Another interesting one is 'Roman Blood' by Steven Saylor. It's a mystery set in the time of Cicero. The story is complex and engaging, as it weaves together different characters and their motives within the political and social framework of ancient Rome.
The 'Marcus Didius Falco' series by Lindsey Davis is also highly recommended. These books feature a private investigator in ancient Rome. The stories are full of intrigue, from political plots to personal vendettas, all set against the backdrop of Roman society. They really bring the ancient Roman world to life with vivid descriptions of the city, its people, and their customs.
Steven Saylor's 'Roma Sub Rosa' series, starting with 'Roman Blood', is also well - liked. These books are known for their historical accuracy and engaging mystery plots. They often involve real - life historical figures and events, making them both educational and entertaining.
One great fictional book about ancient Rome is 'I, Claudius' by Robert Graves. It offers a vivid portrayal of the Roman imperial family, filled with political intrigue, power struggles, and complex characters. It's like a window into the world of ancient Rome's elite.
The 'Masters of Rome' series by Colleen McCullough is quite good. It's a multi - volume work that delves deep into the political and social fabric of ancient Rome. It shows how different leaders rose to power and the machinations involved.
The 'Falco' series by Lindsey Davis is very popular. It follows the adventures of Marcus Didius Falco, an informer in ancient Rome. The books are filled with mystery, humor, and detailed descriptions of Roman society.
Definitely 'I, Claudius'. It has been very popular for a long time. It gives readers an inside view of the Roman imperial family, full of drama, backstabbing, and power plays.
Well, in books about ancient Rome fiction, the architecture and cityscape of Rome are often vividly depicted. It helps to set the scene and gives a sense of the grandeur of the empire. For instance, descriptions of the Colosseum or the Roman Forum. Another characteristic is the complex characters. They are usually a mix of virtues and vices. In 'Quo Vadis', the Roman characters have different personalities and motives, from the cruel Nero to the more sympathetic Petronius. And these books often incorporate elements of Roman mythology and religion, which were deeply intertwined with the daily lives of the Romans.
Another is 'Roma Sub Rosa' series by Steven Saylor as well. These books are full of intrigue, mystery, and vivid descriptions of Roman life. The characters are complex and the plots keep you guessing until the end.
They make the past come alive. For example, by showing daily life in the legions, like the training, the relationships between soldiers.
Another notable work is 'Ben - Hur: A Tale of the Christ' which, while also touching on religious elements, has a strong setting in ancient Rome. It tells the story of a young Jewish prince's journey through the Roman - dominated world, with themes of revenge, redemption, and the clash of cultures.
For ancient Greece, 'Circe' by Madeline Miller is quite popular too. It tells the story of the witch Circe from Greek mythology in a very engaging and modern way. Miller has a talent for taking these ancient stories and making them accessible and interesting to a modern audience. For Rome, Colleen McCullough's 'Masters of Rome' series is well - known. It spans several generations of Roman leaders and is a very detailed and in - depth look at Roman politics and society.