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Titus of Pompeii
Suddenly, we heard an incredibly loud explosion behind us.
The blast was surely the most violent wrenching of the earth in history.
Large black clouds climbing to the heavens like a giant tree. The dark smoke was mixed with large bursts or flashes of lightning and there was fire and flame easily visible at the top of the mountain.
I have never seen anything so frightening nor so awe-inspiring.
This is the end of days. The world is finished.
The blast was surely the most violent wrenching of the earth in history.
Large black clouds climbing to the heavens like a giant tree. The dark smoke was mixed with large bursts or flashes of lightning and there was fire and flame easily visible at the top of the mountain.
I have never seen anything so frightening nor so awe-inspiring.
This is the end of days. The world is finished.
316 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 13, 2015
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9 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 4 of 4 reviews
June 24, 2015
I must preface my review with the understanding that I adore historical fiction. However, for me that generally means 1750 to present day. It is only since reading some rather new fiction involving hand-to-hand combat and the logistics of mounting ground-based, military campaigns, that I have sought out books like Titus of Pompeii by Ken Frazier. I recently watched a documentary chronicling the doomed city and the eruption of Mt. Vesuvius, and with that fresh in my mind I began this literary adventure...and what an adventure it was.
As with most lovers of the genre, nothing irks me more than having something out of place...something amiss among the details that makes historical fiction so inviting. I am glad to report, you will not find that here. Dr. Frazier has certainly done his homework, and then some. The detail is haunting, forging mental images that brought me to the very streets of an ancient city on the precipice of destruction. I appreciated the small, technical specifics about the people, and in particular the military and political hierarchy, which added so much depth to the overall presentation. It helped me see, feel, and taste the action.
The author catches his writing stride early in the work and stays true to his voice throughout the manuscript. The editing, though not perfect, is very good and the writing style and energetic storyline make up for any small imperfections in the overall text. I was able to identify with the main character and his plight. Titus’ circumstances, set against the backdrop of an ancient world, were believable, keeping me turning pages well into the early morning hours. In addition, the cadre of players, who were beautifully flawed, supplemented the plot and the setting nicely.
As I’ve mentioned, the backdrop is spectacular and well written, but the story carries the book – intrigue, murder, innocence swept up in conspiracy, and so much more. I’ll admit, I was disappointed when it was over, yet the ending was very satisfying.
Titus of Pompeii delivered more than I expected: deep characters, an historically accurate depiction of the time and place, and a stirring plot. I would recommend it to all history lovers, and specifically those who like some realism sprinkled amidst their fiction.
As with most lovers of the genre, nothing irks me more than having something out of place...something amiss among the details that makes historical fiction so inviting. I am glad to report, you will not find that here. Dr. Frazier has certainly done his homework, and then some. The detail is haunting, forging mental images that brought me to the very streets of an ancient city on the precipice of destruction. I appreciated the small, technical specifics about the people, and in particular the military and political hierarchy, which added so much depth to the overall presentation. It helped me see, feel, and taste the action.
The author catches his writing stride early in the work and stays true to his voice throughout the manuscript. The editing, though not perfect, is very good and the writing style and energetic storyline make up for any small imperfections in the overall text. I was able to identify with the main character and his plight. Titus’ circumstances, set against the backdrop of an ancient world, were believable, keeping me turning pages well into the early morning hours. In addition, the cadre of players, who were beautifully flawed, supplemented the plot and the setting nicely.
As I’ve mentioned, the backdrop is spectacular and well written, but the story carries the book – intrigue, murder, innocence swept up in conspiracy, and so much more. I’ll admit, I was disappointed when it was over, yet the ending was very satisfying.
Titus of Pompeii delivered more than I expected: deep characters, an historically accurate depiction of the time and place, and a stirring plot. I would recommend it to all history lovers, and specifically those who like some realism sprinkled amidst their fiction.
June 10, 2015
This was a fantastic read! I could not put it down. This story was a historical roller coaster. There was action, drama, a murder mystery, a conspiracy, a treasure hunt and a natural disaster. The characters were well developed, and their stories were so in-depth. Just when you think you have everything figured out, something new happens. The author also has such a detailed knowledge of the setting. I could imagine what it was like in ancient Rome and Pompeii. I also have to say, as a martial artist and sword enthusiast, I enjoyed the sword and knife fight scenes; they added a whole lot to the action of the story. This was an excellent read, and I highly recommend this book to other readers.
June 22, 2015
This book took you on a journey to Pompeii, the writer is well versed in the history of this era and uses his knowledge to really frame the scenes which he creates. Every scene is captured perfectly with the vivid descriptions the writer uses to bring the story alive, making me feel as though I was a part of it, as though I watching the story unfold on the sidelines. This book is a must read for all those Pompeii enthusiasts as it properly intertwines history with fiction as the writer weaves his story. A truly great story and truly well written.
June 2, 2015
I was lucky enough to get an advanced copy of Ken Frazier’s book “Titus of Pompeii” and loved it from start to finish. The events takes place around the time when Mt Vesuvius is on the verge of erupting, so while you’re reading the book you are always reminded that the threat is real and could happen at any time. Ken Frazier did an excellent job crafting the streets, temples, maps, and even the plumbing of the city. It was a nice touch and really enriched the experience of the story.
The story begins with a young blacksmith named, Titus who receives a mysterious note from his old friend Vibiana requesting him to go to her villa. Titus travels there and that’s when things start to unfold rather quickly as he is thrown into a situation that spirals out of control.
The story is well paced, given the amount of detail, and flows very nicely.
If you like a murder mystery story, compelling characters, and action, you’ll love the book.
BTW: The art work and maps are so cool that I'm going to contact Mr Frazer to get a signed copy...
The story begins with a young blacksmith named, Titus who receives a mysterious note from his old friend Vibiana requesting him to go to her villa. Titus travels there and that’s when things start to unfold rather quickly as he is thrown into a situation that spirals out of control.
The story is well paced, given the amount of detail, and flows very nicely.
If you like a murder mystery story, compelling characters, and action, you’ll love the book.
BTW: The art work and maps are so cool that I'm going to contact Mr Frazer to get a signed copy...
Displaying 1 - 4 of 4 reviews