What We're Reading: Edward

Empire: the novel of Imperial Rome

by Steven Saylor

Interest in Rome seems to be eternal. Witness the Spartacus, Blood and Sand cable series and the upcoming movie Eagle about a Roman legion in Caledonia. Saylor is back with the continuation of his historical novel, Roma. Empire tells the story of Rome through the eyes of the Pinarius family. The Pinarii are related to Augustus but supported the other side in the Civil War. Augustus nominates Lucius Pinarius to become an Augur. He is installed in the office with his cousin, Claudius. The Pinarii are on the way up. Generations of the Pinarii survive the whims of the Emperors. They witness the burning of Rome, the destruction of Pompeii, the building of Roman monuments and the persecution of Jews and Christians. May their lineage continue. For as always, OMNIA VINCIT ROME!