A review by katejeminhizer
Emperor Nero: The Splendour Before The Dark by Margaret George
4.0
I received an advanced reading copy of this title via Net Galley in exchange for an honest review.
Margaret George once again provides us with a comprehensive yet easy to absorb biography of one of history's great enigmas. George succeeds brilliantly with giving Nero a place in modern historical fiction. Her prose is effective in its ability to manipulate the reader through the emotional turmoil of Nero while also providing intense descriptions of events that overpower the reader's ability to resist. The first half of the book is fast paced and riveting. There is a distinct falling off of the intensity of the story after the mid-way point. This is not due to any fault on George's part but reflects the lack of sources available on the later life of Nero. Overall the book provides wonderful insight on Nero and should not be passed over.
Margaret George once again provides us with a comprehensive yet easy to absorb biography of one of history's great enigmas. George succeeds brilliantly with giving Nero a place in modern historical fiction. Her prose is effective in its ability to manipulate the reader through the emotional turmoil of Nero while also providing intense descriptions of events that overpower the reader's ability to resist. The first half of the book is fast paced and riveting. There is a distinct falling off of the intensity of the story after the mid-way point. This is not due to any fault on George's part but reflects the lack of sources available on the later life of Nero. Overall the book provides wonderful insight on Nero and should not be passed over.