I enjoyed the details about Roman life. It is interesting how much of what goes on in daily life in Rome, at least in this story, mirrors what goes on in society today. I was shocked by the brutality—I assumed that Romans were smarter or more fair I guess.
As to the story itself I was disappointed that the author went on for about 360 pages and then ended it in the last 40 pages—rushed to say the least. Someone in book club said her editor probably told her she needed to tie it up.