What do you think?
Rate this book
Warriors of Rome #2
He Is Worthy
Rome, 68 A.D. Novius Senna is one of the most feared men in Rome. He’s part of the emperor’s inner circle at a time when being Nero’s friend is almost as dangerous as being his enemy. Senna knows that better men than he have been sacrificed to Nero’s madness—he’s the one who tells them to fall on their swords. He hates what he’s become to keep his family safe. He hates Nero more.
Aenor is a newly-enslaved Bructeri trader, brutalized and humiliated for Nero’s entertainment. He’s homesick and frightened, but not entirely cowed. He’s also exactly what Senna has been looking for: a slave strong enough to help him assassinate Nero.
It’s suicide, but it’s worth it. Senna yearns to rid Rome of a tyrant, and nothing short of death will bring him peace for his crimes. Aenor hungers for revenge, and dying is his only escape from Rome’s tyranny. They have nothing left to lose, except the one thing they never expected to find—each other.
This title is part of the Warriors of Rome collection.
Aenor is a newly-enslaved Bructeri trader, brutalized and humiliated for Nero’s entertainment. He’s homesick and frightened, but not entirely cowed. He’s also exactly what Senna has been looking for: a slave strong enough to help him assassinate Nero.
It’s suicide, but it’s worth it. Senna yearns to rid Rome of a tyrant, and nothing short of death will bring him peace for his crimes. Aenor hungers for revenge, and dying is his only escape from Rome’s tyranny. They have nothing left to lose, except the one thing they never expected to find—each other.
This title is part of the Warriors of Rome collection.
124 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 12, 2012
16 people are currently reading
406 people want to read
About the author
Lisa Henry
103 books2,282 followersI like to tell stories. Mostly with hot guys and happily ever afters. They gotta work for it though. No free lunches on my watch.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews
November 12, 2012
Two men whose lives are destroyed by the insane "God Complex" of the Roman Emperor, who with nothing else to lose draw strength from each other and become united in their single objective ~ to assassinate Nero... 3.5 stars
I am not normally someone who is interested in Historical fiction... except for the Roman Empire! where my interest is immediately piqued, probably due to my depraved mind being interested in the excesses and unrestrained indulgence of the time... nothing at all to do with near naked men and big strong Gladiators... So reading the synopsis this book should tick all my boxes!
We start our journey in Greece 37AD, where the streets are wild with upheaval, caused by the death of Corbulo - a true Roman hero who fell on his own sword when the innocuous but deadly words "you no longer have the friendship of the Emperor"... are delivered by Novius Senna. Senna is a man wracked by guilt and remorse - ashamed of what he has become "The most feared man in Rome" and to all intense and purposes he is a "hit man" who delivers the fatal blow with words alone!
There was a time when Nero was a good friend, when they were young and idealists, their heads filled with poetry, songs and dreams of the future. Only now Nero is unrecognisable from the youth he once was, now tainted by power, a narcissist surrounded by "yes" men, lost to madness and a mere puppet to the evil whispering's of Tigellinus - head of the Praetorian Guard.
Aenor... a beautiful young man, accused of committing murder and sold into slavery twice, before he ends up in Rome - where he is tagged, beaten and abused, covered in his own vomit and trembling in fear of the unknown and unfamiliar... So he should be, because the road he has travelled so far is nothing compared to the tortuous existence as a pleasure slave at the hands of Nero and the Praetorian's!
Senna is drawn to Aenor because of the strength and power he sees hidden in the depths of his eyes - he sees the boy filled with hate - and he sees the man who can help him rid the Roman Empire of the madness that is Nero! He is attracted to Aenor, but despite this attraction he wants to remain honourable, not wanting to be like the others who had taken Aenor and abused his body for their cruel amusement. Through Senna's kindness the shell of numbness that Aenor had buried himself in is cracked and Senna sees deeper into the lost soul of the boy... and what is there is far more profound than he thought possible.
This isn't a long novel and for the first 50% we are enlightened on the two MC's past and the journeys taken that eventually brought them together. This part was a bit vague at times referencing characters I did not have enough information on to visualise the whole picture, which left me with questions! Especially on Lucan, a character who is referenced several times who I eventually Googled, making more sense of his role in the grander scheme of things. This is an historical novel so there will be Roman references... which I also Googled, however at the end of the book there is a glossary which would have been better placed at the beginning? Sorry if there was a note and I missed it?
The sex between Senna and Aenor was not the passionate kind, where you need ice to cool down. Instead you see Senna giving Aenor comfort and compassion, he is gentle and loving with this boy who had been given the name "Dog" by the bastard that was Tigellinus! This was perfectly done, to show Aenor his love rather than treat him like the fuck toy he was used to. The brutal scenes involving Aenor did not leave my blood boiling, (I am a reader of some pretty hard core novels) I somehow felt detached from it even though they were horrific. This would suit many readers who unlike me prefer the tamer side of fiction involving abuse.
Overall I enjoyed this book, I wouldn't call it a Romance per se, more of an understanding between two desperate men who found solace in each others arms, a HFN. I think if it had been a bit longer I might have felt more attached to the characters, something that didn't hit me until the last 20%.
ARC courtesy of Riptide Publishing via Netgalley
For more reviews please visit... Sinfully Sexy Book Reviews
I am not normally someone who is interested in Historical fiction... except for the Roman Empire! where my interest is immediately piqued, probably due to my depraved mind being interested in the excesses and unrestrained indulgence of the time... nothing at all to do with near naked men and big strong Gladiators... So reading the synopsis this book should tick all my boxes!
We start our journey in Greece 37AD, where the streets are wild with upheaval, caused by the death of Corbulo - a true Roman hero who fell on his own sword when the innocuous but deadly words "you no longer have the friendship of the Emperor"... are delivered by Novius Senna. Senna is a man wracked by guilt and remorse - ashamed of what he has become "The most feared man in Rome" and to all intense and purposes he is a "hit man" who delivers the fatal blow with words alone!
There was a time when Nero was a good friend, when they were young and idealists, their heads filled with poetry, songs and dreams of the future. Only now Nero is unrecognisable from the youth he once was, now tainted by power, a narcissist surrounded by "yes" men, lost to madness and a mere puppet to the evil whispering's of Tigellinus - head of the Praetorian Guard.
Aenor... a beautiful young man, accused of committing murder and sold into slavery twice, before he ends up in Rome - where he is tagged, beaten and abused, covered in his own vomit and trembling in fear of the unknown and unfamiliar... So he should be, because the road he has travelled so far is nothing compared to the tortuous existence as a pleasure slave at the hands of Nero and the Praetorian's!
Senna is drawn to Aenor because of the strength and power he sees hidden in the depths of his eyes - he sees the boy filled with hate - and he sees the man who can help him rid the Roman Empire of the madness that is Nero! He is attracted to Aenor, but despite this attraction he wants to remain honourable, not wanting to be like the others who had taken Aenor and abused his body for their cruel amusement. Through Senna's kindness the shell of numbness that Aenor had buried himself in is cracked and Senna sees deeper into the lost soul of the boy... and what is there is far more profound than he thought possible.
This isn't a long novel and for the first 50% we are enlightened on the two MC's past and the journeys taken that eventually brought them together. This part was a bit vague at times referencing characters I did not have enough information on to visualise the whole picture, which left me with questions! Especially on Lucan, a character who is referenced several times who I eventually Googled, making more sense of his role in the grander scheme of things. This is an historical novel so there will be Roman references... which I also Googled, however at the end of the book there is a glossary which would have been better placed at the beginning? Sorry if there was a note and I missed it?
The sex between Senna and Aenor was not the passionate kind, where you need ice to cool down. Instead you see Senna giving Aenor comfort and compassion, he is gentle and loving with this boy who had been given the name "Dog" by the bastard that was Tigellinus! This was perfectly done, to show Aenor his love rather than treat him like the fuck toy he was used to. The brutal scenes involving Aenor did not leave my blood boiling, (I am a reader of some pretty hard core novels) I somehow felt detached from it even though they were horrific. This would suit many readers who unlike me prefer the tamer side of fiction involving abuse.
Overall I enjoyed this book, I wouldn't call it a Romance per se, more of an understanding between two desperate men who found solace in each others arms, a HFN. I think if it had been a bit longer I might have felt more attached to the characters, something that didn't hit me until the last 20%.
ARC courtesy of Riptide Publishing via Netgalley
For more reviews please visit... Sinfully Sexy Book Reviews
January 12, 2014
nicely done.
layered, and pretty smoothly leavened with the kind of authentic details a rome-snob like me appreciates.
i loved the Lisa Henry Special.
[[[PLOT TWIST AT THE END]]]
i didn't see this one coming either, so it was really effective. lots of OMGs and NOWAYs and EEEEEEEEE.
i like the , and that last line killed me, naturally.
both gruesome and beautiful, then; just like ancient rome herself.
layered, and pretty smoothly leavened with the kind of authentic details a rome-snob like me appreciates.
i loved the Lisa Henry Special.
[[[PLOT TWIST AT THE END]]]
i didn't see this one coming either, so it was really effective. lots of OMGs and NOWAYs and EEEEEEEEE.
i like the , and that last line killed me, naturally.
both gruesome and beautiful, then; just like ancient rome herself.
February 6, 2014
Brutal, hard, brilliant.
Excellent piece of historical fiction. The attention to detail and facts was a beautiful blend. Richly laid out like a banquet this story tells of political intrigue in the last days of Nero's reign. The weaving of history and story--seamless.
The ancient world was not a soft place even in the most decadent of pleasure palaces. And this was highly entertaining and while I kept guessing where it would end, I was wrong.
BTW. This totally revved my inner Roman geek
Excellent piece of historical fiction. The attention to detail and facts was a beautiful blend. Richly laid out like a banquet this story tells of political intrigue in the last days of Nero's reign. The weaving of history and story--seamless.
The ancient world was not a soft place even in the most decadent of pleasure palaces. And this was highly entertaining and while I kept guessing where it would end, I was wrong.
BTW. This totally revved my inner Roman geek
May 2, 2018
"Alea iacta est."
*
this was absolutely fucking stellar. excellent characters, excellent setting, excellent narrative. this piece of historical roman fiction has the Classicist Seal of Approval. now to devour everything else by lisa henry!
*"The die is cast."
this was absolutely fucking stellar. excellent characters, excellent setting, excellent narrative. this piece of historical roman fiction has the Classicist Seal of Approval. now to devour everything else by lisa henry!
*"The die is cast."
November 10, 2012
I’ve spent an afternoon completely swept up in Lisa Henry’s vivid imagery -the sights and smells of Rome so real… and desperate for the two MC’s to find a way out of that oppressive city. The feeling of claustrophobia and impending doom is relentless. I recently heard a quote by Hitchcock that hits the nail on the head..…”There is no terror in the explosion, only the anticipation of it.”
Part of me wishes it were longer with more of the romance between Senna and Aenor but this is not that kind of story. What it is is dark and suspenseful and utterly engrossing.
Thanks Lisa :)
Part of me wishes it were longer with more of the romance between Senna and Aenor but this is not that kind of story. What it is is dark and suspenseful and utterly engrossing.
Thanks Lisa :)
November 7, 2012
Alea iacta est is one of the phrases most meaningful in this book. The die is cast. What does this mean? For slave Aenor renamed as Canis, it is the motivation for him to withstand horrible torture. For Patrician Novius Senna, it stands for a release and freedom he yearns to feel again.
Set during the Roman Empire, this story makes a reader question what really did happen during Nero's reign. My memory of Roman history is sketchy. I do remember Nero portrayed as a tyrannical emperor. I don't recall any of his allies or enemies. Regardless of actual history, Ms. Henry's version is interesting.
The sexual slavery involving, rape, hot pokers, knifeplay, castration, sissification to name a few were delightfully sadistic. Despite all these sexual torments, I'm hesitant to classify as a BDSM story. It's not exactly a BDSM fantasy. I think the difference for me this time compared with Ms. Henry's previous stories is the sadism did not turn me on. It wasn't twisted into a guilty depraved pressure. Instead, it was just sadism with very little kinky pleasure.
The romance part of this story is less sweet and more tart. Tart because despite the opposition in social standing, Senna and Aenor are connected with one bond. They are both worthy. They are worthy of love, honour and the determination to make a differences. This is truly a terrible situation which presents no easy way out. Death is the only way. As always, our hero is an anti-hero who is conflicted with what he knows is right but can not follow his ethics.
This trope in this tale is similar to a queen bee gone wrong. Nero is the queen bee who is egged on to behave badly. It proves a Chinese moral lesson - only your true friends will tell you the truth. Your enemies will only tell you what you want to hear with much flattery. Ms. Henry does an excellent job demonstrating this lesson.
The writing is vivid in people, places and action. I can see each of these places in the story. I can see visualize both Aenor and Senna talking and doing something at the same time. I can't quite put my finger on it, but Ms. Henry's books always play like a movie in my mind. It's rich with descriptions and hits on my sense of smell too. She never exposes the reader to detailed graphic in the brutal beatings, interrogations or rape, yet she gives enough for the reader to clearly see every action. I highly recommend this book to history buffs who enjoy non-con m/m romance.
book received from www.netgalley.com
Set during the Roman Empire, this story makes a reader question what really did happen during Nero's reign. My memory of Roman history is sketchy. I do remember Nero portrayed as a tyrannical emperor. I don't recall any of his allies or enemies. Regardless of actual history, Ms. Henry's version is interesting.
The sexual slavery involving, rape, hot pokers, knifeplay, castration, sissification to name a few were delightfully sadistic. Despite all these sexual torments, I'm hesitant to classify as a BDSM story. It's not exactly a BDSM fantasy. I think the difference for me this time compared with Ms. Henry's previous stories is the sadism did not turn me on. It wasn't twisted into a guilty depraved pressure. Instead, it was just sadism with very little kinky pleasure.
The romance part of this story is less sweet and more tart. Tart because despite the opposition in social standing, Senna and Aenor are connected with one bond. They are both worthy. They are worthy of love, honour and the determination to make a differences. This is truly a terrible situation which presents no easy way out. Death is the only way. As always, our hero is an anti-hero who is conflicted with what he knows is right but can not follow his ethics.
This trope in this tale is similar to a queen bee gone wrong. Nero is the queen bee who is egged on to behave badly. It proves a Chinese moral lesson - only your true friends will tell you the truth. Your enemies will only tell you what you want to hear with much flattery. Ms. Henry does an excellent job demonstrating this lesson.
The writing is vivid in people, places and action. I can see each of these places in the story. I can see visualize both Aenor and Senna talking and doing something at the same time. I can't quite put my finger on it, but Ms. Henry's books always play like a movie in my mind. It's rich with descriptions and hits on my sense of smell too. She never exposes the reader to detailed graphic in the brutal beatings, interrogations or rape, yet she gives enough for the reader to clearly see every action. I highly recommend this book to history buffs who enjoy non-con m/m romance.
book received from www.netgalley.com
January 22, 2013
Lisa Henry is a fave author of mine for her wonderful settings and gritty characters. There is always a plot as well - and I never find the sex gratuitous although it is often raw, elemental, and rough. I'll admit to being a bit confused in the beginning with all the names but it did force me into the headspace. The language barrier faced by the two MC's actually helped me to keep a perspective on it - oddly it interjected some realism into the story. I'm a fan of Ancient Rome stories like this - almost preferring the older ancient culture to the newer historical ones - and certainly here it gets a lot of mention. I went into this story not believing it to be any sort of romance - more a historical piece with some of the famous Ancient situations like torture, slavery, etc. I still don't see it as a romance although there is a slight romantic element to it. I loved the glimpse in (cannot say to historical accuracy..I'm not a historian) but it did transport me to Nero's time and that made it a win. Fascinating and engrossing!
November 10, 2012
Short, boring slave fic.
As historical fiction it was a total failure. Using Roman names didn`t make a vivid historical setting.
Made me itch to re-read Colleen McCullough...
As historical fiction it was a total failure. Using Roman names didn`t make a vivid historical setting.
Made me itch to re-read Colleen McCullough...
September 12, 2016
Okay, first, I love historical books, especially books about Rome. I think one of my stars is just for the author doing the work of making me believe I'm in a long ago place. Lisa Henry definitely does that.
The other three stars are for a fast-moving (eventually) plot and a sense of suspense. I thought there was a little too much background given before the story proper begins, but once things get going - they go.
The sex in the book was a little disturbing to me, but since it was supposed to be, I'll let that pass.
All in all, a good book that is worth the read if you're not squeamish about violence.
The other three stars are for a fast-moving (eventually) plot and a sense of suspense. I thought there was a little too much background given before the story proper begins, but once things get going - they go.
The sex in the book was a little disturbing to me, but since it was supposed to be, I'll let that pass.
All in all, a good book that is worth the read if you're not squeamish about violence.
May 30, 2013
3 1/2
These Warriors of Rome books published by Riptide are not for the faint of heart. The first in the series is The Left Hand of Calvus and though it was brutal it wasn’t sexually explicit so I was a little taken by surprise at the sexual torment that takes place in this one. If you haven’t read the first book and are interested in this one, no worries, these two are only connected by the ancient Rome setting.
I need to say something before I begin here because I know this sort of thing is a trigger for some readers and many prefer to avoid it. He Is Worthy contains descriptive scenes of sexual torture and the multiple rape and humiliation of an innocent young man. There are several scenes that will make you shudder with revulsion. It’s not an easy read and there really aren’t any moments of levity to make it any less grueling.
He Is Worthy is set in ancient Rome where an emperor named Nero , insane with power, terrorizes his people for pleasure. Oblivious to the pain and terror of the innocents he harms, his reign of terror gets more brutal with each passing day. Senna grew up with Nero and is in a very precarious position. He realizes his childhood friend has gone off the deep end and he is increasingly disturbed by Nero’s actions but standing up to him means instant death. And he should know. It is Senna’s job to visit those the emperor believes have betrayed him. When Senna utters the words "you no longer have the friendship of the Emperor" they fall upon their own sword. Senna is the messenger of death and feared by most men in Rome. He once believed in the cause but he’s seen innocent men die and has realized Nero is mad But Senna can no longer sit back and do nothing and comes up with a plan to murder his old friend but he needs to find a slave willing to help him.
Aenor is a young man accused of a murder he did not commit and turned into a “pleasure slave” for the emperor. Aenor has been used and abused but has not lost his fighting spirit. When Senna sees him for the first time naked, bound and beaten but not defeated he is attracted both to his strength and his beauty and sets his sights on using him to bring his plan to fruition. Senna’s feelings when seeing him bound are mixed and slightly disturbing to me as a reader. “Senna shifted, adjusting the fall of his toga to cover an erection that sickened him.”
Senna is not perfect and is obviously tarnished by the brutalities he’s witnessed but he is kind to Aenor, even if his motives may not be pure. Aenor responds to the kindness despite his battered state. Hate for the emperor binds them as they work together to bring him down. Amidst all of the horror, they find some moments of solace. This isn’t a sweet and fluffy love story. The relationship between Senna and Aenor is built on lust, gratitude and desperation but I understood it and enjoyed watching them grow to trust one another.
But don’t get me wrong, this isn’t really any kind of romance. I’d classify it as dark historical fiction with some decently drawn main characters. There was a lot of setup, a lot of character introductions and a lot of history that was tossed around early on. I’m not a history buff and admit to being a wee bit confused and rereading the first few chapters to get mostly everything straight. But once things got going it was easy enough to fall into the story. It’s fast paced and filled with pain and in the end Senna turns out to be a loyal man trying to do the right thing in a horrible situation. Senna and Aenor find some peace amidst all the debauchery and loss and it’s a beautiful thing but if you’re looking for a heart stopping, forever kind of romance, well, you might want to look somewhere else.
These Warriors of Rome books published by Riptide are not for the faint of heart. The first in the series is The Left Hand of Calvus and though it was brutal it wasn’t sexually explicit so I was a little taken by surprise at the sexual torment that takes place in this one. If you haven’t read the first book and are interested in this one, no worries, these two are only connected by the ancient Rome setting.
I need to say something before I begin here because I know this sort of thing is a trigger for some readers and many prefer to avoid it. He Is Worthy contains descriptive scenes of sexual torture and the multiple rape and humiliation of an innocent young man. There are several scenes that will make you shudder with revulsion. It’s not an easy read and there really aren’t any moments of levity to make it any less grueling.
He Is Worthy is set in ancient Rome where an emperor named Nero , insane with power, terrorizes his people for pleasure. Oblivious to the pain and terror of the innocents he harms, his reign of terror gets more brutal with each passing day. Senna grew up with Nero and is in a very precarious position. He realizes his childhood friend has gone off the deep end and he is increasingly disturbed by Nero’s actions but standing up to him means instant death. And he should know. It is Senna’s job to visit those the emperor believes have betrayed him. When Senna utters the words "you no longer have the friendship of the Emperor" they fall upon their own sword. Senna is the messenger of death and feared by most men in Rome. He once believed in the cause but he’s seen innocent men die and has realized Nero is mad But Senna can no longer sit back and do nothing and comes up with a plan to murder his old friend but he needs to find a slave willing to help him.
Aenor is a young man accused of a murder he did not commit and turned into a “pleasure slave” for the emperor. Aenor has been used and abused but has not lost his fighting spirit. When Senna sees him for the first time naked, bound and beaten but not defeated he is attracted both to his strength and his beauty and sets his sights on using him to bring his plan to fruition. Senna’s feelings when seeing him bound are mixed and slightly disturbing to me as a reader. “Senna shifted, adjusting the fall of his toga to cover an erection that sickened him.”
Senna is not perfect and is obviously tarnished by the brutalities he’s witnessed but he is kind to Aenor, even if his motives may not be pure. Aenor responds to the kindness despite his battered state. Hate for the emperor binds them as they work together to bring him down. Amidst all of the horror, they find some moments of solace. This isn’t a sweet and fluffy love story. The relationship between Senna and Aenor is built on lust, gratitude and desperation but I understood it and enjoyed watching them grow to trust one another.
But don’t get me wrong, this isn’t really any kind of romance. I’d classify it as dark historical fiction with some decently drawn main characters. There was a lot of setup, a lot of character introductions and a lot of history that was tossed around early on. I’m not a history buff and admit to being a wee bit confused and rereading the first few chapters to get mostly everything straight. But once things got going it was easy enough to fall into the story. It’s fast paced and filled with pain and in the end Senna turns out to be a loyal man trying to do the right thing in a horrible situation. Senna and Aenor find some peace amidst all the debauchery and loss and it’s a beautiful thing but if you’re looking for a heart stopping, forever kind of romance, well, you might want to look somewhere else.
November 28, 2012
He is Worthy, Lisa Henry’s novel in the Warriors of Rome series is gripping and edgy. Set in 68 A.D. Rome, the tale illustrates life under one of Rome’s most feared and disturbing men, Nero. Senna, Nero’s friend and henchman lives a dangerous life as the deliverer of Nero’s madness. Aenor is a newly captive Bructeri, enslaved by Nero for his demented pleasure.
Turmoil surrounds the time period as Nero grows more insane, brutalizing his friends and enemies alike. Torturing slaves; raping and pillaging are among his depravities. Senna realizes that all is lost under the realm of Nero and soon takes matters into his own hands as to eradicate Nero from Rome. He encounters Aenor in Nero’s palace and immediately is drawn to the tortured slave. Battered and horrifically beaten, Senna sees past the physical and into the soul of a beautiful creature who contains strength and passion burning in his eyes. Aenor, although hating all things Roman, agrees to help Senna destroy Nero. Deceit and disloyalty lead to treason and sends the two men on a downhill spiral where the only ending can be tragedy. A commonality develops between the two men as a hatred for Nero and affection for each other blossoms in a world where the delineation between master and slave is never crossed unless taken by force.
Ms. Henry delivers a tale that kept me on the edge of my seat as I could not put the book down. I became enraged, cried and cheered for the underdog in this enthralling story. The demeanor of Senna and Aenor captivated my mind and led me on a journey of the human spirit not found in contemporary writing. The sex between the two men is not one of erotic lust, but a careful exploration between two desperate souls finding their way in a tumultuous time. The descriptions are true to the brutality of what Rome was as well as the splendor of what it was to become. A novel worthy of any fan of Roman history.
reviewed by Zafira
Turmoil surrounds the time period as Nero grows more insane, brutalizing his friends and enemies alike. Torturing slaves; raping and pillaging are among his depravities. Senna realizes that all is lost under the realm of Nero and soon takes matters into his own hands as to eradicate Nero from Rome. He encounters Aenor in Nero’s palace and immediately is drawn to the tortured slave. Battered and horrifically beaten, Senna sees past the physical and into the soul of a beautiful creature who contains strength and passion burning in his eyes. Aenor, although hating all things Roman, agrees to help Senna destroy Nero. Deceit and disloyalty lead to treason and sends the two men on a downhill spiral where the only ending can be tragedy. A commonality develops between the two men as a hatred for Nero and affection for each other blossoms in a world where the delineation between master and slave is never crossed unless taken by force.
Ms. Henry delivers a tale that kept me on the edge of my seat as I could not put the book down. I became enraged, cried and cheered for the underdog in this enthralling story. The demeanor of Senna and Aenor captivated my mind and led me on a journey of the human spirit not found in contemporary writing. The sex between the two men is not one of erotic lust, but a careful exploration between two desperate souls finding their way in a tumultuous time. The descriptions are true to the brutality of what Rome was as well as the splendor of what it was to become. A novel worthy of any fan of Roman history.
reviewed by Zafira
May 14, 2013
It was a good story. One that grabbed my interest from the first page and kept me glued to my Kindle for the next two hours.
The action takes place in Rome, at the times of Nero ruling, and there is enough of historical references to make the world real (I wouldn't call it simply a slave fic).
Novius Senna is one of Nero closest confidants, but far enough from the court to see that Roman empire is drowning in Nero's madness. I liked Senna's flashbacks of the past that showed many of the future prominent politicians as idealistic youth. The flashbacks created stark contrast to present time of decadence and fear.
Aenor is less developed character. We see him mainly disoriented, suffering and lost, but I guess that's also a reality for a simple young man plucked from deep German forest and thrown into unfamiliar and hostile environment. Some of the harm inflicted on him made me sick and cringe. My only consolation was a hope for HEA. And there was one, although the ratio of 'angst-good time' was like '90-10' (My advice: have a box of tissue prepared reading the story).
The intrigue was the weakest point of the story. I just don't get people on suicidal missions. Fortunately the author skillfully directed the plot to some more-less believable, happy ending.
4.5 stars
The action takes place in Rome, at the times of Nero ruling, and there is enough of historical references to make the world real (I wouldn't call it simply a slave fic).
Novius Senna is one of Nero closest confidants, but far enough from the court to see that Roman empire is drowning in Nero's madness. I liked Senna's flashbacks of the past that showed many of the future prominent politicians as idealistic youth. The flashbacks created stark contrast to present time of decadence and fear.
Aenor is less developed character. We see him mainly disoriented, suffering and lost, but I guess that's also a reality for a simple young man plucked from deep German forest and thrown into unfamiliar and hostile environment. Some of the harm inflicted on him made me sick and cringe. My only consolation was a hope for HEA. And there was one, although the ratio of 'angst-good time' was like '90-10' (My advice: have a box of tissue prepared reading the story).
The intrigue was the weakest point of the story. I just don't get people on suicidal missions. Fortunately the author skillfully directed the plot to some more-less believable, happy ending.
4.5 stars
January 9, 2022
Short and sharp Roman political drama about a trusted right hand man of Nero's who decides he wants to rid Rome of the madness. Not your thing if you dislike gay action or brutal torture. Or happy endings. Oops, spoiler alert! Not really. Should it have been longer and a more trenchant analysis of Nero's reign? Nah, it's fine as a brief historical fantasy and a love story with unexpected twists and turns.
'n Kort spanningsverhaal omtrent 'n belangrike figuur in Nero se magsgroep wat besluit om Rome te reinig van dié waansinnige keiser. Die insig in die Romeinse omstandighede kom oortuigend voor, maar dit wil nie werklik diepsinnige historiese fiksie wees nie: liewer 'n spannende liefdesverhaal met ongewone wendinge.
'n Kort spanningsverhaal omtrent 'n belangrike figuur in Nero se magsgroep wat besluit om Rome te reinig van dié waansinnige keiser. Die insig in die Romeinse omstandighede kom oortuigend voor, maar dit wil nie werklik diepsinnige historiese fiksie wees nie: liewer 'n spannende liefdesverhaal met ongewone wendinge.
January 7, 2013
Thanks to the fabulous Pjm12, I realized I'd not put in my review for this one!
This is a historical piece set in the heyday of Nero's rule of the Roman Empire. That means one should expect sex, violence, madness and betrayal. He Is Worthy delivers these with relish. What I didn't expect was the gripping and emotional story threaded throughout. The hook at the start is perfect, the follow through exquisitely painful. You feel for these two, the slave and the free man, trying to end the senseless death and suffering. All at the cost of their bodies and souls.
There's no happy ending, but it was the right ending.
This is a historical piece set in the heyday of Nero's rule of the Roman Empire. That means one should expect sex, violence, madness and betrayal. He Is Worthy delivers these with relish. What I didn't expect was the gripping and emotional story threaded throughout. The hook at the start is perfect, the follow through exquisitely painful. You feel for these two, the slave and the free man, trying to end the senseless death and suffering. All at the cost of their bodies and souls.
There's no happy ending, but it was the right ending.
abandoned
February 5, 2013Turns out this book really isn't for me. I don't really like historical fiction, and I guess I went into this thinking it was going to be more like Henry's book Tribute but it's not really that kind of book - although there is some on-page stuff that might make the more squeamish of you a little uncomfortable. But that's not really what this book is about, it's really just historical fiction which is not my thing usually. I've had an impossible time getting interested in it. When I realized I had fought my way through 49% of the book and still didn't care, I decided to cut my losses.
December 11, 2013
I did not identify with the two main characters. They were two dimensional - I kept forgetting the name of one of the MC's, even as I read, and I did not like the other, at all. The book is well edited and the history well researched, but that is where the positive ended for me.
To see my review of He Is Worthy it can be found in depth at On Top Down Under Book Reviews
**Please be warned it contains spoilers**
http://ontopdownunderbookreviews.com/...
To see my review of He Is Worthy it can be found in depth at On Top Down Under Book Reviews
**Please be warned it contains spoilers**
http://ontopdownunderbookreviews.com/...
January 14, 2013
I'm really enjoying the Warriors of Rome set. This one works very well; the setting and history have been so well done I didn't feel any disbelief as I read it.
There's a gripping plot and two very believable, very male main characters. Yum!
If you like authentic historical novels, especially ancient history, you'll love this one. :)
There's a gripping plot and two very believable, very male main characters. Yum!
If you like authentic historical novels, especially ancient history, you'll love this one. :)
October 15, 2017
This was a tough story for me to read. First of all, it's based in the time of Nero's rule of Rome in 68 AD, and as such, all the names of the characters and locations are Latin or Greek. Add to that the very important point that is not listed in the blurb: there is on-page rape--both by a person and by use of blunt instruments. It's very dark and painful to read for at least the first half of the story.
One of the principal characters, Aenor, is a 19-year-old captive slave brought to Nero's Golden House for his pleasure and his pleasure is generally in painful and deviant ways. He's spotted by Senna, one of Nero's former best friends, who is now the man Nero uses to deliver the message of death to those who fall out of Nero's good graces. Senna hates the man Nero has become and when he realizes Aenor hates him and may be strong enough to kill him, he enlists his aid.
But he realizes, almost too late, that the deep feelings he has for Aenor are more than protective but he sees no way for any future for either of them. Once they kill Nero, they are dead men.
What happens and how it turns out took up the last third of the book and it became my favorite section. Thankfully, though there was abuse, it wasn't sexual and there was a HFN when the story closed. I can't say that I recommend it due to the very graphic abuse, but the story itself is good and the writing just as outstanding as the author's other works.
One of the principal characters, Aenor, is a 19-year-old captive slave brought to Nero's Golden House for his pleasure and his pleasure is generally in painful and deviant ways. He's spotted by Senna, one of Nero's former best friends, who is now the man Nero uses to deliver the message of death to those who fall out of Nero's good graces. Senna hates the man Nero has become and when he realizes Aenor hates him and may be strong enough to kill him, he enlists his aid.
But he realizes, almost too late, that the deep feelings he has for Aenor are more than protective but he sees no way for any future for either of them. Once they kill Nero, they are dead men.
What happens and how it turns out took up the last third of the book and it became my favorite section. Thankfully, though there was abuse, it wasn't sexual and there was a HFN when the story closed. I can't say that I recommend it due to the very graphic abuse, but the story itself is good and the writing just as outstanding as the author's other works.
October 7, 2022
engrossing and heartbreaking
The story really draws you in, with the premise and descriptions in the narrative. Senna was my favorite character, I actually enjoyed the pov of someone who had power and could be considered a morally gray character. And the story itself was sad. Nero's court was falling apart and the cruelties...I loved it though. Going to buy the paperback at some point for my physical bookshelf?
The story really draws you in, with the premise and descriptions in the narrative. Senna was my favorite character, I actually enjoyed the pov of someone who had power and could be considered a morally gray character. And the story itself was sad. Nero's court was falling apart and the cruelties...I loved it though. Going to buy the paperback at some point for my physical bookshelf?
December 28, 2012
I don’t often read slave-fic, the power imbalances bother me. I do however, read historicals, the more accurate the better. I took a chance on the slave aspect here in order to reach first century Rome through Lisa Henry’s words, and I am very glad I did.
The blurb hints that the need to assassinate Nero and get Rome out from under his pustulent thumb is foremost, and it is. Senna’s function is to tell prominent men that they no longer enjoy the favor of the emperor, a code universally understood to mean “Go kill yourself.” And they did. His last straw was delivering this message to a victorious general, and from then on Senna watched for the right assistant to engage in the suicide mission of taking Nero out. Aenor, the Bructeri slave and Nero’s plaything, still has enough spirit to act.
“Do you hate Nero?” Senna asks, and Aenor can tell him in broken Latin, “I hate him. Hate all of you.” With reason. The men are together for reasons other than love or attraction, yet something blossoms between them. Loyalty. Respect.
The atmosphere in this book is incredible. I was absolutely present in the slave markets and in Nero’s pleasure gardens, there with the characters, seeing what they saw, even smelling what they smelled. Small details made the setting come alive—it wasn’t just knowing there were hot and cold rooms in the Roman baths, but more feeling the heat of the water soothing bruised flesh.
This was Nero’s court, and all his excesses jump off the page too, making this book gritty and raw, and in places it may raise the reader’s gorge. None of the history comes in infodumps—it’s all worked in organically and naturally. I was going to say beautifully, but little of the subject matter is beautiful, though ugliness can be very well done. Nero's relationship with Christians assaults Senna's senses in the garden. Not every detail is horrific. “Bructeri, not German,” Aenor corrects Senna, showing his pride and placing his tribe on the map all at once.
The political tension is the greater part of the story, with furtive whispers about what prominent citizen would next declare for Galba, and everyone stepping softly lest the crazed emperor withdraw his friendship. That any kind of relationship can prosper between a man with no hope and no autonomy and a man who’s condemning himself and his accessories to a certain death must be a triumph of life.
Both Senna and Aenor are deftly drawn, well characterized in a small word count. We can feel Senna’s despair as the friend of his childhood becomes the monster that will bring down the Empire.
He wasn’t just planning treason, but the killing of a god, no matter how much Rome would benefit from it. If he needed redemption as a character, he achieved it by being willing to sacrifice all and die gruesomely. However, I didn’t see Senna as the villain, I saw him as the man who fell down the slippery slope. Nero didn’t start out awful.
Aenor has no love to turn to loathing—his tribe mocked the Romans until he learned of Roman rule the hard way. He’s systematically ground down, and the grinding is often sexual and ugly, difficult reading. If Nero hadn’t burned his city nor slain his generals, he’d still deserve his fate for what he did to his pleasure-slave.
This story succeeds beautifully as an historical piece, and that’s why I treasure it, but does it fare as well as a romance? To a degree yes, but when looked at in the cold light of analysis, it’s missing a fair chunk. And you know what? I don’t care. Normally an absent section of relationship development makes me froth at the mouth. Here absolutely everything works so well to make me relieved that everyone didn’t end up dead in the gutter after the political crisis that I wasn’t looking too closely at the transition. After finishing the book I sat transfixed, imagining for myself how the missing sections went, so perfectly immersed that I could continue spinning the story. But the details were not laid out. Connoisseurs of slave-fic might find this lacking. I find it to be more mainstream.
It’s been a long time since a book kept me reading late into the night. The hours of sleep were well spent.
The blurb hints that the need to assassinate Nero and get Rome out from under his pustulent thumb is foremost, and it is. Senna’s function is to tell prominent men that they no longer enjoy the favor of the emperor, a code universally understood to mean “Go kill yourself.” And they did. His last straw was delivering this message to a victorious general, and from then on Senna watched for the right assistant to engage in the suicide mission of taking Nero out. Aenor, the Bructeri slave and Nero’s plaything, still has enough spirit to act.
“Do you hate Nero?” Senna asks, and Aenor can tell him in broken Latin, “I hate him. Hate all of you.” With reason. The men are together for reasons other than love or attraction, yet something blossoms between them. Loyalty. Respect.
The atmosphere in this book is incredible. I was absolutely present in the slave markets and in Nero’s pleasure gardens, there with the characters, seeing what they saw, even smelling what they smelled. Small details made the setting come alive—it wasn’t just knowing there were hot and cold rooms in the Roman baths, but more feeling the heat of the water soothing bruised flesh.
This was Nero’s court, and all his excesses jump off the page too, making this book gritty and raw, and in places it may raise the reader’s gorge. None of the history comes in infodumps—it’s all worked in organically and naturally. I was going to say beautifully, but little of the subject matter is beautiful, though ugliness can be very well done. Nero's relationship with Christians assaults Senna's senses in the garden. Not every detail is horrific. “Bructeri, not German,” Aenor corrects Senna, showing his pride and placing his tribe on the map all at once.
The political tension is the greater part of the story, with furtive whispers about what prominent citizen would next declare for Galba, and everyone stepping softly lest the crazed emperor withdraw his friendship. That any kind of relationship can prosper between a man with no hope and no autonomy and a man who’s condemning himself and his accessories to a certain death must be a triumph of life.
Both Senna and Aenor are deftly drawn, well characterized in a small word count. We can feel Senna’s despair as the friend of his childhood becomes the monster that will bring down the Empire.
He wasn’t just planning treason, but the killing of a god, no matter how much Rome would benefit from it. If he needed redemption as a character, he achieved it by being willing to sacrifice all and die gruesomely. However, I didn’t see Senna as the villain, I saw him as the man who fell down the slippery slope. Nero didn’t start out awful.
Aenor has no love to turn to loathing—his tribe mocked the Romans until he learned of Roman rule the hard way. He’s systematically ground down, and the grinding is often sexual and ugly, difficult reading. If Nero hadn’t burned his city nor slain his generals, he’d still deserve his fate for what he did to his pleasure-slave.
This story succeeds beautifully as an historical piece, and that’s why I treasure it, but does it fare as well as a romance? To a degree yes, but when looked at in the cold light of analysis, it’s missing a fair chunk. And you know what? I don’t care. Normally an absent section of relationship development makes me froth at the mouth. Here absolutely everything works so well to make me relieved that everyone didn’t end up dead in the gutter after the political crisis that I wasn’t looking too closely at the transition. After finishing the book I sat transfixed, imagining for myself how the missing sections went, so perfectly immersed that I could continue spinning the story. But the details were not laid out. Connoisseurs of slave-fic might find this lacking. I find it to be more mainstream.
It’s been a long time since a book kept me reading late into the night. The hours of sleep were well spent.
April 12, 2013
4 Stars
Novius Senna, Nero’s trusted friend, is imparted with the duty of advising those who have fallen foul of the emperor’s favor that they must take their own lives. Aenor, an enslaved Bructeri trader, is used as a source of cruel and humiliating sexual enjoyment for Nero and his cohorts.
In a bid to find peace with himself and at the same time rid Rome of its’ tyrant Emperor, Senna devises a plot to assassinate Nero and sees a potential ally in the brutalised slave, Aenor. The depth of the slaves’ passion for revenge may prove to be the key to bringing them both peace. A feat such as this would potentially result in death for both of them, but neither soldier nor slave have anything left to lose.
Whilst certainly twisted and graphic, the sadistic treatment of Aenor and the other slaves, which includes rapes and beatings, is well handled by Ms. Henry and did not turn my stomach as similar acts have in other reads.
The author does a convincing job with the romantic connection between Senna and Aenor. It is by no means sweet and flowery, yet I could not help but feel the strength and depth of trust and dependence which was quick to develop between the two men.
Having not previously read a book in this era, I was grateful for the rich writing style that had the location of first century Rome jumping off the page with a clarity that had me well emerged in the setting. There were some moments of confusion with the dialogue mainly due to the terminology used but I later realised that there is a glossary at the end – silly me!! (I probably would have preferred it at the start as I tend to flick over the contents page in an e-book and failed to realise it was there).
This is the story of two men who find each under very difficult circumstances in a cold and harsh world. Not for the fainthearted, but a short read which will appeal to those who are interested in a grittier read with a taste for life during the days of the powerful roman empire. I found this story very “worthy” and look forward to reading more from Lisa Henry.
See Tommi's full review here Live Your Life, Buy The Book
Novius Senna, Nero’s trusted friend, is imparted with the duty of advising those who have fallen foul of the emperor’s favor that they must take their own lives. Aenor, an enslaved Bructeri trader, is used as a source of cruel and humiliating sexual enjoyment for Nero and his cohorts.
In a bid to find peace with himself and at the same time rid Rome of its’ tyrant Emperor, Senna devises a plot to assassinate Nero and sees a potential ally in the brutalised slave, Aenor. The depth of the slaves’ passion for revenge may prove to be the key to bringing them both peace. A feat such as this would potentially result in death for both of them, but neither soldier nor slave have anything left to lose.
Whilst certainly twisted and graphic, the sadistic treatment of Aenor and the other slaves, which includes rapes and beatings, is well handled by Ms. Henry and did not turn my stomach as similar acts have in other reads.
The author does a convincing job with the romantic connection between Senna and Aenor. It is by no means sweet and flowery, yet I could not help but feel the strength and depth of trust and dependence which was quick to develop between the two men.
Having not previously read a book in this era, I was grateful for the rich writing style that had the location of first century Rome jumping off the page with a clarity that had me well emerged in the setting. There were some moments of confusion with the dialogue mainly due to the terminology used but I later realised that there is a glossary at the end – silly me!! (I probably would have preferred it at the start as I tend to flick over the contents page in an e-book and failed to realise it was there).
This is the story of two men who find each under very difficult circumstances in a cold and harsh world. Not for the fainthearted, but a short read which will appeal to those who are interested in a grittier read with a taste for life during the days of the powerful roman empire. I found this story very “worthy” and look forward to reading more from Lisa Henry.
See Tommi's full review here Live Your Life, Buy The Book
November 16, 2012
Since I became obsessed with the TV show Spartacus I've been on the lookout for books featuring gladiators/Roman life and immediately became drawn to He Is Worthy. There's a lot happening in the shortened length of this book and I became thoroughly immersed in this world and the outcome of its appealing characters.
Novius Senna has grown tired of doing dirty deeds at Nero's request and has luckily stumbled across the one man who can help him end Nero's nightmarish deeds. Aenor's life took a brutal turn the day he went from trader to slave and after being brutalized by Romans for entertainment is hesitant to trust Senna and the feelings being generated. Aenor's desire for revenge and a gentle hand have him agreeing to a plan that will result in both of their deaths but will end Nero's tyranny.
Knowing their lives are quickly coming to an end has them clinging to each other quickly. Senna was gentle with Aenor during their sexual encounters and it was sad knowing that almost every previous encounter for him was abusive. Seeing this other side of Senna, being caring instead of killer, was appealing and showed why they needed to be together. Senna liked himself with Aenor as Aenor drew strength from Senna after being emotionally defeated for so long.
There were many names being bandied about which made it hard to keep track of who was who at times. Some of the political/war talk became a bit distracting at times as well but the images and language of that time felt very realistic. It was easy to picture what was happening and helped me immerse myself in the story. The conclusion of the story was a bit rushed and after the big build-up of the assassination plan there was a bit of a let down.
All in all though I found much to like about this emotionally engaging m/m read. The main characters were sympathetic and immensely likable along with the visually descriptive historical scenes which kept me turning the pages with great anticipation. Lisa Henry's writing is new to me and judging by my enjoyment of this story I look forward to reading more of her works.
Novius Senna has grown tired of doing dirty deeds at Nero's request and has luckily stumbled across the one man who can help him end Nero's nightmarish deeds. Aenor's life took a brutal turn the day he went from trader to slave and after being brutalized by Romans for entertainment is hesitant to trust Senna and the feelings being generated. Aenor's desire for revenge and a gentle hand have him agreeing to a plan that will result in both of their deaths but will end Nero's tyranny.
Knowing their lives are quickly coming to an end has them clinging to each other quickly. Senna was gentle with Aenor during their sexual encounters and it was sad knowing that almost every previous encounter for him was abusive. Seeing this other side of Senna, being caring instead of killer, was appealing and showed why they needed to be together. Senna liked himself with Aenor as Aenor drew strength from Senna after being emotionally defeated for so long.
There were many names being bandied about which made it hard to keep track of who was who at times. Some of the political/war talk became a bit distracting at times as well but the images and language of that time felt very realistic. It was easy to picture what was happening and helped me immerse myself in the story. The conclusion of the story was a bit rushed and after the big build-up of the assassination plan there was a bit of a let down.
All in all though I found much to like about this emotionally engaging m/m read. The main characters were sympathetic and immensely likable along with the visually descriptive historical scenes which kept me turning the pages with great anticipation. Lisa Henry's writing is new to me and judging by my enjoyment of this story I look forward to reading more of her works.
June 19, 2015
What a story! OMG, I just love Lisa Henry's writing. She likes her stories a bit on the dark and bloody side, but the writing is beautiful and the characters are incredibly well fleshed out, even in a rather short novella like 'He is Worthy'.
The wealthy Roman Patrician and former soldier Lucius Senna is a childhood friend of Emperor Nero, before the man turned mad and became a blood-thirsty monster. Seeing his family and friends in danger due to his close relations to the evil emperor, Senna becomes Nero's servant, delivering messages to Romans who Nero wants to get rid of - forcing them into committing suicide.
In truth, Senna despises his old friend and his sinful life, hoping to one day find a way to rid the Empire of its tyrant.
Aenor is a 19 year old German who was caught by Roman soldiers and sold to slave traders in Rome. Even though he is too old to be Nero's usual preference, he becomes the Emperor's humiliated pleasure slave, enduring a terrible life of cruelty and rape, while still dreaming of the forests of his childhood where he was free and full of hope.
On one of his many visits to the Emperor's palace, Senna sees Aenor and realizes that the slave would make an invaluable ally in his plan to assassinate Nero. After all, nobody comes closer to the Emperor than his pleasure slave. Give him a knife - and voilà.
Senna manages to convince Aenor of his plan. Too bad that his plan didn't include the feelings that Senna develops for the slave.
Would the death of the tyrant and the sacrifice of their own lives be worth losing the love that makes them equals despite their social differences?
I loved this story so much. There was not one boring moment in it. And I couldn't see the end coming at all. A perfect read!
5 stars!!!
The wealthy Roman Patrician and former soldier Lucius Senna is a childhood friend of Emperor Nero, before the man turned mad and became a blood-thirsty monster. Seeing his family and friends in danger due to his close relations to the evil emperor, Senna becomes Nero's servant, delivering messages to Romans who Nero wants to get rid of - forcing them into committing suicide.
In truth, Senna despises his old friend and his sinful life, hoping to one day find a way to rid the Empire of its tyrant.
Aenor is a 19 year old German who was caught by Roman soldiers and sold to slave traders in Rome. Even though he is too old to be Nero's usual preference, he becomes the Emperor's humiliated pleasure slave, enduring a terrible life of cruelty and rape, while still dreaming of the forests of his childhood where he was free and full of hope.
On one of his many visits to the Emperor's palace, Senna sees Aenor and realizes that the slave would make an invaluable ally in his plan to assassinate Nero. After all, nobody comes closer to the Emperor than his pleasure slave. Give him a knife - and voilà.
Senna manages to convince Aenor of his plan. Too bad that his plan didn't include the feelings that Senna develops for the slave.
Would the death of the tyrant and the sacrifice of their own lives be worth losing the love that makes them equals despite their social differences?
I loved this story so much. There was not one boring moment in it. And I couldn't see the end coming at all. A perfect read!
5 stars!!!
October 17, 2013
A patrician and a slave plot to end Nero's reign of terror and develop a strong bond. A short novel/long novella, the writing paints vivid pictures in the mind and has you caring deeply for the characters. I have one niggle (see spoiler below) but regardless this is an excellent read.
March 20, 2014
A good one! Finally! I am relieved - it wasn't me, in the end, but the books.
Because this one was gooooood.
Good writing, solid as gold. I noticed it immediately and thus enjoyed a good hour with this story.
It was well researched (thank you, thank you, thank you - I majored in Latin and Roman history in Junior College - the German equivalent of it). The story was dark and gritty, the characters were well drawn.
For a novella it had surprising depth.
It was very violent, a bit overdrawn for me, and the sex was not really sexy.
The story would have worked for me without it just fine.
Because this one was gooooood.
Good writing, solid as gold. I noticed it immediately and thus enjoyed a good hour with this story.
It was well researched (thank you, thank you, thank you - I majored in Latin and Roman history in Junior College - the German equivalent of it). The story was dark and gritty, the characters were well drawn.
For a novella it had surprising depth.
It was very violent, a bit overdrawn for me, and the sex was not really sexy.
The story would have worked for me without it just fine.
Read
November 19, 2012I thoroughly enjoyed what there was of this book, but I can't help but wish there was more. I'm not one of those people who complains about short stories automatically, but with this it felt like several scenes were glossed over rather than rung out for the story's full potential. The suspense in the scenes left to breathe was absolutely wonderful and gripping and I wanted more of that.
But for what it is, it's a great story, violent and unflinching and well-characterized. Fans of Lisa Henry will be satisfied for sure!
But for what it is, it's a great story, violent and unflinching and well-characterized. Fans of Lisa Henry will be satisfied for sure!
December 6, 2012
I adore Lisa Henry's voice. Her writing is always quite strong, though maybe less so here. The worldbuilding is fantastic, though due to the length, the romance takes a backseat. I found both characters interesting but didn't necessarily believe they belonged together beyond the sex. This was more like erotic historical fiction.
Read
December 5, 2012** Review by the author **
So, I'm not actually going to review a book I wrote. Seems kind of pointless, right?
If you read it, I hope you like it.
But if you want to ask me anything about He Is Worthy, here's the place to do it.
So, I'm not actually going to review a book I wrote. Seems kind of pointless, right?
If you read it, I hope you like it.
But if you want to ask me anything about He Is Worthy, here's the place to do it.
November 12, 2012
I loved this book. It was gritty and dark but I read hope in all the pages, I was glued to it and couldn't put it down. My first Lisa Henry book but it won't be my last.
February 8, 2013
This book wasn't what I was expecting but I really enjoyed it because I found the characters really pulled me into the story.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews