I will not be able to give a proper review because I couldn't focus in reading this book.

In “The Confessions of Young Nero,” Margaret George has written the first of two novels depicting the life of the controversial emperor of the Roman Empire, and I can’t wait for the second. In “Confessions,” she traces his life from birth to the great fire that destroyed Rome. He just enters the burning city as the story ends.

Nero’s life has been an “extensive fog of hostility,” as one historian has stated and George has acknowledged a huge “gap between the perception of him and what he really was.” While some historians depict him as psychotic, a murderer, and a debauched sex maniac, her idea with this novel was to present a man of integrity, vision, and generosity. The author sees him as a man of great artistic talent, a master of many disciplines, and an emperor who was popular with his followers. He was a reluctant participant in immoral conduct and only took retaliatory action against a few who threatened him or his reign. Unfortunately among those who met their end because of his displeasure were his mother and stepbrother.

“Confessions” is a vivid historical voyage through a time of intrigue, debauchery, war, and lavish living. The author, a highly respected writer of biographical novels, understands the necessity of vast amounts of research. She writes slowly on a single project at a time, relying heavily on the results of her research, and often has a sympathetic approach to reporting the facts about important historical subjects. She can be considered a spokesperson for those whom history has misunderstood, including Henry VIII, Mary Queen of Scotland, Cleopatra, and Helen of Troy. Years of scholarly research into her topics make her impressions all that more credible.

This book is highly recommended for those many readers who appreciate authentic historical fiction. There is richness to George’s descriptive writing and the dialogue seems appropriate for the time and place. Ancient Rome comes to life in all its ruthlessness, glory, and splendor. Two thousand years in the past seems to be happening right now in your mind.

Margaret George has done it again and produced yet another triumph of historical fiction. This one follows the much maligned Nero from his humble beginnings in a lower branch of the imperial family tree to the prize itself, Roman emperor. Then, it ends on an epic cliff hanger, but I forgive her because it is so awesome. If you can't handle that kind of wait, you may want to hold off on reading this until the next installment is out.

Highly recommended for fans of historical fiction, ancient Rome, or people who want to get lost in a story. Margaret George is amazing. I own four of her books and, when this is published, I just may have to pick it up too. Coming from a (former) librarian, this is really one of the highest compliments I can give to an author. Do yourself a favor, if you like this genre and haven't tried her yet, pick up Margaret George.

Thanks Berkley Publishing Group and netgalley for this ARC.

I love books set in ancient Rome so this was a treat for me. I can't wait for the next book- this novel was heaven for me. It's everything I love in a novel plus new insights into Nero. One of the best novels I've read in a long time.

Esteemed author Margaret George reveals the intricate backstory of a historical figure long known only through the phrase “Nero fiddled while Rome burned.”

Ms. George does her usual phenomenal work here as well, bringing us into young Nero’s life while he was just a child, albeit a child in a family where relatives were poisoned on a regular basis. We develop a real sympathy for young Nero, only to lose it as he becomes more and more jaded, as he loses touch with the musically talented youngster he once was.

About halfway through, I decided to do some history research myself, and found that all the pivotal events explored in the novel are considered historically accurate. Knowing that made the book even more enjoyable. Definitely a must for fans of historical novels, and fans of ancient Rome.

I received this ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.