Meh. The structure of the book is an interesting idea: The framework is a story in modern-day Rome involving the author and a young archeologist doing archaeological excavations and having discussions about life. Then each chapter is guided by a one letter from Seneca to Lucillius (from the Epistulae Morales ad Lucilium or Letters from a Stoic), followed by Lucillius' replies. The two protagonists discover these replies during their excavations; the content is not is invented by de Crescenzo. While I like this idea, for my liking, the "modern-day Rome" story plays too large of a part, and Lucillius' answers are interesting but seem a bit too modern as well. The letters triggered a few intriguing thoughts but overall it was a drag getting through the book. I think it's better to read Seneca's letters directly.