Imperium by Robert Harris

Now this is what historical fiction should be – accurate, well researched and the history itself robust enough so that it doesn’t have to be propped up with all kinds of fanciful love affairs and other assorted bits of rubbish. This is the story of the early part of Cicero’s life as he rises from being a simple lawyer through the various ranks of the senate to become consul. Along the way he deals with all sorts of famous personalities including Pompey and Julius Caesar. The political manoeuvring is riveting, especially since it’s based on fact. I can’t wait to get into the next in this series. I have to amend my star system because although it’s not 5 stars like great literature is 5 stars, it certainly is in the historical fiction genre.