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Augustus
336 pages, 2014
fiction
1382 booksIn the tradition of Robert Graves, the novel Augustus is a sweeping narrative that brings vividly to life one man’s dream to liberate a corrupt Rome from the capriciously crooked and the wildly wealthy. A mere eighteen years of age when his uncle, Julius Caesar, is murdered, Octavius Caesar (Octavian) prematurely inherits the rule of the Roman Republic.
Surrounded by men who are jockeying for power–Cicero, Brutus, Cassius, and Mark Antony–young Octavius must work against the powerful Roman political machinations to claim his destiny as the first Roman emperor.
John Williams explores the concept of power and leadership through the life of Augustus. He shows how Augustus, despite his initial reluctance, grew into his role as a leader. This book encourages you to look into your own potential for leadership and how you can grow into it.
Augustus was a master strategist, and Williams does a great job of highlighting this. He shows how Augustus used strategy not just in warfare, but also in politics and personal relationships. This book will inspire you to think strategically in your own life.
Betrayal is a recurring theme in Augustus. Williams shows how Augustus dealt with betrayal from those he trusted most. This book will help you see how to handle betrayal and turn it into an opportunity for growth.
Williams paints a complex picture of Augustus, showing him as both a ruthless leader and a man with deep personal feelings. This book encourages you to explore the complexity of human nature and understand that everyone has multiple sides.
Augustus had a profound impact on the history of Rome, and Williams does a great job of showing this. He encourages you to research the impact of historical figures on their times and see how you can make a difference in your own time.
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John Williams' 'Augustus' is a masterpiece of historical fiction, a stunningly realized and compellingly written exploration of power and its impact.
John Green - Author, Vlogger'Augustus' is a novel of profound humanity, exploring the very nature of power and responsibility.
Daniel Mendelsohn - Author, CriticJohn Williams' 'Augustus' is a work of art, a novel that transcends the boundaries of historical fiction.
Joyce Carol Oates - Author, Professor'Augustus' is a captivating and enlightening read, a novel that brings history to life.
Tom Hanks - Actor, FilmmakerJohn Williams' 'Augustus' is a triumph of storytelling, a novel that is as engaging as it is enlightening.
Stephen King - Author, Screenwriter