An Upstairs/ Downstairs look at household life in Pompeii before Vesuvius erupted. This is an enjoyable story with accurate historical details.

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A tender love story set in a first century household in Pompeii; historical fiction with a touch of fantasy. The heroine tells stories and makes prophecies to seek love and win her freedom. This is a much kinder and gentler Rome than the one in the HBO mini series!

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I was so excited to finally get this book on PBS, but have been disappointed with it ever since. The premise is SO good, but the writing really falls short. There is no doubt the author did an amazing job researching, but at many times in the book I felt lectured at on ancient Pompeii, instead of these bits of information seamlessly integrated into the story. What I found most annoying was the fact that she would repeat herself over and over again on small historical details, often using the same exact sentences again and again. Very irritating. If you can get past the poor writing and constant repeating, there is a good story line in here--good luck!

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