"Of Merchants and Heroes' Paul Waters

[annis]

The first in a proposed series, this début novel is set in the Mediterranean of the third century BC. Pre-Imperial Rome is in the closing stages of the Punic Wars and now clashes with the ambitious Philip V of Macedon, who is expanding his influence throughout the Mediterranean. The Greek city-states become the battleground for two nations on the rise.

This an a adventure, but a very intelligent and informed one. It's also an exploration of the philosophical and spiritual ideals of the era, and at no stage do the characters feel as if they are thinking or acting in a way iappropriate to the ethos of the times.

Actual historical figures mingle with fictitious ones in a compelling story. It is a same-sex love story as well, though it would be a shame if you let that put you off. The affair is sensitively portrayed. It is as much one of kindred spirits as a physical one and represents the epitome of the ancient Greek ideal; a relationship between two men which encompasses mind, body and spirit. In an age where bisexuality was perfectly acceptable, Marcus, a young Roman, finds his soul-mate in Greek athlete, Menexenos.
Recommended for anyone who enjoys really well written historical fiction, especially those fascinated by ancient Greece and Rome.

I'll certainly be watching out for the next book, set in Roman Britain, "Cast Not The Day", due for release early 2009.

[Ludmilla]

This looks interesting to me, and one of my favorite periods (though my brain has grown rusty over the years from only sporadic reading of this period). I'm putting it on my wish list.

[gyrehead]

Overlook is publishing this for US release. Changed the title though to The Republic of Vengeance. Release date is February 5th.