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Nero and Sporus #2
Imperatrix
Captured by pirates and sold to a Roman aristocrat as a sex slave, Sporus attracted the attention of no less a personage than the Emperor Nero, ruler of the known world. Would-be poet, patron of the arts, aesthete, and brutal autocrat, the Divine Nero saw in the boy a startling resemblance to the Empress Poppaea - and made him an empress as well. Suetonius, Tacitus, and other Roman historians have given tantalizing glimpses into the incredible life story of the boy who became twice an empress to two emperors, and was condemned to die in the arena by a third. In this meticulously researched trilogy, World Fantasy Award winning author lays bare the darkest secrets of Imperial Rome - its triumphs and its nadirs, its beauty and its cruelty. If Gore Vidal had written Quo Vadis this could well have been the result. Through this chaos, a contorted mirror of our contemporary world, this figure of Sporus moves, all too knowing yet all too innocent, providing a worm's eye view of one of the wildest periods in ancient history.
Imperatrix, the second volume of the tale, takes us into the heart of the Imperial palace with all its intrigue, depravity, and splendor.
"Somtow's pen knows no boundaries. From outrageous sex scandals to fascinating detail-rich elements of history that draw you right into the machinations of Ancient Rome ..." - from Proof Positive
" This is compulsive reading and all the more remarkable for being broadly speaking a true story. All the key players in this story are genuine and the story follows real events in their lives. The book feels very well researched but the research is used to fuel the story rather than slow it down. Somtow's writing has rarely been more compulsive than this. It's a fast, and incredibly easy read despite the complexities of the politics woven into the narrative." - Marc Lyth in Marc's World of Books
Imperatrix, the second volume of the tale, takes us into the heart of the Imperial palace with all its intrigue, depravity, and splendor.
"Somtow's pen knows no boundaries. From outrageous sex scandals to fascinating detail-rich elements of history that draw you right into the machinations of Ancient Rome ..." - from Proof Positive
" This is compulsive reading and all the more remarkable for being broadly speaking a true story. All the key players in this story are genuine and the story follows real events in their lives. The book feels very well researched but the research is used to fuel the story rather than slow it down. Somtow's writing has rarely been more compulsive than this. It's a fast, and incredibly easy read despite the complexities of the politics woven into the narrative." - Marc Lyth in Marc's World of Books
- GenresHistorical FictionLGBT
273 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 24, 2023
24 people are currently reading
71 people want to read
About the author
S.P. Somtow
180 books156 followersCalled by the Bangkok Post "the Thai person known by name to most people in the world," S.P. Somtow is an author, composer, filmmaker, and international media personality whose dazzling talents and acerbic wit have entertained and enlightened fans the world over.
He was Somtow Papinian Sucharitkul in Bangkok. His grandfather's sister was a Queen of Siam, his father is a well known international lawyer and vice-president of the International Academy of Human Rights. Somtow was educated at Eton and Cambridge, and his first career was in music. In the 1970s (while he was still in college) his works were being performed on four continents and he was named representative of Thailand to the Asian Composer's League and to the International Music Commission of UNESCO. His avant-garde compositions caused controversy and scandal in his native country, and a severe case of musical burnout in the late 1970s precipitated his entry into a second career - that of author.
He began writing science fiction, but soon started to invade other fields of writing, with some 40 books out now, including the clasic horror novel Vampire Junction, which defined the "rock and roll vampire" concept for the 80s, the Riverrun Trilogy ("the finest new series of the 90's" - Locus) and the semi-autobiographical memoir Jasmine Nights. He has won or been nominated for dozens of major awards including the Bram Stoker Award, the John W. Campbell Award, the Hugo Award, and the World Fantasy Award.
Somtow has also made some incursions into filmmaking, directing the cult classic The Laughing Dead and the award winning art film Ill Met by Moonlight.
He was Somtow Papinian Sucharitkul in Bangkok. His grandfather's sister was a Queen of Siam, his father is a well known international lawyer and vice-president of the International Academy of Human Rights. Somtow was educated at Eton and Cambridge, and his first career was in music. In the 1970s (while he was still in college) his works were being performed on four continents and he was named representative of Thailand to the Asian Composer's League and to the International Music Commission of UNESCO. His avant-garde compositions caused controversy and scandal in his native country, and a severe case of musical burnout in the late 1970s precipitated his entry into a second career - that of author.
He began writing science fiction, but soon started to invade other fields of writing, with some 40 books out now, including the clasic horror novel Vampire Junction, which defined the "rock and roll vampire" concept for the 80s, the Riverrun Trilogy ("the finest new series of the 90's" - Locus) and the semi-autobiographical memoir Jasmine Nights. He has won or been nominated for dozens of major awards including the Bram Stoker Award, the John W. Campbell Award, the Hugo Award, and the World Fantasy Award.
Somtow has also made some incursions into filmmaking, directing the cult classic The Laughing Dead and the award winning art film Ill Met by Moonlight.
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May 13, 2024Set in ancient Rome, Imperatrix: The Empress who was once a Slave tells the story of Sporus, the young slave boy who became the fifth Emperor of Rome's lover and later, wife, but not before being castrated mercilessly. Written by S. P. Somtow, the story is told from Sporus's point of view who had been previously freed by his former dominus and master, Petronius. Sporus tells of his time in service to the Emperor, divulging the perverted pleasures of the narcissistic Ruler, his cruel exploitation of those in his service and the abusive relationship he shared with his deceased mother, demanding that his lovers’ portray the role of the ill-fated matriarch. But as Sporus dances to the whims of a psychopath, what disturbs him the most is not the pathological tendencies of the Emperor but the crushing discovery that his freedom was only ever an illusion.
Imperatrix: The Empress who was once a Slave is one of the most memorable books I’ve ever had the pleasure of reading. S. P. is a gifted writer that entices the reader into the dubious world of characters both loveable and calculating; psychopathic and endearing. What I most enjoyed about the story is the narrative. It was a wonderful mix of humor and despair, leaving me with a bittersweet feeling. S. P. depicts the cruelty of the Romans in a candid manner which I found both gruesome and fascinating; the traditions and laws were shocking, ludicrous in it's easy acceptance of cruelty. Although at times I found the grammatical errors in the story distracting, it didn't decrease the entertainment value. The only thing I regret is not having read the first novel of the series.
Imperatrix: The Empress who was once a Slave is one of the most memorable books I’ve ever had the pleasure of reading. S. P. is a gifted writer that entices the reader into the dubious world of characters both loveable and calculating; psychopathic and endearing. What I most enjoyed about the story is the narrative. It was a wonderful mix of humor and despair, leaving me with a bittersweet feeling. S. P. depicts the cruelty of the Romans in a candid manner which I found both gruesome and fascinating; the traditions and laws were shocking, ludicrous in it's easy acceptance of cruelty. Although at times I found the grammatical errors in the story distracting, it didn't decrease the entertainment value. The only thing I regret is not having read the first novel of the series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 3, 2024
Imperatrix: The Empress who was once a Slave, the second installment in S. P. Somtow’s riveting trilogy, transports readers back to the opulence and peril of the Roman Empire, seen through the eyes of a young slave named Sporus. As the favored companion of the notoriously unpredictable Emperor Nero, Sporus navigates a world of luxury and danger, where his beauty both elevates and endangers him. The narrative is a delicate balance of splendor and terror, as Sporus must continually evade the whims of a virtually insane emperor.
The author’s adept storytelling makes Imperatrix an engaging read, with a brisk pace that artfully conveys the treacherous twists of life in Nero’s court. Somtow’s thorough research enriches the narrative, weaving in intricate details of ancient Roman life, from the decadent foods to the societal norms, lending an air of authenticity to the tale.
Sporus is a compelling protagonist, his resilience and vulnerability drawing the reader into his plight and rooting for his survival amidst the debauchery and madness of the imperial surroundings. While the novel does not shy away from the explicit realities of the time, including graphic scenes, Nero’s portrayal stands out—his divine madness and capricious nature are as fascinating as they are frightening. This depiction offers a glimpse into the life of a man treated as a god yet indulged and isolated to the point of lunacy. The novel’s concise nature only leaves readers more captivated and eager to delve deeper into Sporus’s journey—a clear testament to the immersive world Somtow has crafted. This brevity fuels anticipation, making the prospect of the next chapter in this enthralling saga all the more enticing.
Imperatrix: The Empress who was once a Slave is a compelling dive into a notorious epoch, offering a vivid exploration of a young slave’s struggle for survival and identity amidst the grandeur and madness of Nero’s Rome. The novel promises and delivers a journey filled with danger, intrigue, and the relentless pursuit of a place within a world where every moment could be your last.
The author’s adept storytelling makes Imperatrix an engaging read, with a brisk pace that artfully conveys the treacherous twists of life in Nero’s court. Somtow’s thorough research enriches the narrative, weaving in intricate details of ancient Roman life, from the decadent foods to the societal norms, lending an air of authenticity to the tale.
Sporus is a compelling protagonist, his resilience and vulnerability drawing the reader into his plight and rooting for his survival amidst the debauchery and madness of the imperial surroundings. While the novel does not shy away from the explicit realities of the time, including graphic scenes, Nero’s portrayal stands out—his divine madness and capricious nature are as fascinating as they are frightening. This depiction offers a glimpse into the life of a man treated as a god yet indulged and isolated to the point of lunacy. The novel’s concise nature only leaves readers more captivated and eager to delve deeper into Sporus’s journey—a clear testament to the immersive world Somtow has crafted. This brevity fuels anticipation, making the prospect of the next chapter in this enthralling saga all the more enticing.
Imperatrix: The Empress who was once a Slave is a compelling dive into a notorious epoch, offering a vivid exploration of a young slave’s struggle for survival and identity amidst the grandeur and madness of Nero’s Rome. The novel promises and delivers a journey filled with danger, intrigue, and the relentless pursuit of a place within a world where every moment could be your last.
June 22, 2024
"Imperatrix: The Empress Who Was Once a Slave" by S.P. Somtow sheds light on the remarkable story of Sporus, an empress in ancient Rome who was once a slave. Captured by pirates and sold into slavery, Sporus unexpectedly catches the eye of Emperor Nero. The Divine Nero, known for his artistic sensibilities and brutal autocracy, sees in Sporus a striking resemblance to Empress Poppaea. Intrigued, Nero elevates Sporus to the status of empress.
The narrative deftly combines historical details with emotional depth, revealing the complexities of Nero's reign. His tumultuous relationships and the influence of his mother, Agrippina, come into sharp focus. As Sporus navigates the treacherous corridors of power, he learns valuable lessons and becomes an unwitting witness to the wild excesses of ancient Rome.
While the story delves into history, it initially presents a challenge due to the author's somewhat confusing writing style. However, as the plot unfolds, readers are rewarded with a rich tapestry of intrigue, politics, and opulence. The vivid descriptions transport us to the opulent palaces, bustling streets, and decadent banquets of Rome. We witness the clash of power, ambition, and desire, all set against the grand backdrop of the Eternal City.
Sporus grapples with conflicting loyalties, torn between duty and personal yearnings. His relationship with Nero oscillates between intimacy and danger, as he maneuvers through courtly intrigues and political machinations. The author's meticulous research brings ancient Rome to life—the scent of incense in the temples, the echo of chariots on cobblestone streets, and the whispers of conspiracy in shadowed chambers.
In this captivating tale, Sporus's journey from slave to empress mirrors Rome's own transformation—from conquest to decadence. As readers, we witness the rise and fall of empires, the fragility of power, and the indomitable spirit of those who defy their circumstances. Imperatrix invites us to explore history's hidden corners, where passion, betrayal, and resilience intertwine in a dance as old as time itself.
The narrative deftly combines historical details with emotional depth, revealing the complexities of Nero's reign. His tumultuous relationships and the influence of his mother, Agrippina, come into sharp focus. As Sporus navigates the treacherous corridors of power, he learns valuable lessons and becomes an unwitting witness to the wild excesses of ancient Rome.
While the story delves into history, it initially presents a challenge due to the author's somewhat confusing writing style. However, as the plot unfolds, readers are rewarded with a rich tapestry of intrigue, politics, and opulence. The vivid descriptions transport us to the opulent palaces, bustling streets, and decadent banquets of Rome. We witness the clash of power, ambition, and desire, all set against the grand backdrop of the Eternal City.
Sporus grapples with conflicting loyalties, torn between duty and personal yearnings. His relationship with Nero oscillates between intimacy and danger, as he maneuvers through courtly intrigues and political machinations. The author's meticulous research brings ancient Rome to life—the scent of incense in the temples, the echo of chariots on cobblestone streets, and the whispers of conspiracy in shadowed chambers.
In this captivating tale, Sporus's journey from slave to empress mirrors Rome's own transformation—from conquest to decadence. As readers, we witness the rise and fall of empires, the fragility of power, and the indomitable spirit of those who defy their circumstances. Imperatrix invites us to explore history's hidden corners, where passion, betrayal, and resilience intertwine in a dance as old as time itself.
July 29, 2024
Sporus & Nero
“Imperatrix” is the second book, following “Delicatus”, in a dramatic trilogy about Sporus, who rose from slavery to sit beside Nero.
Sporus' rise and fall are told through an imagined conversation with his makeup artist, preparing him for the Circus, where he will be abused by a God for Roman entertainment.
Creative liberties fill gaps in the historical record, and events are rearranged for narrative flow. Despite this, nothing feels disjointed or out of place, even to a knowledgeable student of first-century Rome.
S. P. Somtow deftly weaves this historical narrative, leaving readers anticipating the next outrageous elitist behavior.
As a Delicatus and companion of the Emperor, Sporus tells much of his story through the lens of sexual behavior. This book feels more like a dramatic recreation than a steamy romance.
I read the first parts as a serial. Now, having read Book 2, I am moving on to the final part of Sporus' story in Book 3.
“Imperatrix” is the second book, following “Delicatus”, in a dramatic trilogy about Sporus, who rose from slavery to sit beside Nero.
Sporus' rise and fall are told through an imagined conversation with his makeup artist, preparing him for the Circus, where he will be abused by a God for Roman entertainment.
Creative liberties fill gaps in the historical record, and events are rearranged for narrative flow. Despite this, nothing feels disjointed or out of place, even to a knowledgeable student of first-century Rome.
S. P. Somtow deftly weaves this historical narrative, leaving readers anticipating the next outrageous elitist behavior.
As a Delicatus and companion of the Emperor, Sporus tells much of his story through the lens of sexual behavior. This book feels more like a dramatic recreation than a steamy romance.
I read the first parts as a serial. Now, having read Book 2, I am moving on to the final part of Sporus' story in Book 3.
August 28, 2025
once again, such an amazing book following sporus that had me in an absolute chokehold. didn’t disappoint after i was already amazed by delicatus. i have since also read the first part of the third book and am still invested and extremely positive. once again, an easy 5 star!
like i said in my review on delicatus:
exquisite world building, immaculate retelling of sporus’ life and a perfect job at bringing the young man to life in this series. in this book i again felt like i was walking the streets of rome and now — if i’m correct that’s also in this book and not the third — greece beside sporus. i am also quite attached to hylas now, he is so sweet. still heartbroken over hyacinth’s death and seeing sporus’ visions of him covers the topic of grief and emotional turmoil so well. i get you, sporus, i get you. i am devastated too.
thank you so much, s.p. so tow for giving us these beautiful books!
like i said in my review on delicatus:
exquisite world building, immaculate retelling of sporus’ life and a perfect job at bringing the young man to life in this series. in this book i again felt like i was walking the streets of rome and now — if i’m correct that’s also in this book and not the third — greece beside sporus. i am also quite attached to hylas now, he is so sweet. still heartbroken over hyacinth’s death and seeing sporus’ visions of him covers the topic of grief and emotional turmoil so well. i get you, sporus, i get you. i am devastated too.
thank you so much, s.p. so tow for giving us these beautiful books!
February 10, 2024
Ave Imperatrix… If it’s possible, this book is better than the first. It should be made clear that this story is heartbreaking. In “Delicatus”, our protagonist watches as his mother is murdered, he is sold into slavery, is repeatedly raped and stripped of any semblance of his humanity. Those were good old days. At least his master is somewhat kind. But then he catches the eye of the emperor… a living god. Things get… complicated. “Imperatrix” follows Sporus on his journey to becoming the Empress of Rome… and along the way, he continues to lose parts of himself (and I’m not just speaking about his castration). He’s numbed to the violence and decadence of life in Rome. He despises and loves Emperor Nero at the same time. He watches his friends maimed or killed and while saddened, he knows that this is the way it’s supposed to be… I can’t wait for the conclusion.
March 3, 2024
The story of Sporus, his enslavement, and his subsequent relationship with Emperor Nero is fascinating. Bearing a remarkable resemblance to Empress Poppaea, Sporus must surrender himself to the emperor.
According to The author, S.P.Somtow, Divine Nero saw in the boy a startling resemblance to the Empress Poppaea, a likeness that could either destroy the youth or lead him to great things under the emperor's patronage. S.P.Somtow has woven a fascinating story that can be read alone or as the second book in his trilogy. He maintained an ideal pace from cover to cover, and his great storytelling wove a spell that pulled me in, so I couldn't put the book down.
I happily recommend this book to all readers, especially those interested in ancient Rome.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
According to The author, S.P.Somtow, Divine Nero saw in the boy a startling resemblance to the Empress Poppaea, a likeness that could either destroy the youth or lead him to great things under the emperor's patronage. S.P.Somtow has woven a fascinating story that can be read alone or as the second book in his trilogy. He maintained an ideal pace from cover to cover, and his great storytelling wove a spell that pulled me in, so I couldn't put the book down.
I happily recommend this book to all readers, especially those interested in ancient Rome.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 16, 2024
Roman Decadence from a Different POV
"Imperatrix" is a compelling short novel that offers a unique and humanizing perspective on Imperial Rome through the eyes of Sporus, a witness to both its grandeur and moral decay. The narrative skillfully combines historical detail with emotional depth. It explores the complexity of Nero’s reign, highlighting his tumultuous relationships and the influence of his mother, Agrippina. The author's fluent prose and meticulous research bring this ancient world vividly to life, making "Imperatrix" an enlightening and engaging read for both history enthusiasts and those interested in nuanced storytelling. The only complaint I have is that, on the Kindle app at least, the illustrations seem oddly stretched (see screenshots).
"Imperatrix" is a compelling short novel that offers a unique and humanizing perspective on Imperial Rome through the eyes of Sporus, a witness to both its grandeur and moral decay. The narrative skillfully combines historical detail with emotional depth. It explores the complexity of Nero’s reign, highlighting his tumultuous relationships and the influence of his mother, Agrippina. The author's fluent prose and meticulous research bring this ancient world vividly to life, making "Imperatrix" an enlightening and engaging read for both history enthusiasts and those interested in nuanced storytelling. The only complaint I have is that, on the Kindle app at least, the illustrations seem oddly stretched (see screenshots).
January 11, 2024
Another wonderful book on the incredible and painful life of Sporus. The author excels with vivid details of life in the deadly court of Nero. With a deft hand, the author showcases the complex psychology of the Man-God, and those who covet and pander to his power. One cannot but weep for the hapless Sporus trapped in the sickening embrace of those who see him as a plaything, a means to an end. Sporus’s desperate attempts to survive and cling to some semblance of personhood and humanity is gut wrenching.
And still his story is not over in this fabulous, gritty novel! Looking forward to the next one.
And still his story is not over in this fabulous, gritty novel! Looking forward to the next one.
March 22, 2024
Imperatrix: The Empress Who Was Once A Slave by S.P. Somtow is a fascinating tale about a young slave who is trapped in the sexual politics in the Roman empire. Sporus has the misforture to closely resemble Poppaea, Nero's first wife, a fact that doesn't escape many powerful people. this places Sporus in the very dangerous position of being the favored plaything of Nero, a psychopath.
Somtow weaves the darkness of this world so deftly, the way his words play is so lovely. i found myself reading compulsively. i couldn't put the book down. such an amazing work.
this is the second book out of a series of three. i don't want Sporus' story to end and i know my heart will break when i find out how it does.
highly recommended.
5 stars out of 5.
Somtow weaves the darkness of this world so deftly, the way his words play is so lovely. i found myself reading compulsively. i couldn't put the book down. such an amazing work.
this is the second book out of a series of three. i don't want Sporus' story to end and i know my heart will break when i find out how it does.
highly recommended.
5 stars out of 5.
July 4, 2024
I don’t have much to say for this that I didn’t already say in my review of book one.
I certainly enjoyed this and had a good time reading it, though again, way more typos than I would find excusable.
Also I am embarrassed to admit I didn’t notice this in book one, mainly because I wasn’t looking that closely, but all the “illustrations” are very painfully obviously AI, which I am *extremely* against, but which the author seems to be huge fan of (based on these books and the way his website looks).
Just for that I should honestly deduct some stars, but I do rate largely based on personal enjoyment, so I’m just gonna go against my own principles here, shame on me.
I certainly enjoyed this and had a good time reading it, though again, way more typos than I would find excusable.
Also I am embarrassed to admit I didn’t notice this in book one, mainly because I wasn’t looking that closely, but all the “illustrations” are very painfully obviously AI, which I am *extremely* against, but which the author seems to be huge fan of (based on these books and the way his website looks).
Just for that I should honestly deduct some stars, but I do rate largely based on personal enjoyment, so I’m just gonna go against my own principles here, shame on me.
January 22, 2024
I’m loving this series! Set in Ancient Rome it’s the story of someone waiting to die, and it’s enthralling. The cruelty and hardships of life in Rome are horrifying, but the story, with all the dangers faced is absolutely fascinating. The main character is sympathetic even when he’s involved in terrible cruelty and awful situations, and I can’t wait to see what happens in the next book.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 9, 2024
"Call no man happy until he is dead."
the ~fucking~ roman’s man…
the ~fucking~ roman’s man…
Read
February 8, 2024I enjoyed Sporus' sad and tragic story. I enjoyed the author's (S. P. Somtow) writing style. It was simplistic in its beauty.
June 8, 2024
You can read my full review of “Imperatrix” at my web site.
September 5, 2025
Quiero darle un abrazo muy fuerte a Sporus.
September 26, 2024
3.5 but rounding up.
So this is the second book. While I enjoyed it overall, it was not as good as the first book for some very specific reasons. Still, I rounded up because this book deserves a chance. There were times though, especially in the beginning, that I felt like a different author was writing. Some of it just seemed so juvenile, even a bit choppy at times. Reading the other reviews, no one seems to mention the lack of editing, and there seems to be nothing but gushing praise. I guess I’ll be the bad guy and point out some flaws.
”Yes, yes, yes.” Louder, he announced, “You can all go and kill yourselves now. I mean the conspirators, of course. Everyone else, just carry on. Oh! If any of you conspirators have really big estates, I’ll seize them, so I’d rather you not kill yourself (And no, there was no end quotation or period in that sentence.)
”You make these names sound so melodious. I love the way you said ‘Priscus’ … ha, ha, Priskie-Whiskie! Adorable! Just for that, I think I’ll let him go.”
Just… ugh.
I don’t know who edited this one, if anyone even bothered. It was clogged with errors. There were so many sentences that had repeating words, or missing words, or paragraphs that just sounded wonky.
“I left my boys in the palaestra, where they could find other youths to play and exercise with. They stripped down and joined some other youths.” (other youths… don’t use that twice!)
“By time I emerged from the encounter,”
Still, I enjoyed the continuation of Sporus’ journey. It didn’t feel as detailed or fleshed out as the first book, but it still held my interest, even with the cringe errors. I think the first book had more details and depth when it came to describing the surroundings, but this book still had enough detail to give me the immersion of Ancient Rome.
And then there are the images. I get that they depict parts of the story, but some of them are just tacky and/or wrongly made. If you notice the hands, some of them are weirdly placed or the wrong size… fairly obvious they are AI. I probably make this a bigger deal than most, but as an artist, it makes me cringe.
I thought this was the last book, but it ended abruptly and I realized, nope, this wasn’t the end. Will I be reading the next one? You bet. Hopefully it won’t continue with the awful editing.
So this is the second book. While I enjoyed it overall, it was not as good as the first book for some very specific reasons. Still, I rounded up because this book deserves a chance. There were times though, especially in the beginning, that I felt like a different author was writing. Some of it just seemed so juvenile, even a bit choppy at times. Reading the other reviews, no one seems to mention the lack of editing, and there seems to be nothing but gushing praise. I guess I’ll be the bad guy and point out some flaws.
”Yes, yes, yes.” Louder, he announced, “You can all go and kill yourselves now. I mean the conspirators, of course. Everyone else, just carry on. Oh! If any of you conspirators have really big estates, I’ll seize them, so I’d rather you not kill yourself (And no, there was no end quotation or period in that sentence.)
”You make these names sound so melodious. I love the way you said ‘Priscus’ … ha, ha, Priskie-Whiskie! Adorable! Just for that, I think I’ll let him go.”
Just… ugh.
I don’t know who edited this one, if anyone even bothered. It was clogged with errors. There were so many sentences that had repeating words, or missing words, or paragraphs that just sounded wonky.
“I left my boys in the palaestra, where they could find other youths to play and exercise with. They stripped down and joined some other youths.” (other youths… don’t use that twice!)
“By time I emerged from the encounter,”
Still, I enjoyed the continuation of Sporus’ journey. It didn’t feel as detailed or fleshed out as the first book, but it still held my interest, even with the cringe errors. I think the first book had more details and depth when it came to describing the surroundings, but this book still had enough detail to give me the immersion of Ancient Rome.
And then there are the images. I get that they depict parts of the story, but some of them are just tacky and/or wrongly made. If you notice the hands, some of them are weirdly placed or the wrong size… fairly obvious they are AI. I probably make this a bigger deal than most, but as an artist, it makes me cringe.
I thought this was the last book, but it ended abruptly and I realized, nope, this wasn’t the end. Will I be reading the next one? You bet. Hopefully it won’t continue with the awful editing.
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