I just finished the trilogy, starting with this book, then The Golden Dice, ending with Call to Juno. The characters and stories will be with me for a long time. The wars between Rome and the Etruscan city of Veii form the backdrop of this tale of family, betrayal, friendship, and love. Stunning.

"Christ must do a lot of puking when he reflects upon the good works done in his name."

"She had a theory. About 95 percent of all people populating this sad planet are assholes, she believed, regardless of race, religion, or creed."

Raucous and funny retelling of King Lear.