RUBICON The Triumph and Tragedy of the Roman Republic

This is a serviceable account of the events leading to the establishment of the Roman Empire, with a heavy emphasis on the personalities that made it happen. Using Rome and Caesar as a template, we can see how similar events have led to military and dictatorial governments since then. Narrator Steven Crossley reads in a deliberate manner, which allows us to follow the sometimes serpentine machinations of those who would be emperor. The book is straight narrative, so Crossley never gets to use any character voices, but that is not an issue since he reads easily and authoritatively. The book does have its slow parts, but Crossley rises above them. R.I.G. © AudioFile 2006, Portland, Maine [Published: JUN/ JUL 06]