Rome: A History in Seven Sackings by Matthew Kneale

 

Rome: History in Seven Sackings by Matthew Kneale -417 pages

This book tells the story of Rome and its resilient people though key moments of crisis caused by foreign invaders as well as internal division. It provides some interesting information on how the environment affected the city, especially malaria, and how certain sections of the city evolved through the centuries. 

Cleopatra: A Life

Cleopatra: A Life

By Stacy Schiff

347 pages

The Roman Empire was beginning its world domination when Cleopatra’s father died, leaving Cleopatra struggling to remain in control of Egypt. She fought her brother, who was attempting to become Pharaoh by inducing a civil war against Cleopatra. This was only the beginning of Cleopatra’s struggles to remain in control. This publication explains her relationship with Julius Caesar. Plus her association with Mark Antony, after the death of Caesar. The book also provides the true account of Cleopatra’s death.

Blood & Beauty by Sarah Dunant

Blood & Beauty:  The Borgias by Sarah Dunant- 528 pgs.

Blood & Beauty begins with Rodrigo Borgia being elected Pope Alexander VI and follows his life and the lives of several of his illegitimate children:  Cesare, Juan and Lucrezia Borgia.  Not having a lot of knowledge of the Borgias, I think it was a good introduction to the family.  It seemed to give a softer side to the family than is often portrayed.  The politics, power and wealth are on display, there is also a family life and there is no doubt that Rodrigo loved his children.  Dunant hopes to continue the story in another book and it does leave you with a bit of a cliffhanger.  This book definitely made me want to read more about the family.