In AD224, Imperial Investigator Quintus Valerius is summoned from Rome to Britannia by his old companion-in-arms, Governor Gaius Trebonius. Trebonius wants Quintus to investigate fraud at the silver mines he is overseeing. But on his journey to Somerset in the south-west of the isle, Quintus hears rumours of a Druid uprising. And when he encounters […]
Three authors on how small discoveries had big impacts on their stories
Three writers of Roman historical fiction reveal how seemingly minor research discoveries inspired their stories. Sit any three historical fiction authors around the table and ask them about their research and you’ll be there for a week. Narrow it down to the specific ‘minor discovery’ that changed the course of the narrative and you might […]
The River Warriors by Michael Arnold
The legions march inland, but progress is slow, hampered by vast, ancient forests, swamps and treacherous rivers that must be crossed. But, guided by traitorous Celts blinded by self-interest, progress they do. Marshalling the fractious tribes, Caratacos plans the first major battle for the only fording point of the mighty Vaga River. Meanwhile, Cullen, now […]
Why one author changed the genre she writes in
What makes an author change the kind of books they write? Even when they’re well known and successful for the genre they’re writing in? Lizzie Lane, best known for her saga series, explains why she took a jump into the unknown with a new book set 2,000 years earlier, during the time of the Roman […]
Boudicca’s Daughter by Elodie Harper
Boudicca. Infamous warrior, queen of the British Iceni tribe and mastermind of one of history’s greatest revolts. Her defeat spelled ruin for her people, yet still her name is enough to strike fear into Roman hearts. But what of the woman who grew up in her shadow? The woman who has her mother’s looks and […]
The Savage Isle by Michael Arnold
Britannia in 42AD; the wild island at the fringe of the known world is in chaos. Cunobelin, High King of the Britons, is dead. His heirs, warrior princes Togodubnos and Caratacos, have spurned the careful alliances that kept the irresistible might of the Roman Empire from Britannia’s shores for so long. In this land of […]
Christmas reading 2024 – top historical books to give or to treat yourself to
We asked eight much-loved authors to each recommend a couple of historical books for Christmas 2024 to give, receive, or treat yourself to — fiction and non-fiction. There are ideas for history-loving children and teens as well. We hope these suggestions help to inspire your Christmas reading. Sharon Bennett Connolly For fiction, it has to […]
Birds of Prey by Damion Hunter
It has been 12 years since Faustus Valerianus first arrived in Britain, a centurion in the conquering Roman army. Many battles have been won, many allegiances gained. But those victories hide a more complex truth. In West Britain, the powerful Silures led by King Loarn plot their rebellion, fighting back against the now diminished strength […]