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helen 's review for:

Pompeii by Robert Harris
2.5

I first read this when it came out 20 years ago, and was inspired to reread after visiting Pompeii.

It's gripping and fast-paced with silly characters - the nerdy engineer who turns into an action hero when the plot demands; the corrupt property developer who likes earthquakes because they destroy the competition; his one dimensional daughter who conveniently emerges from a pool in her underwear.

Some aspects haven't aged well. Particularly the fatphobia, biphobia, dismissal of sex work and an horrific dead wife and baby scene.

This made me laugh: "Something's happening to the mountain. I'm not sure what. Exomnius suspected it weeks ago. It's as if...it's coming alive. You'll be safer in Pompeii."