What if Caesar wasn't assassinated?

In my new story in Fate: Tales of History, Mystery and Magic, Stannia and Federicus are ‘time-stitchers’ in a future timeline where the Roman Empire is still going strong. No, it’s not Roma Nova, but a completely made-up world.

The instigator of this short story collection, Helen Hollick, told the ten authors to let […]

What is it about writing Romans?

The Ermine Street Guard (Photo: Caroline Morton)

Over the years I’ve been asked in interviews why Rome fascinates me and how it led to me imagining Roma Nova. I reveal all…

What period of history particularly inspires or interests you? Why? Rome! It’s almost visceral. It’s gripped me since I walked on that […]

Debunking the 'Roman salute'

Oath of the Horatii (Jean-Louis David, 1784)

Recently, a prominent social media personality thrust his arm in the air in a straight arm salute that caused an earthquake of reaction, mostly shuddering. For many, it recalled fascists, Nazis and ultra nationalism of every kind. According to legend, this fascist gesture was based on […]