I Am Rome: A Novel of Julius Caesar
In the twilight of the Roman Republic, corruption and social unrest reach tremendous heights, exemplified by the horrible actions of Gnaeus Cornelius Dolabella. As a close advisor to dictator Sulla and governor of Macedonia, Dolabella exploits his position for wealth, committing acts of abuse, theft, and rape. When Dolabella is finally put on trial, a young and inexperienced Gaius Julius Caesar (yes, that Caesar) steps into the role of the prosecutor, an act that may cost him both his political career and his life. The novel might be a 600+ page doorstopper, but it swiftly captivates readers with its engaging flow and interesting format.
The novel mixes Dolabella’s trial with flashbacks from various perspectives, which reveal the motivations of the main characters. Action sequences and battles are the novel’s strength, vividly showcasing Roman military strategies without bogging down the pace. However, there is little in the way of actual character development, particularly in the case of Caesar, who remains mostly the same throughout the book despite ranging in age from childhood to young adulthood. Also, the dialogue occasionally feels stilted, but Caesar’s personal reflections – namely that he doesn’t think he’ll ever do anything memorable – help.
While there are some historical inaccuracies, I appreciated the novel’s entertainment value over strict adherence to historical fidelity. The story’s action and excitement overshadow any discrepancies. Also, since not as much is known about Caesar’s earlier years, some inaccuracies are easy to forgive.
Overall, despite some flaws, Posteguillo’s novel is a highly enjoyable read. The engaging storytelling makes it a great starting point for those seeking to learn more about the world of the late Roman Republic. I hope more of Posteguillo’s works will be translated into English. Strongly recommended.
