Book Blurb:
At the end of the fifth century, the Eastern Roman Empire of Constantinople was assailed by enemy armies on all sides and rapidly sliding into ruin. Barbarian invasions had already swept the Western Empire into the dustbin of history, and the emperors and generals seemed unable to do anything about it. In the sixth century, however, the genius of two men and their remarkable wives stood between chaos and order. Their names were Emperor Flavius Petrus Sabbateus Justinianus and General Flavius Belisarius. Their wives, Theodora and Antonina, respectively, are perhaps two of the most extraordinary women in history.
This book is the story of the challenges they faced collectively, how a climate catastrophe turned their beloved empire into a wasteland, and how the world's first global pandemic contributed to their inability to revive the sagging fortunes of the Roman Empire permanently.
Book Buy Link: https://geni.us/gTgZH
Editorial Review:
General Flavius Belisarius’s father had once told him, “In love, we learn who we hope to be, but in war, we realize who we are.” It seemed like good fatherly advice at the time, but Belisarius thought his father had gotten it backward. War was usually simple; the enemies and objectives were clear. Love was more complex, and he had difficulty navigating its treacherous path. Despite a handsome face, a closely trimmed black beard, and ruddy high cheek bones, he never seemed to be enough for his wife. He suspected Antonina was cheating on him, and if her paramour had been his enemy, he would have charged him and cut him down, but her criminal partner was his once-beloved godson, Theodosius. He knew what kind of general he wanted to be and had largely achieved that. The real question that bothered him was: what kind of husband and godfather was he?
From the very first line, we are pulled into the story, and taken back in time to Constantinople, 534 A.D. The opening lines of "Empire in Apocalypse" immediately draw us into the setting and tone of the book. They effectively set the stage for the historical drama that unfolds, hooking the reader's interest from the start.
The gripping story of "Empire in Apocalypse" takes place in the turbulent years after the collapse of the Western Roman Empire. The rise of Byzantium, the almost complete retake of Western Rome, the black plague, considerable climate change, and the emergence of Islam are just a few of the historical events that the book masterfully weaves together. It is an engaging read because of the way that it combines historical fiction with creative writing to hold the reader's attention.
One thing I really enjoyed about this book is the character development. The characters of Belisarius, Justinian, Theodora, and Antonina are deeply explored, with Bruton successfully bringing these historical figures to life. Their emotions, aspirations, and struggles are vividly portrayed, adding depth to their personalities and making them relatable to the reader.
The book is also well edited, making it easy to read and get lost in the story. The formatting is well-done as well, creating an enjoyable reading experience. The seamless integration of historical facts with fictional elements is skillfully executed, maintaining clarity and readability throughout the novel. The dialogue is also handled well throughout.
With a single sentence, the old emperor had taken the wind out of the sails of the belligerent younger faction. Everyone in the Senate rose to their feet—beginning with the oldest—and began clapping. Finally, the young senators in the assembly joined in, and it was clear to Belisarius that the city would heed his counsel. “Long live the Empire, and long live Belisarius!” the old senator Praesidius yelled. As the old emperor dismounted the podium, Belisarius approached him.
“That was truly your greatest moment, Your Majesty. Thank you.”
Romulus returned the bow and said, “Liberate our city and restore Italy to the Empire,” and in a hushed tone added, “and do it before this old Roman heart stops beating.” He smiled and winked at Belisarius.
Belisarius nodded and departed the chamber as the senators chanted his name and that of the old emperor.
Procopius met him at the exit and slapped his shoulder, “I can’t believe you convinced them to wait.” “These people are not in such a hurry to die as they suppose,” Belisarius replied.
Bruton writes clearly and expressively, which helps you follow the story and not get lost in the colorful language that some historical writing contains. He exhibits a great degree of storytelling skill by striking a delicate balance between captivating narrative and in-depth historical details. It is impressive how well he can capture the intricacies of the time while holding the reader's interest.
The story arc is well-structured, with a clear beginning, middle, and end. The development of the plot aligns well with the historical context and character development, leading to a satisfying culmination of the narrative.
The narrative flows smoothly, maintaining continuity despite the complex plot. The transitions between the various aspects of the story - war, politics, romance, and espionage - are handled with finesse, ensuring a cohesive reading experience.
Phlebas examined his troubled face in the mirror at a shop near the port. He knew he was handsome and tall, and his beloved wife adored his thick, dark, curly hair. However, he saw lines on his forehead that reflected his anxieties about the final leg of the voyage and the risks of doing business with the Empress. She was tough, rarely paid fair-market value, and treated him with contempt. He returned because everyone wanted to buy silk from the man who supplied the Empress. This trip seemed more ominous than the many he had made before. The port of Pelusium was filled with sweaty, feverish-looking people. Vendors in stalls wrapped themselves in blankets to ward off chills. Corpses covered in oozing buboes were stacked on carts. Not far from the port, the stench of bodies piled in a mass grave overwhelmed him.
We are given a satisfying ending as the book concludes on a note that is both historically accurate and emotionally resonant. While it doesn't necessarily provide a conventional happy ending, it leaves the reader with a sense of completion and reflection on the era it depicts, so you can walk away feeling closure, although the story will likely stay with you for a while after.
The novel stands out for its focus on a period often overlooked in historical fiction. I love learning more about this time period and doing so in a fiction novel made it even more fun. Its unique blend of detailed historical research and imaginative storytelling sets it apart from other works in the genre.
Robert Bruton's "Empire in Apocalypse" is a brilliant novel that skillfully combines historical realism with imaginative storytelling. The novel shines because of its rigorous research, captivating plot, and well-developed character development. It provides a unique glimpse into an important but frequently overlooked historical period while also entertaining and educating the viewer. For readers who enjoy historical fiction and have an interest in the Byzantine era, this book is strongly recommended.
*****
“Empire in Apocalypse” by Robert Bruton receives five stars and the “Highly Recommended” award of excellence from The Historical Fiction Company
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