Caesar : A Novel

Rating:
Summary: A masterpiece, although not as compelling as the first four
Review: From the moment I read The Grass Crown, I could not wait for the next novel in the series. Colleen McCullough is not only a great student of history, she is a great writer who brings ancient history to life in a new way for us history lovers. There was less in-depth study of the characters in this novel, and I could not as readily sense the human element in the mix, but it was still the gripping reading which makes all her devotees watch eagerly for the next novel. If only today's school children could catch some of the excitement McCullough brings to history!

Rating:
Summary: A fantastic book capable of transporting one to ancient Rome
Review: This book, like all the rest in her series, is extremely well researched. A very excellent way to spend your leisure time. I couldn't wait to return to Ceasar and Rome during the day while I was at work.

Rating:
Summary: Wonderfully written and presented, but lacking
Review: In many ways this is a great book, if not the best in the Masters of Rome series. However, what really rubs me the wrong way is Colleen McCullough's angle. I'm sorry, but I just don't think Julius Caesar's intentions were quite as innocent as she presents them to be. If you can get past this, you're definitely in for a rare treat.

Rating:
Summary: Brilliant yet succint, makes you hunger for the next one
Review: This fifth novel in the masters of rome series brings forth the hardened Caesar of the late years. Loved by his troops and hated by the boni, Caesar does what he must to protect his dignitas. While Mccullough sacrifices some details for wordage limits -- especially in the battles -- the political pace keeps us in thrall. The novel leaves one poised on the precipice for the final volume in this heroic saga

Rating:
Summary: Ancient history told with normal human nature in mind.
Review: What an enlightening book about those ancient Roman times, told in a way depicting the people with human emotions similar to ours. This series brings me into the time in a way which I can relate to as a modern(?) day individual. I only wish there were quick reference pages to show all the characters & their relationships & family tree. I sometimes get lost in who's who, especially if the name hasn't been mentioned in a while. Great, entertaining reading. I am anxiously awaiting the next book. I hope it comes out soon before I forget who is who!

Rating:
Summary: A fine rest stop on the Via McCullough.
Review: Can't quite put my finger on it, still a great book, but it did not leave my as spellbound as some of the others in the series. Still very satisfying and of course, can't wait for the next stop on the Via McCullogh.

Rating:
Summary: I want more!!!
Review: It is indeed possible to bite one's fingernails while reading. This book has been my little reward to myself after the kids are in bed, and I find that I am awake turning pages well into the night. Yes, I've studied history, and yes, I know what happens, but McCullough manages to maintain suspense. If there isn't some producer out there looking into the movie rights, there is no intelligence in Hollywood. Can't wait until the next one in the series!

Rating:
Summary: Not the best in the series
Review: Whilst I enjoyed "Caesar", it was certainly not the best book in the series. It seemed to lack the vitality of the previous books. Nevertheless I am anxiously awaiting the release of the next book to continue the adventure.

Rating:
Summary: Caesar - A must in the epic saga of Rome
Review: Maybe "Caesars women'" was more juicy, maybe "The Grass Crown" was more gripping, but I enjoyed this book as much as any on the subject. This period in the roman history is a prelude to, or even the beginning of the imperial era. The gallic wars for all their fame did not have a good novelised version. I wished I had had this before having to translate De Bello Gallico as a student some years ago: it would have put it into perspective!

Rating:
Summary: FINALLY
Review: I finally have it in hand. Foundit a little drier than the previous "Caesars Women" and wish that we could have stayed with those fierce Gauls longer.All in all not her best one, but a welcome one and I can't wait until the next one. Pompeys fall and Cleopatra, what more could you want for our fave Roman Dictator.