An historical novel set in a really interesting period is always a treat when it's well done, and Palatine certainly doesn't disappoint. Set immediately before the Year of the Four Emperors, the book chronicles the events leading up to the unrest that resulted in that turbulent year.
As an historical novel it's interesting, but it is purely as a novel that this work really shines. Trafford, avoiding the mistake common to so many tyros of historical fiction, does not confine her cast of characters to the main players, but uses more humble types - slaves and freedmen, a prostitute, and so on - to tell the story in a way that results in a delightful narrative that often had me laughing out loud.
Funny but never farcical, earthy without descending into outright vulgarity, Trafford combines a sure, firm hand on the reins with a lightness of touch that made this book a joy to read.
Palatine will release on 22 June, and will be available from Amazon and from KARNAC BOOKS .
As an historical novel it's interesting, but it is purely as a novel that this work really shines. Trafford, avoiding the mistake common to so many tyros of historical fiction, does not confine her cast of characters to the main players, but uses more humble types - slaves and freedmen, a prostitute, and so on - to tell the story in a way that results in a delightful narrative that often had me laughing out loud.
Funny but never farcical, earthy without descending into outright vulgarity, Trafford combines a sure, firm hand on the reins with a lightness of touch that made this book a joy to read.
Palatine will release on 22 June, and will be available from Amazon and from KARNAC BOOKS .
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