What are the best books about Rome in fiction?

The 'Roman Mysteries' series for younger readers by Caroline Lawrence is quite well - known. It follows the adventures of four children in ancient Rome. It's a great way to introduce younger audiences to the world of Rome through fictional stories that are also educational, covering topics like Roman culture, daily life, and mythology.

One great fictional book about ancient Rome is 'I, Claudius' by Robert Graves. It offers a vivid portrayal of the Roman imperial family, filled with political intrigue, power struggles, and complex characters. It's like a window into the world of ancient Rome's elite.

Well, in books about ancient Rome fiction, the architecture and cityscape of Rome are often vividly depicted. It helps to set the scene and gives a sense of the grandeur of the empire. For instance, descriptions of the Colosseum or the Roman Forum. Another characteristic is the complex characters. They are usually a mix of virtues and vices. In 'Quo Vadis', the Roman characters have different personalities and motives, from the cruel Nero to the more sympathetic Petronius. And these books often incorporate elements of Roman mythology and religion, which were deeply intertwined with the daily lives of the Romans.

A good choice is 'Pompeii' by Robert Harris. It's a gripping thriller set in the days leading up to the eruption of Mount Vesuvius. It combines historical facts about Rome at that time with a fast - paced mystery plot, bringing the ancient city to life.

The 'Marcus Didius Falco' series by Lindsey Davis is also excellent. These detective stories are set in ancient Rome, and through the eyes of Falco, a private informer, you get to see different aspects of Roman society, from the seedy underbelly to the upper echelons of power. The stories are well - researched and engaging.

Well, 'The Silver Pigs' by Lindsey Davis is a good one. It features a detective in Ancient Rome, and through his investigations, we get to see different aspects of Roman life, from the slums to the palaces.

One great novel set in Rome is 'Angels and Demons' by Dan Brown. It combines mystery and thriller elements against the backdrop of Rome's many historical and religious sites. The plot involves secret societies and dangerous pursuits through the city's ancient streets.

Another great one is 'The Eagle of the Ninth' by Rosemary Sutcliff. It tells a story set in Roman - occupied Britain, following a young Roman officer on a quest. This book beautifully combines historical details of Rome's military presence with a thrilling adventure plot. The descriptions of Roman military life and the cultural clash between the Romans and the native Britons are really interesting.

Another great one is 'The Eagle of the Ninth' by Rosemary Sutcliff. It tells a story of a Roman legionnaire's adventures in Roman Britain, full of action and historical details. It combines elements of mystery, adventure and historical facts to create an engaging read.

You might also like 'Pompeii' by Robert Harris. It tells the story of the days leading up to the eruption of Mount Vesuvius. The author does a great job of painting a picture of Roman society in Pompeii at that time, with all its opulence and hidden tensions.