Emperor: The Gates of Rome: A Novel of Julius Caesar by Conn Iggulden

The Gates of Rome by Conn Iggulden is the beginning of an epic series chronicling the life of Julius Caesar and the Roman Empire as it nears its apogee. Set in the 1st century BC, the novel follows Julius from his youth, to his ambitious campaigns in Gaul and ultimately his march towards the center of Imperial power in Rome. Along the way, the reader encounters the characters that will become central to Julius’s legacy, from his loyal lieutenants Crassus and Cicero, to his greatest foe, Pompey the Great.

At the start of the novel Julius is little more than a teenager eking out a living as an actor in Rome. His ambitions aim higher than the military barracks and he is intent on making a name for himself by joining the legions and upholding the Roman virtues of honor and duty. He is soon put to the test when the growing city of Rome is threatened by an uprising of Gauls led by a mighty chieftain. As he leads his forces against the enemy, Julius finds the strength and courage needed to become the leader Rome needs, and begins a journey to transform the city-state into an unstoppable empire.

The novel examines the characters that helped shape Julius’s destiny and the Roman Empire. From his loyal mentors, Crassus and Cicero, to his magnificent foes, Pompey the Great and the newly crowned King of Macedonia Alexander the Great, readers can witness the political maneuverings of each member of the cast of characters as they struggle for control of the Republic. Along the way Julius must contend with his own human weaknesses and discover what it take to make the choices that will define him.

Iggulden paints a vivid picture of the period, with detailed descriptions of the daily routine in Rome and the struggles against the barbarian hordes. He also skilfully shapes his characters, each one having their own motivations and reasons underlying their actions. As the novel progresses, the dangers and difficulties intensify and hard decisions must be made as Julius must prove himself worthy of the title of Emperor.

The Gates of Rome is an exciting and gripping start to the series and sets the foundations for the rest of the novels. Iggulden has crafted an engaging narrative that brings the characters to life and builds a vivid backdrop to the unfolding drama of Julius Caesar and Rome. Each moment of the novel captures the intensity of this very tumultuous moment in history and provides an enlightening window into the world of Julius and the Republic.