A “brilliant” (Los Angeles Times) novel of ancient Rome—a realm of tyrants and slaves, of dark intrigues and seething passions—and the early years of Julius Caesar, the man who would become the most powerful ruler on Earth “An absorbing portrait of ancient Roman life and history, well written and full of suspense—even for those who know the ending.”—Kirkus Reviews In a city of grandeur and decadence, beauty, and bloodshed, two boys, best friends, dream of glory in service of the mightiest empire the world has ever known. One is the son of a senator. The other is a bastard child. As young Gaius and Marcus grow to manhood, they are trained in the art of combat—under the tutelage of one of Rome’s most fearsome gladiators. For Marcus, a bloody campaign in Greece will become a young soldier’s proving ground. For Gaius, the equally deadly infighting of the Roman Senate will be the battlefield where he hones his courage and skill. And for both, the love of an extraordinary slave girl will be an honor each will covet but only one will win. But as Rome is thrust into the grip of bitter conflict, as every Roman prepares to take sides in the coming battle, Gaius and Marcus’s friendship will be put to the ultimate test. . . .    With Emperor: The Gates of Rome, Conn Iggulden presents a grand romantic tale of coming-of-age in the Roman Empire and a vibrant portrait of the early years of a man who would become one of the most influential rulers in ancient history: Julius Caesar.   Ancient Rome comes to vivid life in Conn Iggulden’s Emperor series: THE GATES OF ROME • THE DEATH OF KINGS • THE FIELD OF SWORDS • THE GODS OF WAR • THE BLOOD OF GODS