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Title: History That's Easy to Digest
Review: I had previously read Williams' "Stoner" -- and thoroughly enjoyed it. I didn't know what to expect when he tackled an historical subject, but should have figured that he'd get the human aspect of it just right. That's exactly what he did. "Octavius" retells the story of the Roman Empire in the years of Octavius Caesar's reign, following the assassination of his adoptive father, Julius Caesar. The story is riveting -- well told through excerpts from the diaries, memoranda and missives of Octavius and many of his contemporaries. The characters are wonderfully drawn. A very easy and informative read. I have no idea if Williams' depiction of the title character's humanity and personality is accurate, but if so he was a remarkable ruler. I recommend this book highly.
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