Life was cheap in Roman times! The violence and brutality meted out mindlessly is horrific. Nevertheless, I was so excited to find that Conn Iggulden is writing another trilogy, this time on the life of Nero, as his books bring history to life more vividly for me than most.

This first book only takes us up to Nero’s (named Lucius) 10th year. He was born just a few months after the death of Tiberius, who was followed as princeps by Nero’s uncle, Caligula, and then by his great-uncle, Claudius. His mother, Agrippina, was ambitious for herself and her son and woe betide anyone who got in her way, whether they realised they were or not. This is a real page turner and if you don’t know your Roman history in detail, there are plenty of shocks and surprises along the way. Claudius’ invasion of Britain, told from both sides, is very well done.

4.5 not 5 stars for very minor reasons, including the too abrupt ending. I turned the page expecting more but I’ll just have to have patience and wait for Part 2!

With thanks to Michael Joseph / Penguin Random House and NetGalley for a review copy.e-books fiction-series historical-fiction ...more13 s2 comments Emma2,607 1,001

This was a fantastic blockbuster of a novel- how can I wait for the rest of the trilogy! of course the author has some amazing material to work with: Robert Graves and Racine have also used the rich history of the Imperial Roman Empire, but Iggulden’s is both the most accessible and entertaining. I did have to download a family tree of the Caesars’ reign as a memory aid though! Many thanks to Netgalley for an arc of this book.family historical-fiction netgalley ...more14 s Rosie AmberAuthor 1 book135

Nero is book one of the Nero Trilogy set in Ancient Rome.

This book covers the early years of the boy who will one day become the infamous emperor. When the story begins, we are introduced to his parents. His father is an ex-chariot racer, who now spends much of his time drunk, while his mother, Agrippina, is a descendant of the Emperor Augustus.

Rome is a politically dangerous place, particularly when the ailing Tiberius returns from Capri to clean Rome of usurpers. He brings with him Agrippina’s brother, the next heir to the imperial throne. It is to her brother that Agrippina turns when she needs a favour, but it becomes a costly deed in times of terror.

Upon the death of Agrippina’s brother, her uncle becomes the next emperor. With thoughts of her own son and his future, she is determined to keep close to her uncle, even travelling with him on his campaign in Britannia.

This was a good start to the series. The violence and back-stabbing of the era is expected, but it is balanced with other elements of the Roman years. I particularly enjoyed the latter part of the book with the journey to Gaul and the invasion of Britannia.

The author’s notes at the back of the book were also very helpful, explaining the liberties taken with the changing of names, to help the reader where real-life characters shared similar or the same names.
historical-fiction3 s Ned Ludd766 16

Haven’t the slightest why this novel is called ‘Nero’. Regardless, I really enjoyed it!3 s Connie372 18

Conn Iggulden brings ancient Rome to life in his new series Nero.
This book covers the reign of Tiberius, Caligula, and Claudius, but mainly focuses on Agrippina - Nero's mother - her deadly ambition and scheming in the most brutal of times.
This is a great read, full of power games and political intrigue, and it builds the scene up well for the next book.
Conn Iggulden is a master storyteller when it comes to historical fiction. If you haven't read any of his books, I highly recommend them.
Thank you, NetGalley and publishers, for the ARC3 s Sarah Hudson188 10

I knew from reading Tacitus and Suetonius during my Ancient History degree that the Julio-Claudian dynasty were a pretty nasty bunch on the whole, but this first instalment of the “Nero Trilogy” brings the historical figures to life in a way that reveals the true brutality of the period in glorious technicolour.

Although called “Nero”, this title mainly focuses on the exploits of Nero’s mother Agrippina during the last few months of the reign of Tiberius, followed by her brother Caligula, and then by her uncle Claudius. During the reigns of these powerful men, Agrippina is manipulative and scheming, certainly, but is above all a survivor who realises the tenuous position that herself and her son hold in the ruthless Roman Empire.

The author takes artistic license with a fair few details, but the bulk of the story is true to historical sources and obviously very meticulously researched. It was fascinating to see the seeds being planted that will lead to the Nero becoming the tyrant we know through the ancient historians, but told in such a contemporary and accessible way. The pacing was perfect and I’m very excited for the next in the series!

My thanks to the author, NetGalley, and the publisher for the arc to review.2 s Donna84

Conn Igguldon never fails to disappoint, and I was thrilled to see that he would be turning his hand to the Emperor Nero. As with his Emperor series, and Julius Caesar the first of these books looks towards the childhood of Nero, with a focus more predominantly on his mother Agrippina. Covering the reins of Tiberius, Caligula and Claudius, Igguldon once more creates a vivid vision of Ancient Rome, with the viciousness, intrigue and death one associates with the Julio-Claudian dynasty.

Having recently read SQPR (Mary Beard's fantastic non-fiction delve into Rome) it was great to see the attention to detail within this book BUT a word of caution. This is historical fiction, "fiction" being the key word. History buffs will notice several significant divergences from fact (Messalina's part grieves me but I blame Honor Cargill-Martin's excellent re-examination of this female powerhouse - another highly recommended book for those interested - I digress) but it keeps it interesting - kind of when a TV show deviates from the book but you don't mind. However, the exploration and development of Agrippina is fascinating - especially when thinking about the influence she has on her son Nero.

You really can't go wrong with this - I was thinking of who I'd recommend to and realise all the books that come to mind are Igguldon's - this really is his forte.

Available for pre-order now, with a release on 23rd May 2024.1 Megan Rose105 6 Read

I've been meaning to read Conn Iggulden's book for a while now, so when I saw an ARC for Nero I immediately requested it.

Retelling the infamous tale of Nero and his family, enemies and people, Iggulden brings a new perspective on the rise and fall of the Roman Emperor who "played the lyre while Rome burned". Showing the politically charged and brutal Roman life, Iggulden still creates a compelling and interesting narrative to add to the long list of Nero retellings. I found it an interesting read with a writing style that is easy to read and keeps readers engaged. As the first novel in a new trilogy, it had me hooked and I can't wait to read the next one.

If you love Historical retellings, especially of the Roman Empire, then I recommend Nero to add to your reading list.

Thank you, NetGalley and Penguin Random House for sending me an ARC in exchange for my honest review.contemporary historical-fiction mythology ...more1 Terry Rudge349 33

Conn Iggulden is one of my favourite authors and has been for many years. This is the first of a new series and it certainly reads an introduction to a series.

The story is almost an exact retelling with very little additional story woven in. With this period of history the events are almost unbelievable so I guess there is no need to create huge amounts of fiction on top. It did however mean the book sometimes read as a history lecture.

As with all CI books, the pacing and delivery is controlled . The books goes through a clean and direct journey.

It's a shame this isn't realised until May 2024 because I'm ready for book 2 already!!1 Megan Jones1,364 22

'Nero' is a brilliant historical novel from Iggulden. I love reading anything about the Romans and was excited to see how Iggulden would tackle it and I was not disappointed. Iggulden covers a lot of ground in this book to start the series but it meant the book moved at pace and I was never disinterested. The people are really brought to life as is the atmosphere. 'Nero' is very entertaining as well as interesting and I look forward to the rest of the series.
Thank you to NetGalley and Michael Joseph for an advance copy.1 Becki Sims432 10

Book 1 of 3 should be subtitled 'Agrippina' as its all about her overwhelming & hard to grasp deadly ambition to succeed for her family in a time of horror & terror where she only has her great beauty & grace to assist overwhelming odds. Hard to realise just how awful she was but she's not alone in her dark deeds which the book doesn't quite manage to portray the same depth.

The author style for this book is changed as there are no big battle scenes until the end of the book, where the author tries to give more character definition to the times & the effort to succeed in the invasion plans.

Many thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for gifting me this arc in exchange for an honest, unbiased review.1 BEATRICE VEGAS131 5

Nero is the new series by master storyteller Conn Iggulden. In this, the first instalment of the trilogy he is setting the scene focusing on Nero’s birth and childhood. I strongly suspect he is working from the premise that ‘tyrants aren't born. they're raised’. This brilliant piece of fiction with its extensive research of those times attempts to reveal this truth. Does it? Well I leave the reader to decide.

He begins his tale at AD 37. Tiberius, Rome’s Emperor holds the reins but rules from a distance, preferring to live on the island of Capreae. He has appointed a Roman prefect to rule in his place and report to him. Roman justice is brutal especially so in these capricious times. Despite Rome displaying her might in the then known world, its citizens lived in fear. The slightest threat to the Emperor or the Empire meant ruin for the suspect. Even if they were innocent, mercurial Tiberius could order their death and often it included their entire family. At the very least they would be left destitute and powerless. Rome had always had spies everywhere yet by Tiberius’s time this had become oppressive. No one was free of the Emperors gaze. This is the picture that Iggulden paints as he opens his narrative.

Despite Agrippina being granddaughter of Emperor Augustus, her imperial blood does not protect her in these treacherous times. Quite the opposite. Relatives of the Emperor are in greater danger than ordinary folk. The power, intrigue, and danger is ever present and she knows well that she too must play the game to survive. Into this treacherous world is born her son whose life hangs on a thread, a flame that can be snuffed out at any moment through political machinations. This is their story.

I loved how Iggulden drew me into the plot. His descriptions of ancient Rome were thorough yet not excessive. He paints a vivid picture of ancient Rome and I could see myself there. Equally he subtly weaves into the tale Agrippina’s anxiety for both herself and her son’s safety. Could the treacherous times they live in affect their characters? This is one of the many topics Iggulden poignantly explores. The danger, the treachery, the intrigue was real and ever present. I was thrust back into the gory and uncompassionate world of ancient Rome. Not surprisingly the pages kept turning. Moreover, he set the narrative at the right pace to achieve this. I could not help realising that very little had escaped the master storytellers eye. This is one wordsmith who definitely knows his craft. I was disappointed to reach the end and wanted more. I can’t wait for the next book in the series.

The Historical Note at the end of the novel gave me an insight into the characters and the fictional aspects of the novel. Guess that’s why it’s fiction and not history. I must add though that Iggulden has barely digressed from historical facts and barring a few tropes that make the tale easier to narrate he has stuck to history. Great read and glad to have discovered it. I don’t think my review can do sufficient justice to this brilliantly written book.
unputdownable-evocative-historical1 Sarah Evans229 6

Conn Igguldon's latest foray into the annals of history, "Nero," paints a vivid, almost tangible portrait of Ancient Rome in its most tumultuous era. Igguldon, renowned for his masterful storytelling in the "Emperor" series and his depiction of Julius Caesar, does not falter in his newest offering. This time, the spotlight shines on Nero's infancy, under the shadow of his mother, Agrippina, whose ambition and cunning are as palpable as the marble columns of Rome.

What sets "Nero" apart is Igguldon's skill in weaving a tapestry rich in historical detail and drama, much the murals of the Roman villas. The narrative spans the reigns of Tiberius, Caligula, and Claudius, immersing the reader in a world rife with intrigue, betrayal, and the brutal politics of the Julio-Claudian dynasty. The book is a vibrant carnival of the senses, where the aroma of the Roman streets and the clamour of the Senate are as real as the pages in your hands.

For history aficionados, a word of caution – Igguldon takes creative liberties, deviating from strict historical accuracy in favour of a narrative that grips and entertains. His portrayal of characters Messalina might make purists wince, but it adds a layer of compelling drama to the tale. This fictional reimagining is akin to a master painter adding vivid hues to a classic landscape – different, yet mesmerizing in its own right.

The heart of this novel, however, beats in the character of Agrippina. Igguldon delves deep into her psyche, exploring her influence over Nero with a deftness that is both intriguing and enlightening. It's a study of power, maternal bonds, and political maneuvering that adds a rich depth to the narrative.

"Nero" is an opulent feast, a blend of historical finesse and storytelling prowess. It's a journey through the cobbled streets of Rome, where every turn brings a new intrigue, a new alliance, and a glimpse into the making of one of history's most enigmatic emperors. This book is not just a read; it's an experience, a time machine that transports you back to the heart of Ancient Rome. Conn Igguldon proves once again that he is a colossus in the realm of historical fiction. Adam LofthouseAuthor 9 books36

I'm not sure this book should be called 'Nero', as the young Lucius as he was known, is a secondary character. For me this seemed Conn Iggulden going back to doing what he did so well with his Caesar and Ghengis books, and that is taking a character from their very beginnings and telling their story in full.

This book then, is more of Agripinna, Nero's mother, rather than the future emperor himself. I have read countless novels based on this era, and I have to admit I was indifferent coming to this one. What would another book on Rome's classical era bring? Surely there would be nothing covered here that Manda Scott, Simon Scarrow or Robert Fabbri etc haven't already done to death.

But, it is a Conn Iggulden book. Written with the staple authoritative, clean prose that never veers from the characters' thoughts. I learnt about Nero's father (I won't try and spell his name here) and that he was a charioteer and raced for the Greens. I learned that Nero spent part of his childhood living in the slums of Rome, when his father was killed and his uncle sent his mother to prison.

Iggulden draws you into Rome, its brutality and its glory, and brings it back to life with such seemless ease. Agripinna's story is fascinating. She survived so much, with nothing but a family name and her own wits and beauty. Hers is a story that deserves to be told. I note other on Goodreads stating the book has a rather abrupt ending. And that is true enough. We leave Agripinna on the shores of Britannia, Emperor Claudius having just proposed. The wild isles of Britain are still to be conquered, but I feel the meat of this tale will take place far away from the white cliffs of England, and in the melting pot that was Rome in its pomp. I can't wait to see what happens next! Farah G1,095 24

This novel is the first in a trilogy and covers the early childhood of the boy who would one day become the infamous Emperor Nero. This first part is mostly focused on telling the story of his mother Agrippina, and her struggle to ensure the survival of her young son, Lucius. And what lengths she went to, in order to do so!

Ancient Rome was a hotbed of power politics, machinations, and casual cruelty - and that is the world that Iggulden successfully brings alive in this book.

Agrippina had to, among other things, survive the brutal rule of Caligula, and it would have been interesting to read more about that period, which is not really done justice in this story.

On the hand, the author is able to draw on well-established material by his predecessors, so the research on which the tale told here is based seems fairly sound. Iggulden's strength is to tell a story in a way that will resonate with the average reader, who may derive less pleasure from the classic versions.

All in all, this is an engrossing - if at times, a little gross - book, and one that makes for an interesting read. I think it will resonate with his existing readership as well. It gets 3.5 stars.

I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review BrianAuthor 50 books143

The first in a trilogy, Nero is mostly narrated from the perspective of the emperor’s mother, Agrippina. The action begins with the return to Rome of the absentee emperor Tiberius, continues after his death with the terrifying reign of Caligula, which is, in turn, cut short by assassination and is followed by the accession of Claudius. Throughout all this, Nero is a mere child but the events he lives through clearly have a profound influence upon him.

There’s nothing particularly new here. Nevertheless, the book makes compelling reading, largely because of the vividness of the characterisation. The players, major and minor, are so powerfully drawn that the reader is sucked into their dilemmas, whether they are played out in the stifling seclusion of the imperial palace or in the murderous backstreets of Rome.

All the participants are monsters of corruption and ambition and yet in moments of intense lucidity the author renders them sympathetic, focusing on their vulnerability as much as their cruelty. Agrippina , in particular, is a fascinating character, utterly cold and ruthless; yet, I found myself wanting her to succeed. It’s a terrific read.
Susan2,818 585

I used to read a lot of historical fiction and, for some reason, lost interest in the genre. As such, I was keen to give a straightforward historical novel another try and really enjoyed this first in a trilogy about the life of Nero, by Conn Iggulden.

This sees Nero’s early life and, indeed, he is still a child at the end of this volume. Much is about his mother, Agrippina, who begins the novel married to a drunken ex-charioteer, by whom she has finally had a child after several years. She loves her son fiercely, but he is a danger to many as she is related to the Imperial family. Indeed, on the death Tiberius, her brother, Caligula, becomes Emperor. The author tells the story of Caligula’s increasing violent, out of control behaviour, and the fear that Agrippina correctly feels for him.

We then see the unly Claudius become Emperor and Agrippina’s manipulations to try to keep her son safe. Overall, a very interesting account with a realistic portrayal of the times and characters. I would definitely read more by Iggulden who is obviously a master of his craft. I received a copy of this book from the publisher, via NetGalley, for review.
2 s Joe Singleton155 6

I have read a couple of books by this author and really enjoyed them. As this is the first part of a three part series I came to it with an open mind and I loved it.
The character progression and descriptive writing of the location really does transport you to AD37, the time of Roman emperors who ruled the world with their massive armies.
The only negative I can make about this book is the title. Really the series should be called Nero as it is fictionally telling his life story, however in this first book the main character is his mother, Agrippina,
It is fiction based on handed down facts so the author has changed certain elements but the author explains where and why things have been changed in the Historical Notes at the back of the book.
If you love fiction based on the Roman Empire then you need this book on your bookshelf.
I am already looking forward to Book 2.
Many thanks to Michael Joseph, NetGalley and the author for providing me with an advanced electronic copy of the book in return for a honest and unbiased review
The book is released on 23rd May in audiobook, e-book and hardback formats.
5 stars out of 5 Bob501 4

I am grateful to NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this PPC of the first book in Conn Iggulden’s Nero trilogy. I had Iggulden down as an author to try so this is my first of his.
This is another retelling of the Annals of Tacitus with some additional material. Iggulden has done his research and is familiar with the history.
Nero doesn’t get much beyond 5 years old in this first tranche so it is more the story of his mother, Agrippina the younger, daughter of Germanicus, sister to one Emperor and niece to another, as she survives an abusive marriage and the murderous reign of Caligula and does all she can including manipulation and murder to ensure the survival of her only son Lucius.
The book is readable but more a ripping yarn than anything more. There could have been more in depth psychological study of the characters. In particular more could have been made of the depiction of Claudius.
Overall a good read which left me somewhat disappointed. I shall not be rushing to read the following two. Jo-anne Atkinson1,448 19

Emperor Tiberius has been 'retired' on the Isle of Caprae, indulging in the worst excesses as his health fails. When he hears that his interim, Sejanus, has killed two of his sons and abused the power left to him, Tiberius exacts a bloody revenge but he is killed soon afterwards by his only remaining son. Caligula starts well but when his wife and child die, Caligula becomes a tyrant and banishes his sister Agrippina to a lonely prison. Agrippina has had much to contend with, married at 13 to a violent but rich man she has a single child, Lucius, who is next in line to the throne so she ensures that she is close to the next Emperor, her uncle Claudius.
Despite being called 'Nero' the subject isn't really clear until the very end which may confuse readers not familiar with Roman emperors. However that is a minor quibble as this is another of Iggulden's fantastically enjoyable romps through history. He brings characters to life and explores events and personalities with verve. This is obviously the first in a new series and I look forward to the rest! Maggie Harris218 10

Nero
Having read Robert Graves I Claudius and Claudius the God years ago and watching I Claudius on TV in the 1970’s these characters were well known to me, even so this was an absolutely riveting book that re opened the history of Ancient Rome. Starting with the depraved Tiberius we follow the path that leads to the beginnings of Nero’s story.
Each character is well described and the added depth lends much to this story, the life of citizens of Rome from the poor to the rich and powerful has never in my opinion been told so well.
An immensely enjoyable book that was a page turning joy to read, the ability of this author to bring to life the cruelty and debauchery and hardships endured, and the scheming and evilness in some characters is jaw dropping. A brilliant and throughly enjoyable read.
My thanks to net galley and publisher for the opportunity to review this book honestly Rowan35

*I was lucky enough to receive an arc from Netgalley and Penguin Random House in exchange for an honest review.*

The Emperor Nero is such a fascinating figure in history. He was an absolutely terrible and terrifying person but this book is a brilliant exploration of the experiences that he had when he was young that made him the way he was.

The focus on Agrippina was something I loved because she is such a prevalent person in his life. Often mothers are ignored by history but Agrippina is a woman who cannot and should not be ignored.

This book highlights both the greatness and the cruelty of the Roman empire. It is neither glorified nor is it dismissed as completely awful which reflects how humanity constantly shapes the world.

Nero comes out 23rd May 2024 Marie (UK)3,315 49

I have read many books by this author and i got this one through netgalley. The author's area of expertise is the Roman empire and it's warfare, bur more than that it is his ability to truly bring this period of history to life. This book combines the machinations of the leaders if the empire to achieve control - there are more deaths by poison or throat slitting per page than any book truly needs - and the plans of those leaders to claim Britain as part of the Roman Empire.

I think the author creates well defined characters although I can't say I really d any of the MC's here. Although I will defeinitely read more from this author I am not sure this series will become one of my favouritesnetgalley Vicki24 2

Ancient Rome is a dangerous place to be! From the first to the final sentence, Conn Iggulden weaves the story of a number of important players together. This first book is really the story of Agrippina (but I imagine that as an title would not have mass market appeal) and the plotting, scheming and planning that she is involved in, sometimes as a pawn rather than master player. The result is an excellent book that nicely sets the scene for a series. I knew nothing of Nero, Claudius, Tiberius or Agrippina before reading this, but I’m intrigued and fully intend to educate myself going forward. With thanks to NetGalley for an early copy. Megan Quartley72 1 follower

This is the first of three books detailing the life of Nero. This one focuses on his very early life. If I’m honest, this was essentially a book about Agrippina and I sort of wish it was titled accordingly too. A ruthless woman positioning herself to control Rome through her son is surely a worthy title subject for a novel! I enjoyed this but it was nothing new if you’re already well versed in Tiberius/Caligula/Claudius’s reign.

Definitely worth picking up if you’re an Ancient Rome fan! 3.5 stars
Autor del comentario:
=================================