Alison Morton's Thrillers

Excerpt from Double Stakes

The first few pages…

The ringtone echoed through the trees around the lake.

Mel grabbed her phone.

‘Des Pittones. Bonjour.’

‘Mel! Mel!’

‘Mum?’ Mel turned over and pulled herself up on her elbows. Her fair hair, damp from swimming, fell both sides of her face. Her name again, shouted this time with more urgency.

‘Help!’ Her mother was sobbing now. Then the line cut.

Beside her, Jeff McCracken stirred, blinking hard. The light and stifling heat from the August sun were intense, even in the shade under the leaves.

‘What? What’s the matter?’ he muttered and shook his head to clear it.

‘I don’t know, but it was my mother. She sounds agitated and my mother doesn’t get agitated.’ She stood up, grabbed her clothes and pulled on shorts, T-shirt and trainers. The next second, she was running up the bank. McCracken followed, only a step behind her. After racing half a kilometre along tracks between the swaying branches of the beech trees, they emerged onto the open parkland leading up to the chateau. Once at the back door of the ancient building, Mel leant forward to catch her breath.

‘Right, let’s get in there and see what’s upset your mum.’ McCracken twisted the iron ring handle to the right and shoved the heavy wooden door open. Across the hard paved vestibule strewn with boots and edged with a dozen coats hanging on one side, they pushed through the kitchen into the hallway.

‘Mum?’ Mel glanced left and right but chose right leading to the back of the building. Her mother would be in her beloved conservatory. She was, but standing in a sea of broken glass and torn plant foliage. In one hand, she held a round black ball. In the other, shaking violently, her phone. A crumpled sheet of paper lay on the floor by her foot. Her usually immaculate blonde hair was unravelling from its chignon. Her face was twisted in terror.

Mel stopped on the threshold. She glanced upwards. A large hole in the conservatory roof. Fragments of glass dangled from metal struts. Every pane still in place formed a ripple effect from the hole.

‘We’re here, Mum. Everything’s going to be okay,’ Mel said slowly, then jerked to the side as she dodged a falling splinter of glass.

‘Are you okay to stay put for a mo’, Susan?’ McCracken said at Mel’s side.

Mel’s mother nodded, but her eyes were wide with shock. She blinked hard, but a tear ran down her face.

‘I’ll get a broom and get you out of there, Mum,’ Mel said in a soothing voice and disappeared.

McCracken pulled out his phone and took some quick photos, then a video.

Mel rushed back with a long-handled brush and a paper bag, one of Susan’s acid-free herb drying bags. McCracken nodded and Mel began to push shards back to make a path for her mother. When she reached her, Mel held out the paper bag with her hand cupped under it.

‘Drop the ball and piece of paper into the bag first, Mum.’

Susan stared at her daughter. Mel smiled back, hoping to reassure her mother.

‘Come on, Mum. Then we can have a nice cup of tea and you can tell us all about it.’

Susan stretched out her trembling hand and dropped the ball into the bag. Mel stiffened her wrist as she took the weight of the ball – it was incredibly heavy. She smiled at mother and nodded to the paper on the floor. Susan crouched down, picked up the paper and dropped it in. Mel folded the edges of the bag over and held it backwards to McCracken. She took her mother’s slim figure in her arms and hugged her tightly.

‘It’s okay, Mum. It’s over.’ She took Susan’s hand. ‘Let’s get you away from here.’ Holding tight to her mother’s hand, Mel moved their clasped hands to the back of her own waist. ‘Walk on the clear bit of floor right behind me.’

‘Hang on for one second,’ McCracken said. ‘Where did the ball actually hit the ground?’

Susan pointed to the centre of the carpet of glass covering the conservatory floor. ‘Just there, Jeff, under the hole.’

‘Okay, love. Thanks. You go and have a sit down with Mel. I’m going to check something.’

Mel shot him a look. He shook his head at her, then looked up, flicked his black hair out of his eyes and studied the wrecked roof. Mel took her mother’s arm and led her to the kitchen and put the kettle on. After a few minutes, McCracken joined them. Susan was sitting at the long wooden kitchen table, hunched over her mug of tea. Mel drew McCracken aside.

‘And?’ she said in a low voice. She didn’t for the world want to upset her mother further.

‘A bit odd. Obviously, that ball caused the hole. It’s blooming heavy.’

‘Thrown from a distance away and landed on the conservatory roof by accident perhaps. Kids or sports?’

‘Who’s here to do that? Your dad owns all the land for miles around. It’s fields with no buildings apart from the odd barn. There’s no sports ground anywhere near except your tennis court. And nobody’s playing there – everybody’s at work. The kids are at school. I thought it could be some local toerags having a laugh.’ He flexed his fingers to move the bag now sitting in the palm of his hand a few millimetres. ‘Mind you, you’d have to have the muscles of one of those TV gladiators to throw this thing that far up. I mean, the roof must be about four people high, so seven to eight metres from the ground.’

‘That makes it deliberate. We’ll have to check the trajectory. At least we’ll find out where it was fired from.’

‘No need. I found a dent in the conservatory floor right under the hole. It had cracked one of the tiles.’

‘So it must have been dropped from directly overhead. Dieu. If Mum had been standing on that spot, she’d… she’d have been hit direct.’ Mel grasped the base of her neck. Cold crept under skin. Her mother could have been lying there, her head crushed in.

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Now available from Kobo B&N Nook Apple (except Europe) Amazon Paperback

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Alison Morton is the author of Roma Nova thrillers – INCEPTIO, CARINA (novella), PERFIDITAS, SUCCESSIO, AURELIA, NEXUS (novella), INSURRECTIO and RETALIO, and ROMA NOVA EXTRA, a collection of short stories. Audiobooks are available for four of the series. Double Identity, a contemporary conspiracy, starts a new series of thrillers. JULIA PRIMA, Roma Nova story set in the late 4th century, starts the Foundation stories. The sequel, EXSILIUM, is now out.

Download ‘Welcome to Alison Morton’s Thriller Worlds’, a FREE eBook, as a thank you gift when you sign up to Alison’s monthly email update. As a result, you’ll be among the first to know about news and book progress before everybody else, and take part in giveaways.

Why I wrote Double Stakes

Double Stakes is the third book in the Mélisende ‘Doubles’ series and has the most difficult one to write. Thrillers are my thing, both as a reader and a writer. Mel and Jeff are characters I love to share with you as I do the whole des Pittones clan, the enigmatic EIRS director Patrick Stevenson and colleague Andreas (still recovering from his broken leg). Secondary characters like Defne Yılmaz, Becker and Gagnier are welcome newcomers.

Living in France, I can easily research French systems and customs; I am reasonably familiar with those across the frontier in Germany due to time spent there when younger and an ability to research in original German. But I’ve loved researching trains, shops, food, clothes, weapons and places – a real plus part of writing.

The most trying aspect and sometimes most fascinating one – in a horrifying way – has been researching the unpleasant far and extreme right political movements, particularly those in Germany which is a country I love. Political passion based on hatred and which leads to prejudice, abuse and violence based on ‘othering’ unknown people so they become objects and stereotypes instead of fellow human beings is abhorrent. The 1930s should give us a grim reminder of where that leads.

We’re not going to like everybody we meet or read about. We may not like or approve of other people’s beliefs or behaviour. We’re all different, thank goodness. After trying to understand, then concluding it isn’t for us, the response is to walk away. It is not to take to online abuse or attacking people on the streets. Nor is it right to whip up otherwise decent people’s uncertainties by manipulating those concerns and fears in pursuit of power.

A novel should entertain, hopefully inform and without being boring, educate. Double Stakes is a crime thriller with twists and turns, clues, discoveries and problems all running along at a reasonable pace, plus a touch of romance. But underneath, if you would like to find it, is a message that we should be aware of the dangers to our democracy.

Mel and Jeff pursue their investigation against this sombre background. Each character has to confront their own feelings when faced with such complex issues. But they retain their sense of humour and their shared determination to solve the case, although it turns out to be far from simple.

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Available from Kobo B&N Nook Apple Amazon and as a paperback

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ChatGPTing about Roma Nova

Roman woman with phone? (AI)

I had a fascinating chat with my phone the other day. Fence-sitter that I am, I haven’t really embraced AI and I voiced my guarded scepticism last year on my writing blog.

However, encouraged by my family, I frivolously threw a question at ChatGPT.

“Have you heard of Alison Morton?” I was expecting a ‘who?’ or a string of other Alison Mortons to pop up in the screen.

I almost fell of my chair when the reply came:

“Yes! Alison Morton is known for her Roma Nova series, which blends alternate history with espionage and political intrigue. Her books imagine a modern-day Roman-style society ruled by women, with plenty of covert operations, power struggles, and betrayals. Given your interest in modern espionage thrillers set in a Roman-style world, her work might be right up your alley.

Are you already familiar with her books, or are you considering checking them out?”

Gods! How did it know I enjoyed espionage novels and stories set in the Roman world? Eek!
“Tell me more,” I tapped.

“Alison Morton’s Roma Nova series is an alternate history thriller saga set in a world where the Roman Empire never fully collapsed. Instead, a breakaway Roman state—Roma Nova—was founded in the mountains of Europe and evolved into a modern, matriarchal society. The series mixes elements of espionage, political intrigue, and adventure, with strong female protagonists navigating high-stakes power struggles.

The Core Series

The main books follow two timelines:

Carina Mitela’s Story (Modern Timeline)
- INCEPTIO – The first book introduces Carina, an American woman who discovers her Roma Novan heritage and gets entangled in espionage, assassination attempts, and political machinations.
- CARINA, PERFIDITAS, SUCCESSIO continue her journey, as she rises within Roma Nova’s intelligence services, facing enemies both inside and outside the state.
Aurelia Mitela’s Story (Historical Timeline – 1960s–1980s)
- AURELIA focuses on Carina’s ancestor, an intelligence officer battling conspiracies within Roma Nova’s political elite.
- INSURRECTIO and RETALIO explore a period of dictatorship and resistance within Roma Nova.

Themes & Style

Morton’s writing blends the tight pacing of a spy thriller with rich world-building. The Roma Novans maintain Latin traditions, yet use modern technology and institutions, making for an intriguing mix of past and present. The books feature strong female leads, espionage, covert operations, and political maneuvering, making them appealing if you enjoy intelligence dramas within a unique setting.

If you’re interested in a blend of James Bond meets Ancient Rome, her books might be a perfect fit. Would you like recommendations on where to start?”

“Yes, please” I replied, completely fascinated.

“Since the Roma Nova series has two main timelines, where you start depends on what kind of story you prefer.

Best Starting Points

If You Want a Modern Spy Thriller with a Strong Female Lead:
- Start with INCEPTIO (Book 1) – It introduces Carina Mitela, a young woman who discovers her Roma Novan heritage and is thrown into a world of espionage, assassination attempts, and power struggles.
- If you enjoy it, follow with PERFIDITAS and SUCCESSIO to see her rise in Roma Nova’s intelligence services. (And the novella CARINA?)
If You Prefer a Historical Political Thriller with a Classic Roman Feel:
- Start with AURELIA (Prequel series, but written later) – It follows Carina’s ancestor in the 1960s as she navigates political conspiracies, intelligence operations, and a looming dictatorship.
- Follow with INSURRECTIO and RETALIO for a deeper dive into Roma Nova’s internal conflicts.” (It also forgot NEXUS. Ha!)

Do you find the premise appealing because of the espionage angle, the Roman influence, or both?

Me, now getting into it: “Both”

“The Roma Nova series is a great blend of both espionage and Roman influence, which isn’t something you see often in fiction. The mix of intelligence operations, political conspiracies, and a society that still holds onto its Roman roots creates a unique setting for modern spy thrillers.

The espionage side brings in secret agents, coded messages, betrayals, and high-stakes missions—very much in the style of modern spy fiction. Meanwhile, the Roman influence adds layers of political maneuvering, honor-based conflicts, and a rigid but evolving social structure, making the stakes feel even more intense.

Are you looking for more books like Roma Nova, or are you just curious about how Morton developed the concept?”

Me, now trying to think more strategically:
Wondering if this alternative world appeals to many readers… (innocent face)

The Roma Nova series has a dedicated following, particularly among readers who enjoy espionage thrillers, alternate history, and strong female protagonists. While it’s a niche concept, it appeals to multiple types of readers:

Espionage and Thriller Fans – Those who enjoy spy fiction appreciate the covert missions, betrayals, and intelligence operations in a unique setting.
Alternate History Enthusiasts – Readers fascinated by “what if” scenarios enjoy how Morton realistically builds a modern Roman-style society.
Roman History Buffs – Fans of Ancient Rome like seeing how its traditions and governance might have evolved.
Fans of Strong Female Leads – The matriarchal nature of Roma Nova flips traditional power structures, attracting readers who enjoy stories with powerful women in leadership roles.

While it may not be a mainstream bestseller, it has a strong cult following. The uniqueness of a Roman-inspired modern spy thriller makes it stand out. Do you think the concept has the potential for an even bigger audience, or do you see it staying more niche?

Me (now in the give-me-some-marketing-tips mode): I wondered if it had the potential to for a bigger audience?

That’s a great question. The Roma Nova series has the potential to reach a larger audience, but it would likely need a breakout moment—such as a film or TV adaptation, or a major push from a big publisher. Here’s why it could appeal to more readers:

Why It Has Potential for a Bigger Audience

Spy Thrillers Are Always Popular – The espionage genre has a steady audience, and a fresh setting like Roma Nova could attract readers looking for something beyond the usual Cold War or modern geopolitical thrillers.
Roman Influence Adds a Unique Hook – Shows like Gladiator, Rome, and Barbarians prove that audiences love Roman-inspired stories. Mixing that with a modern thriller makes it stand out.
Strong Female Leads Are in Demand – With the rise of interest in female-led action and intelligence stories (Killing Eve, Atomic Blonde), Roma Nova could appeal to those audiences.
Alternate History Is Growing – Books like The Man in the High Castle and Fatherland have shown that alternate history can break into the mainstream, especially if it’s done in a thrilling way.

Then we went on about a possible Netflix series. At that point, I needed a strong cup of tea and a lie-down.

That was a salutary experience or do I mean surreal?

My story writing remains my domain. I will fight like the Horatii on the bridge to preserve that creative place. But perhaps we can harness some of the world’s knowledge in a friendly, specific way through these utilities. But of course, we must always, always check what they produce.

The crucial point – they must always remain our slaves and never become our masters.

Excerpt from Double Stakes

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Why I wrote Double Stakes

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