This just might be a me issue. But Caesar did not have the "voice" I expected. Probably colored by the dearth of stories and history that has been pushed on everyone in western countries. Since it did not "sound" like him I couldn't get too into the story.

Back to the beach with books in tote

Your early summer 2024 reading list

By Tom Mayer

You’ll need a bigger bag — that’s the first thing to know about our early summer 2024 reading list. Not only are there waves and waves of new titles coming at us during the next few months, but the sheer volume of some of these 500-1,000 page tsunamis are sure to strain all but the most reinforced beach tote (“Southern Man” by Greg Iles comes to us in late May at more than a pound and 976 pages, by example). That is, if you’re reading in print, which, as always, I highly recommend. Not that I don’t have my trusty e-reader (trust is beholden in the eye of the charger) with me at all times, but have you noticed … print publishers have really upped their game.
Many of today’s print books are not only beautifully designed and produced for a complete reading sensation, they’re bound for the long haul … as in decades from now your progeny will be able to still marvel at the breadth of your literary acumen. Unlike a second-generation reader I own that no longer supports updates, making it a useful bequeath to exactly no one save for those who find a wicked joy in commenting on my age.
But back to the beach. The hand-curated titles here range from the fantastic to the fantastical, and for a bonus I’ve added a brief list of additional titles similarly recommended — just in case you’re lucky enough to find a space on an uninhabited island with nothing but sunshine and time. Bon voyage.

“I am Rome” (Ballantine Books) by Santiago Posteguillo
While Santiago Posteguillo is a best-selling author of crime and historical fiction in Spain, “I am Rome: A Novel of Julius Caesar” comes to us as his English-language debut — and one filled with action and oratory in translation by Frances Riddle. Using flashbacks to document Caesar’s early life — his announced arranged marriage which comes at age 12; his expansive education from his uncle, Marius; his political aspirations and early successes — the year is now 77 BCE, and a 23-year-old Gaius Julius Caesar wins a plumb assignment over mentors and others with decades more experience: the prosecution of Gnaeus Cornelius Dolabella, the governor of Macedonia who faces corruption charges. When prosecutorial witnesses begin to die, and a spy within Caesar’s own camp leaks testimonial secret to the opposition, the stage is set for a compelling narrative outlining the Roman general cum statesman’s rise to power.

“After Annie” (Random House) by Anna Quindlen
Anna Quindlen has made a career trading on secrets, but also on friendship, marriage, family and deep, deep loss. “After Annie” is a culmination of all of this in an achingly beautifully written story about how the lives of Bill Brown and his four young children are to continue after the death of Annie, his best friend, wife and mother of their children. For daughter Ali, it’s a coming-of-age story, though her father and younger brothers grow and learn about themselves and each other as they all navigate channels of adversity to come out stronger on the other side.

“Lilith” (Blackstone) by Eric Rickstad
You may not know that according not Jewish mythology, Lilith is the name of Adam’s supposed first wife — the woman before Eve who fled Eden after refusing to submit to male dominance — but you’ll know why Elisabeth Roth assumes the name in Eric Rickstad’s new novel. A challenging and rewarding work, “Lilith,” the person and the novel, seeks to answer two poignant questions: do the ends justify the means; and, do two wrongs make a right? For most of us, those questions seem elementary, but elementary is what kindergarten and single mom Elisabeth is … until her son, Lydan, suffers traumatic injuries in the wake of school violence. Posting video under her assumed name of a crime that she commits in answer to men in authority who she sees as too cowardly to stand up for her son and other victims, Elisabeth finds herself both vilified and venerated by millions. Working to elude capture, though, forces desperate measures, and those could ultimately result in the loss of her son. Rickstad earned a New York Times “Thriller of the Year” honor for “I Am Not Who You Think I Am,” and the form serves him well here.

“City in Ruins” (William Morrow) by Don Winslow
What an ending … and not only for the conclusion to a masterful trilogy about two New England organized crime families, but for the author himself, who has reported that “City in Ruins” will be the last novel of his career. The Danny Ryan trio of books takes us from Providence, R.I., and on a journey of redemption as this would be/wouldn’t be mob leader tries to leave his criminal life in the past. That past continuously catches up with him, reaching a crescendo with old enemies, the FBI, the IRS and even friends gunning for him. Written in Winslow’s signature style, you’ll enjoy the prose as much as a story that could be read as a standalone, but one you’ll appreciate more if you start at the beginning. Watch for an interview with Winslow late spring/early summer at cullmantimes.com.

“The House on Biscayne Bay” (Berkley) by Chanel Cleeton
Styled as a gothic mystery — a descriptor the novel wears well — Chanel Cleeton’s “The House on Biscayne Bay” is a haunting and atmospheric novel that brings past and present together as the lives of two women intersect under the roof of a dark and secret-infested mansion in Miami. The estate is gilded and golden, but there’s something rotten beneath its facade. Unless that sickness can be ferreted out, the result is likely to be a deadly history repeating itself.

“A Killing On the Hill” (Thomas & Mercer) by Robert Dugoni
In the past two and a half decades, the prolific Robert Dugoni has gifted us dozens of stories, including his popular Tracy Crosswhite, Charles Jenkins and David Sloane series, in addition a handful of standalone novels.
So, what’s a popular and gifted storyteller to do in 2024? In Dugoni’s case, tell a different kind of story. Forging a new path, Dugoni’s “A Killing On the Hill” is the author’s first historical novel — and one that sits solidly in his canon.
Inspired by a real-life shooting that took place in a nightclub in Seattle during Prohibition, the novel centers on deception and misdirection as the mobster George Miller claims he shot former prizefighter Frankie Ray only in self-defense.
Told through the young and inexperienced eyes of a almost-cub reporter working the crime beat for the Seattle Daily Star, the story takes us deep into a criminal trial that transfixes a reading public as two competing newspapers each strive to out-scoop the other. Dugoni takes us back to the very roots of storytelling with this master work.

“The Clock Struck Murder” (Poisoned Pen Press) by Betty Webb
Betty Webb’s “The Clock Struck Murder” isn’t the first novel to feature American expat Zoe Barlow — that was “Lost in Paris.” In that earlier tale, missing Hemingway writings lead Zoe into the investigations of two murders. Here, the plot device works just as well as Zoe, living in 1924 Paris, searches for a replacement for a broken but favorite porcelain clock. Finding a new one that suits her sensibilities, Zoe is surprised to find, upon returning home, that her purchase has been wrapped in a painting by Marc Chagall. Certain that her purchase had been sealed in error, she returns to the market to find that the vendor has been bludgeoned to death in a storage shed — and near a stack of other Chagalls. With the Olympics set to stage soon in Paris, local authorities have little interest or resources for an investigation, so Zoe decides to go it herself, ultimately uncovering more than one murder.

“The Book That Broke the World” (Ace) by Mark Lawrence
The second book in Mark Lawrence’s planned Library Trilogy, “The Book That Broke the World” follows 2023’s “The Book That Wouldn’t Burn.” A love letter to the place where books live and are loved, Lawrence’s trio is a love story of its own, telling the tale of a both a vast library and the small spaces that are filled with our own stories, including those that must be reclaimed — as is the case with Livira. Though her place is beside Evar, the two are far separated as Evar is forced to flee the library and journey into a vast world with which he’s utterly unfamiliar. The library, working to reassemble the threads of Livira’s history, brings their past to a new landscape as discovery, adventure and romance flavor this enthralling, enchanting series.

And because even our teens, tweens and their younger siblings find time to read in the summer:

“The Luminous Life of Lucy Landry” (Holiday House) by Anna Rose Johnson
Selena Lucy Landry is a spirited French-Ojibwe orphan — her sailor father died at sea — who is sent to foster with the Martin family at that awkward age when she can’t seem to get anything right. Flavoring this is that the Martins are a mysterious group of lighthouse-keepers who just might hold the key to the whereabouts of a legendary necklace her father spent his life looking for. A sweet story that crosses multiple boundaries — age, race, creed — Anna Rose Johnson’s “The Luminous Life of Lucy Landry” is promoted for those in grades 3-7, but really, the whole family will enjoy the tale.

“Hello, Alabama,” (Arcadia) by Martha Day Zschock
A fun board book that tags nearly every important Alabama bag, Martha Day Zschock’s “Hello, Alabama” is a colorful, fun and beautifully illustrated journey through the state. From the gulf shore to the USS Alabama, Magic City to the U.S. Space & Rocket Center, you and your little ones are “off and away” on a fun educational trek across Alabama — and a trek that might just have mom and dad learning a thing or two, also.

(Sidebar or boxed content below)

(Hede) More for the beach bag
And so, you’ve exhausted our summer list and there’s still a bit sunshine left. Consider:

“Matterhorn” (Thomas & Mercer) by Christopher Reich
Mac Dekker’s been living under a false name and trying to stay off the grid … until he learns about the death of his son who, unknown to him, had followed his dad into the world of espionage.

“Bare Knuckle” (Blackstone Publishing) by Stayton Bonner
Former Rolling Stone editor Stayton Bonner traveled the world of bare-knuckle boxing with world champion Bobby Gunn (73-0) for years to produce this Rocky-esque tale of triumph, loss and a father’s love for his family. Highly inspirational, highly recommended.

“You Like It Darker” by Stephen King (Scribner)
It’s Stephen King. It’s a book of his short stories. It’s summer and now you have the time enjoy a collection of new fiction from the master of horror. Enough said.

“Camino Ghosts” (Doubleday) by John Grisham
We typically have to wait until October for a new John Grisham novel, but this third installment in the Florida Camino Island story is right on time for a breezy, summer read.

“Southern Man” (William Morrow) by Greg Iles
We’ll be visiting with Greg Iles in early summer for an interview about his newest lawyer Penn Cage book, but this one has been long in coming and it’s worth mentioning here. Well, that and that you’ll want to start the book in late May, as soon as it comes out, if you plan on finishing before Labor Day. Iles’s new novel is much anticipated, and it delivers an intricately crafted plot that’ll keep you engrossed through its nearly 1,000 pages. It’s 15 years after the events of the Natchez Burning trilogy, and Penn Cage, carrying a mortal secret that keeps him isolated, is alone. A true masterpiece with historical depth that could only come from Iles’ pen. Check back for the interview in an upcoming issue of Meridian Life magazine (meridianstar.com/magazines/) and several Southern newspapers, including The Cullman Times (cullmantimes.com).

This one wasn’t for me I don’t know much about Roman history and this just throws you right in and expects you know it a bit. That being said did not leave feedback as this feels like it’s not for me

Julius Caesar is a notorious historical person. His life and the betrayal that led to his death are well-covered in history classes. Where did this man come from? Was he always destined for infamy? Until this book, the early life of Caesar hasn't been covered. What Santiago Posteguillo manages to answer is how Caesar became Caesar. A brash 23-year-old man steps forward to defend Rome against a corrupt politician. In doing so, he changes the course of history.

While this is a fictional account of what the author believes is Caesar's early life, there are historical facts interwoven to make this a fascinating book. This is the backstory of a polarizing figure in history related in a way that will captivate the reader and bring the "boring old history" to life with new and interesting perspectives.

Cleopatra fans and fans of ancient Roman history will thoroughly enjoy this fictional account.

Thank you NetGalley and Ballantine Books for the early review copy.

I am Rome by Santiago Posteguillo

Published: March 5, 2024
Ballantine Books
Genre: Ancient Historical Fiction
KKECReads Rating: 3/5
I received a copy of this book for free and leave my review voluntarily.

This was a long book. I enjoyed the twist on Caesar, and the historical fiction storytelling was well done.

I did have to take a couple of breaks just to cleanse my palate, but overall, the story was entertaining. It was an interesting spin on a historical person we learned about.

I would have enjoyed this more as an audiobook, but Santiago did a great job developing these characters and building a story within a story.

I enjoyed how things were described and how fact and fiction were intertwined. While there are some inaccuracies, this being fiction makes that a nonissue.

I think this would be a brilliant TV series. If done correctly, it could be brought to life in such a beautiful way. I wish I could read the original version, but this novel was a historical success for me.

The writing was good but not really my cup of tea. I think it was well done and I just had a hard time following the story, there were too many names/threads for me to follow and I often was confused about what was happening, this was most likely my fault as I’ve not read much about Rome.

DNF @ 13%

I usually love historical fiction, but unfortunately in this instance this book and I did not mesh. I found it too dense and info-dumpy, and the time jumps were jarring to me.

Entirely a case of a book just not being the right fit for me, and I would encourage those who love a deep-dive into the legal system of Rome to give this book a chance.

Not completely accurate, but again this is a work of fiction. If you have any interest in Julius Caesar and events during that time, you will really enjoy this book. You are brought into his world and see what made him the man he became. This was well written and the storyline will draw you in.

If you are an armchair traveler, a lover of history, or enjoy a deep dive into the cultural background of where you hope to go, you'll enjoy Posteguillo's book on Julius Caesar.

Key historical figures shape entire countries, and this book explores why Caesar made a lasting impact on a city, a country, and the Mediterranean region. I enjoyed the creative non-fiction, the descriptions, and the possibilities of what life may have been like around this towering man.

Well-researched and interesting.

I found that I was not interested in the detailed life of Julius Ceasar.

Things I liked about the book:
1. Short chapters
2. Lots of changes of scenery to make it more enjoyable
3. Strong Female Characters

What I didn't like:
1. It was too long!
2. Felt that most of the characters were flat.
3. The battle scenes were not interesting to me.


Thank you to Net Galley and to Ballantine Books, an imprint of Penguin Random House, for providing a copy of this novel for review.

The runaway international bestseller--part sweeping historical epic, part legal thriller--following the trial that shaped the life of the young Julius Caesar and gave root to an immortal legacy.

Every legend has a beginning.

Rome, 77 B.C. Senator Dolabella, known for using violence against anyone who opposes him, is going on trial for corruption and has already hired the best lawyers and even bought the jury. No man dares accept the role of prosecutor--until, against all odds, an unknown twenty-three-year-old steps out to lead the case, defend the people of Rome, and defy the power of the elite class. This lawyer’s name is Caius Julius Caesar.

Masterfully combining exhaustive historical rigor with extraordinary narrative skills, Santiago Posteguillo shows us the man behind the myth of Caesar as never before, taking us to the dangerous streets of Rome where the Senate's henchmen lurk on every corner, submerging us in the thick of battle, and letting us live the great love story of Julius Caesar and his wife, Cornelia.

After Julius Caesar, the world was never the same. I Am Rome tells the tale of the early events that shaped this extraordinary man's fate--and changed the course of history itself.

My summary is based solely on the review. I love stories set in Rome during Caesar's reign. This novel tells the story of Caesar's love life and the man before he became well known.

I appreciate the publisher and NetGalley for giving me the opportunity to read this novel in exchange for an honest review.

I was hoping this would be a little lighter on the history and heavier on the drama, but in any case it was very educational. While I wouldn't read it again, I can see that it is very well written and I know many people love this writing style.

Unfortunately this book was not for me. I couldn't get into it. It was not in a writing style that I liked and I had a hard time following what was going on. It felt like reading a school textbook to me. Others may like the writing style. It just wasn't for me.

A historical novel set in the time of Caesar.
A time when your allies were more likely picked by how well you paid than what you stood for.
The power in government is bought and sold and if not , murder can be employed.

After years of trying to change the system, the power is beginning to shift... and now there is a trial to settle the dispute.

Enter Caesar. Raised by a fair thinking person, loyal to her country...he has become much like her.

and so a trial begins. There are battles , assassins, havoc until all is resolved.

i do recommend

thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for allowing me this ARC

“Recuérdalo siempre, hijo mío: Roma eres tú.”

When no Roman citizen is willing to prosecute the corrupt Senator Dolabella, Julius Caesar steps in. The Jury has been bribed and Dolabella's lawyer has inside information, but Caesar is determined to do what he feels is right and defend Rome. Spanning from his childhood to the trial where he is a young twenty-three years old, we follow Julius as he becomes the man we all know from the history books.

I did read the translated version of this, but I almost wish I had read the original. I always wonder if I am missing a little something with translations. With that said, this was kind of okay...but not my favorite. While this was an interesting and well researched take on the life of a young Caesar, I also found it very long and the time jumps to be slightly jarring. If ancient history is your thing, you might enjoy this.

I Am Rome
by Santiago Posteguillo

I loved this book! This is, of course, the story of Julius Caesar – but not the story of his great successes, which we have all heard before. This book begins with the struggles between Caesar's uncle, Gaius Marius, and the other populares, who wanted a more equal distribution of wealth to the people of Rome and its provinces, and the optimates, the old guard senators, anxious to preserve their power and wealth.

These struggles provide the backdrop throughout the book. The optimates will stop at nothing, including murder, to hold on to their privileges. They hate Marius for what he represents, but he is a legendary general in Rome – so they can't get rid of him. Marius takes a young Julius under his wing and gives him advice that will see his nephew through a lifetime.

But this book deals only with Julius from his childhood through his prosecution of the corrupt senator Dolabella, The trial could be a make or break situation for Julius. Will he win or lose? And will the outcome drive the rest of his life?

This is the first moment of his climb to the very top of Roman society. A fit ending place for this book. But I would hope that the author will continue the story that he has told so well.

I don’t think I had ever read about Caesar like this. I always knew about the commander, the ruler, the lover sides of him, but I forgot about the lawyer he was. His oratory skills were developed during those days of his life, and even though this was a historical fiction, it was meant to be told. This dude was not only “et tu, Brute?”

The book followed the trial of Dolabella, where Caesar was the prosecutor supporting Macedonians whose were bullied (and more) by Dolabella. The defense was trying to focus on Caesar’s background and his inexperience as a lawyer. However, as cunning as he was, Caesar was there to prove everyone wrong. While trial was explained, childhood and adolescence of Caesar were detailed between the scenes.

Of course this was not an official biography of Mr. I know it all but I have all these dudes stabbing me in my back, but it was a good view into his excellency’s early days and first marriage. I’m actually looking forward to read next installment.

Oof. I really was intrigued by this but could not get into it. I think if I had this physical copy, I would have an easier time reading because I think the format through my off. DEfinitely still read if you're interested!

This book was not for me, unfortunately. While there were some compelling scenes, like the battle with the Teutons, too much of it was political machinations. I didn’t feel like there was enough character development. And while there were some big conflicts, there weren’t enough of the little conflicts and stories to keep me turning the pages. I won’t be posting this review elsewhere.

Thank you to the publisher - I received a complimentary eARC of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

This book is a lot to digest. It took a while to get my bearings in what was going on but I kept reading because it was fascinating. This is one that I may need to read again to really enjoy all it has to offer.