Tracy L. Higley
Historical Fiction
Back of the book:
In the coastal town of Pompeii, a new gladiator prepares to fight. But this gladiator hides a deadly secret: she’s a runaway Jewish slave girl named Ariella, disguised as a young boy. A savvy fighter, Ariella determines to triumph in the arena, knowing her life will be forfeit should anyone uncover the truth.
Cato, a wealthy politician, moved to Pompeii after tiring of the corruption in Rome. But he soon learns that Pompeii is just as corrupt, and if he doesn’t play the game, his family could pay the price. Determined to bring about justice for the citizens of Pompeii, Cato searches for allies. But what he discovers instead is a confounding group of Christians . . . and a young female gladiator whose fame is growing daily.
Political unrest reaches a boiling point as Christians are jailed and executed, and the mountain in the distance threatens to destroy the city with its river of fire. Cato and Ariella must act quickly and courageously to save their loved ones before all is lost.
My thoughts:
The story of Pompeii has always fascinated me. In our modern world it is so hard to imagine being unaware of the impending eruption of a volcano. I can hardly imagine being caught unawares, but that is exactly what happened to most of the citizens of Pompeii.
City on Fire is about so much more than the eventual destruction of the city. It begins with the story of the burning of the Temple in Jerusalem and the persecution of the Jewish people by Nero. The story is told through the life of Ariella who escapes a very dangerous situation by masquerading as a male gladiator. The debauchery of the Roman empire is told in detail but Ms. Higley does it in a very tasteful manner.
We are also introduced to an aspiring politician by the name of Cato. He has recently moved to Pompeii to escape a disappointing past and make a fresh start with his mother and sisters. Little does he know what this move has in store for him and those he loves.
I was completely intrigued by all the detail that was included in the story-line. This is not an easy read but it is one that is worth every minute. The persecution of Christians in such vile manners are important reminders that even though so much in our world has changed so much has stayed the same. If you enjoy historical fiction I urge you to get a copy of this book and be reminded of where we have come from.
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