The Poison King: The Life and Legend of Mithridates, Rome’s Deadliest Enemy

This book gives the reader a permanent answer to the question of: “Who would you most like to have dinner with for an hour, and why?” Mithridates, whether or not each story concerning his endeavors was fabricated or exaggerated throughout time, was the most fascinating subject I have read about this year, bar none. Part scientist, magician, strategist, terrorist, financier and supporter of democracy, poison specialist, warrior — the list of contradictions and competing narratives goes on and on. Past the intellectually interesting and curious parts of his life, the author provides an incredible picture of Rome at the time from another, less accessible angle — that of its enemy. This book, beyond its entertainment value, provides a wonderful addition to one’s quest to understand Rome in a more holistic manner.