A Book of Battles

This Friday, on October 25th, my second book , Antonius: Second in Command, will launch. I hope my readers are ready, because it's a book chock-FULL of warfare! There will be plenty of political intrigue and scandal, too. 

From the unexplored regions of Britannia to hill-forts of Gaul, dusty plains in Greece, rugged landscapes of northern Italy, and Rome's unrelenting Senate struggles, Second in Command is a fast-paced ride through the beginnings of Marcus's rise into politics as he becomes one of Caesar's most competent generals and supporters. Much more information from ancient sources is available on this part of his career, so the reader will also experience his character's transformation as he matures and becomes more ruthless through power. I used Plutarch's Life of Antony and Appian of Alexandria's accounts, in particular.

Readers will also be introduced to some fascinating historical characters--some of whom will be new to Second in Command. Though not central to the story in presence or dialogue, Caesar's rival and King of the Gauls, Vercingetorix will loom in the shadows, high above the Roman encampment at Alesia. He's just as influential with his own people as Caesar is with his own army.

Marcus Brutus and Gaius Cassius are two men of Senatorial rank. Both oppose Caesar's ambitions, becoming eventual enemies of Marcus Antonius, as well. Brutus and Cassius will go to any lengths to attempt restoration of Rome's vanishing Republic.

Cleopatra will re-appear as Egypt's new Queen. She also becomes a mother, bringing her baby to Rome on a state visit to further her favor with Caesar. However, most Romans of Senatorial rank aren't pleased at having a foreign queen so celebrated in their city, right under their noses.

Young Gaius Octavian is Caesar's great-nephew and though brilliant, has an unappealing and abrupt personality, as well as Caesar's own luck! Marcus despises him and a heated rivalry ignites between them that can hardly be contained.

Several other notable women characters are introduced, such as Fulvia. Much-married and of tempestuous nature and a brashness to rival most men, she is always full of surprises--and not necessarily good ones. Another young lady, Volumnia Cytheris will also make her appearance. Though earthy, low-born, and scandalous, she proves to have her own sort of honor.

So with such an exotic cast of characters and places to travel, join me for Antonius: Second in Command, coming THIS FRIDAY, OCTOBER 25th!!!

Now... who wants to win a book??? 

All you have to do is three things: 1) Subscribe to my website, here at https://www.brookallenauthor.com/  2) Go to Brook Allen's Facebook site, and "like" it. 3) Share that post.

That's ALL! You'll be automatically entered to win one of five, signed books. You even get to CHOOSE which book: Antonius: Son of Rome OR Antonius: Second in Command.

I will announce the winners on my website and on Facebook on Thursday, October 31st!