Relive the dramatic last day in Pompeii in this immersive story, based on the city’s real residents. We all know how the people of Pompeii died. But what about how they lived? With thanks to Keighley_Reads for the below review!
There were a couple of things that drew me to this book: my love of Roman archaeology and my fascination with Pompeii. Having been lucky enough to visit several times – most recently in January this year – I knew I had to read it.
This is a fantastic book. While the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD is undeniably tragic, the book captures those final days vividly. It also highlights how fortunate we are that sites like Pompeii have been so well preserved, allowing us to learn so much about everyday Roman life.
Although it’s a work of fiction, the story follows seven individuals who could easily have lived in Pompeii at the time. The use of real names drawn from archaeological evidence, along with references to actual buildings, makes each narrative feel authentic. At times, it genuinely felt like I was walking the streets alongside them, seeing what they saw.
The illustrations included in the book – depicting scenes that still exist in Pompeii – add an extra layer of immersion. Combined with the author’s clear depth of research, it makes for a highly engaging read. I even learned quite a bit along the way (particularly about some Roman eating habits, which sparked interesting conversations at work!).
Overall, this is a captivating and well-researched book. I’d highly recommend it to anyone interested in Roman history, Pompeii, or historical fiction.
About the Book
We all know how the people of Pompeii died.
But what about how they lived?
Drawing on the latest archaeological discoveries, Dr Jess Venner brings the ancient streets to life through the eyes of those who lived, worked, loved and ultimately met their fate in Pompeii.
Along the way, Venner reveals a community more complex, diverse and human than we ever imagined. We meet Julia Felix, a successful female entrepreneur defying Roman convention; Petronus, a slave grappling with his future after gaining his freedom; politician Gaius Cuspius Pansa, who cements his power and prestige by hosting the Plebian Games at the amphitheatre; and many others.
Pompeii is remembered for its destruction, but here we discover the vibrant lives that came before. Richly evocative and immersive, The Lost Voices of Pompeii vividly recreates the final twenty-four hours before the eruption, reminding us exactly what – and who – was lost in 79 AD
About The Author
Dr Jess Venner is an award-winning ancient historian and archaeologist. She is currently a Leverhulme Early Career Fellow at the University of Oxford (2025-28) and was a previous holder of the presitigous Rome Award at the British School at Rome (2025-26). She is also an elected Associate Fellow of the Royal Historical Society, and a Trustee of the Herculaneum Society, amongst other academic posts.
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This book can be purchased in our store either on its own or in a cosy Book Box.
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