MASTER AND GOD

I am a big fan, of Lindsey Davis’s Falco books and so I approached this book with trepidation as it is not one of the Falco Series.  I was not sure whether I would like it.  How wrong was I!

Master and God, is about the Emperor Domitian, a talented tyrant, as well as a deluded despot, who has all the classical paranoia that we come to know that most Rome Emperors had.  Emperor Domitian sees enemies everywhere and no one is safe from his vindictiveness as he plays with the lives of his subjects.

Into this dark scenario come Gaius Vinicus Clodianus and Flavia Lucilla.  Gaius is a decent high-ranking Praetorian Guard looking for civility from a world that is full of corruption and deceit, of which he has no wish to be part of.  Whilst Flavia Lucilla, spends her time tending the hair of the privileged women at court for a living and hearing their secrets.

In the background of Domitian’s reign, Gaius and Flavia have their own problems which they have to overcome.  Master and God is about their resilience, courage, friendship and support for each other which leads to love.

As can be expected from Lindsey Davis, her sense of place is impeccable and her characterisation is spot on.  She has this ability to draw you into the story with extremely good narration and this is why she is such a good storyteller. 

I fully enjoyed reading this book, and if you are into Roman history, or just want a change from the Falco Series, Master and God is one to read.