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Following Caesar: From Rome to Constantinople, the Pathways That Planted the Seeds of Empire
A travel narrative following three ancient roads and looking at more than two thousand years of history of Ancient Rome through the modern eye.
In 66 B.C., young, ambitious Julius Caesar, seeking recognition and authority, became the curator of the Via Appia. He borrowed significant sums to restore the ancient highway. It was a way to curry favor from Roman citizens in villages along the route, built from Rome to Brindisi between 312-191 B.C. He succeeded and rapidly grew in popularity. After achieving greatness in Rome and the far reaches of Gaul, he led armies along this road to battle enemies in Roman civil wars. And then, across the Adriatic Sea, he joined Via Appia's sister road, the Via Egnatia that began in today's Albania. Other armies followed these two roads that eventually connected Rome to Byzantium, today's Istanbul. Octavian, who became, in 27 B.C., Rome's first emperor, and his friend and later enemy Mark Antony traveled portions of both roads to defeat Caesar's murderers Brutus and Cassius at Philippi in eastern Macedonia. The great Roman statesman Cicero, the Roman poet Homer, the historian Virgil and many other notables traveled along one or both of these roads. In the first century of the Roman Empire in the earliest years of Christianity, the apostles Peter and Paul traversed portions of them. Pilgrims, seeking salvation in far-away Jerusalem, followed them as well throughout much of the Middle Ages. In the early second century A.D., the emperor Trajan charted a new coastal route between Benevento and Brindisi, later called the Via Traiana.
Today, short stretches of the original three roads can be seen in the ruins of ancient Roman cities, now preserved as archaeological wonders, and through the countryside near, and sometimes under, modern highways. Following those routes is the purpose of treading along the path that Caesar and so many others took over the early centuries. Modern eyes, seeing through the mists of more than two thousand years of history, lead the traveler along these three roads coursing through six countries between Rome and Istanbul. It is a journey full of adventure, discovery, and friendship―one one worth taking.
In 66 B.C., young, ambitious Julius Caesar, seeking recognition and authority, became the curator of the Via Appia. He borrowed significant sums to restore the ancient highway. It was a way to curry favor from Roman citizens in villages along the route, built from Rome to Brindisi between 312-191 B.C. He succeeded and rapidly grew in popularity. After achieving greatness in Rome and the far reaches of Gaul, he led armies along this road to battle enemies in Roman civil wars. And then, across the Adriatic Sea, he joined Via Appia's sister road, the Via Egnatia that began in today's Albania. Other armies followed these two roads that eventually connected Rome to Byzantium, today's Istanbul. Octavian, who became, in 27 B.C., Rome's first emperor, and his friend and later enemy Mark Antony traveled portions of both roads to defeat Caesar's murderers Brutus and Cassius at Philippi in eastern Macedonia. The great Roman statesman Cicero, the Roman poet Homer, the historian Virgil and many other notables traveled along one or both of these roads. In the first century of the Roman Empire in the earliest years of Christianity, the apostles Peter and Paul traversed portions of them. Pilgrims, seeking salvation in far-away Jerusalem, followed them as well throughout much of the Middle Ages. In the early second century A.D., the emperor Trajan charted a new coastal route between Benevento and Brindisi, later called the Via Traiana.
Today, short stretches of the original three roads can be seen in the ruins of ancient Roman cities, now preserved as archaeological wonders, and through the countryside near, and sometimes under, modern highways. Following those routes is the purpose of treading along the path that Caesar and so many others took over the early centuries. Modern eyes, seeing through the mists of more than two thousand years of history, lead the traveler along these three roads coursing through six countries between Rome and Istanbul. It is a journey full of adventure, discovery, and friendship―one one worth taking.
256 pages, Hardcover
First published December 12, 2023
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews
August 19, 2023
4.5 / 5
A lovely read!
I was very excited to read this book as my mother is from Rome. It was deeply meaningful to be privy to the same "roads" my mother travelled which carry such profound history.
The book read more like a travelogue so if you do consider reading it, keep this in mind.
A great effort from the author- sprinkled with personal points and lots of genuine passion.
I do encourage reading this book if you are inclined.
I received this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
A lovely read!
I was very excited to read this book as my mother is from Rome. It was deeply meaningful to be privy to the same "roads" my mother travelled which carry such profound history.
The book read more like a travelogue so if you do consider reading it, keep this in mind.
A great effort from the author- sprinkled with personal points and lots of genuine passion.
I do encourage reading this book if you are inclined.
I received this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Read
August 15, 2023I’ve finished, but I need to analyze my thoughts, the synopsis, the actual narrative…I just don’t know also I am not counting this as a royal reads project selection because the book lies.
Thank you St Martin Press. So far I don’t feel like I’ve gotten far on the road, and it may just be the way the author had to travel while COVID was running amuck.
7/30 yeah so I’m still learning all about him looking for parking spaces and his going to drive or explore the SS7, but then not much happens. I think I’ve heard about a temple ruin to Athene, and how much of the great road is actually underneath the SS7. Oh one small stretch had some mausoleums but the author is definitely not much on the use of adjectives. My mind is still wide open.
8/3 okay I do stupid things on my night time meds. I am not finished with this book. I’m at 82%, which is close, but the author needs to keep talking about where he’s going to park his car next. MEH
Thank you St Martin Press. So far I don’t feel like I’ve gotten far on the road, and it may just be the way the author had to travel while COVID was running amuck.
7/30 yeah so I’m still learning all about him looking for parking spaces and his going to drive or explore the SS7, but then not much happens. I think I’ve heard about a temple ruin to Athene, and how much of the great road is actually underneath the SS7. Oh one small stretch had some mausoleums but the author is definitely not much on the use of adjectives. My mind is still wide open.
8/3 okay I do stupid things on my night time meds. I am not finished with this book. I’m at 82%, which is close, but the author needs to keep talking about where he’s going to park his car next. MEH
December 17, 2023
Review to come.
November 2, 2023
There are few experiences that I can think of that are as exhilarating as standing in a location where earth-changing events have taken place. To look out over The Cornfield at Antietam or to stand on the spot where Martin Luther King said 'I have a dream' is to feel in touch with the energy that drives our existence. I suspect that this philosophy is what drove retired reporter John Keahey to spend three months in the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic to follow in the footsteps of the armies, generals, statesmen, scholars and apostles who traveled over those great Roman roads, the Via Appia and the Via Egnatia, roads that stretched from Rome to Byzantium. In this tremendous bout of history tourism, Keahey would travel from village to village along the route, seeking and recruiting local historical authorities to serve as guides, showing him bits of the ancient roads, often lying several feet underground, and other little-known ruins from millennia past. This, to me, sounds like the perfect way to travel, meeting and befriending locals and listening to what they have to say about the world they know. I'll leave it to the scholars to decide whether it is the best way to advance the knowledge of our distant past.
I'd like to thank NetGalley for providing an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an unbiased review of this book. I suspect that I would have enjoyed and appreciated this book much more if it had the maps and photos that I'm sure the published edition will contain but, aware that ARC's seldom have these, I contented myself to imagine what my poor understanding of geography allowed me to picture.
Bottom line: I enjoyed this book and recommend it to anyone planning to travel through southern Europe in search of history.
As mentioned above, the review was based on an advanced reading copy obtained at no cost from the publisher in exchange for an unbiased review. While this does take any ‘not worth what I paid for it’ statements out of my review, it otherwise has no impact on its content.
I'd like to thank NetGalley for providing an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an unbiased review of this book. I suspect that I would have enjoyed and appreciated this book much more if it had the maps and photos that I'm sure the published edition will contain but, aware that ARC's seldom have these, I contented myself to imagine what my poor understanding of geography allowed me to picture.
Bottom line: I enjoyed this book and recommend it to anyone planning to travel through southern Europe in search of history.
As mentioned above, the review was based on an advanced reading copy obtained at no cost from the publisher in exchange for an unbiased review. While this does take any ‘not worth what I paid for it’ statements out of my review, it otherwise has no impact on its content.
June 10, 2026
Rating: 4.5/5 Stars
A Delightful Sojourn Through the Heart of the Roman Empire
I really enjoyed this book. John Keahey’s Following Caesar is a short volume that wears a lot of hats. It is simultaneously a history of ancient Rome, an engaging travelogue, a brief historical biography, a foodie journal, and a deeply personal reflection on travel and place.
At just 256 pages, it is not a large book and does not delve into any single topic in great depth. Instead, it offers a charming romp through the regions of Italy, the Balkans, and beyond, tracing the ancient paths of the Via Appia, Via Traiana, and Via Egnatia. You can tell on every page that Keahey genuinely loves the subjects he writes about. His enthusiasm for both historical figures such as Julius Caesar and the modern-day locals he encounters along the way is infectious.
One of the book’s greatest strengths is the way it uncovers historical gems that many travelers might otherwise overlook. Keahey has a knack for finding fascinating places just beyond the well-worn tourist routes and explaining why they matter. Whether discussing ancient roads, forgotten ruins, local traditions, or regional cuisine, he consistently makes the reader appreciate the layers of history beneath the modern landscape.
I especially enjoyed the sections devoted to the site of Cannae. Keahey manages to breathe life into the landscape, helping the reader feel the weight of history that unfolded there during the Second Punic War. He has a gift for making ancient places feel immediate and alive. More than once, I found myself wishing I could join him on his journey along Rome’s historic roads.
While I enjoyed the book quite a bit, I occasionally wished for a little more depth. A more comprehensive bibliography, additional discussion of Roman engineering, or a deeper exploration of some of the historical sites would have strengthened the volume. Still, that criticism is minor. Keahey is not trying to write a definitive history of Rome; he is inviting readers to experience the landscapes, roads, and cultures that helped shape an empire.
Having traveled extensively in Italy myself, I found Keahey’s blend of history, food, landscape, and personal reflection particularly appealing. More than once, I felt as though I was traveling these ancient roads alongside the author rather than simply reading about them from my favorite chair.
His visit to Cannae was especially memorable. As a lifelong student of military history, standing on that battlefield is high on my travel bucket list, and Keahey’s descriptions only strengthened my desire to see it for myself. The best travel writers leave you with a sense of place; the best history writers leave you with a sense of wonder. Keahey manages to do both.
As a bonus, this may be one of the best book-buying bargains I’ve ever made. I found a first-edition hardcover copy for $2 at a library sale. Much like Keahey’s journey itself, the discovery felt like uncovering a small historical treasure hiding in plain sight.
A Delightful Sojourn Through the Heart of the Roman Empire
I really enjoyed this book. John Keahey’s Following Caesar is a short volume that wears a lot of hats. It is simultaneously a history of ancient Rome, an engaging travelogue, a brief historical biography, a foodie journal, and a deeply personal reflection on travel and place.
At just 256 pages, it is not a large book and does not delve into any single topic in great depth. Instead, it offers a charming romp through the regions of Italy, the Balkans, and beyond, tracing the ancient paths of the Via Appia, Via Traiana, and Via Egnatia. You can tell on every page that Keahey genuinely loves the subjects he writes about. His enthusiasm for both historical figures such as Julius Caesar and the modern-day locals he encounters along the way is infectious.
One of the book’s greatest strengths is the way it uncovers historical gems that many travelers might otherwise overlook. Keahey has a knack for finding fascinating places just beyond the well-worn tourist routes and explaining why they matter. Whether discussing ancient roads, forgotten ruins, local traditions, or regional cuisine, he consistently makes the reader appreciate the layers of history beneath the modern landscape.
I especially enjoyed the sections devoted to the site of Cannae. Keahey manages to breathe life into the landscape, helping the reader feel the weight of history that unfolded there during the Second Punic War. He has a gift for making ancient places feel immediate and alive. More than once, I found myself wishing I could join him on his journey along Rome’s historic roads.
While I enjoyed the book quite a bit, I occasionally wished for a little more depth. A more comprehensive bibliography, additional discussion of Roman engineering, or a deeper exploration of some of the historical sites would have strengthened the volume. Still, that criticism is minor. Keahey is not trying to write a definitive history of Rome; he is inviting readers to experience the landscapes, roads, and cultures that helped shape an empire.
Having traveled extensively in Italy myself, I found Keahey’s blend of history, food, landscape, and personal reflection particularly appealing. More than once, I felt as though I was traveling these ancient roads alongside the author rather than simply reading about them from my favorite chair.
His visit to Cannae was especially memorable. As a lifelong student of military history, standing on that battlefield is high on my travel bucket list, and Keahey’s descriptions only strengthened my desire to see it for myself. The best travel writers leave you with a sense of place; the best history writers leave you with a sense of wonder. Keahey manages to do both.
As a bonus, this may be one of the best book-buying bargains I’ve ever made. I found a first-edition hardcover copy for $2 at a library sale. Much like Keahey’s journey itself, the discovery felt like uncovering a small historical treasure hiding in plain sight.
December 1, 2023
As a lover of ancient Rome, diving into "Following Caesar" by John Keahey was akin to embarking on a thrilling expedition through time. The author's meticulous research shines through, making the narrative not only informative but utterly engaging. It was a joy to traverse the well-trodden paths of Caesar, with Keahey as a knowledgeable guide, providing a rich blend of historical facts intertwined with modern-day observations. Each page was a journey in itself, and by the end, I felt both enlightened and eager for more explorations into the realms of ancient history.
October 3, 2023
This book reads like someone took their online travel blog and cut-and-pasted it without alteration into book form. It's like the author (and his editor) doesn't care about engaging the reader. This book could have been improved by the inclusion of some well-made route maps and photos of the places described, but there were none in my electronic advance review copy of this book.
So, for example, there are a lot of references to Italian highways by number, but no indication why most of the people reading this book in English would know, care, or understand anything about where they are.
Or, the author will stop into some town and say that he had an excellent meal, but no more. I understand that perhaps the author didn't want to get into the habit of giving free advertising to particular restaurants, but it might have been interesting to hear that he had enjoyed a dinner of, for example, locally-caught grilled octopus with orzo rice in a marinara sauce in a particular town.
As noted by many others here at Goodreads, the title is completely deceptive – Caesar disappears from the book for long periods.
He spends a lot of time writing about difficulties he had parking his car.
He compliments by name the people who graciously took time out to talk to him about local history, which is excellent good manners. But he doesn't make any of them come alive on the page.
He leaves a lot of potentially interesting questions unanswered. For example, at one point, he stumbles on a section of Roman road in seemingly perfect condition on private property, but he just peers at it over the fence, hopes that it will survive intact, and moves on. It might have been interesting to know: Whose property was it? Do they pour a lot of money into maintaining this isolated bit of road that no one sees? If so, why? Or, maybe, the owner of the property is completely unaware of the road, and its preservation is just a lucky chance? I mean, why not follow up with a little investigation?
He tosses off ideas that flit into his head but then doesn't follow up on any of them. For example, at Kindle location 365, he writes:
It's like the author didn't even take a second look at his writing before sending it off to his publisher.
I received a free electronic advance review copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley.
So, for example, there are a lot of references to Italian highways by number, but no indication why most of the people reading this book in English would know, care, or understand anything about where they are.
Or, the author will stop into some town and say that he had an excellent meal, but no more. I understand that perhaps the author didn't want to get into the habit of giving free advertising to particular restaurants, but it might have been interesting to hear that he had enjoyed a dinner of, for example, locally-caught grilled octopus with orzo rice in a marinara sauce in a particular town.
As noted by many others here at Goodreads, the title is completely deceptive – Caesar disappears from the book for long periods.
He spends a lot of time writing about difficulties he had parking his car.
He compliments by name the people who graciously took time out to talk to him about local history, which is excellent good manners. But he doesn't make any of them come alive on the page.
He leaves a lot of potentially interesting questions unanswered. For example, at one point, he stumbles on a section of Roman road in seemingly perfect condition on private property, but he just peers at it over the fence, hopes that it will survive intact, and moves on. It might have been interesting to know: Whose property was it? Do they pour a lot of money into maintaining this isolated bit of road that no one sees? If so, why? Or, maybe, the owner of the property is completely unaware of the road, and its preservation is just a lucky chance? I mean, why not follow up with a little investigation?
He tosses off ideas that flit into his head but then doesn't follow up on any of them. For example, at Kindle location 365, he writes:
It must have been hard walking for soldiers wearing sandals— burdened with heavy armor and weapons. I had read somewhere that the stone-covered via was for supply carts, wagons, and men on horseback. Soldiers, I read, often marched in formation on either side, hence the origin of the word “sidewalk.” True?No, not true, as even a short search on Google would have revealed. "Sidewalk" has been identified as an Americanism for more than 100 years (see here), whereas the British word "pavement" dates from at least the 14th century. The British term derives through French from the Latin word pavimentum, "hard floor, level surface beaten firm" (see here).
It's like the author didn't even take a second look at his writing before sending it off to his publisher.
I received a free electronic advance review copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley.
September 5, 2023
‘Following Caesar: from Rome to Contantinople’ by John Keahey is dull because there are no photos or maps. The author writes reams of info about the road names, their conditions past and present. But without photos and maps, it is as interesting as reading a dictionary. However, a lot of short bits of historical information about the peers and times of Caesar is referenced in between the descriptions of the places where action or stories may have happened. I know some people enjoy this style of travelogue/history, but for me it is too dry.
January 24, 2024
Following Caesar
John Keahey
It wasn't bad, but I got a bit bored following him after a 100 pages... it just got too dry to go on.
3 stars before I just didn't finish it.
Happy Reading!
John Keahey
It wasn't bad, but I got a bit bored following him after a 100 pages... it just got too dry to go on.
3 stars before I just didn't finish it.
Happy Reading!
March 14, 2024
This is part travelogue and part history. It revolves around the author's following the various roads built by the Roman Empire and how they have impacted life in the past as well as today. If you've been fortunate enough to travel these roads yourself the book is likely to bring back memories for you - whether of fighting the traffic around Rome or walking along a section in a peaceful glade.
Along the way you will meet experts and locals that the author consults to guide and enhance his travels. The book will whet your desire to either return to this land or to visit it for the first time and see it for more than just the monuments that appear on postcards and in books.
Along the way you will meet experts and locals that the author consults to guide and enhance his travels. The book will whet your desire to either return to this land or to visit it for the first time and see it for more than just the monuments that appear on postcards and in books.
December 3, 2023
I wasnt sure what I was in for, not having read anything else by the author. It seems like it is unsure of what it wants to be - academic work or travelogue - so it becomes untethered rambling. We follow the author's journey through Italy, the Balkans, and Turkey during COVID19. He waxes philosophical about various historical events that happen, some of which include Caesar (Julius or Augustus or used generally as a title for anyone after them). Don't expect coherence hinted at by the title. It isn't there. If he had given a "so what" to following the specific roads that he references and allowed that to give some focus. it may have helped. As it was, I kept wondering how much was left. If you know what you're in for and ok with a ramble, give it a go!
December 10, 2023
Following Caesar by John Keahey is part travelogue and part history about three key Roman roads constructed 2,500 years ago. Via Appia, Via Egnatia and Via Traiana served to make travel itself and distances more manageable as the empire expanded. This in turn affected how news and information was relayed, including Christianity.
I have spent a lot of time in Italy, including visits to many locations included in this book. My hope was to learn more about Roman road construction (briefly detailed here), markers, tombs, Caesar's influence and so on. The author spent time researching these roads and where they lead but at times it felt like exploration was not thorough. Occasionally, information such as highway numbers is a bit dry. Photographs and illustrations would be very helpful and engaging.
Details about the villages, culture and local colour are wonderful, just different from what the title would suggest. I adore Italy and Italian history and do appreciate gleaning more knowledge from this author's experiences.
My sincere thank you to St. Martin's Press and NetGalley for providing me with a digital copy of this informative book.
I have spent a lot of time in Italy, including visits to many locations included in this book. My hope was to learn more about Roman road construction (briefly detailed here), markers, tombs, Caesar's influence and so on. The author spent time researching these roads and where they lead but at times it felt like exploration was not thorough. Occasionally, information such as highway numbers is a bit dry. Photographs and illustrations would be very helpful and engaging.
Details about the villages, culture and local colour are wonderful, just different from what the title would suggest. I adore Italy and Italian history and do appreciate gleaning more knowledge from this author's experiences.
My sincere thank you to St. Martin's Press and NetGalley for providing me with a digital copy of this informative book.
November 22, 2023
What an interesting and unexpected read. I am not much for travel books but I love my history so I was willing to give this historical "travel" book a chance and I'm glad I did, The concept of books taking place along a trail isn't a new one to me ("Wild" comes to mind. But instead this book is a marvelous chance to learn about places, historical figures whose names everyone knows, and the universal freedom and connection that these roads brought to parts so far separated from each other. I feel privileged to be given this tremendous opportunity to drive down the historical memory lane and follow along as seeds of our modern world are planted and grow to unite us all in a way, this book is almost a metaphor for universality of experience and I'm glad I got picked to experience it first hand.
December 8, 2023
FOLLOWING CAESAR by John Keahey is all I hoped for in nonfiction diving deep into history and presenting it fresh with a unique perspective. It went even further with Keahey's excellent writing and voice, the stories that he shared. I am left with a hunger to walk these roads for myself and learn more about that exceptional time with a remarkable leader. I received a copy of this book and these opinions are my own, unbiased reviews.
January 27, 2024
John Keahey takes the reader on a roadtrip along some of our oldest roads--Via Appia, Via Egnatia, and Via Traiana. With the unique twist of traveling during the pandemic, with varying degrees of testing requirements, some places off limits, and presumably, fewer tourists, this part-travelogue, part-history lesson puts a very contemporary twist on the journey. This book definitely made me want to explore history from a different perspective. #FollowingCaesar #NetGalley
August 21, 2023
It's a travelogue with both ancient and recent perspectives. I thought it was fascinating and wish that I could have sneaked into the luggage to go along on this trip. In lieu of that I am happy with reading this book now and later.
I requested and received an EARC from St. Martin's Press via NetGalley. Thank you!
I requested and received an EARC from St. Martin's Press via NetGalley. Thank you!
January 17, 2024
Newsman John Keahey has produced a wonderful history/travelogue of the "Via Appia" or as it is commonly known "The Romans Road." From how Caesar constantly borrowed money to have it built to the current day this is a charming and worthy addition to both travel writing and history.
August 4, 2023
Interesting, but would have been better without the person anecdotes. Those made what I thought would be a journey through history into a travelogue.
January 5, 2024
The writer follows the ancient Roman roads from Rome to Constantinople describing the sights, ruins, and history of each location along the way.
I found it very dry, but informative.
I found it very dry, but informative.
February 28, 2024
New author for me but love the style. This was great! Makes me want to go back to Italy…For now, I’ll settle for re-watching Rome on HBO.
February 18, 2024
Very disappointing. Like sitting in someone's living room watching an interminable slideshow of their recent vacation
September 3, 2024
Enjoyable but had higher expectations
November 22, 2023
Not A Christmas Book. Admittedly, I saw "Caesar" and the release date and for some reason thought this had... anything at all to do with Christmas. To be clear, it does not. Just in case anyone else was somehow thinking it might. ;)
What we *do* get, however, is actually a rather intriguing tale in its own right, of the author's adventures in a post-collapse world to try to find the last remaining vestiges of ancient Roman roads in Italy, Greece, Turkey, and surrounding areas. We get a decent amount of history, but to be clear - this is far more travel book (and almost travel log even) than history book. We get tales of espresso and kind strangers and parking woes, and we get tales of finding obscure patches of ancient Roman roadway or bridgeworks or some such often deep in farmer's fields - and which the author only stumbled upon because he happened to stumble into a local who happened to know what he was looking for. We also get several tales of various "official" sites being closed, some of which the author was able to sneak into anyway either by outright sneaking or by some official or another looking the other way.
Indeed, this was, as I mentioned above, quite an intriguing tale for what it is - just *really* don't go in here expecting some detailed treatise on the exact engineering of ancient Roman roadways and how at least certain sections of them have managed to last all these centuries. Go in expecting a 2020s era romp through the region at hand... and you'll probably leave a lot more satisfied here.
The one star deduction comes from having next to no bibliography, despite having so many historical details and references. Instead, the bibliography is simply a "selected reading" and clocks in at less than 4% of the overall text - compared to closer to 20-30% being my expected norm based on reading hundreds of nonfiction advance review copies of books across nearly every discipline these last few years as a book blogger.
Still, I had a great time with this book and learned a lot about a subject the author is clearly passionate about. I felt I was right there with him through many of these adventures and woes, and really... what more do you actually want in a book of this type?
Very much recommended.
What we *do* get, however, is actually a rather intriguing tale in its own right, of the author's adventures in a post-collapse world to try to find the last remaining vestiges of ancient Roman roads in Italy, Greece, Turkey, and surrounding areas. We get a decent amount of history, but to be clear - this is far more travel book (and almost travel log even) than history book. We get tales of espresso and kind strangers and parking woes, and we get tales of finding obscure patches of ancient Roman roadway or bridgeworks or some such often deep in farmer's fields - and which the author only stumbled upon because he happened to stumble into a local who happened to know what he was looking for. We also get several tales of various "official" sites being closed, some of which the author was able to sneak into anyway either by outright sneaking or by some official or another looking the other way.
Indeed, this was, as I mentioned above, quite an intriguing tale for what it is - just *really* don't go in here expecting some detailed treatise on the exact engineering of ancient Roman roadways and how at least certain sections of them have managed to last all these centuries. Go in expecting a 2020s era romp through the region at hand... and you'll probably leave a lot more satisfied here.
The one star deduction comes from having next to no bibliography, despite having so many historical details and references. Instead, the bibliography is simply a "selected reading" and clocks in at less than 4% of the overall text - compared to closer to 20-30% being my expected norm based on reading hundreds of nonfiction advance review copies of books across nearly every discipline these last few years as a book blogger.
Still, I had a great time with this book and learned a lot about a subject the author is clearly passionate about. I felt I was right there with him through many of these adventures and woes, and really... what more do you actually want in a book of this type?
Very much recommended.
August 6, 2023
Contrary to the title, this book is not about following Caesar. I would wager that the number of times he talks about getting a cup of coffee exceeds the number of times Caesar is discussed in any detail. Rather, it is about the author's journey retracing the paths of three important Roman roads: the Via Appia, the Via Egnatia and the Via Traiana.
Many notable figures in history trod these roads including Caesar, Marc Antony, Brutus, St. Paul, Horace and Virgil. They were the vehicle through which the Romans extended and maintained their empire. Keahey read extensively in preparation for this trip but little of that research reaches the page. The poet Horace wrote a satire regarding a journey he took during one of the Roman Civil Wars and the author's trip was in part designed to follow the same route. The quotes from Homer are few though.
Keahey is not a historian and Following Caesar reads as much as a travel journal as anything else. Unfortunately the account of his travels is dry and much of it boring. Stories of his parking travails and coffee breaks abound. Many of the places he visited were closed or could not be found. Others were seen because he stumbled into a knowledgeable guide who showed him something unique and memorable. Nearly all of these sites however, were hidden away on private land. He records a number of "memorable" meals but neglects to say the name of the restaurant, what was on the menu and what made them memorable.
Following Caesar is bereft of usable information for a traveler wishing to take this journey. It does supply some historical information but not a lot. It fails to describe in detail what might interest or entertain a reader. I cannot recommend this book
Many notable figures in history trod these roads including Caesar, Marc Antony, Brutus, St. Paul, Horace and Virgil. They were the vehicle through which the Romans extended and maintained their empire. Keahey read extensively in preparation for this trip but little of that research reaches the page. The poet Horace wrote a satire regarding a journey he took during one of the Roman Civil Wars and the author's trip was in part designed to follow the same route. The quotes from Homer are few though.
Keahey is not a historian and Following Caesar reads as much as a travel journal as anything else. Unfortunately the account of his travels is dry and much of it boring. Stories of his parking travails and coffee breaks abound. Many of the places he visited were closed or could not be found. Others were seen because he stumbled into a knowledgeable guide who showed him something unique and memorable. Nearly all of these sites however, were hidden away on private land. He records a number of "memorable" meals but neglects to say the name of the restaurant, what was on the menu and what made them memorable.
Following Caesar is bereft of usable information for a traveler wishing to take this journey. It does supply some historical information but not a lot. It fails to describe in detail what might interest or entertain a reader. I cannot recommend this book
December 15, 2023
ub Week Review: Following Caesar: From Rome to Constantinople, The Pathways That Planted The Seeds of Empire (12/12) ✨
⁉️: Have you ever been to Italy? What is your favorite Italian dish?
I have always wanted to explore Italy, especially Rome and Venice. When I was young in high school, I used to dream of having my honeymoon in Venice. While we ended up going to the Dominican for a weekend, I think we may make a trip there during our wedding anniversary some day.
I love to travel, and adore travel narratives, and enjoyed this story which made me time travel into the history of Ancient Rome through the modern lens.
In this non-fiction narrative, we learn about young and ambitious Julius Caesar who wanted to establish himself as a Roman ruler. He borrowed significant sums of money to restore the ancient highway to pain popularity among his followers. He led armies along the Via Apia across the Balkans to fight in Roman civil wars.
John Keahey’s part travel narrative/part history delves into the experiences and encounters people had in Italy, North Macedonia, Greece, and Turkey, who embrace travelers who connect with each other and share knowledge of historical sites, meals, and a wealth of local stories. If you enjoy history and travel, then this book is for you.
Thank you @stmartinspress for the gifted arc.
#FollowingCaesarBook #JohnKeahey #StMartinsPress #shnidhi
⁉️: Have you ever been to Italy? What is your favorite Italian dish?
I have always wanted to explore Italy, especially Rome and Venice. When I was young in high school, I used to dream of having my honeymoon in Venice. While we ended up going to the Dominican for a weekend, I think we may make a trip there during our wedding anniversary some day.
I love to travel, and adore travel narratives, and enjoyed this story which made me time travel into the history of Ancient Rome through the modern lens.
In this non-fiction narrative, we learn about young and ambitious Julius Caesar who wanted to establish himself as a Roman ruler. He borrowed significant sums of money to restore the ancient highway to pain popularity among his followers. He led armies along the Via Apia across the Balkans to fight in Roman civil wars.
John Keahey’s part travel narrative/part history delves into the experiences and encounters people had in Italy, North Macedonia, Greece, and Turkey, who embrace travelers who connect with each other and share knowledge of historical sites, meals, and a wealth of local stories. If you enjoy history and travel, then this book is for you.
Thank you @stmartinspress for the gifted arc.
#FollowingCaesarBook #JohnKeahey #StMartinsPress #shnidhi
April 26, 2023
John Keahey's "Following Caesar" is described as being a travel narrative that follows three ancient roads, while looking at over 2000 years of Ancient Roman history through the modern eye. It certainly lives up to this description, giving the reader background on the people and events that led to the building of three particular roads that played central role in connecting the vast empire that was Rome.
While I love history (so much so that I have an undergrad degree in it), this book just wasn't my cup of tea. A book such as this, where the author writes in first person, has to grab me within the prologue (if there is one) and the first 2 chapters. This did not do so. To me it was not a narrative, but rather a personal travel diary turned into a book, with history used to flesh it out. I just couldn't enjoy it...as I said, not my cup of tea.
Thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for this ARC, which I voluntarily read and reviewed.
While I love history (so much so that I have an undergrad degree in it), this book just wasn't my cup of tea. A book such as this, where the author writes in first person, has to grab me within the prologue (if there is one) and the first 2 chapters. This did not do so. To me it was not a narrative, but rather a personal travel diary turned into a book, with history used to flesh it out. I just couldn't enjoy it...as I said, not my cup of tea.
Thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for this ARC, which I voluntarily read and reviewed.
October 7, 2023
Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for this ARC of Following Caesar by John Keahey. It's a fun read if you like history and traveling! This book is an interesting combination of the two! Keahey has a genuine appreciation and love for history that he shares throughout his travels along some important Ancient Roman roads. He clearly did some great research about the history of where he was traveling and I feel like I learned a lot! He was out there traveling, talking to locals, & learning, and that's what he's sharing that with this book. I think what I liked best about is getting to really see these tangible connections to the past that are still preserved in the modern world. Following Caesar is certainly a good book if you want to be inspired to travel and uncover some ancient history too!
February 14, 2024
Author Keahey travels along three ancient roads built by the Romans: the Via Appia, the Via Traiana, and the Via Egnatia. These roads were hundreds of miles long and some of the roads one can actually walk or bicycle on a few miles. Some are buried underneath the modern roads or run parallel to them and some were destroyed during WW II. The Via Egnatia leaves Italy and goes from the Adriatic Sea to the Black Sea and was the first Roman road constructed outside of Italy. Due to covid, the author had to stay out of Albania but otherwise take readers on an intriguing, historical journey full of ruins, peoples and lovely landscapes. He includes black and white photographs of the place he sees. Readers who liked Robert MacFarlane's "Landmarks" or Alistair Moffat's "To the Island of Tides" will enjoy this travelers history guide.
December 13, 2023
I was expecting a bit more history about the Roman road system, and this turned out to instead highlight the author’s journey of finding the ancient road system underneath and near modern roads.
To be sure, he does mention some historical context in many of the locations, but the primary driver is the modern trips that he took.
Without a handy map or knowledge of the modern roads, I found myself skimming over some of the descriptions as he frequently mentions how a certain highway follows the old road between two specific cities, and then is the basis for another highway towards another city.
Interesting to read, just not what I expected.
Thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press for the advance copy.
To be sure, he does mention some historical context in many of the locations, but the primary driver is the modern trips that he took.
Without a handy map or knowledge of the modern roads, I found myself skimming over some of the descriptions as he frequently mentions how a certain highway follows the old road between two specific cities, and then is the basis for another highway towards another city.
Interesting to read, just not what I expected.
Thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press for the advance copy.
December 31, 2023
I enjoyed Keahey's travel following the path of Caesar as long as I kept in my mind that it was simply a travelogue. I can see the narration trying to go more academic, but for me, it didn't quite hit the mark on that end.
Overall, if you are looking for a read following someone travelling through noting certain historical markers, without a whole lot of reader engagement, then this work is for you.
Overall, if you are looking for a read following someone travelling through noting certain historical markers, without a whole lot of reader engagement, then this work is for you.
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