I was so excited to finally get this book on PBS, but have been disappointed with it ever since. The premise is SO good, but the writing really falls short. There is no doubt the author did an amazing job researching, but at many times in the book I felt lectured at on ancient Pompeii, instead of these bits of information seamlessly integrated into the story. What I found most annoying was the fact that she would repeat herself over and over again on small historical details, often using the same exact sentences again and again. Very irritating. If you can get past the poor writing and constant repeating, there is a good story line in here--good luck!

The historical information that is conveyed in this book is excellent, if a little dry. Essentially, it is a monograph on Pompeii masquerading as a very poorly plotted novel. Still, the historical detail is very interesting, and it is fun to visit the author's website afterwards to see pictures of the artwork and artifacts that appear in the book.

Historical value only. Story is unconceivably dull, repetitive dialogue and narrative, simple. Almost stopped. Should have.

This was a rather silly book about time travel and Pompeii. It talks about the earthquake of AD 62--not the eruption in AD79, so I appreciated them mixing it up a bit. A good read on the plane or by the beach.

Pro: 1) The story gave a somewhat in-depth look at life in ancient Rome, although it was probably much too positive with regard to the life of a slave. 2) I thought the story would end differently, even up until the very last pages, so it was an interesting surprise. 3) I enjoyed the premise of how the main character ended up back in time—it was simple (no real details), but satisfactory. 4) The story kept my interest the entire way through.
Con: 1) Better editing would have helped. For example, how many times do we need to be told that Marcus is the paterfamilias, or that reconstruction of Pompeii was not completed before the eruption of Vesuvius? Unfortunately, the writing could be slow at times.
Overall, I give this a 6.5 or 7 out of 10.

not bad... very soft science fiction time travel plot, but the research into Roman life was through enough to make that part enjoyable. Fun way to learn some history. Also try the Roma sub Rosa series featuring a detective in Rome around the time of Cicero.

Looking for a good book about time travel to Ancient Rome- Household Gods by Tarr and Turtledove is a much better read!