Empress of the Seven Hills (Rome, #3)

Aug 01, 2012 Amy rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: beautiful-covers, favourites, own-a-copy

Okay, I've waited a year for the release of this book. Two years really considering it's a kind of sequel to Quinn's début 2010 novel, Mistress of Rome (which I loved). I've been hoping and praying since I'd heard about Empress... being written that it would match up to it's predecessors high standard. My God. Words cannot describe my love for this writer! Quinn has a genuine talent for writing historical fiction and a genuine ability to transport readers in to the brutal world that is Ancient R...more Okay, I've waited a year for the release of this book. Two years really considering it's a kind of sequel to Quinn's début 2010 novel, Mistress of Rome (which I loved). I've been hoping and praying since I'd heard about Empress... being written that it would match up to it's predecessors high standard. My God. Words cannot describe my love for this writer! Quinn has a genuine talent for writing historical fiction and a genuine ability to transport readers in to the brutal world that is Ancient Rome. It's vivid, enchanting, and a beauty of a read.

I don't think you can help but love Vix. He was a favourite character of mine in Mistress of Rome, so cheeky and adventurous so it was wonderful to find out how his story continued. Sabina too of course, another character I'd been previously acquainted with. I loved how Sabina and Vix's story intertwined, and how she managed to soften Vix's character whenever they met. I felt they were the perfect balance for one another, even if their relationship did at times border on love/hate, particularly on Vix's part. I always felt they had one another's back, and despite differences and years going by that they always both cared for one another.

There was such an interesting blend of characters in this novel, and it was certainly nice to see other familiar names. Marcus Norbanus for one, whom has made an appearance in all three of the Rome books and someone I have a genuine soft spot for. Empress Marcella made a brief appearance, a character I found I rather liked by the end of Mistress... and of course Emperor Trajan. This is one of the reasons I love Quinn's books so much- the development of characters throughout the novels leaves you adoring them so much that you can't help but feel pleased when they reappear in another story. That doesn't of course mean there is no room left in my heart for newcomers, because I adored the socks off Titus. There's something so cute and clumsy about him that you can't help but love him, and his friendship with Vix borders on bromance. I couldn't help but be thrilled when Titus had the guts to lay in to that scheming Empress Plotina about what she'd been up too. I was all "YOU GO TITUS!" in my inner monologue. As Sabina said, is there really no one more perfectly named than her?? Plotting Plotina.

When I compare this novel to Mistress..., Plotina is a very different antagonist to Lepida. Apart from the odd rage, Plotina is a lot calmer and prefers to cause havoc more quietly and in a sense, more respectably. I felt everything was psychologically determined with Plotina, whereas Lepida was more about the physical. Having vast circles of lovers and going about things very openly, because she of course always wanted to be centre of attention. Plotina I felt was a more intellectual antagonist, whereas Lepida knew how to cause havoc by simply batting her eyelashes. Different, but both wonderfully evil.

The final paragraph of the novel left what I believe to be more than a hint that there was going to be a sequel to Empress... I wouldn't complain, let's say I'd be pretty okay with it and I'll just sit patiently and wait and see...

This is one of the fall backs of following an author from the beginning: you have to wait a year for the release of each new book. Seriously, I feel like I'm a 13 year old again waiting for the release of the next Harry Potter book.

Kate Quinn, I'm a loyal fan. Please continue the Rome series in the near future! Vix's final line of the story certainly sounded promising. Damn, what a gripping cliffhanger and a beauty of a book.(less)

11 likes · like · see review

Apr 14, 2012 Erin rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: historic-fiction-ancient-history

Find this and other reviews at: http://flashlightcommentary.blogspot....

I'm harder on historic fiction writers than I have any right to be. Honestly, I hold them to a higher standard than authors of any other genre. Those who have impressed me in the past have it even worse. Sorry guys, but if you want to be a top dog you gotta earn it. Quinn has earned it. Her debut piece, The Mistress of Rome, blew me away. Her follow-up, Daughters of Rome, proved the achievement was no fluke and confirmed her...more Find this and other reviews at: http://flashlightcommentary.blogspot....

I'm harder on historic fiction writers than I have any right to be. Honestly, I hold them to a higher standard than authors of any other genre. Those who have impressed me in the past have it even worse. Sorry guys, but if you want to be a top dog you gotta earn it. Quinn has earned it. Her debut piece, The Mistress of Rome, blew me away. Her follow-up, Daughters of Rome, proved the achievement was no fluke and confirmed her place as one of my favorite authors. Naturally, I was on pins and needles waiting for the release of her third book, Empress of the Seven Hills and I'm happy say she didn't disappoint.

I don't think anyone can read the book without falling for Vix. True, he is rough around the edges, uncouth and prone to intense emotional outbursts, but he is also loyal, determined, dedicated and ambitious. This isn't prince charming. He has faults, he suffers from indecision and stumbles through life's trials just like the rest of us. Supporting cast member Titus is everything Vix isn't. A mild-mannered academic with no ambition for fame or glory, his steady countenance is a perfect foil for our male lead. It took a bit longer, but he grew on me. It will be interesting to see where Quinn takes him before the end. I am similarly eager to see how Quinn will approach Hadrian's relationship with a particular young man, but that is a topic for another day. I can't begin to explain how she does it, but Quinn has once again constructed remarkable realism with little more than ink on on the page.

The female cast is equally well-crafted though I can't say I am particularly fond of any of them. Plotina's Juno complex is cringe worthy, but it was her annoying obsession with Hadrian that grated my nerves. Mirah's obvious disdain for anyone but 'her people' is nothing short of disgusting and Demetra's simpering housewife routine paints her as little more than a milksop. I couldn't even bring myself to care for Sabina until late in the novel when her marriage began to crumble. The educated daughter of privilege who flit from one 'interesting' enterprise to the next didn't do it for me, but as her husband's tolerance waned she started showing some real promise. Again, I find myself wondering where Quinn will take the character. The lone exception here is Faustina. Maybe it is because she is introduced as a toddler and grows to an independently minded young woman over the course of the story, but where I have only lukewarm interest in her older sister, I am very intrigued by Quinn's depiction of the future empress.

I'll be the first to admit that last paragraph doesn't sound too great, but I want you to really think about what I wrote. Poor characterization is marked by a reader's indifference. The fact that I wanted to slap most of the women upside the head at some point proves I am anything but. So I don't want to sit and drink wine or barley water with most of these ladies. Sue me. There is no rule that says a character has to be likable to be good and personally I think Quinn should be applauded for crafting such a diverse cast.

Unlike its predecessors, Empress of the Seven Hills takes us on the road. During Trajan's campaigns we see a less well known aspect of Ancient Rome, the life of a common soldier. There are moments, but having been a military wife I appreciate that the bulk of Quinn's material is spent on the weeks and months between battles as well as the trials and tribulations of both men and women who opt for such a lifestyle.

Gosh this review is getting long, but I got a lot to say. I love that Quinn includes such detailed Historical Notes. Not every author feels an obligation to define fact from fiction let alone explain why they chose to alter historic fact. I find I am much more inclined to forgive an author who exhibits such respect for their subject matter and readers than I would an author who neglects such entries in anticipation of a royalty check. See my comments on The House of Special Purpose if you need further explanation.

Quinn's next book is set some fourteen hundred years after Empress of the Seven Hills during an intriguing period of the Renaissance. While I am excited for the release I can't help feeling sad that it will be some time before we see the continuing story of Vix and Sabina under Emperor Hadrian's rule.

Another excellent read from a very talented writer. Go out, find a copy and enjoy!(less)

12 likes · like · see review

Apr 19, 2013 Didi A rated it 5 of 5 stars

Gorgeous book! Thick in action and detail, crowded with rounded characters, who change with time and yet remain true to their nature. The Empress is full of love-and-hate relationships and this is the relationship it invokes in the reader, too. The characters are all both lovable and despicable, maybe with the exception of Titus and of course the honorable Marcus Norbanus. (view spoiler)...more Gorgeous book! Thick in action and detail, crowded with rounded characters, who change with time and yet remain true to their nature. The Empress is full of love-and-hate relationships and this is the relationship it invokes in the reader, too. The characters are all both lovable and despicable, maybe with the exception of Titus and of course the honorable Marcus Norbanus. (view spoiler)
The Empress teaches a very comprehensive history lesson with its masterfully unrolling story. It makes you feel at ease 'walking' the roads of the Roman Empire and almost eye-witnessing an enthralling period in Ancient history.
The book deserves praise on another account as well - it depicts an age that is often being overlooked. It's so refreshing to read about someone else besides Julius Caesar. This goes for the whole series by Kate Quinn. I am immensely grateful to her for bringing to life so many interesting historical figures. Somehow the period after August and Nero is easily forgotten. I actually discovered a lot of people thought the Roman Empire started to fade after Caesar's death. Nevermind a Golden Age or two. Maybe because this is the period when Christianity starts to become an important factor and hence the attention of history textbooks shifts towards it. Maybe because Hollywood is firmly settled on filming hardly anything before Spartacus's revolt and after the burning of Rome (Gladiator being the notable exception).
The Empress turned out much more than the guilty pleasure I thought it would be. Strongly recommended!(less)

2 likes · like · see review

Apr 14, 2013 Alyssa rated it 4 of 5 stars

Not one of Kate Quinn's books have disappointed me yet. This was another page turner, yet extremely well written and well researched. I don't know a whole heck of a lot about ancient Rome, but it's clear that Quinn definitely does her homework. The time period is evoked very vividly and in good attention to detail that lesser historical fiction authors would miss or neglect. Her seamless integration of actual historical figures with fictional characters is also to be commended.

Also impressive is...more

3 likes · like · see review

Jun 01, 2012 Kirstin rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: ancient-world, favorite-authors, favorites

I love Vix!! He is crude, abrasive and yet completely irresistible. Your heart goes out to him in Mistress of Rome and everything he went through, but you truly fall in love with him in Empress of the Seven Hills. The young man at the beginning is very different than the seasoned solider at the end, but both are strong and courageous, though only one truly understands love and how to love. Sabina is a different story. I loved and hated her at the same time, but she is a major improvement from he...more I love Vix!! He is crude, abrasive and yet completely irresistible. Your heart goes out to him in Mistress of Rome and everything he went through, but you truly fall in love with him in Empress of the Seven Hills. The young man at the beginning is very different than the seasoned solider at the end, but both are strong and courageous, though only one truly understands love and how to love. Sabina is a different story. I loved and hated her at the same time, but she is a major improvement from her evil little mother. She was a product of her situation. Thrown into a life she didn’t want and tried her hardest to live it the way she wanted. I must say she gave it a very good attempt. As much as these two characters didn’t want it, their lives became so intertwined beyond even this book

This story is about them, Vix and Sabina, who were the children in Mistress of Rome. There are many characters who continued into this novel as well which was a nice touch to find out how they turned out. Kate Quinn gives you a glimpse into Ancient Rome through the eyes of her characters. Her characters are vibrant and alluring each in their own way. Some are bad and other goods and most are a little of both. It is crazy to think some of the characters were real people who really lived these lives or at least something similar. I like I would have really liked Trajan.

Ancient Rome had to have been a wondrous place to live. It was dangerous and difficult for anyone not in the elite class, but the advancements they made are still outstanding today. This novel was set a time period of war and Emperor Trajan’s ever growing collection of provinces. Vix thrived in this life as did so many others. The life of a legionary must have been very rough, never knowing what would be next. The commitment alone should have scared many soliders, but it was the glory that kept them signing up. While the people of Rome lived comfortable lives with running water and steam rooms, these soliders were marching 15 miles a day carrying an entire lifestyle on their backs. Their accomplishments were very impressive, as was their devotion to their Emperor. I love Ancient Rome and I really hope this story continues because I love what it creates. At the end, there is a hint that there may be another book at some point. My fingers and toes are crossed because I can’t get enough of Vix. If you read Mistress of Rome, then this is a must read for you.
(less)

3 likes · like · see review

Jun 26, 2012 Sarah rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: ancient-historical-fiction, historical-fiction

When a cliffhanger like the one on the last page of this book causes you to screech "NOOOOOO" like I did after reading it, the author has earned the right to say she has written a great book. Kate Quinn has given us another excellent book in this, the third installment in her Rome series. It has just about every human emotion possible evoked from the colorful, dynamic characters. I loved every minute!

Unlike this book's predecessors, EotSH did not tend toward language which was too modern for the...more

3 likes · like · see review

Jun 07, 2012 Debbie rated it 4 of 5 stars

Really good book. It was a fast paced story that moved along. The different characters were very well written. The story was easy to follow. Great setting that came to life. The last 40 pages were not my favorite because the ending was a bit of a cliffhanger. Overall, I completely enjoyed the book.

3 likes · like · see review

Jul 31, 2012 CookieDemon rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: fiction, historical-fiction

Addictive reading! [4.5 stars] (Spoiler free review)

**Published as 'Empress of Rome' in the UK.**

I adore Kate Quinn’s unparalleled ability to transport a reader back to the deceit, brutal fights and depravity, unashamed decadence and sneaky politics of an ancient empire. I was really looking forward to reading the third book in her Rome series after adoring the previous two, and I have to say that I love the UK cover for this one as well- very glamorous and eye-catching.

In this book we are reun...more Addictive reading! [4.5 stars] (Spoiler free review)

**Published as 'Empress of Rome' in the UK.**

I adore Kate Quinn’s unparalleled ability to transport a reader back to the deceit, brutal fights and depravity, unashamed decadence and sneaky politics of an ancient empire. I was really looking forward to reading the third book in her Rome series after adoring the previous two, and I have to say that I love the UK cover for this one as well- very glamorous and eye-catching.

In this book we are reunited with Vix, an ex-gladiator with powerful ambitions to rise upwards in the Roman legion and Senators daughter Sabina. Against a backdrop of a Empire that seems to have reached its peak, Vix and Sabina encounter an ambitious, manipulative empress who will stop at nothing to ensure that her beloved and aristocratic Hadrian becomes the next Emperor...

It was enjoyable catching up with characters that I have grown to love in previous books- particularly Vix and Sabina. The characters are all very well-drawn and believable and I particularly liked the honourable Titus and Sabina’s younger sister Faustina and how they grew as characters through the novel. Empress or self-styled ‘Mother of Rome’ Plotina was very well depicted too, and though utterly bat-sh*t crazy was excellently written and I really enjoyed reading about her. Talk about mommy dearest!

For me, spirited female characters who know their own minds are always great to read about and Sabina was certainly one of those, with her ambition and strong sense of adventure, particularly at a time when the lives of young women were supposed to take a very different path. Though I didn’t always agree with Vix’s actions which could be somewhat questionable at times, he certainly made a fascinating protagonist too and between he and Sabina, the pace of the plot was constantly ratcheted up a notch. In fact, the pace of this book just never slowed down at all- there was always some fast-paced action going on, which I loved.

Evidently, I couldn’t find any fault with this books writing, plot or characters, but what did mean I knocked off half a star was the cliff-hanger ending- I can’t believe I have to wait so long for the next book’s release to find out exactly what happens with Vix and Sabina. Argh! Admittedly the cliff-hanger was very well done, but come on!!! How can you keep us readers in suspense like this Ms Quinn?! :)

Cliff-hangers aside, my advice would definitely be to read these books in their intended order, beginning with ‘Mistress of Rome,’ followed by ‘Daughters of Rome’ and then this one. You don’t have to and they can be read as stand-alones, but some characters backgrounds follow on in this one and it would be such a shame for anyone to miss out on how good these books actually are; you won’t be able to put them down- guaranteed.

(less)

1 like · like · see review

May 06, 2013 Annmarie rated it 5 of 5 stars

Once again Kate Quinn sucked me into ancient Rome with her story. I am hoping she will continue to write about these characters and am deliberately not looking up the historical characters so I don't know what happened to them lol. Ms. Quinn is a fantastic writer and transports you through time. If you like historical fiction, she does not disappoint!

2 likes · like · see review

Jul 25, 2012 Hermine rated it 4 of 5 stars

I love the fact that Kate Quinn took Mistress of Rome and turned it into a series. The first 2 books were great and characters are growing up/older to be able to continue following them is a joy for me.

I finished and figured it was time to update my review. I have to say, I am a bit disappointed at the ending. So I don't add spoilers and ruin this one for others, because it' still a good book, these comments may not be helpful because I have to leave information out....I love happy endings but t...more

1 like · like · see review

Apr 19, 2012 Amy rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: arcs, historical-fiction, rome, read-in-2012, ancient-rome

No one does Ancient Rome quite like author Kate Quinn and her third novel, Empress of the Seven Hills, is yet another shining example of historical fiction done right!

Vix is the son of Thea from Quinn’s first novel, Mistress of Rome, and the feisty boy we met previously has grown into a headstrong, obstinate man with a loyal heart…I fell in love with him instantly! Sabina is equally headstrong. She’s a woman who knows what she wants out of life and goes after it, but not in a conniving, schemin...more

5 likes · like · see review

Apr 13, 2012 Komal rated it 4 of 5 stars

A beautiful story about an ancient world that was captivating with its political turmoil, military endeavors, and individual players with their own agendas and desires. The characters were vivid but so complex, intriguing though often times questionable. Some of my favorites were Sabina, Titus, and Mirah.

After reading Mistress of Rome, I was bit hesitant to read this one only because Mistress was just so amazing (one of my favorite books of all time). This one wasn't quite as intense which I bo...more

2 likes · like · see review

May 15, 2013 Monique rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: on-and-on-trilogies-two-part-books

Ha finally painstakingly slowly finished another book in my precious little free time but oh what a book it was and I am so glad I did...Okay so this was the final (or was it?)entry by the amazing Kate Quinn on the epic drama of Rome and those who live and died for it, the illustrious senators, gladiators, soldiers, maidens, slaves, freedmen and everyone in between as they live, fight, work, scheme and struggle to survive with some semblance of happiness in desperate times..In this story you fla...more Ha finally painstakingly slowly finished another book in my precious little free time but oh what a book it was and I am so glad I did...Okay so this was the final (or was it?)entry by the amazing Kate Quinn on the epic drama of Rome and those who live and died for it, the illustrious senators, gladiators, soldiers, maidens, slaves, freedmen and everyone in between as they live, fight, work, scheme and struggle to survive with some semblance of happiness in desperate times..In this story you flash back to the original Mistress of Rome and Daughters of Rome often so its good to read both instead of this as a standalone novel but the characters and storyline will pull you right in regardless..You meet Vix and fall in love with him and his reckless, fierce, rugged ways and follow him and others as Emperor Trajan plots to take over the world with his manipulaive wife pulling all sorts of strings behind him exerting her own power. Within Vix's story you meet Vibia Sabina and I can't say I hated her, she gets annoying at times but you always understand her and despite it all want her and to finally settle down and be happy..I adored the way you are drawn into day to day life, food, clothing and the characters make you want the book to go on forever and ever with even more detail..I also was reminded by reading a fellow reviewer's thoughts that there were off parts in the story like the fact that everything was told to you before it happened and that more time wasn't taken to delve into Hadrian..Of the three I still think Mistress of Rome was the best, then this one and then lastly Daughters of Rome but I love them all for real and have to own them and the next, as this novel ends with more questions to frustrate you and make you seriously want to email the author and ask what happens to Vix and Sabina? What about Mirah and the children? What becomes of Titus and Faustina and will someone please stop evil ass Plotina and snobby Hadrian..sigh lets try something fast and furious for my next read, but patiently awaiting another story as I seriously have literary crushes on Arrius The Barbarian and his son Vix and want more I want more LOL...(less)

2 likes · like · see review

Mar 18, 2013 Tasha rated it 5 of 5 stars

Ok this is more of a rant than a review.......

For starters, the book was AMAZZZZZING I love the development of the secondary characters from "Mistress of Rome" (aka MOR), Vix and Sabina and I love the fresh plot (it wasn't a regurgitation of the aforementioned novel but a new story in and of itself). However, for me, as a reader, the ending is EVERYTHING. If I don't like the ending, I usually don't like the book. For "Empress of the Seven Hills" (aka EOSH), I'll have to make an exception, becau...more

2 likes · like · see review

Jan 29, 2013 Melissa rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: historical-fiction

Talk about a punch to the gut! Of course if I knew my Roman history better it wouldn't have been. And just so I'm not leaving you completely in the dark, I am referring to the ending of this book. And that's all I'm saying on that matter.

It's been a few years since "The Mistress of Rome" and Vercingetorix (Vix) is now an ornery boy of eighteen. He leaves the safety of his parents home for Rome where he wants to join the army and make something of himself. He quickly learns that a role there is a...more Talk about a punch to the gut! Of course if I knew my Roman history better it wouldn't have been. And just so I'm not leaving you completely in the dark, I am referring to the ending of this book. And that's all I'm saying on that matter.

It's been a few years since "The Mistress of Rome" and Vercingetorix (Vix) is now an ornery boy of eighteen. He leaves the safety of his parents home for Rome where he wants to join the army and make something of himself. He quickly learns that a role there is a long time though and as he makes his decision, takes a job as a guard for an old friend of his parents. There though is the intelligent and intriguing Sabina, daughter of the household, who quickly uses Vix to her own ends. After feeling betrayed he does go and join up to fight and starts making his career on the battlefield while Sabina marries for adventure. Under the rule of Emperor Trajan, a beloved Emperor of the people, they set out on their own destinies, despite a few enemies who would like to see them fall.

Vix is very brash. I was glad to see some growth and mellowing of him in the book but he always is very hard headed and at times weak in his actions. I enjoy reading about him, but sometimes I have to shake my head at some of the things he does. Sabina though, while I admired her for being adventurous, I can honestly say I didn't really like her. She seemed very selfish in some ways and not caring of other people's feelings. Still, I'd rather root for her than some of the antagonists in this story, which was really the whole point of things. I just wish I had felt more connected to her since she was a main character. I much prefer her sister as she grows up, who isn't as adventurous but appears to have a whole lot of heart. I also enjoyed the character Titus who was just self-deprecating enough to be lovable. You could only hope good things for him and I'm eager to find out what happens in his story.

I thought the plot was pretty good. It spanned quite a bit of history and while not entirely accurate (as Quinn admits and gives reasoning for) it does have a lot of good research that went into it. I tired a little of the war scenes, but the character development and non-war scenes made up for it. I guess I'm just cut out for campaigns. And it was nice to see a lot of the characters come back from the previous book. I will warn that there is violence, sex, and other such things in this book. If you don't like that sort of thing, don't read it. I personally think it makes things realistic. The writing style too is more modern, not written in an authentic voice, and rather than it detracting from historical aspects of the book, I feel that it makes it more approachable for the average reader. I will warn that the ending on this book is a cliffhanger, so readers should approach it with caution if they are reading it with still a good chunk of time left waiting for the next one to come out.

A very good book and while I didn't quite enjoy it nearly as much as Mistress of Rome, it was still entertaining. I would definitely recommend Quinn to any historical fiction fan and plan to read her next book when it comes out.

Empress of the Seven Hills
Copyright 2012
486 pages

Review by M. Reynard 2013

More of my reviews can be found at www.ifithaswords.blogspot.com (less)

3 likes · like · see review

Sep 14, 2012 Trudy rated it 3 of 5 stars

As with "Mistress of Rome," I enjoyed this book despite flaws that I could have gotten hung up on. It's a fun read although I found some parts forced me to suspend my disbelief quite a lot (Sabina's adventures with Vix on campaign, for example). The main characters here are far more complex and less cut-out than the characters in "Mistress of Rome," which I was glad to see, but Sabina seems to me like the character we all too often see in historical fiction: a woman with basically modern sensibi...more

like · see review

May 29, 2012 Sarah rated it 5 of 5 stars

So far Kate Quinn is 3 for 3 in writing amazingly entertaining, easy-to-read books. Mistress of Rome was awesome, Daughters of Rome was fascinating and now Empress of the Seven Hills takes the cake.

Despite all of her books being somewhat interrelated, this one has the feel of Book One in a series. For the most part it has a self-contained story, but the story lines are not 100% wrapped up when you close the covers and one of our narrators as much as promises a direct sequel. A sequel, I might ad...more

3 likes · like · see review

Apr 23, 2012 Joy rated it 4 of 5 stars

While this is the third and most recent book written by the author, it is more of a sequel to the first book she wrote as the main characters are children of those from [i]Mistress of Rome[/i]. The story follows Vercingetorix the Red (aka Vix), the son of Thea and Arius, as well as Vibia Sabina, the daughter of Marcus the senator and his second wife Lepida Pollia, as they navigate their adulthood in the world of Rome. The strengths of the first book are carried into this one, namely the descript...more While this is the third and most recent book written by the author, it is more of a sequel to the first book she wrote as the main characters are children of those from [i]Mistress of Rome[/i]. The story follows Vercingetorix the Red (aka Vix), the son of Thea and Arius, as well as Vibia Sabina, the daughter of Marcus the senator and his second wife Lepida Pollia, as they navigate their adulthood in the world of Rome. The strengths of the first book are carried into this one, namely the description and color of the cities the story is set into and the strong and varied cast of characters, with a few exceptions.

The book starts out with Vix essentially swearing and cursing Sabina for what she's done to him over the course of his life, so I spent most of the book waiting for a cruel betrayal or other heinous deed to occur, which never did. Sabina's only crime that I could see was that she was realistic in that she had to marry someone of her station, that she could not follow a mean soldier when she was a senator's daughter. She loved Vix and spent as much time as she could with him, but was always clear that she had to be a proper wife (as much as needed considering her husband was homosexual) and that would come first. Vix's inability to accept this without any sort of real explanation just makes him into a drama queen, which is at odds with his character and was annoying whenever the two would part.

The Author's Note at the end explains that the ending of this book is actually in line with historical documents, which is the only reason I will accept for how badly the book ends - it's ridiculous, to be honest. The character of the Empress Plotina is just as evil and irritating as the previous book's Lepida, especially her constant referral to her stepson as Dear Publius. I quite liked her husband the Emperor, and feel he was one of the best written and enjoyable characters of the book.

It will be interesting to see if the author takes up the story left at the break of this book.(less)

like · see review

Feb 15, 2012 Judith Starkston rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: historical-fiction, strong-women, roman

Kate Quinn knows how to serve up a full-flavored Rome with plenty of spice. Empress of the Seven Hills is the third of her books (Mistress of Rome and Daughters of Rome), although you can get by without reading them in order. They are all page-turners, lots of fun.

As usual with Kate Quinn’s books, Empress is driven along by fully-developed characters. Her main heroine, Sabina, starts out interesting and keeps developing and growing. Quinn has a way of granting her central female characters the f...more Kate Quinn knows how to serve up a full-flavored Rome with plenty of spice. Empress of the Seven Hills is the third of her books (Mistress of Rome and Daughters of Rome), although you can get by without reading them in order. They are all page-turners, lots of fun.

As usual with Kate Quinn’s books, Empress is driven along by fully-developed characters. Her main heroine, Sabina, starts out interesting and keeps developing and growing. Quinn has a way of granting her central female characters the fate they work very hard to get, but then aren’t the least sure they want once they gain it. Some of the book’s characters are deliciously wicked, several decidedly lusty. She depicts intelligence with depth and perception. Her smart people aren’t always likable or good, but you admire their brains. The characters we like, and there are several, keep us rooting for them with increasing fervor, and sometimes things come out as we wish. As with her other books, Empress is full of juicy relationships, both offbeat and more conventional. You won’t be able to predict the paths of this cast. They kept surprising me.

Quinn is an excellent writer of dialogue. You get an intimate feel for her characters through their words. Vix, a physically commanding legionary soldier with an explosive temper, uses short, muscular expressions. Hadrian, who starts out a fairly likeable man but who increasingly reveals a cold stiffness, uses long, pompous sentences even in the middle of a military camp. Quinn chooses a contemporary idiom including the expletives you hear in 21st century America, but it works well. Quinn’s dialogue never yanks me out of the past or jars me as inappropriate. I stay right there inside her characters in ancient Rome. Many of the concerns and themes prevalent in ancient Rome are still with us in contemporary America, which may partially explain why the modern idiom feels right to me: political cynicism about corruption especially financial, contradictory sexual mores, the scorn one faction has for the “elitist intellectuals,” and the breakdown of family and other social structures, or at least the perceived breakdown.

Quinn fudges a bit with some history—most particularly with Titus’s role—but she owns up to everything in her author’s note and explains the changes. They are integral to her tale. She’s great on the details of life—what a legionary ate while on the march and a quick look at how he cooked it, for example. Her knowledge of the period is plenty deep enough that she avoids the failing of a lot of historical fiction writers when they drag out the same details over and over for lack of knowing any others. She added to my store of interesting facts and, more importantly, she builds a persuasive world. You’ll be there.

Daughters of Rome excelled at portraying the Rome of women. This book does that to some extent also, but much of the time it steps into the world of men. Sabina’s interest in seeing the world takes her far from the safe atrium of her father’s home, and she certainly doesn’t like hanging out with her mother-in-law. This gives new territory for Quinn’s talent.
(less)

6 likes · like · see review

Jul 18, 2012 Marti rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: zzz-2012-summer-list, zzz-books-2012, can-t-let-go, favorite-authors, fiction-historical, time-limit-library, kate-quinn, ancient-times-fiction

I wish I could give more than five stars for Empress of the Seven Hills! Once again Kate Quinn has enthralled me with her historical novel of Rome.

The novel is so engrossing that time passes very quickly. The book chronicals the years of Trajan's rule and goes into Hadrian's rule... both are considered rather "good Caesars". The political ramifications and the intricate plot leave you breathless for what might possibly happen. Even thought you could simply 'google' the information, you want the...more

3 likes · like · see review

May 05, 2012 Copperfield Review rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: historical-fiction

Here is yet another historical novel set in Ancient Rome, but Kate Quinn’s Empress of the Seven Hills stands in a class all its own. I was already a fan of Quinn’s from her previous two Rome centered novels, Daughters of Rome and Mistress of Rome, and while this new novel doesn’t focus on the same characters as her previous book, I found it equally captivating. Her research on Ancient Rome is meticulous, and what I appreciated as someone writing a book about that era myself is that where she was...more

3 likes · like · see review

Apr 10, 2012 Stephanie Dray rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: ancient-history, books-set-in-ancient-rome, historical-fiction, historical-romance, historical-women-s-fiction

You all know that I enjoy Kate Quinn's books, but this is my favorite by far. Quinn specializes in irreverent, fast-paced romps through antiquity. In a literary world where historical fiction often takes itself too seriously, Quinn tends to underplay her more serious themes by thumbing her nose at reader expectation. Her smart-alec tone is perfectly suited to the story--that of a hellion-turned-legionary commander and the spirited but unconventional patrician girl he loves.

We expect these star-c...more You all know that I enjoy Kate Quinn's books, but this is my favorite by far. Quinn specializes in irreverent, fast-paced romps through antiquity. In a literary world where historical fiction often takes itself too seriously, Quinn tends to underplay her more serious themes by thumbing her nose at reader expectation. Her smart-alec tone is perfectly suited to the story--that of a hellion-turned-legionary commander and the spirited but unconventional patrician girl he loves.

We expect these star-crossed lovers to be doomed by their difference in birth and any number of imperial laws and marital duties that are likely to keep them apart. But Quinn doesn't take the easy route in this romance. (Indeed, one questions if it really is a romance at all.)

Our scoundrel of a hero loves Emperor Trajan and his legion more than he loves anything. Our aloof heroine is so practical about the realities of life and so determined to be in possession of her own destiny, that love is always a secondary concern. Vix can be an arrogant, womanizing, narrow-minded killing machine, who often has to be guilted into doing the right thing. Sabina doesn't seem to have a sentimental bone in her body; the woman is made of iron.

They would be easy characters to dislike but they are each lovable in their own way. Vix is a sort of cheerful miscreant; he's a big trouble-maker with a warm fuzzy heart underneath it all. Sabina is oddly moved by duty, by loftier philosophical motives than she would admit.

Where our lovers are bonded most closely is not in their mutual affection for each other, but in their hatred for Emperor Trajan's successor, Hadrian, and in their abiding respect for Titus, the last honest man in Rome. Vix and Sabina aren't willing to sacrifice very much for each other--which is why they never stay together for very long--but they're willing to collectively sacrifice for others and it's a sort of redemption.

I loved watching Vix rise in the ranks and took great pleasure from a number of plot points that were set-up in earlier books now brought to fruition. Vix is the strongest character in the book with the most vibrant voice--I see a market for lots of Vix Explores Dacia stories in the future--but the self-deprecating Titus is surprisingly wonderful too.

In all, I enjoyed every page of this book. It was clever and even though it ends on a dark cliff-hanger, it left me grinning.

Who knows, maybe there's a little of Vix in me that I am looking forward to the coming blood bath.

(Full Disclosure: I'm personally acquainted with Kate Quinn, so I always hear the humor in her voice when I'm reading.)
(less)

6 likes · like · see review

Jul 12, 2012 Holly rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

LOVE IT! Can't wait to see what adventures await Sabina and Vix in the next one. I must say though, I'm very annoyed at Vix for the final scene. This may be a bit of a spoiler for some, so stop reading if you're not finished yet!

He has such a good wife in Mirah! And his two little girls! I know monogamy wasn't exactly the order of the day back then, but still, to go back to Sabina?! As much as I thought she was a great heroine, I feel like he just fed her arrogance by straying with her.

Having s...more

4 likes · like · see review

Apr 14, 2012 Amanda rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: 2012-releases

Author Kate Quinn, of Daughters of Rome and Mistress of Rome fame, is back with another wonderful trip back to ancient Rome in Empress of the Seven Hills.

Much like her previous novels, Empress is filled with fascinating characters caught in a dangerous world of love, power, political intrigue and lust. Emperor Trajan has come to the throne, and Rome is growing into the most prosperous and expansion nation on the face of the planet. In the midst of the empire's power, ex-gladiator Vix falls in l...more

1 like · like · see review

May 10, 2012 Christie rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: ancient-times, big-books, historical-fiction, italy, kick-ass-heroines, romance, royalty

No Spoilers for Empress of the Seven Hills, but proceed with caution if you have not read Mistress of Rome.

First sentence: "When I was thirteen, an astrologer told me I'd lead a legion someday, a legion that would call me Vercingetorix the Red."

This book is the latest in Kate Quinn's Rome series. It follows Vercingetorix, the son of Arrius and Thea from Mistress of Rome and Vibia Sabina, the daughter of Marcus Norbanus and Lepida Pollia. Vix is a legionary in the Roman army now and Sabina is an...more No Spoilers for Empress of the Seven Hills, but proceed with caution if you have not read Mistress of Rome.

First sentence: "When I was thirteen, an astrologer told me I'd lead a legion someday, a legion that would call me Vercingetorix the Red."

This book is the latest in Kate Quinn's Rome series. It follows Vercingetorix, the son of Arrius and Thea from Mistress of Rome and Vibia Sabina, the daughter of Marcus Norbanus and Lepida Pollia. Vix is a legionary in the Roman army now and Sabina is an adventurous young woman. Throughout the book, they have many adventures all over the Roman empire, while trying to avoid the scheming of the Empress Plotina and her protege, Hadrian.

I enjoyed this book for the most part, but did not think it was as good as Mistress of Rome. I enjoyed revisting characters as adults that I had last met as children. I was glad that Ms. Quinn changed her writing style a bit, especially with regards to the switching viewpoints. It made it much easier to follow with just one character's story written in the first person and the rest in the third. Like all of Ms. Quinn's books, the characters were well-drawn and realistic. I loved Titus and hope we get to see more of him soon. The historical note at the back was great and gave all her reasons for why she changed certain things. I very much liked the look into Roman army life and the glimpses into the provinces, which was much different from her other books.

There were a few things I did not like about the book though. It dragged quite a bit more than the others in the series have. I would have liked to have Hadrian's take on the story. He was so important to everything and it would have been nice to hear things from his perspective. I also very much disliked the foreshadowing on Vix's part throughout the whole book. I do not like foreshadowing in books, I would much rather things just progress on a normal track without knowing that something is going to happen in a few pages and being on the lookout for it. I also was not a huge fan of the fact that more so than any book in the series so far, this one ended on a pseudo-cliffhanger, making room for the next book (espeically since Ms. Quinn herself has said she is taking a break from the series for awhile to work on a new project).

All that being said, I would recommend this to anyone interested in Ancient Rome (you don't necessarily have to read the first two in the series to read this one, but it does help in my opinion). It's not the best book in the series, but it is still worth a read. (less)

2 likes · like · see review

Apr 10, 2012 Rio (Lynne) rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: historical-fiction, rome-italy-renaissance

4.5 Stars! This is my third and favorite Quinn novel so far. This one is the follow up to Mistress of Rome and Quinn leaves us hanging at the end for the next installment..dang her :)
This one was not as dark as it's predecessor. This takes up where Vix, the son of Mistress of Rome's hero and heroine Arius and Thea, sets his sites on Rome. The evil place his parents ran from. He was a child gladiator and now a rough, loveable barbarian. He wants adventure and he sure finds it. Sabina, who's mothe...more

6 likes · like · see review

May 20, 2013 twelvejan rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: adult, series, historical-romance, kindled, war-torn, read-in-2013, historical-fiction, ancient-rome, favorites

Oh my dear Vercingetorix, I truly adore thee.

4.5*, cos somehow, it didn't quite live up to Mistress of Rome. Regardless, I love Kate Quinn's opening message<3

"For Stephen, who in many ways—freckles, restlessness, short temper, loud snoring, left-handedness, dislike of horses, speed with a sword, impatience with superior officers, and that one muscle under the left shoulder blade that collects all your tension— is quite a lot like Vix."

Mistress of Rome left us with a sweet ending. Thea and Ar...more Oh my dear Vercingetorix, I truly adore thee.

4.5*, cos somehow, it didn't quite live up to Mistress of Rome. Regardless, I love Kate Quinn's opening message<3

"For Stephen, who in many ways—freckles, restlessness, short temper, loud snoring, left-handedness, dislike of horses, speed with a sword, impatience with superior officers, and that one muscle under the left shoulder blade that collects all your tension— is quite a lot like Vix."

Mistress of Rome left us with a sweet ending. Thea and Arius raised a great family on a mountaintop in the northern-most part of Britannia. And our dear, brash Vix has grown up with his own dreams to fulfill. And that's where EotSH takes us - a journey full of tribulations, love, and sacrifices.

MOR takes us through the rise and fall of Emperor Domitian, known for his cruelty and madness, while EofSH takes us through the rise and fall of the beloved Emperor Trajan. You could see the stark difference between the two Emperors - how they rule the empire, the Imperial politics that exists, the subjects and their love for their ruling Emperor. EotSH was an epic journey, taking us through the different battles specifically the Conquest of Dacia, and the War against Parthia.

I went into EotSH hoping for a sweet HEA for Vix and Sabina, had wanted the same devotion Arius had for Thea. I'm a sucker for the whole 'destiny' shebang, and it was aplenty in MOR. Their friendship began when they were just kids at their first gladiatorial game, and later when Sabina watched Vix's second gladiatorial battle when they're a little older, and when the then-Commander Trajan painted Vix's blood all over Sabina because fresh gladiator blood is supposedly able to cure epilepsia, and when they meet again when Sabina's 12 and she kissed Vix. I was expecting for them to get together, married and with kids. They did get together, but it ended at that. Both Vix and Sabina grew up to have different dreams of their own, although they are closely connected by their devotion for Trajan. As it is, a marriage between a patrician and pleb is uncommon. Regardless of it all, Vix and Sabina has a love-hate relationship. Even though they do not end up with each other, they will forever hold a special place in each other's heart.

EotSH is the third installment in the Rome series. I skipped Rome #2 cos I had wanted to continue with the story of Vix and Sabina. So you could consider doing that if you ever pick up the Rome series. I'm not sure if it's a trilogy but Kate ended EotSH with a hint of a follow-up novel. Because seriously, how could it end at that?!

Dear Kate Quinn, I really love your Rome series. I sincerely hope there will be a Rome #4! Can I request Rome #4 to feature Dinah and Chaya as the female warriors? Afterall, they are the grandchildren and children of ex-gladiators. I need some kick-ass female warriors! Thank you. Sincerely, a huge fan.

(less)

1 like · like · see review

Aug 20, 2012 April Hochstrasser rated it 4 of 5 stars

Empress has all of the same elements that made Quinn's previous novels shine -it's tightly written, dripping with excellent historical research and has great characters that shine through on every page. From the very beginning I was wrapped up in Vix and Sabina's struggles and I wanted to see the pair overcome it all. And the politics...the political intrigues were incredibly well constructed here and just powerful.

Probably my only possible criticism of Empress is that it really doesn't offer an...more

2 likes · like · see review

May 29, 2012 Lianna rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: historical-fiction, books-i-own

By now I think it's pretty obvious that I am a fan of Kate Quinn's writing. She is, in my opinion, one of the best authors of historical fiction out there today - skilled at staying true to history while giving us all the drama, deception and passion that makes a story interesting. Empress of the Seven Hills is just another shining example of this. I instantly fell in love with the characters in his book - Vix the tough as nails legionary, Sabina the lady with a surprising passion for adventure,...more

1 like · like · see review

Jan 27, 2013 Alison Scicluna rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: wishlist, roman

Another amazing novel by Kate Quinn. This one made me cry both with joy and sadness, shockingly gasp at the scandals and turn of events, and I'm pretty sure, there might be a sequel to this one. At least, it looks like it by the way it ended and I really, really hope so!!!

1 like · like · see review

title link	preview: Empress of the Seven Hills
avg rating	preview: Empress of the Seven Hills Goodreads rating: 4.17 (1022 ratings)
small image	preview: click here [close]
med image	preview: click here [close]
BBCode	[url=https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/11531957-empress-of-the-seven-hills?utm_medium=api&utm_source=blog_book][img]https://d202m5krfqbpi5.cloudfront.net/books/1307118199l/11531957.jpg[/img][/url] [url=https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/11531957-empress-of-the-seven-hills?utm_medium=api&utm_source=blog_book]Empress of the Seven Hills by Kate Quinn[/url]

Empress of the Seven Hills (Rome #3)

Friend Reviews

Lists with This Book

Community Reviews

new topic
Discuss This Book

combine
Other Editions (4)

Genres

Readers also enjoyed similar books

About Kate Quinn

Books by Kate Quinn

Share This Book

Share This Book on Your Website

Trivia About Empress of the Se...