Tom Haward

A visceral imagining of what today’s world might be like if the Roman Empire had not fallen. Haward has convincingly built a modern world that shares the worst Roman Empire brutalities, like slavery and crucifixions, alongside all the modern conveniences of our digital age, such as computers. Haward’s novel opens with the sadistic crucifixion of the main character’s wife on London Bridge and ends with the murder of the current Emperor Nero in an effort to achieve social, political, and economic justice. The plot is realistically intense with well drawn characters whose relationships convincingly portray political, familial, and romantic entanglements. The addition of the Republic of Indigenous America to the traditional Roman world view is a magnificent addition and gives Haward a natural way to extend his story line into hopefully a second book. Fans of Harry Turtledove’s works will love this book!
… (altro)

An interesting book but not personally my cup of tea *CHECK TRIGGER WARNINGS BEFORE READING*

Very dark and gory right off the bat, with a lot of graphic violence throughout, which I honestly wasn’t expecting, but luckily doesn’t bother me.

For the most part it was fairly well written and definitely did a good job at grabbing and keeping the readers attention, although the first chapter was very different and weak. I almost DNFd at that point, but am glad I did continue reading.
It was an intriguing idea for a book, although I’d have liked more building on the original idea.
Also Inclusive with LGBTQ and POC characters.

Not much in terms of a complicated plot but the characters were good and it does end on a cliffhanger, so hopefully the next instalment will further explore the culture and world, with a more dynamic plot.

*Received as an ARC for an honest review… (altro)

Interesting story set in an alternate world where the Roman Empire never fell. This world that was presented was solid & unique, which I appreciated.

Many of characters were complex & had compelling backstories, & I enjoyed getting to learn about them. There were some I thought that could've stood to be more well-rounded, but they were in the minority.

I found the plot itself engaging - the fight between the Romans & the rebellion made sense based on the world we see. This book was often rather gory & sexually violent. I think it worked for this story, but I would understand if it made other readers uncomfortable.

Overall, I very much enjoyed this book. It ended in a way that teased a sequel, which I would be interested in.… (altro)