The Key to Rome is a gripping tale, from the very first page, about a young girl named Livia in the year AD 84, in Britannia, the Ancient Roman province. When Livia’s father, the village doctor, makes her promise to deliver a mysterious key to her estranged uncle Marcus in a far-away town, and then subsequently dies, Livia, now an orphan, sets out to honour her father’s wish. Making the treacherous and perilous journey, with the key kept safe, alongside her horse, Pegasus, Livia soon arrives to find her uncle Marcus has gone.

Only a young street boy named Mato apparently knows where her uncle is. He promises to take Livia to Marcus, but only if he can come along on her journey with her. The two children, Pegasus, and the mysterious key, journey on, and run into enemies, danger, trials and tribulations, as Livia struggles to fulfil her father’s wish and, all the while, she wonders what is so important about this key.

Sophie Masson pens a rich story of substance, style, and sparkle. Livia, Mato, and all supporting characters are drawn well with distinctive voices and personalities. The dialogue is clear and crisp, and the character’s actions and motivations are always moving the story forward in a logical and intriguing manner. The worldbuilding is incredibly intricate, making the reader feel swept up as though they really are in Britannia in AD 84. This is a treat of a novel for any historical fiction fan.

Highly recommended.

Reviewed by Brenton Cullen
Age Guide 10+