Centurion's Rise

Origins #2

by Mark Henrikson

Origins Series Continues

ROME. The mere mention of the name instills images of grandeur. The mighty empire was a guiding light for the civilized world for a thousand years. Was that by chance or careful design?

A psychiatric patient named Hastelloy has the answer. He believes he was there for it all: Caesar, legions, gladiators. According to his tale even the great gods Jupiter, Vesta and the advent of Christianity were not immune to his influence. Is he crazy or is it still crazy to ignore him?

Meanwhile, an NSA agent closes in on the location of his abducted partner and answers to the age old question - are we alone in the universe? To gain enlightenment he will have to face specters from his own past to safeguard himself, his family, and possibly the entire planet. The stakes have never been higher for him or his clandestine agency.

Julius Caesar, Cleopatra, Jesus Christ. You may know the names and dates, but not the why or how. This gripping thriller will challenge everything you thought you knew about the most dynamic era in human history and draw into question if there will be a future. Once again, the Origins of all will be revealed.

Genres: Science Fiction, Fiction, Ebooks, Amazon

388 pages, Paperback

First published November 1, 2012

About the author

Mark Henrikson grew up in the suburbs of St. Louis Missouri and attended the University of Missouri, Columbia where he earned a bachelors degree in Finance and Economics in 1998. He later earned his Masters of Business Administration from Lindenwood University.

Mark's love of story telling began at a young age while listening to imaginative, and often times scary, bedtime stories by his father. His respect for the written word was reinforced by the attentive eye of his mother who taught English for many years at St. Charles High School.

Mark has been happily married since 2000 and is the proud father of two children. He works as a financial analyst and uses his fiction writing as a creative outlet from the rather sterile profession he none the less enjoys.

His Origins novel series began as a two page plot write-up his older brother decided was not going anywhere. With his permission, Mark used that synopsis as back story for the main character in the Origins series and allowed his creativity to take over from there.

Reviews

[Mark Henrikson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I hate when authors review their own work, but I do think it’s fun to read their thoughts and reasoning behind what they wrote. With that in mind, here is where I was coming from with book two in the Origins series.

Right from the start when I drew up how this series would progress I knew this book, which takes place mostly in ancient Rome, would be the most fun for me to write. When I graduated college I put on my hiking boots and backpacked around Europe for a month before rejoining the real world of full time employment. I spent an entire week in Rome and I must say the moment when I came out of the subway station and saw the Colosseum with my own eyes was very profound – monumental even if you will excuse the pun. I think the seeds for this novel were sown right then and there.

The Roman Empire was always my favorite time period to study in school. Considering multiple civil wars, and the lives of Julius Caesar, Augustus Caesar, and Cleopatra, took place in such a limited time span made the transition period from Roman Republic to Empire a perfect setting for my little crew of aliens to play a role in manipulating mankind for their benefit. Once again I tried to stay true to actual historical events, but played with the influences and motivations for those events to fit in with Hastelloy and his crew’s struggle with the Alpha threat.

The time period also gave me the opportunity to write about the founding years of Christianity. Immortal aliens with advanced technology and healing tools was just too tempting not to address some possibilities with the life of Jesus Christ. It really gave me a chance to explore the questions I harbor about my own faith and organized religion in general. Hopefully atheists and evangelicals alike will find something to agree with and question to stimulate some critical thinking of their own.

As always, my true objective with this book was to entertain and I really think it succeeds on many levels in that regard. Once again, I would love to read your thoughts on the book, favorable or critical.
Enjoy!
Mark Henrikson

[Janeandjerry · Rating 5 out of 5]

LOVED THIS BOOK AND HOPEFULLY WILL BE A THIRD BOOK. THIS TOOK YOU THROUGH THE LIFE AND TIMES OF THE ROMANS. WONDER WHAT THE NEXT ONE WILL BRING

[Ryan Rauber · Rating 3 out of 5]

Second book in the Origins series, which takes us from ancient Egypt to the Roman Republic and the rise of Caesar. I thought I would enjoy this more, but I was a little disappointed. Of course, there is so much story during this time period, not all of it could be included here. And the book seemed a little rushed at the end. But still an enjoyable story, and overall great premise. I will still continue with this series.

[kenneth h. robinson · Rating 4 out of 5]

ROMAN EMPIRE AND RISE OF CHRISTIANITY

Our history of Roman Mediterranean Empire is retold as if the most influential persons are roles being re-enacted by interstellar beings viewing for control of earth and its universe.

[Hank Wolfla · Rating 4 out of 5]

Order the rest of Mark's books after reading his first book and this book.

A great mis of history, science fiction, and religion. Mark does a great job of mixing the idea of aliens controlling our past, while being a very good author in telling the story. He does jump between different times and people, that sometimes breaks your thoughts. It is wonderful to see Amazon allowing authors like Mark to succeed in the their love of writing.

[Ananthatejas Raghavan · Rating 4 out of 5]

The first book, Origins surprised me with the ingenious storyline and creativity. The second takes it forward in a similar fashion. Though there are some gaps in the story wrt what I've read about Julius Caesar, the overall story still continues to entertain. Only thing I found slight weak till now is the present storyline though that may improve with the rest of the series.

[Ruth · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another interesting "what if" variant of historical remakes from an oblique but plausible side and how do we really acknowledge these views. an government agent and a psychiatrist are challenged by a man who claims to be thousands of years old and how "they", his group helped adjust a few facts through time.

[juana hernandez · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rome...

This series keeps getting better and better. You will need to read the previous book in order to understand the complex relationships between Hastelloy and his crew. This time I was engaged whole heartedly in all story lines and couldn't wait for the next page to find out what happened next.

[Ray Hastie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Interesting novelization of a commonly discussed conspiracy theory.

[K. Devlyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another great read! Sci-fi + History for the win!

[Michael · Rating 4 out of 5]

****WARNING MAY CONTAIN SOME SPOILERS****



Centurions Rise is book two in a fantastic historical fiction series written by hot new author Mark Henrikson. I picked up this series on book two and was immediately caught up in the fantastic action and epic story-line. This amazing book takes us back to the ongoing the battle between two Alien species; the Novi and the Alphas each of whom are trapped on planet earth. The Novi strive to move humanity forward in an effort to reach their home world deeper in the galaxy but are battling the Alpha who are looking to do the same but in their own way while thwarting the Novi. The Novi are looking to bring a balance for humanity while the Alpha; a dog like species are looking for control and each have their own unique powers and abilities. In this book of the series, Novi leader Hastelloy, is in a mental institution and recounts him and his crew’s missions and experiences over the last few thousand years while trapped on earth to his therapist whose brother, an NSA agent, is searching for the aliens.

epic

The Upside

Centurions Rise takes the reader through some of the biggest events in human history and Henrikson breathlessly moves through them while bringing us right into the middle of events we have only read about in history books. He offers a very thorough and detailed description of how these events unravel in the lives of his character. What events you ask? Well…the rise and fall of Gaius Julius Caesar for one. The epic story of Mark Antony and Cleopatra is there as well. The end all be all of stories, the rise and death of Jesus Christ and the birth of Christianity is there also. These are retold by Novi leader Hastelloy, as he explains how his Novi crew had a hand in and influenced these epic human events. At one point in the story Hastelloy is none other than Marcus Brutus; famous murderer of Julius Caesar.



Through Henrikson’s imagination and keen knowledge of history we see an interesting and often plausible retelling of historical events which are guided by beings not of this world. I had trouble putting this book and down although I am notorious for slow reading I finished this book rather quickly. The plots twist and turns and fabulous storytelling kept me going. By the end of the book I was excited to start the next book in the series (Origins: Reformation) and already picked it up using my Amazon Prime.

One of the things I keep asking myself is who are the good guys when it comes to the Aliens? The Alphas or the Novi? I am still not sure so far and that is one of the things that keeps me reading besides the history. Is the man behind the curtain good or evil? While reading the book there were certain things that made me reflect on our modern day world and current events which I wasn't expecting and loved. This book really sets the stage rather well for what will happen in the next and future books.

This is one of the rare books I would highly suggest for anyone who likes science fiction, #sciencefaction, alternative history or just good old fashioned dramatic fiction.



The Downside

My only complaint about the book is at times the story felt like it was lagging and taking too long to progress in certain parts. However, the rich attention to details and history made it totally worthwhile when it was all said and done. Also, once I realized it was coming I was wondering how Henrikson would handle the life and death of Jesus. I thought the way he did it was interesting, plausible (in context of the story) and non-offensive. I think he accomplish writing about a touchy subject with grace and tact while keeping it interesting and decently paced. However, some people of a particular religious nature may take offence at the subject even being broached. To them I would say: The story you need to believe in hasn't changed. Just give it a chance and enjoy a fun read.



Here are some of my favorite lines from the book

“Elected officials in a democracy must represent out of duty and dedication to the state and the greater good of the people.” – Hastelloy

“We cannot just tell people that everything they believe and base their life on is a lie. If anything that will only entrench their belief system further since they feel it is under attack and must be defended.” Nero Tonwen (a Novi)

“Drinks and twats are on me tonight my dear.” - Tomal

“As he moved along the path he noted the journey was much easier with the oppressive weight of his burden lifted off his shoulders by the man dying on the cross for his benefit.” – Simon

“The self-destructive behavior of pushing everyone away suggests your subconscious is punishing you. Part of you may still think the act of moving on with your life is a betrayal of the person you are leaving behind”. Jeffrey the therapist. ( This quote hits home since I still feel guilt everyday about losing my dog Harley)

[Ananthatejas Raghavan · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Great Sequel

The first book, Origins surprised me with the ingenious storyline and creativity. The second takes it forward in a similar fashion. Though there are some gaps in the story wrt what I've read about Julius Caesar, the overall story still continues to entertain. Only thing I found slight weak till now is the present storyline though that may improve with the rest of the series.

[Vanda Bromwich · Rating 3 out of 5]

A quick guide through the ages according to a psychiatric patient. He belived that a group of aliens had guided the rise and fall of the Roman Empire. Not as bad a read as it sounds.

[Heather · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely LOVED Book 2 of the Origins Series. :D

The book ties together the past and the present through 3 unique story lines.

THE PRESENT:

In the present, Hastelloy is still telling Dr. Holmes of how he and his crew influenced the past in order to protect the 20 million lives inside the Nexus and work towards going back home. At the same time, Dr. Holmes' brother Mark is tracking down part of Hastelloy's crew in Egypt where two of his crew members have captured 2 archaeologists and Mark's partner before capturing Mark and his team of Navy Seals. The two separate events are tied together when Hastelloy's crew release Mark and the others and Mark calls his brother about Hastelloy. 2 out of 4 of Hastelloy's crew are still unaccounted for in the present.

THE PAST:

Hastelloy and his crew find themselves in ancient Rome at the time of Julius Caesar, in Egypt with Cleopatra, and in Israel with Jesus. The crew is restless after 2000 years with each other and start to rebel against Hastelloy, who cleverly uses this to his advantage. Together, they once again alter history in order to protect the Nexus and find themselves battling the Alpha once again! The past is not only told through Hastelloy's perspective, but also through the other members of his crew allowing the reader to understand their own personal struggles throughout this period on earth. The reader gets to know the characters better and be attuned to their development. Each of Hastelloy's crew changes significantly during Book 2.

Of course, you are left on a cliff hanger since one of the Alpha got away. I CANNOT WAIT too see what happens next in the past and the present. I'm so curious to find out who is who in the present, what happens in the past after the Alpha got away, and how the changes to the crew members effect their mission.

[David Gott · Rating 3 out of 5]

I must say that I was disappointed with this book. I loved the first one and this period of Roman history is a small obsession of mine. So I was really anticipating this book. Sadly, it just did not deliver for me.

First the good things. I found the story interesting and the entire concept to be very original. The author spins a good yarn and that is the first goal of any book. Tell an interesting story.

The historical inaccuracies are simply too numerous to name. I read a bunch of historical fiction on this period and I fully understand that sometimes the author needs to change something here or there to allow the story to flow or to avoid going down numerous rabbit holes to explain new characters or characters that do one thing and then disappear from the story. That being said, the events in this book only remotely resemble history. Because I an quite a geek on this period of history I just couldn't get past it.

Still...a good story and I will return to the third novel after a short break.

[Bob · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great 2nd installment

While the first book in this series concentrates on Ancient Egypt, this book moves the story to the rise of the Roman Empire. The cast remains the same. The Novi and the Alpha are locked in mortal combat. The Novi seeking to limit their interference with the normal development of technology and society on Earth. The few remains Alpha intent on interfering however they need to in order to finally destroy their enemy.

Like the first book, the author jumps back and forth in time. The stories intertwine with multiple story lines in the Roman Empire and the Roman controlled remains of Ancient Egyptian civilization.

I find it remarkable how the author mixes historical facts and events into his story. Even with the wild ideas of a science fiction writer, grounding the story in historical events makes it seem credible.

I am eager to move onto the third book in the series to learn what happens next!

[Bette · Rating 4 out of 5]

Entertaining read

Entertaining read

This is an interesting take on Roman history and weaves known facts around a good, old-fashioned sci-fi novel. However, there is one fairly major timeline flaw: Jesus wasn't born until Tiberius was on the Roman "throne." This book has him born before even Augustus was.

Also, the book could use another edit. There are numerous grammatical problems that sometimes require several read-throughs to figure out what's being said. But all in all, a fun book.

[Dean Kutzler · Rating 5 out of 5]

This, in my opinion, is possibly the best series a beginner writer could ever write. The voice is clear and distinct and moves the story forward extremely quickly. Page turner-for sure! What I love most about it, is that it mimics history. It reminds me of Rick Riordan and his young adult series. It is a completely different story, following the storyline of history so you learn something, that is if you didn't learn the first time in school.

[Onionboy · Rating 3 out of 5]

I loved the concept of this book: immortal aliens hidden among us, manipulating our history. I didn’t have any problem with this book, other than the fact that it was a very long and slow read. I think it would benefit from a lot of trimming to shorten it and pick up the pace. I have to admit, I did not read any other books in the series, but I don’t feel like that took away anything from this book.

[Scott Moyer · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed book #1. Book #2 is a good continuation, but has a disappointing handling of historical Jesus. Lifting New Testament passages into the dialog was out of character with the overall series. If Exodus was written by an alien why do the Gospels get treated literally?
I hope book #3 moves on to China or Aztecs and drops the christian story line.

[Amy Brouwer · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved the first book in this series so I immediately bought this one and really enjoyed it! Being a huge fan of HBO's Rome I was familiar with the setting and all the players. The only thing keeping it from being 5 stars for me is that the battle scenes are a little more in depth than I would prefer. I just started the third book and can't wait to see where the journey leads this time!

[Susan · Rating 3 out of 5]

I wrote a review on the " finished page" and don't know where it is now. I couldn't finish this book-- I simply did not
like it. I read the first 250 pages and finally had to call it quits.

I thoroughly enjoyed the first book, tho. The first book can be read as a stand alone book, but it ends in a manner allowing for a sequel.

[Sam · Rating 4 out of 5]

Still enjoying the series, though I definitely liked the first book better. But that might just be because I've recently read a lot of books about Rome/Caesar while the Egypt storyline was newer/more refreshing. In this second book, I'm enjoying the modern-time storyline the most. Still interested to see what happens in the third book.

[J. · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book had slightly less awkward incorrect word usage and a little bit better punctuation than the first in the series, but this poor guy still really needs an editor. (I'd love to volunteer for that!)

With that said, I really enjoyed the story line and the characters and how they interacted. I'd like to see this one become a movie as well.

[Matthew D Zastrow · Rating 3 out of 5]

If you liked the first one

If you liked the first one, this is worth a try to see if you'll proceed with the whole series.
My greatest struggle is a manipulation of historical facts to suit the story line instead of working with them more.

I like candy syfy, this satisfies that crave.

[Kevin · Rating 3 out of 5]

Quick full of action second book in the series. The author does a great job of providing reasons for many important events in Roman History. The story jumps around a bit but it continues to be interesting. The character development is not really deep, but you get to know the primary Novi characters.

Makes for interesting reading.

[Kevin Sells · Rating 4 out of 5]

A compelling story

This second installment is as spellbinding as the first. The arc of history has a few niggling errors but nothing offputting. This series so far has more than a few hmmm moments that make one put the book down for a few minutes to ponder. Two down ... Three to go in this series and I can unequivocally recommend it.

[Robin · Rating 5 out of 5]

I hated to come to the end of this book. Mark Henrikson is such a wonderful storyteller that I have just gotten absorbed by these books! Book 2 was even better than the first. I would recommend this series to everyone and I can't wait to see what the next one brings! Hurry, Mr. Henrikson, please.

[Anna · Rating 1 out of 5]

Interesting premise .....but I was so distracted by spelling errors and poor syntax and some plain awful similes: "...dry as to make a rice paddy as dry as the desert." Ugh! There's a reason this book was free; beware of vanity publications. Who was the publisher? Where was an editor?

[Dennis E. Flynn · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good read with some reservations

Enjoyed the reading well enough but from about half way through it seemed to drag on forever. Ingenious using history like he did but it got so I felt I was living it and just wanted to get it over with the last 5 or 6 chapters.