The key to Rome by Sophie Masson

Sophie Masson is a master at weaving historical facts into captivating stories, and this book is no exception.  Set in AD 84, more than 40 years after the successful invasion of Britain, it tells the story of Livia, a recently orphaned twelve-year-old girl.  Livia and her father have been treating people with eye problems for as long as she can remember, so when her father dies, she must find somewhere else to live. Her dying father has given Livia a key with instructions to take it to her estranged uncle Marcus, however when she finds his house, he has already left for a town further north.  One of her uncle’s servants, Mato, says he can assist her with information but will only help her if she allows him to come along on the journey.  Mato was kidnapped and put into slavery during a battle, and he wants to go home and see his mother who he believes is dying.  As they travel on her aging horse, Pegasus, in search of the uncle, they come to realise that the key holds a dangerous secret, and they seem to be unable to guess who is an ally and who is an enemy.

The exciting plot moves along well, and readers are drawn into the dangerous game Livia is playing when she tries to figure out what the key means and why her uncle and his enemies will do anything to get or destroy it.  But will they uncover the truth in time to stay alive?  Detailed background notes and a glossary at the back of the book are very helpful additions for young readers.

Themes: Great Britain History, Roman Britain, Family relations, Mysteries.

Gabrielle Anderson