The Confessions of Young Nero

By: Margaret George

Narrated by: Steve West, Susan Denaker, Katharine Lee McEwan

The New York Times bestselling and legendary author of Helen of Troy and Elizabeth I now turns her gaze on Emperor Nero, one of the most notorious and misunderstood figures in history.

Built on the backs of those who fell before it, Julius Caesar’s imperial dynasty is only as strong as the next person who seeks to control it. In the Roman Empire no one is safe from the sting of betrayal: man, woman—or child.

As a boy, Nero’s royal heritage becomes a threat to his very life, first when the mad emperor Caligula tries to drown him, then when his great aunt attempts to secure her own son’s inheritance. Faced with shocking acts of treachery, young Nero is dealt a harsh lesson: it is better to be cruel than dead.

While Nero idealizes the artistic and athletic principles of Greece, his very survival rests on his ability to navigate the sea of vipers that is Rome. The most lethal of all is his own mother, a cold-blooded woman whose singular goal is to control the empire. With cunning and poison, the obstacles fall one by one. But as Agrippina’s machinations earn her son a title he is both tempted and terrified to assume, Nero’s determination to escape her thrall will shape him into the man he was fated to become—an Emperor who became legendary.

With impeccable research and captivating prose, The Confessions of Young Nero is the story of a boy’s ruthless ascension to the throne. Detailing his journey from innocent youth to infamous ruler, it is an epic tale of the lengths to which man will go in the ultimate quest for power and survival.

Critic reviews

PRAISE FOR THE CONFESSIONS OF YOUNG NERO

“George’s reconstruction of the man, in terms both of his public life and private character, is more than a revisiting of fact: It’s a subtle exploration of identity and the insidious effects of power...‘Confessions’ is all about identity: How is it made, lost, reinvented?...Margaret George occupies that blurry space between history and fiction. And between Tacitus and Margaret George, I rather think it’s George’s account that is not only most sympathetic but most truthful.”—Diana Gabaldon, Washington Post

“Margaret George has performed about the most audacious act imaginable for a historical novelist—an epic work of fiction not merely sympathetic to Nero, but told largely in his own voice. I applaud. And so, I imagine, does that connoisseur of the arts Nero, watching from Elysium.”—Steven Saylor, author of Roma: The Novel of Ancient Rome

“[George] brilliantly recreates past eras and bygone civilizations.”—Sharon Kay Penman, author of A King’s Ransom

“A wonderful novel, from the riveting first scene to the breathtaking finale.” —Jennifer Chiaverini, New York Times bestselling author of Fates and Traitors and Mrs. Lincoln’s Dressmaker

“Wow! Margaret George—the reigning queen of historical fiction—is back with this epic saga that vividly re-imagines the life of young Nero in all its operatic, dramatic glory.”—Stephanie Dray, New York Times bestselling author of Lily of the Nile

"Margaret George has an incredible talent in that she can stand in the shoes of her protagonist and speak in his or her voice.”—Barbara Taylor Bradford, author of The Cavendon Luck and A Woman Of Substance

inspiring look at a misunderstood leader

At first I was skeptical that the person Nero could actually be as good as depicted in the book... But the whole novel and the afterward were really informative about somebody who history has spat on. It was actually a really inspiring, unique person who was ahead of his time & send to care about the people

stunning

what a gritty and raw take on a classic historical figure who have been vilified almost to a ridiculous amount. I cannot wait for the second installment

In-depth research and insights into boys and men

Outstanding historical novel built upon great research. The author also understood the psychology of boys and men…rare trait. The idealist youth, the ambitious young man and the grim realism of imperial leadership all evolve as Nero grows up. Also so good to counter the supposed slander Nero’s reputation has faced since his death. He did not fiddle when Rome burned, he rolled up his sleeves and got to work.

Refreshing, plausible and more balanced

I'm a big fan of imperial Roman history, especially the Caesarian/Augustine lines. Yes, mostly for all the corruption, debauchery and intrigue; in those ways, Margaret George didn't disappoint. But it was nice to get an alternate view of Nero's Rome and his temperament. Not that he was an angel! I imagine no Roman emperor can live a spotless life and hope for a long reign. But this Nero isn't insane or tyrannical; he's certainly no more indulgent or cruel than his predecessors. He's fair-minded, even altruistic, appreciates (envies) the common people, and values artistic expression above all things. In short, a decent guy (who ended up having to kill a few people, including his treacherous mother). Performance-wise, I've struggled with this narrator on a few other reads, but got used to it after a while. It's an oddly uniform tempo, or... can't put my finger on it, just... too slippery. Not sure that I loved it enough to get the second book, but overall, enjoyable!

Bringing history to life

Margaret George has a way of weaving well researched history with characters who are relatable. Her vivid portrayal of Rome, Nero, and life in that time in history brings us there like a fly on a wall.