Monday, February 18, 2019

Imperial Vengeance

At a battle where the Romans have taken a fortress, Castus is warned by a witch that he will eventually kill his king before she is killed by one of his tribunes.

After the celebration of the victory, Crispus tells Castus that his father, Constantine, has decided to go to was against Licinius, the other co-emperor because he is persecuting the Christians.  Crispus is to take his armies to help Constantine, and he wants Castus to come along as his commander.

Constantine has decreed that Crispus is to be in charge of the navy. In Athens Castus runs afoul of Flavius Innocentius, a man tasked with routing out spies. 

Constantine now tells his troops that they now will fight under the sign of Christ.  All other gods are to be forgotten.  Unfortunately, a fire at the docks in Thessalonica has set back the naval portion of the expedition.  Accident or sabotage or divine disapproval?  Fortune is on the side of Constantine when his army defeats Licinius’ army.

Constantine now sets about building a new city, which is to be named after him - Constantinople.  However, this is not the end for Castus nor Crispus.  Treachery and life threatening events await.  Who can they trust?  Author Ian Ross’ latest historical novel is based on actual events and people who Constantine was to have expunged from records.  This was a thoroughly invigorating read and hard to put down.

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