The Ancient Ocean Blues by Jack Mitchell

Anyone who thinks ancient history is dry will think again after dipping into these ocean blues. Here, political corruption, intrigue, high-seas adventure, romance, and comedy are all presented in abundance by the likable Marcus Oppius Sabinus, a teenager with a very contemporary attitude. Marcus is unwittingly involved by his cousin in “promoting” the ambitious young Julius Caesar in an upcoming Roman election. When Marcus proves to be even better at bribery than his cousin had hoped, he is assigned a difficult and dangerous mission. He must spy on, and undermine, those who would support Cicero’s control of Rome, so that Julius Caesar can continue his power grab. The mission carries its rewards and risks. If Marcus succeeds, he will be on the inner circles of Rome’s elite. If he fails, he faces exile — or worse. Given very little choice but to accept his assignment, Marcus travels to Greece, but not before he is sidelined by shipwreck, enslavement, and pirate attack. Oh, yes, and the beginnings of love.

Marcus's uncle is Julius Caesar's best bud when it comes to campaigning, and when his uncle wants Marcus to spy on the famed "hero" Spurinna, Marcus is up to his eyeballs in trouble. Uncle Gaius insists that a trip to Athens will be a adventure of a lifetime, but Marcus soon finds himself shipwrecked along with some very unique characters. Those of you who aren't fans history or ancient Rome, are in for a for a BIG surprise!

I LOVED this book! The characters were fun and the plot was something out of a, well, a Greek novel (in the words of Pualla). It was a really short book--filled to max with twists, action, and comedy--so it's a perfect book for hesitant readers and those who have a hard time enjoying history. 

Overall, I had a great time reading The Ancient Ocean Blues and I hope you do to! Wishing upon a star that Mitchell writes more of these action packed books. Also, don't forget to check the pervious adventure of Spurinna in The Roman Conspiracy! Recommend for ages 12 and up.

|Pages: 200|Year Published: 2008|Publisher: Tundra|
|Genre: Historical fiction, Ancient Rome|
|Age Group: YA, ages 12+|Content: None|
|Enjoyed It: 5/5|Content Rating: 5/5|Cover: 5/5|
|Overall|