This Pretty Much Has It All

This second book in the series raises the bar and sets an incredibly high standard. It really does have it all: epic battles, pirates, rebellion, political machinations, assassins and even a little sexual intrigue. The great events that shaped the fate of possibly the world's most famous empire are told through a variety of well-rounded characters against a vast backdrop. The story moves along at a very entertaining pace and is engaging from start to finish which in audio form is also a testament to Robert Glenister's undoubted talent as a narrator.

From what I have seen of the series so far it is a definite treat for fans of historical fiction. it has genuine depth and scale without bloated explanations of detail. This author has clearly researched his subject thoroughly but unlike some others doesn't feel the need to lecture us about it. He does however grow his characters with patience and subtlety as their experiences shape them

Highly recommended from what I have seen so far, my confidence is very high that the rest of the series will deliver too!

17 people found this helpful

Epic Adventure (start of)

Just an excellent listen. Historical fiction, with a great pace. No long, boring descriptions of things that aren't required - just the opposite of how you expect a historical book to seem. Loads of action and adventure, no dullness.... Unfortunate that again the Audiobook of the first in the series is not available on Audible as per the Genghis series. But you can get along without it just fine, you miss out on the childhood of Julius by not having the first book available, but you get the bones of that story in here anyway. This book takes you vividly to the heart of massive battles, told from the perspective at the front line to the generals watching over - to pirates, treasure, murder, slaves, executions and more. Yes, I suppose there is quite a lot of death, but then there was at the time and it is not done in a gratiutious manner. This leaves you with a real want to learn about the true history of these things, and leaves you smiling when you see how little things were changed or added to make this a work of fiction based on true history. The book really took me to these times and places - I could not stop listening to it.

20 people found this helpful

Lose yourself in ancient Rome

This is an easy listen and you'll find yourself wrapped up in an enthralling story of politics, ambition, battle and vengence. Although some reviewers don't appear to like him, I enjoyed Robert Glenister's narration. It was captivating, without the reader overshadowing the strength of the narrative. If you are a literary buff, this may not be for you. But if you like a good story, well told and with a basis in historical fact, then tune in and get carried away to a time over 2,000 years ago... Perfect for a very long drive.

5 people found this helpful

Brilliant story

Second in the series and as brilliant as the first book. Robert Glenister does a cracking job as the narrator.

1 person found this helpful

brilliant

Brilliant story, really captures the imagination and continues from book 1 perfectly. Robert Glenister is a brilliant performer who brings the characters to life.

1 person found this helpful

Epic account of the days of power in Rome

Would you recommend this audiobook to a friend? If so, why?

Gripping second volume in the Emperor series. The hero, Gaius Julius Caesar, is coming into his prime as a general, and beginning to taste the excitement and horror of Roman politics. The series has been nicely set up in the first volume (worth hearing), with a deep, abiding friendship between Caesar and Marcus Brutus, and anybody who has seen Shakespeare must be wondering by now how this apparently unshakable bond can be broken?I did not think I would last the whole series but I think now that I will. It is told in such a compelling way, and so superbly read by Robert Glenister, that it becomes unputdownable. There are some descriptions of battles that pull no punches - don't listen if you dislike violence and bloodshed - but there is something fascinating about power, what men (and some women) will do to get it and to hang on to it. And while it's hard to love the Romans, you have to admire them for their sheer toughness, guts and determination to go for what they wanted. I think the author does well to maintain our interest in and liking for Julius, despite all this! He does attempt to suggest that there is a difference between the ruthless dictators like Sulla and the men who loved Roman justice and honour like his own heroes. Sometimes I'm hard pressed to tell the difference, but he keeps me interested anyway - quality historical writing.

What was one of the most memorable moments of EMPEROR: The Death of Kings, Book 2 (Unabridged)?

I liked the court room scene in which young Julius defends his honour from the charge of theft of Marius's house - and begins to show his gift for capturing the minds and hearts of the mob.

What about Robert Glenister’s performance did you like?

First rate reading. I could not fault it. And I don't say that often. No irritations to get in the way of the story.

Any additional comments?

Probably it helps to listen to the series in sequence, as it is easy to get lost amid the variety of characters.

1 person found this helpful

Well Worth a Read

Where does EMPEROR: The Death of Kings, Book 2 (Unabridged) rank among all the audiobooks you’ve listened to so far?

The way in which Conn Iggulden weaves history into his narrative is truly worth a listen, i found the book deeply engrossing and made me eager to listen to the next in the series.

Who was your favorite character and why?

I found it hard to pick a favourite character as everyone is so likeable and you want them all to succeed.

Which scene did you most enjoy?

The best part of the book for me was when Julius addressed his new men after some had to be executed for cowardice. I found it really encapsulated who Julius was and who he would become.

1 person found this helpful

What a Book

This book kept me captivated from the beginning, Robert Glenister was one of the best narrators I have come across, I will be listening to more of his reads. The only problem I have is I didn't realise when I purchased it is that this is book two of three, so now I've got to go back and listen to book one, not a problem this book was so good and action packed all the way through, I'll just listen to it again before going onto book tree. Although it is loosely based on historical fact the story reflects the violent times of the period an so its not the faint hearted. Best listen ever bring it on Conn Iggulden and Robert Glenister.

1 person found this helpful

great

Brilliant, loved the first two books, great story, excellent narration. Paced Perfectly, highly recommend this series.

Rome brought to life

Excellent follow up to The Gates of Rome. Can't wait to listen to the next book.