Augustus by John Williams 1st / 1st 1973

First UK edition and first print published by Allen Lane in 1973. This rare book is in near fine condition. The wrapper has very little wear with only a very tiny teart to the top left of the back panel.  There is minor rubbing to the spne ends. The wrapper has been clipped. The book is very presentable with square boards and straight edges. The pages are clean and without marks. Overall a near fine copy. 
 
The author tells the story of Augustus, emperor of Rome, from his youth through old age. The book is divided into two parts, the beginning chronicling his rise to power, the latter describing his rule thereafter, and the familial problems faced choosing a successor. Williams and Augustus jointly won the 1973 U.S. National Book Award for Fiction, the first time the award was split, and the only of Williams' four novels to receive significant acclaim within his lifetime. A rare title.