I didn’t realise this was a first instalment when I first started reading this book. I think to avoid confusion it should be Part 1 Agrippina‘s story. I was confused as I kept waiting for Nero, and I think he was only mentioned a couple of times
Anyway that would be my only criticism. The book itself is very well written and gripping, I couldn’t put it down. Wow that Agrippina is a ruthless determined woman. I enjoyed learning a bit more of the history of Rome, even if it was quite brutal.
This is my first book by the author, but I will be reading the next instalment, now that I know it’s not a standalone book

Conn Iggulden has once again brought to life ancient Rome, its rulers and its people in this compelling tale of intrigue and brutality.
We see a succession of emperors leading up to the arrival of one of Rome's most famous sons Nero.
I'll look forward to the next installment of this story with bated breath.
Thank you to NetGalley and Michael Joseph, Penguin Random House for my e-copy in exchange for an honest review.

An excellent read, fact and fiction to give it a bit more depth. Agrippina Is the main character throughout who seems to become a different person as the book progresses and the birth of her son Lucius who you would protect no matter what. Quite gruesome at times, but adds to putting you in the time and place. Look forward to the next instalment.

This is the first book in the trilogy! It is fast moving and lots of back stabbing involved! Some part are very detailed and gruesome! There was so much going on during this time in Roman era and i enjoyed all the twist and turns of what a mother would do to try and get her child to the top!
I enjoyed reading this, even the gruesome parts of the storyline and looking forward to the remaining 2 books!

Nero is book one of the Nero Trilogy set in Ancient Rome.

This book covers the early years of the boy who will one day become the infamous emperor. When the story begins, we are introduced to his parents. His father is an ex-chariot racer, who now spends much of his time drunk, while his mother, Agrippina, is a descendant of the Emperor Augustus.

Rome is a politically dangerous place, particularly when the ailing Tiberius returns from Capri to clean Rome of usurpers. He brings with him Agrippina’s brother, the next heir to the imperial throne. It is to her brother that Agrippina turns when she needs a favour, but it becomes a costly deed in times of terror.

Upon the death of Agrippina’s brother, her uncle becomes the next emperor. With thoughts of her own son and his future, she is determined to keep close to her uncle, even travelling with him on his campaign in Britannia.

This was a good start to the series. The violence and back-stabbing of the era is expected, but it is balanced with other elements of the Roman years. I particularly enjoyed the latter part of the book with the journey to Gaul and the invasion of Britannia.

The author’s notes at the back of the book were also very helpful, explaining the liberties taken with the changing of names, to help the reader where real-life characters shared similar or the same names.

I was already a big fan and this just cements Iggulden’s place for me as one of the best historical authors around. An absolutely immersive experience throughout that throws you into the politics of Ancient Rome for a journey you’ll not forget in a hurry.

Really enjoyed this (fictional) reassessment of Nero, but OMG, he made Caligula leap off the page. Very much hope as well as the sequel to this (as it only covers early Nero) he does a book (or more) on Tiberius (and Sejanus) and Caligula. As always with Conn, the sense of place is excellent and the story rattles along, whilst also including some meditations on the nature of mane / evil and the perennial nurture vs nature debate. 10/10 Highly recommended

Conn Igguldon's latest foray into the annals of history, "Nero," paints a vivid, almost tangible portrait of Ancient Rome in its most tumultuous era. Igguldon, renowned for his masterful storytelling in the "Emperor" series and his depiction of Julius Caesar, does not falter in his newest offering. This time, the spotlight shines on Nero's infancy, under the shadow of his mother, Agrippina, whose ambition and cunning are as palpable as the marble columns of Rome.

Igguldon's has an amazing skill in weaving a tapestry rich in historical detail and drama, much like the murals of the Roman villas. The narrative spans the reigns of Tiberius, Caligula, and Claudius, immersing the reader in a world rife with intrigue, betrayal, and the brutal politics of the Julio-Claudian dynasty. The book is a vibrant carnival of the senses, where the aroma of the Roman streets and the clamour of the Senate are as real as the pages in your hands.

For history aficionados, a word of caution – Igguldon takes creative liberties, deviating from strict historical accuracy in favour of a narrative that grips and entertains. His portrayal of characters like Messalina might make purists wince, but it adds a layer of compelling drama to the tale. This fictional reimagining is akin to a master painter adding vivid hues to a classic landscape – different, yet mesmerizing in its own right.

The heart of this novel, however, beats in the character of Agrippina. Igguldon delves deep into her psyche, exploring her influence over Nero with a deftness that is both intriguing and enlightening. It's a study of power, maternal bonds, and political maneuvering that adds a rich depth to the narrative.

"Nero" is an opulent feast, a blend of historical finesse and storytelling prowess. It's a journey through the cobbled streets of Rome, where every turn brings a new intrigue, a new alliance, and a glimpse into the making of one of history's most enigmatic emperors. This book is not just a read; it's an experience, a time machine that transports you back to the heart of Ancient Rome. Conn Igguldon proves once again that he is a colossus in the realm of historical fiction.

Conn Igguldon never fails to disappoint, and I was thrilled to see that he would be turning his hand to the Emperor Nero. As with his Emperor series, the first of these books looks towards the childhood of Nero, with a focus more predominantly on his mother Agrippina. Covering the reins of Tiberius, Caligula and Claudius, Igguldon once more creates a vivid vision of Ancient Rome, with the viciousness, intrigue and death one associates with the Julio-Claudian dynasty.

Having recently read SQPR (Mary Beard's fantastic non-fiction delve into Rome) it was great to see the attention to detail within this book BUT a word of caution. This is historical fiction, "fiction" being the key word. History buffs will notice several significant divergences from fact (Messalina's part grieves me but I blame Honor Cargill-Martin's excellent re-examination of this female powerhouse - another highly recommended book for those interested - I digress) but it keeps it interesting - kind of like when a TV show deviates from the book but you don't mind. However, the exploration and development of Agrippina is fascinating - especially when thinking about the influence she has on her son Nero.

You really can't go wrong with this - I was thinking of who I'd recommend to and realise all the books that come to mind are Igguldon's - this really is his forte.

Available for pre-order now, with a release on 23rd May 2024.

Conn Iggulden’s “Nero” plunges into the tempestuous world of pre-Nero Rome, with Agrippina’s fierce ambition for her son’s throne taking center stage. Vivid historical detail brings the era to life, while complex characters navigate a web of political intrigue and family betrayals. The fast-paced plot keeps the pages turning, though graphic violence may deter some readers.

However, historical accuracy takes a backseat to gripping drama, with liberties taken on figures and events. Nero himself remains somewhat overshadowed by his mother’s machinations. Ultimately, “Nero” delivers a fast moving read, but one best enjoyed with a critical eye towards historical fidelity.

This novel takes place at the end of Tiberius's reign up to and including Claudius.
It follows it mainly through the eyes of Claudius's niece Agrippina as she negotiates the dangers of Roman life especially as part of the ruling elite and therefore a potential rival to the imperial crown, and given the volatile nature of both Tiberius and Caligula her brother.
A good read up there with other books that Conn Igguiden has written.

This is a period of history which I have not really delved into. I found the book fascinating and it made me want to know more. It was bloodthirsty in parts but the characters were thoroughly believable. Well done Conn Iggulden.

*I was lucky enough to receive an arc from Netgalley and Penguin Random House in exchange for an honest review.*

The Emperor Nero is such a fascinating figure in history. He was an absolutely terrible and terrifying person but this book is a brilliant exploration of the experiences that he had when he was young that made him the way he was.

The focus on Agrippina was something I loved because she is such a prevalent person in his life. Often mothers are ignored by history but Agrippina is a woman who cannot and should not be ignored.

This book highlights both the greatness and the cruelty of the Roman empire. It is neither glorified nor is it dismissed as completely awful which reflects how humanity constantly shapes the world.

Nero comes out 23rd May 2024

Fast moving story that keeps you involved.
Enjoyed the topic as Rome is a love of mine. Nice to be able to visualise the areas mentioned.

We have a lot to thank the Romans for! It would be helpful to have a rough sketch at the start of the book to give it some perspective.

Thank you Netgalley for letting me read this book.

This should be called Nero: Part 1 - Agrippina, it is the first book of a proposed triology.

Conn Iggulden pens a wonderful tale set in Ancient Rome that largely deals with the early years of Nero’s life, to say he goes through a great deal is an accurate description. The barbaric and all encompassing power wielded by the Roman Emperors is on display here creating what must have been a constant state of fear for large numbers of the population.

Nero’s mother Agrippina is a supremely crafted character who does just about everything to survive plot, kill, marry and kill again ( not necessarily in this order). Against this backdrop the reign of Tiberius comes to an end, the praetorian guard then crazed Caligula and Claudius becomes Emperor, largely with the support and suggestion of the praetorian guard.

There is so much to admire here, it is a work of fiction after all, that I thoroughly enjoyed and am already looking forward to parts 2 and 3 to see how Nero became the infamous Emperor he was.

A 5/5 from me.

Thank you NetGalley and Penguin Michael Joseph for the ARC in exchange for an impartial review.

I know Conn Iggulden is a wonderful writer - I have enjoyed several of his books but this one simply did not grab me. This is only 'me' and should not distract from others enjoyment. Rome in the first century with all of the intrigues and murders and poisonings and then comes the notorious Nero, son of the ferocious Agrippina. A good source for the story well told,

I have loved this series but this book is a laborious read - finished out of loyalty to the author. It is focused on the plots and sub- plots of life in Rome in the Caesar family. I have missed not only battles (and their horrifying descriptions) but also the strategic planning of same.

A superb start to the Nero saga not so much detailing his years as emperor yet but the history of his relatives first. With his mother Agrippina the main character showing her plotting to maintain her family’s dominance with emperors Tiberius ,Caligula and Claudius all appearing in enthralling detail. Nero is shown as a young child with rebellious tendencies and a dark temper which sets things up nicely for future volumes. As a picture of Roman life in these cataclysmic times this story is an atmospheric joy. Brilliant.

Book 1 of 3 should be subtitled 'Agrippina' as its all about her overwhelming & hard to grasp deadly ambition to succeed for her family in a time of horror & terror where she only has her great beauty & grace to assist overwhelming odds. Hard to realise just how awful she was but she's not alone in her dark deeds which the book doesn't quite manage to portray the same depth.

The author style for this book is changed as there are no big battle scenes until the end of the book, where the author tries to give more character definition to the times & the effort to succeed in the invasion plans.

Many thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for gifting me this arc in exchange for an honest, unbiased review.

As a big Mr Iggulden fan I was delighted to be able to read more from him!

Immensely readable, well written and an enjoyable small bit of Roman history ending with the conquering of Britain. If this is the start of a trilogy about Nero, count me in for the remainder!

The wonderful Agrippina's story dominates a chunk of the book but she is worthy of it, in my opinion.

I love and admire Mr Iggulden's use of history which bring many events to life.

Thanks to Net Galley and Michael Joseph Penguin Random House for the chance to read and review.