in history such as Caesar's friend Brutus and his successor Octavian. The parts of the book in Rome have to do with the political aspects, which are extremely complicated because everyone is vying for power. A friend can become an enemy in a second. The book was complicated, attention grabbing and if you are afraid of long words, do not read it. The story seemed jerky at first, but then I realized that it really flowed smoothly. I particularly enjoyed reading about the trial because it was extremely suspenseful. Because of the author's style of writing, the book is energetic and interesting. Iggulden's characters are well described and are consistent in their actions throughout the story. Sometimes the author does not give enough detail about certain events and must be assumed from the first book; however, the action is fun to read and I liked it.

I Loved It!.......2006-11-23

"The Death of Kings", (second in the Emperor series), follows on from the first, taking in the period from the capture and imprisonment of Caesar up to the rebellion of Spartacus. It follows on directly from the first volume, so should not be read independently of that one.

Firstly, as I did not read this book for the historical accuracy, (I would have read a real historical non-fiction book, if I actually cared that much), I couldn't give too much of a toss about the liberties that Iggulden took with it, within certain broad limits. Especially, considering that he is so open about these liberties in the first place, (unlike some authors who have been very popular).

The narrative itself is certainly fast paced and keeps you moving from one thing to the next with a vigorous and frenetic energy. It is sometimes a bit lax on the details, but the sacrifice to speed is liveable. It not a book that presents a lot of profound comments on the life of Caesar, but it is an action novel. And it has plenty of it. I enjoyed the pace and the action a lot, and it was a rip-roaring read for that.

The characterisations were rather good, though sometimes a bit like a cardboard cut-out. I was especially drawn to the character of Cornelia in her reactions to the newly returned Caesar after Sulla had had his way with her. Her bitterness and anger, coupled with her strong desire to draw Caesar near her, were poignant and interesting. She is perhaps the deepest character of the series so far.

The book is not deep, and it takes a lot of liberties with the historical truth. However, if that is a concern, might I recommend real history books and not novels. This is a fast paced adventure novel with a lot of fighting, intrigue and other stuff. There is even romance, though I have skipped through as much of that as possible. If you are into a fast read that is not too taxing, I recommend this one. Just read the first one before you get to this one.

Average customer rating:

Hail the conquering hero!
Rubbish
Historical Fiction that is more like Fiction, but readable
embarrassing
Randolphin2

The Gates of Rome (Emperor, Book 1)
Conn Iggulden
Manufacturer: Delacorte Press
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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ASIN: 0385336608
Release Date: 2003-01-01

Book Description

Rarely, if ever, does a new writer dazzle us with such a vivid imagination and storytelling, flawlessly capturing the essence of a land, a people, a legend. Conn Iggulden is just such a writer, bringing to vivid life one of the most fascinating eras in human history. In a true masterpiece of historical fiction, Iggulden takes us on a breathtaking journey through ancient Rome, sweeping us into a realm of tyrants and slaves, of dark intrigues and seething passions. What emerges is both a grand romantic tale of coming-of-age in the Roman Empire and a vibrant portrait of the early years of a man who would become the most powerful ruler on earth: Julius Caesar.

On the lush Italian peninsula, a new empire is taking shape. At its heart is the city of Rome, a place of glory and decadence, beauty and bloodshed. Against this vivid backdrop, two boys are growing to manhood, dreaming of battles, fame, and glory in service of the mightiest empire the world has ever known. One is the son of a senator, a boy of privilege and ambition to whom much has been given and from whom much is expected. The other is a bastard child, a boy of strength and cunning, whose love for his adoptive family–and his adoptive brother–will be the most powerful force in his life.

As young Gaius and Marcus are trained in the art of combat–under the tutelage of one of Rome’s most fearsome gladiators–Rome itself is being rocked by the art of treachery and ambition, caught in a tug-of-war as two rival generals, Marius and Sulla, push the empire toward civil war. For Marcus, a bloody campaign in Greece will become a young soldier’s proving ground. For Gaius, the equally deadly infighting of the Roman Senate will be the battlefield where he hones his courage and skill. And for both, the love of an extraordinary slave girl will be an honor each will covet but only one will win.

The two friends are forced to walk different paths, and by the time they meet again everything will have changed. Both will have known love, loss, and violence. And the land where they were once innocent will be thrust into the grip of bitter conflict–a conflict that will set Roman against Roman...and put their friendship to the ultimate test.

Brilliantly interweaving history and adventure, Conn Iggulden conjures a stunning array of contrasts–from the bloody stench of a battlefield to the opulence of the greatest city in history, from the tenderness of a lover to the treachery of an assassin. Superbly rendered, grippingly told, Emperor, The Gates of Rome is a work of vaulting imagination from a powerful new voice in historical fiction.

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On the lush Italian peninsula, a new empire is taking shape. At its heart is the city of Rome, a place of glory and decadence, beauty and bloodshed. Against this vivid backdrop, two boys are growing to manhood, dreaming of battles, fame, and glory in service of the mightiest empire the world has ever known. One is the son of a senator, a boy of privilege and ambition to whom much has been given and from whom much is expected. The other is a bastard child, a boy of strength and cunning, whose love for his adoptive family—and his adoptive brother—will be the most powerful force in his life.

As young Gaius and Marcus are trained in the art of combat—under the tutelage of one of Rome's most fearsome gladiators—Rome itself is being rocked by the art of treachery and ambition, caught in a tug-of-war as two rival generals, Marius and Sulla, push the empire toward civil war. For Marcus, a bloody campaign in Greece will become a young soldier's proving ground. For Gaius, the equally deadly infighting of the Roman Senate will be the battlefield where he hones his courage and skill. And for both, the love of an extraordinary slave girl will be an honor each will covet but only one will win.

The two friends are forced to walk different paths, and by the time they meet again everything will have changed. Both will have known love, loss, and violence. And the land where they were once innocent will be thrust into the grip of bitter conflict—a conflict that will set Roman against Roman...and put their friendship to the ultimate test.

Brilliantly interweaving history and adventure, Conn Iggulden conjures a stunning array of contrasts—from the bloody stench of a battlefield to the opulence of the greatest city in history, from the tenderness of a lover to the treachery of an assassin. Superbly rendered, grippingly told, Emperor: The Gates of Rome, is a work of vaulting imagination from a powerful new voice in historical fiction.

"Emperor is stunning.... Words like 'brilliant,' 'sumptuous' and 'enchanting' jostle to be used, but scarcely convey the way Iggulden brings the schoolbook tale to life...Iggulden knows that history derives from 'story.' And this story has barely begun. The Gates of Rome is its first, exhilarating, installment. Don't miss it."
   L.A. TIMES

"A swashbuckling adventure story...dramatic historical fiction to keep adults turning pages like enthralled kids...a spirited, entertaining read. Iggulden is a grand storyteller."
   USA TODAY

"Emperor rules... What a find. A first-time author who writes—wonderfully! Emperor combines the fantasy of Harry Potter with the historical details of John Jakes. Books don't get better than this."
   CONTRA COSTA TIMES

"Iggulden excels at describing battle scenes both small-scale and epic."
   SEATT

Customer Reviews:

Hail the conquering hero!.......2007-10-01

My copy of The Gates of Rome has a review on the cover saying "If you liked Gladiator, you'll love Emperor". I believe this is a fairly accurate summary of the Emperor series. This is a rip-roaring epic set during the collapse of Republican Rome. It plays fast and loose with the facts to tell the almost larger than life story of a provincial Roman boy and his best friend Marcus who are destined to rule the known world.

Conn Iggulden starts his ambitious series with The Gates of Rome which covers Gaius Julius Caesar's life from eight-years-old to his entry into the army at about age twenty. We get (completely fabricated) details of the training and tutoring that would enable a self confident child to become the most powerful man on Earth.

Things really take off when Julius is sent to live with his uncle Marius in Rome and Marcus joins the legion. Marius is a powerful man, with an equally powerful adversary: his protégé and rival Sulla. The resolution of the slowly building conflict between these two giants caps off this first novel.

Mr. Iggulden is a very skilled writer. For his first shot out of the gate he was able to both paint a vivid portrait of Roman society and keep you turning the pages, eager to see what was going to happen next. The tension between Marius and Sulla is palpable and very suspenseful. Since this is historical fiction, I already knew at least broadly what was the resolution would be, yet I still hated setting the book aside at night.

The Gates of Rome was compulsively readable. It never got bogged down in details or minutia, yet explained the ancient world clearly enough that I was never hazy about what was going on. Battle scenes are vivid and exciting. I especially remember the Caesar estate under siege during a slave revolt, Marius and his fifty soldiers running the gauntlet after he demanded his triumphal march and Marcus and his troop of eight men holing up in a fortress with the corpses of those that were supposed to defend it. This is exciting stuff.

One word of warning: the Emperor series is not historically accurate. It may be better to label the series as 'fantasy' rather than 'historical fiction'. Details of Caesar's life are changed around and simplified. Some details (especially in this first book since so little is known of Caesar's childhood) are made up whole cloth. The author doesn't so much get the facts wrong, as just ignores them altogether to make his narrative more compelling. If accuracy is of paramount importance to you in your historical fiction, this may not be for you.

To his credit, the author advises in his afterward what deviations he's taken with history. He also recommends more accurate books about the life of Julius Caesar. If it weren't for the author's note at the end of each book explaining what was true and what wasn't, the false history would probably bother me more.

I do think that the inaccuracies were negligible in my enjoyment of this book. If nothing else the excitement of the story telling may encourage readers to further investigate ancient history in a way that a dry biography would not.

Rubbish.......2007-09-02

Narrative isn't too terrible. The anachronisms however make this utter rubbish and completely unreadable.

Historical Fiction that is more like Fiction, but readable.......2007-07-23

As many other reviewers have noted, and as Iggulden himself admitted in the afterword, he took many "liberties" with the facts in this book. Since I don't recall ever reading a book about Julius Caesar's boyhood before I was interested in reading it. (It covers age 10 to age 17 or so.) I had read Iggulden's book about the youth of Genghis Khan and that was a very good book in my opinion, and stayed close to the known facts, as far as I could tell, so that was another reason I wanted to follow with more of his historical fiction. This book however is so far off the charts historically, I have to wonder why, when it wouldn't have been that hard to stick with what was true. The facts of Caesar's life were basicically interesting, but apparently Iggulden wanted to have Caesar and Brutus grow up as childhood best friends, so that the later irony would be all the more...ironic? He would have done better to have made this book an entirely fictional book set in that era, about two boys growing up in that tumultous time and aimed in at the YA group, as it does seem to be a book many in that age group would enjoy, as well as many adults. However, I'd hate to recommend it to a young person as a biography of Caesar as a boy, since the facts are so wrong. Its really a shame, the McCullough books are great, but are also really long, and require stick-to-it-ness, with all the confusing, similar names, and the indepth looks at the political parties, confusing family/clan histories, and military history thrown in. This book is the opposite, a light, readable historical fiction...if only he'd stuck closer to reality! ( FYI: In terms of Amazon's editorial reviews above, in this book, Marcus Brutus wasn't illegitimate, and his mother was more a courtesan than a prostetute.)

embarrassing.......2007-07-21

I am usually entertained by any competant historical fiction of ancient Rome. This book is shot full of holes in the plotline and in the complete disregard of the known facts in its presentation of Rome and the characters who are purported to be its heroes. Iggulden should have changed the names and the places and presented his tale as fantasy. I put the book down forever after 150 pages.

Randolphin2.......2007-07-07

I just could not finish this book! Maybe if I had not read the great series by Colleen McCullough first I could have gotten through it. The historical mayhem this author perpetrates on the Roman empire is mind boggling. This is not historical fiction, just pure fiction.

Average customer rating:

Excellent. This book makes you feel like Caesar's buddy.
Nice ending to a great series
Superbly Written Historical Fiction
Sensational!
Mesmerizing To The End...

Emperor: The Gods of War (Emperor)
Conn Iggulden
Manufacturer: Delacorte Press
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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ASIN: 0385337671
Release Date: 2006-03-28

Book Description

The year is 53 B.C. Fresh from victory in Gaul, Julius Caesar leads battle-hardened legions across the Rubicon river–threatening Rome herself. Even the master strategist Pompey is caught unprepared by the strike, and forced to abandon his city. The armies of Rome will face each other at last in civil war, led by the two greatest generals ever to walk the seven hills. Thus begins Conn Iggulden’s towering saga of Julius Caesar as he approaches his final destiny—a destiny that will be decided not by legions but by his friend Brutus and an Egyptian queen named Cleopatra, who will bear his only son....

For Caesar, the campaign against Pompey will test his military genius and his appetite for glory to their limits, as the greatest fighting machine the world has ever seen divides against itself in a bloody conflict that will set brother against brother until victory or death. But for Caesar, another kingdom beckons—a world of ancient mysteries and languid sensuality, where a beautiful, bewitching woman waits to snare his heart.

The Gods of War follows Julius Caesar through politics and passion, ruthless ambition and private grief, and into the corruption of power itself. Those he has loved will play a part in his triumphs—as will the jealousy and hatred of his enemies.

From the spectacles of the arena to the whispered lies of conspirators, Conn Iggulden brings to life a world of monumental drama. And at its heart is one extraordinary friendship—marked by fierce loyalty and bitter betrayal, with dark events shrouded in noble ideals.

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The year is 53 B.C. Fresh from victory in Gaul, Julius Caesar leads battle-hardened legions across the Rubicon river–threatening Rome herself. Even the master strategist Pompey is caught unprepared by the strike, and forced to abandon his city. The armies of Rome will face each other at last in civil war, led by the two greatest generals ever to walk the seven hills. Thus begins Conn Iggulden’s towering saga of Julius Caesar as he approaches his final destiny–a destiny that will be decided not by legions but by his friend Brutus and an Egyptian queen named Cleopatra, who will bear his only son....

For Caesar, the campaign against Pompey will test his military genius and his appetite for glory to their limits, as the greatest fighting machine the world has ever seen divides against itself in a bloody conflict that will set brother against brother until victory or death. But for Caesar, another kingdom beckons–a world of ancient mysteries and languid sensuality, where a beautiful, bewitching woman waits to snare his heart.

The Gods of War follows Julius Caesar through politics and passion, ruthless ambition and private grief, and into the corruption of power itself. Those he has loved will play a part in his triumphs–as will the jealousy and hatred of his enemies.

From the spectacles of the arena to the whispered lies of conspirators, Conn Iggulden brings to life a world of monumental drama. And at its heart is one extraordinary friendship–marked by fierce loyalty and bitter betrayal, with dark events shrouded in noble ideals.

From the Hardcover edition.

Customer Reviews:

Excellent. This book makes you feel like Caesar's buddy........2007-09-12

I'm a history buff and thought I knew the ins and outs of Caesar. Yeah, I did, but this book...well, it just makes you feel like you were standing in Rome and having first name basis buddy-ship with Caesar.

A very remarkable dude he is. Think aobut it. How many other dudes are so controlled and all rounded? Great in war, lucky with chics, and an excellent politician. No wonder he's so successful.

And what better way than to end life in a memorable way? Getting assassinated by folks who get jealous of you, including your best friends..."Et tu Brute" = "Even you Brutus". Man, that is just Immortal...god-like.

Nice ending to a great series.......2007-04-20

I've really enjoyed the entire series, going so far as to buy a 10 euro copy of the last installation in an airport in Copenhagen. Iggulden seems to have followed actual historical events fairly closely and providing some educated insight into the personalities of these fascinating people. The only minor complaint is that the story actually seems a little rushed. It probably could have been separated into two separate novels: the final battle with Pompey and the adventures in Egypt. At the end of the historical note, Iggulden hints that he might write another novel that continues where this novel leaves off. I can only hope that he follows through.

Superbly Written Historical Fiction.......2007-03-27

I've just finished up all four in the series and am left wanting more. Julius Ceasar was one of the most remarkable men in history and Iggulden has done an amazing job of bringing him to life in these pages. With so much at our fingertips today, it is hard to imagine a human being with that kind of vision, let alone the will and determination it would have taken to accomplish what still seems impossible.

James Hart Isley
Author of The Bear Hunter

Sensational!.......2007-03-10

I ordered the first two in the Emperor series (one of historical fiction chronicalling the life of Julius Caeser) and swallowed a dose of 'shock & awe' as I devoured these page turners. I wouldn't recommend them if you like to get to bed early, as I found myself continually battling the sandman to remain awake to see how the latest adventures of the protaganists turned out. While reading the first two I knew that I HAD to go back on Amazon to purchase the remaining books. I discovered that GODS OF WAR was not yet in paperback. Like it mattered. I am the proud owner of 3 paperbacks and 1 hardcover. It was well worth it. I highly recommend this book and the entire series to anyone who enjoys a good yarn, swashbuckling adventure, superior character development, fascinating historical fiction and plainly-just a damn good read. My only hope now is the author, Mr. Iggulden, decides to continue the saga with Octavian/Augustus, Mark Antony and that little Greek/Egyptian Minx. After that there's plenty of drama in the Empire. So to Conn, Sir, I beseech you to put 'pen to paper' and continue the journey. I will do my part and spread the word here in the colonies. I already owe you a pint!

Mesmerizing To The End..........2007-01-08

I have now read all 4 novels of the Emperor series, each one just as fascinating as the previous one. I hated to see the end, knowing that Iggulden was going to write next on Ghengis Khan, which he has done and which will be published later this year.

I hope he returns to the scene of Caesar's murder and continues the series, so much of great Roman history happened in the years following.

Of this book I can only say the story is told wonderfully, with such a fresh and unique angle on all the characters that it was easy to follow them from book to book; even meeting new characters as I went.

Thank you, Conn, for a truly satisfying journey through the Via Romana and please revisit it soon.

Getorix The Eagle and The Bull: A Celtic Adventure in Ancient Rome

Average customer rating:

Getorix: The Eagle and The Bull
A Perfect Novel. I could not put it down!
An interesting story about pre-Caesarian Rome.
A thoroughly captivating and intimate story of a young man's struggle with identity and pride

Getorix The Eagle and The Bull: A Celtic Adventure in Ancient Rome
Judith Geary
Manufacturer: Ingalls Pub/High Country
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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ASIN: 193215874X

Book Description

Getorix (15) has one last opportunity to earn his father's regard and welcome into the Otherworld He must face death with courage at the end of the Roman triumph. Instead the gods throw him a different challenge Can Getorix accept friendship from t

Customer Reviews:

Getorix: The Eagle and The Bull.......2006-09-19

Getorix: The Eagle and the Bull is a story of a young boy's adventures in Rome that is comperable to the Harry Potter novels in that the concept is equally as fascinating. Geary's attention to historical detail paints a vivid image of Rome during a time period that is educational as well as entertaining. Getorix's incessant stubborness in fufilling his promise to his father emphasizes the cultural difference between the Celts and Romans and is the foundation of an unlikely friendship in the end. This book leaves the reader awaiting a young adult adventure series that has the potential to be brilliant.

A Perfect Novel. I could not put it down!.......2006-09-13

This is a beautifully written, riveting tale of a Celtic boy on the cusp of manhood, who along with his father, was captured in battle by the Romans. The boy, Getorix, is determined to honor a vow to his father made just before the father is executed. He is spared by General Catulus and given to his son, Lucius, as a slave. However, Getorix will be no one's slave, especially not a slave to a Roman enemy. His growing friendship to a boy who would be his master, and his desperate need to become a man his father would have been proud of sends him on a journey of pain and self-discovery which will ultimately chart his course in life. I see this book as a young adult book only in that there are no scenes of sexuality or obscene language. It is a wealth of insight into the life and politics of Rome before Julius Caesar and has been meticulously researched. The author, Judith Geary, speaks to an intelligent reader with language that propels the reader to another time and commands the reader to experience a slice of history along side her richly developed characters. I was hooked from the first page to the last and can not wait to read it's sequel.

An interesting story about pre-Caesarian Rome........2006-08-18

Getorix is a teenage son of a Cimbri ruler who is captured, along with his father, and taken to Rome for a triumph and eventual execution. His father is killed, but he is spared and becomes a slave in the household of Quintus Lutatius Catulus, a Roman general and official. The story concerns the developing relationship between Getorix, Catulus' son, Lucius, and Keltus, a Celtic slave of the household. The author gives us a taste of what the life of a Roman household slave would be like, plus a description of some of the politics existing in the time before Julius Caesar becomes absolute ruler. An excellent appendix gives the neophyte reader a list of Latin and 'barbarian' words and what they mean. This book may be boring to adults, but is quite good for pre-teens and teenagers. It is fortunate that the activities and perversions of Sulla are not discussed fully, or it would not be suitable for young readers. The story ends without a satisfactory ending, leading me to believe there will be a sequel as Getorix deals with his status as a slave and his vow to make his father proud of him.

A thoroughly captivating and intimate story of a young man's struggle with identity and pride.......2006-08-13

Judith Geary's debut novel, Getorix: The Eagle And The Bull is set in the days of the Roman Republic (rather than the later Roman Empire) and is the story of a young Celt named Getorix. Following the adventurous life of Getorix which includes the depressing defeat of his father in a battle with the Romans, Getorix: The Eagle And The Bull deftly carries readers through a Celtic family struggles and Getorix befriending a Roman soldier who has spared his life. A superbly written novel whose author has taken great pains to be as historically accurate as possible in the little details so important to background settings and plot developments, Getorix: The Eagle And The Bull is very strongly recommended as a thoroughly captivating and intimate story of a young man's struggle with identity and pride. Written for a young adult readership, Getoix: The Eagle And The Bull is the first installment of a three volume trilogy and will leave the reader looking eagerly toward the next two titles in this superbly crafted and original series.

Average customer rating:

Beyond good
A lovely tale of money lending in ancient times
Terrific character driven drama in ancient Rome
A great, fast-paced story in Roman society
and thanks for the afterword

Render Unto Caesar
Gillian Bradshaw
Manufacturer: Forge Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0765306549
Release Date: 2004-07-15

Book Description

Hermogenes, although descended from a race of heroes, is content to run his business and leave valor to the legends. But when his father is killed, the young Greek is stirred to seek retribution. In Rome, corruption and prejudice are far easier found than justice. Hermogenes may be a citizen in name, but he is branded a barbarian by those who are Roman by birth-and the man who owes him money is a respected member of the city's government. As Hermogenes is drawn deeper into a maelstrom of political intrigue, he gains a formidable gladiator as his ally, a woman with scars on her heart as well as her body. Together they plot to defeat the consul at his own game. But how far is Hermogenes willing to go to satisfy his own honor?

Customer Reviews:

Beyond good.......2007-08-15

If you don't like Gillian Bradshaw's writing and plotting, there's something wrong with you. It's that simple.
"Render Unto Caesar" is just the latest in a stunning parade of historical novels by this classical scholar.
It simply doeasn't get any better than Bradshaw.

A lovely tale of money lending in ancient times.......2006-12-10

I used to only like a story (movie or book) of ancient Rome if it had lots of military campaigns and gladiatorial gore in them. Then like most teenagers I grew up and discovered novels like those written by Gillian Bradshaw could offer something without all that.

This tale of a Greek moneylender (Hermogenes) who travels from Alexandria to Rome to collect an inherited debt owed to his deceased father shows its writers undoubted knowledge of her subject matter. You can find as much fascination with the descriptions of Rome circa 16BC and the life of its populace as you can wishing its principle character success in his mission to recover what is rightfully owed to him.

Hermogenes task is made all the more problematic by the fact that the man his father once did business with is now one of the Consuls of Rome. Only outranked by Emperor Augustus. The advantages of power, the need to find people you can trust to help and the subtle art of survival when you are a small fish in a big pond all result in plots developing within plots - which helps the story stay fresh and interesting.

Of particular interest was the characters who come into Hermogenes struggle. The most fascinating for me was Cantabra the Hispanic Celt and former gladiatrix. Attractive but hardly feminine her relationship with Hermogenes is a fascinating weaves of contrasting characters. The kindly and trusting Greek with educated and polite tongue vs the street wise and straight talking Celt provide many fine moments in this book.

Another highlight of all Gillians books are the "authors notes" at the end. In these notes she provides answers to questions one might raise about the events within her story. Fact and fiction it may be but her notes support the fact she writes an accurate account of the times - no research short cuts for this classically educated authoress.

An excellent and enjoyable read and as a bonus you learn something about the place and its people.

Terrific character driven drama in ancient Rome.......2006-03-22

I'm distinctly non-female and a committed non-reader of romances. That being said "Render unto Caesar" is really at heart a love story. It is just so well written with such engaging characters that even I enjoyed it.

It centers on a Greek/Hellenistic moneylender from Alexandria in Rome in the mid-augustan period. There are actually a couple of very touching love stories interweaving in the main narrative. In a sense the whole novel is really about love: A mans love for his daughter, a boy's love for his mother, a patricians love for Rome, a Greek's love for Alexandria, a man unrequited love for his slave and a slaves unrequited love for his master and, obviously, a very touching romantic man-women love story.

Gillian Bradshaw makes the characters and setting come to live with lots of touching details and everyday stories. For instance when the main characters, the Greek banker, Hermogenes, has borrowed a slave boy from his Roman host to have him shown around the city. The boy is being showered with gifts from his master who is in love with him, unfortunately he doesn't really like bedding men and he feels guilty over the fact that he doesn't appreciate his master's kindness. Obviously his parents and siblings wants him to rejoice over his good fortune since the fact that his owner has taken a shine to him is good news for everybody concerned - the owner being a kindhearted man who treats his household slaves kindly. A wonderful way of bringing across the alien viewpoint - A slave feeling guilty about not appreciating being taken to his masters bed. Anyway, as Hermogenes is showed around the city by his guide he buys honey cakes not just for the boy bit also for a little girl called Erotion, and her mother Tertia - the slave women taking care of his rooms. The boy instantly gets worried that he intends to bed her and Hermogenes has to assure him it's just that she is kind, attentive and doing a good job:

The boy went deep red and bit his lib. "I'm sorry, sir," he mumbled staring at the road. "I didn't ...I know it's not....I mean, if you did, you wouldn't even have to give her cakes.... it's just that she is my mother"

I found the whole situation really touching. Lots of little touches like that capturing the different way people think about things and mixing the casual cruelty of their society with the gentleness of individuals.

A great, fast-paced story in Roman society.......2006-03-03

What a great book! I've read a few of Gillian Bradshaw's novels now and I have enjoyed every one. They are written in a light style and the plot moves along quickly, taking you with it. This was no exception.

Hermogenes is an Alexandrian trader who travels to Rome to try to reclaim a debt from an important Roman civic person. We read lots of really interesting vignettes about how the Romans saw other nations - Barbarians - and how their notion of honour appeared to be generally only honour to other Romans. Hermogenes is accompanied by two slaves from Alexandria and before long the two slaves are having to act as bodyguards to him. It appears that he has poked a rather nasty wasps nest in trying to reclaim his debt. One of his slaves is killed in a fight with some of Hermogenes' new enemies and his life is saved by Cantabra, the female gladiator of a barbarian (celtic) tribe. She becomes his new bodyguard and the tender and rather surprising love story between them is wonderfully written. Hermogenes gets deeper and deeper into Roman politics and Roman money until eventually he wins back his debt, at the cost of many beatings and much trouble.

What I liked about this story was that there was a sub-theme about the position of gay men and boys in Roman society, as well as Greek. Some of the issues were explored - that of slaves not having the option of saying `no' to their masters (although Cantabra actually does this) and the way in which gay people were seen in Greek and Roman society. This is all done in a way that doesn't feel like you're being preached to or lectured at. No mean feat!

This is a good yarn set in any era but the Roman details just add to the enjoyment. I recommend this book wholeheartedly.

and thanks for the afterword.......2005-01-28

This was the most enjoyable work of fiction I have read in some time. I found the characters engaging, the plot interesting, and the little details concerning everyday life fascinating. Well researched! I especially appreciated the notes in the afterword. Thanks to Ms. Bradshaw's recommendation, I am now enjoying Mr. Carcopino's work.

Shadows of Caesar's Creek (Ziggy and the Black Dinosaurs)

Average customer rating:

Great read aloud for teachers!

Shadows of Caesar's Creek (Ziggy and the Black Dinosaurs)
Sharon M. Draper
Manufacturer: Aladdin
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 068987913X

Book Description

LOST!

Ziggy and his Black Dinosaur pals are excited about their overnight camping trip to Caesar's Creek State Park -- it was named after an ex-slave who later became a Shawnee chief! Their camping counselor is descended from Caesar, and she fills the campers' imaginations with intriguing but sometimes spooky stories about her ancestor and Shawnee legends and traditions.

So when Ziggy and his friends discover an old canoe in some bushes by the lake, they decide to sneak outside at night and test their courage like Shawnee youth in their manhood ceremonies. But Shawnee youth probably wouldn't have found themselves drifting in the middle of the lake with their paddles still on shore, or lost in the woods surrunded by strange noises. Could it be a bear? Or the ancient spirits of their counseor's tales?

Customer Reviews:

Great read aloud for teachers!.......1998-07-13

I had the pleasure of meeting the author, Ms. Draper, shortly before she was voted Teacher of the Year, and she shared her motivation for writing Ziggy: she wanted something for her African-American son to read that he'd enjoy. Well, he got it in this book. And, my second grade, white, boys and girls LOVE this book. It is a fast-moving mystery about Jamaican Ziggy and his crew of pals, their secret clubhouse, and some bones... The students get a kick out of the "Hey, mons" too! Well worth the 5 bucks. Buy it now!

Jump, Dance, and Other Adventures (Nelly & Caesar Board Books)

Average customer rating:

adorable book

Jump, Dance, and Other Adventures (Nelly & Caesar Board Books)
Ingrid Godon
Manufacturer: Barrons Juveniles
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Board book

General | Baby-3 | Children's Books | Subjects | Books
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ASIN: 0764152572

Book Description

A hardboard book with bright and charming illustrations teaches toddlers simple words for basic concepts and ways to compare things. Nelly is a delightful mouse and Caesar is a funny frog. Kids will love them both! Nelly and Caesar put on different kinds of clothes and display familiar objects to demonstrate active and creative things kids can do. The sturdy hardboard format with rounded corners for safety will withstand rough use from tiny hands. This clever volume uses words and pictures to demonstrate meanings of action words, including to carry, to dig, to dance, to throw, to climb, and more. (Ages: infants to age 3)

Customer Reviews:

adorable book .......2004-12-29

My 19 month old daughter loves this book. I got it at the library and she makes me read it to her about 5 times a day. She even takes it to bed with her. She learned several new words and concepts such as "heavy," "climbing," "digging," and "pulling." Unfortunately you cannot buy it new on Amazon--only used.

Julius Caesar and Roman Britain: An Adventure from History

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Julius Caesar and Roman Britain: An Adventure from History
L. Du Garde Peach
Manufacturer: Wills & Hepworth Ltd.
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

Rome | Ancient | History | Subjects | Books

Asterix and Caesar's Gift (Adventures of Asterix)

Average customer rating:

Very good magazine!
Another "trouble in the village" episode
Asterix and Caesar's Gift
Caesar sets a cat among the pigeons...
Not the best...

Asterix and Caesar's Gift (Adventures of Asterix)
Rene de Goscinny , and Goscinny
Manufacturer: Dargaud Publishing International
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 091720168X

Customer Reviews:

Very good magazine!.......2007-05-14

One of those adventures you enjoy reading, fun for any kid or adult.

Another "trouble in the village" episode.......2007-03-05

Rene Goscinny, Asterix and Caesar's Gift (Dargaud, 1972)

Caesar deeds our favorite Gaulish village to a retiring drunkard of a soldier, who trades it to a Lutetian for a meal and an amphora. Said Lutetian goes to said village and sets himself up as the new leader. Tension abounds. I'm fondest of Goscinny when he's doing this sort of thing-- looking at the way civilization breaks down when outside influences appear (viz. Asterix and the Roman Agent), especially given Uderzo's rather stereotypical drawing style when it comes to certain ethnic minorities that pop up now and again... ***

Asterix and Caesar's Gift.......2007-02-05

"Asterix and Caesar's Gift" (1974) is Asterix #21 It's fairly good. Worth a look for fans of characters in the village like Geriatrix and Vitalstatistix.

Julius Caesar gives his troops a plot of land if they give 20 years of work to his army. Julius has overheard that one man up for retirement doesn't like him, so Julius gives him a deed to land he hasn't conquered yet, Vitalstatistix's Gaulish village. Man can't be bothered going all the way up to the corner of Gaul, so he sells his plot for some beer to a tavern keeper, who goes with his family to claim the village. Challenges and chaos follow in the village...

Caesar sets a cat among the pigeons..........2002-12-30

After a drunken Legionnaire is heard making insulting remarks about Julius Caesar, Caesar decides to give him a present-which he in turn sells to a Gaullish Innkeeper for a meal and some drinks.

The innkeeper, Orthopaedix, comes to the village, we know so well, with his wife and daughter, setting in chain a breakdown of cohesion there, as a dispute over the Chieftainship of the village, Obelix falling in love, and the refusal of Druid Getafix to make magic potion makes for another rollicking Asterix adventure.

Once more, a lot of fun.

Not the best..........2001-01-20

Well, its Asterix, so of course its wonderful. It certainly is not the best one, though. Rome has a new tack for conquering the village, one that causes even more dissension then usual. The addition of a rather annoying girl who seems to wrap all of the men around her finger is a sorry newcomer who just doesnt live up to the normally delightful characters. Of course it has all of the elements that make Astrix wonderful, and it is true no collection would be complete without it.

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