The Plot: City of Echoes: A New History of Rome, Its Popes, and Its People is a comprehensive and captivating narrative that delves into the intricate and complex history of Rome, focusing on the evolution of technology and the impact it had on the city's development and the lives of its inhabitants. The book explores the transformation of the papacy from an anonymous cult leader to a preeminent religious figure, and how this shift in power dynamics influenced the fate of the city and its people. From humble beginnings to grand basilicas, the pope's presence has been a constant force in Rome's history, shaping the city's destiny for centuries. The author, Jessica Warnberg, masterfully weaves together the stories of the popes and the people they ruled, revealing the bold and curious actions of both the men and women who have left their mark on the city. This groundbreaking account challenges traditional histories of Rome by placing the papacy at the center of the story, providing a fresh perspective on the city's past. The book begins with the early days of Christianity in Rome, where the papacy was born out of a marginalized and largely foreign cult. Over time, the pope's influence grew, eventually supplanting even the emperors as the de facto ruler of Rome and the preeminent leader of the Christian world. As the centuries passed, the papacy continued to evolve, adapting to the changing political landscape and technological advancements.

''