About the book
When Tiro, the confidential secretary of a Roman senator, opens the door to a terrified stranger on a cold November morning, he sets in motion a chain of events which will eventually propel his master into one of the most famous courtroom dramas in history. The stranger is a Sicilian, a victim of the island’s corrupt Roman governor, Verres. The senator is Cicero, a brilliant young lawyer and spellbinding orator, determined to attain imperium – supreme power in the state.This is the starting-point of Robert Harris’s most accomplished novel to date. Compellingly written in Tiro’s voice, it takes us inside the violent, treacherous world of Roman politics, to describe how one man – clever, compassionate, devious, vulnerable – fought to reach the top.
Reviewed by Hayling Library Reading Group:
This was a very popular book with only one member disliking it. The discussion concentrated on the quality of the writer and how he makes detailed historical events very interesting and can be related to modern life. There was further discussion on the factual life of Cicero and his times with interest in further reading.
Star rating: ***
Hampshire Libraries 
Review by Alton U3A
A very good read and it’s a reflection that politics are still the same!
Star rating: ****
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Review by Alton Library Thursday Group
Interesting, informative, educational. Quite an easy read. Held our attention and wanted to know what happened next but not completely riveting. Well worth a read.
Star rating ***+
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