Rome Burning

Rome Burning continues Sophia McDougall's alternate history trilogy set in a world where the Roman Empire survived into modern times. The novel picks up three years after the events of Romanitas, following Marcus Novius as he becomes Regent of the Empire during a time of mounting international tension. The story centers on political intrigue and personal conflicts as Marcus attempts to prevent war with Nionia while managing internal threats to his rule. His lover Una investigates a conspiracy involving his cousin Drusus, while her brother Sulien becomes entangled in dangerous events alongside the former advisor Varius. The narrative explores the complex relationships between the central characters against a backdrop of mounting crisis, as mysterious fires plague the Empire and various factions maneuver for power. War looms on the horizon as Marcus must navigate both international diplomacy and domestic treachery. The book examines themes of power, loyalty, and justice while questioning how an ancient system of governance might function in a modern world. Through its alternate history lens, it raises questions about the nature of empire and the personal cost of wielding political authority.

Readers note that Rome Burning maintains the alternative history world-building of the first book while taking darker turns. Reviews focus on the political intrigue and escalating tensions between Rome and Sinoa. Readers highlight: - Complex character development, especially Sulien and Una - Rich historical details and imaginative changes to real events - Expansion of the supernatural/mystical elements - Chapter epigraphs that add depth to the world Common criticisms: - Slower pacing compared to book one - Some find the political discussions dense - Romantic subplots seen as distracting by some readers - Middle-book syndrome with unresolved threads Ratings: Goodreads: 3.8/5 (134 ratings) Amazon: 4.2/5 (12 reviews) "The historical detail and alternate reality mesh perfectly," notes one Amazon reviewer, while a Goodreads review states "the pacing drags in the middle sections but pays off in the final chapters."

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Wolf in Shadow by Daniel Fox Explores political machinations in an alternate China where magic and imperialism intersect in the modern era.

The Throne of Caesar by Steven Saylor Depicts political conspiracies and power struggles in an ancient Rome that mirrors contemporary political dynamics.

🏛️ The "Romanitas" trilogy took McDougall six years to write, beginning when she was just 21 years old. 🗺️ In this alternate timeline, the Roman Empire spans five continents and maintains control through a complex system of satellites and advanced surveillance technology. ⚔️ The book's title "Rome Burning" references both the literal fires plaguing the empire and recalls the historical "Great Fire of Rome" during Emperor Nero's reign in 64 CE. 🌏 The author created detailed alternate histories for major world powers, with Nionia (Japan) emerging as the only nation to successfully resist Roman conquest and maintain its independence. 💻 The novel's world features a unique blend of ancient and modern elements, where crucifixion remains a legal punishment while characters use advanced computers and telecommunications systems.