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Britannia Rises: ruling the waves was just the beginning
‘Britannia Rises’ tells the story of how, in the near future, the British Empire faces a pivotal crossroads. When the queen dies, her peaceful, prosperous reign comes to an end after more than seven decades. The new monarch must tackle challenges from within his own family and decide how to keep The Empire competitive with their most powerful rivals. The other world powers are looking for any weakness they can find to subjugate Britain and take their place as the most powerful nation on Earth. At the same time, King Alfred must preserve the peace and focus on Outpost, the cooperative programme that will ensure the survival of the human species. Jamie Bayston is a young teacher, embarking on a wonderful life, who has the misfortune to witness a murder that will plunge him into the dark world that exists between The Empire and its struggle to maintain order. He must run and fight to keep himself and his family safe while facing up to the truth that the world he knows is just a small part of what’s really out there.
- GenresFiction
296 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 8, 2023
2 people are currently reading
18 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews
July 14, 2025
Book Review Day!
Britannia Rises
By Russell Dumper
What a gripping narrative!
I have never a read a story even remotely close to this! The book is completely unique and grabs your full attention within the first pages.
King Alfred needs to step up for his nation after his Mother the Queen passes and keep the long running peace of his nation going while battling other leaders that wish to control Britian for themselves. Enter in Jamie Bayston, a teacher with a more positive view of life until he sees something he shouldn't have, a Murder! Jamie is thrown into the fire where nothing is as it seems, he now has to navigate a world of power struggle, betrayal and finding out what truly hides in the darkness.
I loved the near future tone and while it feels like a familiar world it is also all together different and surprising! I loved learning all about Outpost and the important role it plays in this book. The narratives are clever and witty with a compelling storyline to push the story along at a fast and exciting pace. I was impressed with this book!
Britannia Rises
By Russell Dumper
What a gripping narrative!
I have never a read a story even remotely close to this! The book is completely unique and grabs your full attention within the first pages.
King Alfred needs to step up for his nation after his Mother the Queen passes and keep the long running peace of his nation going while battling other leaders that wish to control Britian for themselves. Enter in Jamie Bayston, a teacher with a more positive view of life until he sees something he shouldn't have, a Murder! Jamie is thrown into the fire where nothing is as it seems, he now has to navigate a world of power struggle, betrayal and finding out what truly hides in the darkness.
I loved the near future tone and while it feels like a familiar world it is also all together different and surprising! I loved learning all about Outpost and the important role it plays in this book. The narratives are clever and witty with a compelling storyline to push the story along at a fast and exciting pace. I was impressed with this book!
July 28, 2025
This was a gripping story with a dark alternative history of the British Empire. It's filled with scheming, espionage, eliminating threats, and covert missions to further the Empire, and fuelling dark ambitions.
It follows multiple pov as it explores a new monarch and his son's manipulative power dynamics, a young teacher who sees something he shouldn't and ends up on the run, and a resistance movement gaining traction.
I enjoyed all the tension, the conspiracies and manipulation, and the way multiple paths are merging into a high stakes conflict that could destroy the world.
It seamlessly blends royal drama, politics, espionage and assassins into a believable narrative of 'what could be'.
The characters are complex and deceptive, and the plot is layered with suspense and intrigue, and I liked the attention to detail. Excited to see what happens next!
It follows multiple pov as it explores a new monarch and his son's manipulative power dynamics, a young teacher who sees something he shouldn't and ends up on the run, and a resistance movement gaining traction.
I enjoyed all the tension, the conspiracies and manipulation, and the way multiple paths are merging into a high stakes conflict that could destroy the world.
It seamlessly blends royal drama, politics, espionage and assassins into a believable narrative of 'what could be'.
The characters are complex and deceptive, and the plot is layered with suspense and intrigue, and I liked the attention to detail. Excited to see what happens next!
September 24, 2025
This was a little bit different than what I would normally read. I’m not a big politics fan but it was very intriguing. I did struggle with it to begin with, but it got easier 💁🏻♀️
It reminded me of The Man In The High Castle 😮😮
My husband has already nabbed this book off my shelf and put it on his TBR pile. That’s the first time he’s ever done that 😂😂😂
I enjoyed it and it was such an interesting read 🥰
It reminded me of The Man In The High Castle 😮😮
My husband has already nabbed this book off my shelf and put it on his TBR pile. That’s the first time he’s ever done that 😂😂😂
I enjoyed it and it was such an interesting read 🥰
October 21, 2024
I really enjoyed this one. If you love a bit of historical fiction, politics, wars and a bit of a James Bond vibe thrown in there then this one is for you. It’s got plenty going on, Jamie the main character gets thrown into a dark and uncertain world after being a witness to a murder that isn’t all as it seems. The domino effect that follows from that will change the world as he was once led to believe. The monarchy is on a new trajectory and is on its way to becoming the number one power, but will that happen? You’ll have to read to find out. There’s an interesting underhand that is hiding in the shadows, their in intentions are one you want to read about.
July 25, 2025
Britannia was actually the first @lovebookstours that I got accepted for. Overall this book was indeed a very interesting read and very informative. It gives off vibes of a similar situation with the passing of Queen Elizabeth II a couple of years ago. However the difference is that is takes place in a somewhat dystopian society. I for one thought that the plot and characters were very well drawn out. I for one thought that this book is a real eye opener when it comes to our future as a society. I am looking forward to reading the other books in this series when they come out!
August 6, 2025
Politics isn’t my strong suit so took me a little while to get into this book and the characters but Russell’s fantastic writing won out and I ended up really enjoying it. Loved seeing how all the different characters linked together to help with the rise/fall of Britain.
Found the setting of an alternate universe in the near future really interesting as it was different enough to make an impression but a reality you could see actually happening!
Found the setting of an alternate universe in the near future really interesting as it was different enough to make an impression but a reality you could see actually happening!
September 25, 2025
The first book in the Britannia Series, Britannia Rises by Russell Dumper, intrigued me from the blurb and the cover. A new author to me, so I went in with an open mind and expected everything!
Set in the near future,in Britain, this is a tale that brings politics, espionage, and very definite thriller vibes. The characters are detailed enough to have me invested throughout.
The plot is layered and well paced. It flowed well, keeping me gripped enough to keep turning the pages. The suspense of what would be next had me reading into the night as well. I wasn't sleeping till everything was figured out!
All in all, it's a very well written tale that interested me so much that I want the next book now!!
Set in the near future,in Britain, this is a tale that brings politics, espionage, and very definite thriller vibes. The characters are detailed enough to have me invested throughout.
The plot is layered and well paced. It flowed well, keeping me gripped enough to keep turning the pages. The suspense of what would be next had me reading into the night as well. I wasn't sleeping till everything was figured out!
All in all, it's a very well written tale that interested me so much that I want the next book now!!
September 30, 2025
This book plays out like a movie in my head!
I really like Russell’s style of kicking things off early and the fast pace that plays through out (just like the hero virus, see review on grid for that one)
Told from multiple POV and almost like different stories that all come together. A book filled with suspense, conflict, action with a griping political spy thriller at its heart. Book 1 in the Britannia series with book 2 Britannia Strikes out soon, publishing on 6th October 2025.
I will admit to it taking a while to get my head around it all, all the characters and roles played but once I did it became a smoother read for me. That could also just be due to tiredness and a total me thing.
I won’t go into the storyline too much as the blurb tells enough and I don’t want to give anything else away and I do think going in some what blind adds to the action packed thriller that it is.
It follows multiple POV including the empire and royals, an accidental spy and a rebellion group and the individual stories are brilliant and the characters so well developed and interesting that you get swept away with the action and suspense easily.
A griping read for any action and espionage fans out there. I’d highly recommend.
I really like Russell’s style of kicking things off early and the fast pace that plays through out (just like the hero virus, see review on grid for that one)
Told from multiple POV and almost like different stories that all come together. A book filled with suspense, conflict, action with a griping political spy thriller at its heart. Book 1 in the Britannia series with book 2 Britannia Strikes out soon, publishing on 6th October 2025.
I will admit to it taking a while to get my head around it all, all the characters and roles played but once I did it became a smoother read for me. That could also just be due to tiredness and a total me thing.
I won’t go into the storyline too much as the blurb tells enough and I don’t want to give anything else away and I do think going in some what blind adds to the action packed thriller that it is.
It follows multiple POV including the empire and royals, an accidental spy and a rebellion group and the individual stories are brilliant and the characters so well developed and interesting that you get swept away with the action and suspense easily.
A griping read for any action and espionage fans out there. I’d highly recommend.
September 22, 2025
What a debut book! I am so glad that this is a series because I cannot wait to read more. Such a clever plot idea - Britain after the death of a long reigning queen and a new king to steer through some turbulent times. I enjoyed getting to know Jamie and how his life is changed from one pivotal moment. This certainly struck me as a fast paced story which was aided by the use of different viewpoints. I have already recommended to those who I know love this genre…
October 10, 2025
Thank you to Russ for sending me a copy of this book, in exchange for an honest review.
The British Empire, but not as we know it, politics, scandal, and plenty of action!
I did have a bit of a giggle when the fictional Royal Family names and background were revealed, and I'm all for supporting the Prime Minister!
My only negative thing I had with this book was that there was a lot of names to take in at the start, and a couple of times, I had to look back to double-check who people were. However, I had an early copy, and future versions all contain a handy guide at the front.
I really enjoyed the action scenes, and there are plenty to get stuck into! Russ is great at setting the scene for the reader, and his descriptions make it easy to see it play out in their minds as they read.
I feel fully immersed in the series and will be diving straight into my ARC copy of book two. I'm excited to find out what's going to happen next.
The British Empire, but not as we know it, politics, scandal, and plenty of action!
I did have a bit of a giggle when the fictional Royal Family names and background were revealed, and I'm all for supporting the Prime Minister!
My only negative thing I had with this book was that there was a lot of names to take in at the start, and a couple of times, I had to look back to double-check who people were. However, I had an early copy, and future versions all contain a handy guide at the front.
I really enjoyed the action scenes, and there are plenty to get stuck into! Russ is great at setting the scene for the reader, and his descriptions make it easy to see it play out in their minds as they read.
I feel fully immersed in the series and will be diving straight into my ARC copy of book two. I'm excited to find out what's going to happen next.
September 28, 2025
This was such a gritty and gripping read! I adored the concept. Imagine if this actually happened with the British Empire? How frightening it would be! The cover is good. I think it's the White House decked out in Union Jacks - it worked visually! The book is very well written and flows perfectly. The story does follow various characters, but Russell gives us locations to help us keep the story straight and who we are joining in the particular part of the story. I loved the various settings in the books. A few countries across the world. I enjoyed it. The characters were all fantastic. They fit into the story really well. Even though he wasn't in it that much, I was rather taken with PM Beckham! I wonder why? Jamie was a good character, too. Leopold was perfect in his role, too! I definitely recommend this and cannot wait to read the next installment in the series!
August 30, 2025
The British Empire is at a crossroads. The long peaceful reign of the Queen has ended and her son, Alfred must bring order to chaos. As the other world leaders look for a way to control Britain and steal their power Alfred must find a way to get ahead of them all whilst ensuring the future of humanity with Project Outpost. Into this struggle for dominance stumbles Jamie Bayston, a teacher who witnesses something he shouldn’t and is now in a fight for his own life and all those he loves.
A compelling conspiracy thriller with old school spies, nefarious machinations and deadly cover ups. This is a future world where the citizens are controlled, manipulated and disposed of with no regard for their humanity. It is a dystopian horror of the power of empire with big brother overtones that is deeply disturbing and could so easily be true.
Paranoia and power is the game and the people merely pawns to be used and sacrificed. But, there is dissent, small communities living outside the machine and war is coming. Fantastic characters, fast paced action and a fascinating look at what could happen or, maybe is already, I mean, how would we know!
A compelling conspiracy thriller with old school spies, nefarious machinations and deadly cover ups. This is a future world where the citizens are controlled, manipulated and disposed of with no regard for their humanity. It is a dystopian horror of the power of empire with big brother overtones that is deeply disturbing and could so easily be true.
Paranoia and power is the game and the people merely pawns to be used and sacrificed. But, there is dissent, small communities living outside the machine and war is coming. Fantastic characters, fast paced action and a fascinating look at what could happen or, maybe is already, I mean, how would we know!
September 27, 2025
Set in an alternative near future Britain, this is a rather cleverly told story of how the British Empire and monarchy face challenges with rivals to remain the most powerful nation on Earth.
Firstly, I loved the originality of this story. I've never read anything like it before. It has a very gripping plot. I was drawn in by the opening chapters and quickly got absorbed by the fast pace and the web of scheming and plotting going on.
The writing is fantastic with wit and dynamic characters. The dystopian alternative setting felt believable. I look forward to the next book of the series.
Firstly, I loved the originality of this story. I've never read anything like it before. It has a very gripping plot. I was drawn in by the opening chapters and quickly got absorbed by the fast pace and the web of scheming and plotting going on.
The writing is fantastic with wit and dynamic characters. The dystopian alternative setting felt believable. I look forward to the next book of the series.
November 30, 2025
This is the second book I have read by Russell Dumper and he did not disappoint!
Book 2 is on my Tbr!
Book 2 is on my Tbr!
January 10, 2024
"Britannia Rises" propels readers into a near-future scenario where the British Empire stands at a crucial juncture. Following the demise of a long-reigning queen, a new monarch grapples with internal familial strife while navigating the Empire's quest to stay competitive against formidable global adversaries.
As the world powers seek opportunities to undermine Britain's dominance, King Alfred faces the daunting task of balancing international competition while preserving peace through Outpost, a vital program for humanity's survival.
Amidst this backdrop, Jamie Bayston, a young teacher, finds himself entangled in a murder that exposes the intricate struggle for order within the Empire, forcing him into a harrowing battle to protect his family and confront the startling reality beyond the confines of his known world.
Russell Dumper, acclaimed for his insightful narratives, brings his expertise in crafting compelling and intricate plots to "Britannia Rises." With a knack for envisioning intricate societal landscapes and weaving together multifaceted characters, Dumper enthralls readers with a gripping tale that explores power dynamics, personal dilemmas, and the intricate balance between tradition and modernity.
Overall "Britannia Rises" delves into a captivating alternate future where the fate of a reeling British Empire hangs in the balance. Russell Dumper's masterful storytelling skillfully intertwines political intrigue, familial conflict, and the pursuit of global supremacy, creating an immersive narrative that resonates long after the final page.
A thrilling journey awaits readers as they uncover the complex web of challenges faced by King Alfred and Jamie Bayston, making this book a compelling exploration of power, survival, and the hidden depths of the world we inhabit.
As the world powers seek opportunities to undermine Britain's dominance, King Alfred faces the daunting task of balancing international competition while preserving peace through Outpost, a vital program for humanity's survival.
Amidst this backdrop, Jamie Bayston, a young teacher, finds himself entangled in a murder that exposes the intricate struggle for order within the Empire, forcing him into a harrowing battle to protect his family and confront the startling reality beyond the confines of his known world.
Russell Dumper, acclaimed for his insightful narratives, brings his expertise in crafting compelling and intricate plots to "Britannia Rises." With a knack for envisioning intricate societal landscapes and weaving together multifaceted characters, Dumper enthralls readers with a gripping tale that explores power dynamics, personal dilemmas, and the intricate balance between tradition and modernity.
Overall "Britannia Rises" delves into a captivating alternate future where the fate of a reeling British Empire hangs in the balance. Russell Dumper's masterful storytelling skillfully intertwines political intrigue, familial conflict, and the pursuit of global supremacy, creating an immersive narrative that resonates long after the final page.
A thrilling journey awaits readers as they uncover the complex web of challenges faced by King Alfred and Jamie Bayston, making this book a compelling exploration of power, survival, and the hidden depths of the world we inhabit.
January 2, 2024
"Britannia Rises: ruling the waves was just the beginning" written by the author Russell Dumper is the first book in The Britannia Series Book Series. King Alfred's mother was unwell for a long time and she died leaving things in the hands of King Alfred. He held a meeting at Buckingham Palace. Even though the custom allows only heirs to be present, King Alfred asked Leo and Chris to be there in the meetings.
Alfred's mother made the British Empire the most stable and prosperous coalition in the world. However, Leo wants to stay prepared in case the enemies try to take what's theirs. Leo is a prince with many opinions. Leo has big plans and thinks about the future. According to him, the King only thinks about what's best in the short term.
Jamie Bayston is the student of Professor Ulinov. She asked him to give feedback on her teaching. She was accused of being a spy by some students. When Jamie visited her house to leave the notes, she saw Ulinov being murdered. He told Ed MacLoughlin that it was an imperial assassin who was the murderer of Ulinov.
This is a must read book. The writing style of the author is nice. I appreciate the knowledge of the author in writing this debut fiction. The narration is smooth and strong. As a debut author, Russell has done fantastic work in this book. Go ahead with this book without any second thoughts.
Alfred's mother made the British Empire the most stable and prosperous coalition in the world. However, Leo wants to stay prepared in case the enemies try to take what's theirs. Leo is a prince with many opinions. Leo has big plans and thinks about the future. According to him, the King only thinks about what's best in the short term.
Jamie Bayston is the student of Professor Ulinov. She asked him to give feedback on her teaching. She was accused of being a spy by some students. When Jamie visited her house to leave the notes, she saw Ulinov being murdered. He told Ed MacLoughlin that it was an imperial assassin who was the murderer of Ulinov.
This is a must read book. The writing style of the author is nice. I appreciate the knowledge of the author in writing this debut fiction. The narration is smooth and strong. As a debut author, Russell has done fantastic work in this book. Go ahead with this book without any second thoughts.
May 4, 2025
Wow i absolutely loved this book! It's such a fantastically written historical fiction. It really has it all Russell Dumper's cleverly written novel again has had me dying to read the next one!
I won't spoil the book but here is a synopsis of the book. I highly recommend it as it's something i've never come across before so unique.
Britannia Rises’ tells the story of how, in the near future, the British Empire faces a pivotal crossroads. When the queen dies, her peaceful, prosperous reign comes to an end after more than seven decades. The new monarch must tackle challenges from within his own family and decide how to keep The Empire competitive with their most powerful rivals. The other world powers are looking for any weakness they can find to subjugate Britain and take their place as the most powerful nation on Earth. At the same time, King Alfred must preserve the peace and focus on Outpost, the cooperative programme that will ensure the survival of the human species.
Jamie Bayston is a young teacher, embarking on a wonderful life, who has the misfortune to witness a murder that will plunge him into the dark world that exists between The Empire and its struggle to maintain order. He must run and fight to keep himself and his family safe while facing up to the truth that the world he knows is just a small part of what’s really out there.
I won't spoil the book but here is a synopsis of the book. I highly recommend it as it's something i've never come across before so unique.
Britannia Rises’ tells the story of how, in the near future, the British Empire faces a pivotal crossroads. When the queen dies, her peaceful, prosperous reign comes to an end after more than seven decades. The new monarch must tackle challenges from within his own family and decide how to keep The Empire competitive with their most powerful rivals. The other world powers are looking for any weakness they can find to subjugate Britain and take their place as the most powerful nation on Earth. At the same time, King Alfred must preserve the peace and focus on Outpost, the cooperative programme that will ensure the survival of the human species.
Jamie Bayston is a young teacher, embarking on a wonderful life, who has the misfortune to witness a murder that will plunge him into the dark world that exists between The Empire and its struggle to maintain order. He must run and fight to keep himself and his family safe while facing up to the truth that the world he knows is just a small part of what’s really out there.
October 22, 2024
In Britannia Rises, Russell explores a version of the British Empire that will do anything to safeguard their secrets, and maintain control stopping at nothing to achieve the ultimate goal! (you will have to read it to find out more!) 🕵️♀️
It's a very well-crafted story with believable characters who are described very well. The writing style is fluid and enjoyable, a real page-turner, in the view of multiple characters.
The narration is strong, detailed, and captivating, painting a clear picture that could easily be imagined as a TV show.
The intricate political conspiracies reminded me of Game of Thrones (but not in a fantasy setting) while intertwined with James Bond and The Bourne Identity, action-packed, fast-paced, easily satisfying fans of suspense and espionage.
The ending is handled so well leaving you wanting more, the story is so good, I could have easily read an extra 100 pages! 𝒈𝒊𝒗𝒆 𝒎𝒆 𝒎𝒐𝒓𝒆 𝒑𝒍𝒆𝒂𝒔𝒆! 🙏
What a fantastic debut novel Russell! Thank you so much for the ride, I cannot wait until next year for more!
Copied from IG - Original Review: June 7, 2024
It's a very well-crafted story with believable characters who are described very well. The writing style is fluid and enjoyable, a real page-turner, in the view of multiple characters.
The narration is strong, detailed, and captivating, painting a clear picture that could easily be imagined as a TV show.
The intricate political conspiracies reminded me of Game of Thrones (but not in a fantasy setting) while intertwined with James Bond and The Bourne Identity, action-packed, fast-paced, easily satisfying fans of suspense and espionage.
The ending is handled so well leaving you wanting more, the story is so good, I could have easily read an extra 100 pages! 𝒈𝒊𝒗𝒆 𝒎𝒆 𝒎𝒐𝒓𝒆 𝒑𝒍𝒆𝒂𝒔𝒆! 🙏
What a fantastic debut novel Russell! Thank you so much for the ride, I cannot wait until next year for more!
Copied from IG - Original Review: June 7, 2024
January 13, 2024
This is giving me The Crown vibes. I absolutely love it. All the characters are described as how the public view them. All the names have been changed, but the plot of the royals are similar. I.e The Queen dies, King Alfred takes over, his sons are there to support him, and they have a wicked step mother!
But at all costs, the British Empire must be protected. Even if it's dark and savage the institution is guarded.
When a teacher Jamie witnesses a murder his life is ruined. He was saved by what he describes as his American saviour who saved him from being killed. But Jamie has to lay low andhide awayy from his family and life !
It's anaction-packedd and thrilling story with a mix of political affairs and hoodlums are involved, very dangerous ones. This kept me reading on, I love a book that isn't based on one scenari. Thee story is based in many other countrie, and the characters are credible. I love the title, the cover, and writing style, its easy to follow and you'll be gripped from the first few pages!
But at all costs, the British Empire must be protected. Even if it's dark and savage the institution is guarded.
When a teacher Jamie witnesses a murder his life is ruined. He was saved by what he describes as his American saviour who saved him from being killed. But Jamie has to lay low andhide awayy from his family and life !
It's anaction-packedd and thrilling story with a mix of political affairs and hoodlums are involved, very dangerous ones. This kept me reading on, I love a book that isn't based on one scenari. Thee story is based in many other countrie, and the characters are credible. I love the title, the cover, and writing style, its easy to follow and you'll be gripped from the first few pages!
March 22, 2024
Upon concluding this enthralling literary journey, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to Russell for graciously furnishing a copy of his book in exchange for an honest review.
Russel’s debut novel delivers a thrilling adventure packed with expert storytelling and a captivating cast of characters. Set in an alternate version of our world where the British Empire wields unprecedented power, the narrative unfolds through multiple character perspectives, immersing readers in a world rife with assassinations, military intrigue, and explosive action sequences.
Drawing parallels to the gripping allure of James Bond, the intricate political machinations of Game of Thrones, and the regal drama of The Crown, this novel promises a riveting experience for fans of suspense and espionage.
Russell deftly explores the lengths to which this version of the British Empire will go to safeguard their secrets and maintain control, inviting readers to immerse themselves in a world where danger lurks at every turn. With its pulse-pounding plot and richly imagined universe, this book is sure to captivate readers seeking an exhilarating escape into the realm of espionage and political intrigue.
Russel’s debut novel delivers a thrilling adventure packed with expert storytelling and a captivating cast of characters. Set in an alternate version of our world where the British Empire wields unprecedented power, the narrative unfolds through multiple character perspectives, immersing readers in a world rife with assassinations, military intrigue, and explosive action sequences.
Drawing parallels to the gripping allure of James Bond, the intricate political machinations of Game of Thrones, and the regal drama of The Crown, this novel promises a riveting experience for fans of suspense and espionage.
Russell deftly explores the lengths to which this version of the British Empire will go to safeguard their secrets and maintain control, inviting readers to immerse themselves in a world where danger lurks at every turn. With its pulse-pounding plot and richly imagined universe, this book is sure to captivate readers seeking an exhilarating escape into the realm of espionage and political intrigue.
June 13, 2025
Having read and throughly enjoyed The Hero Virus by Russell, I was looking forward to this read, and let me tell you, it certainly did not disappoint.
Set in the near future, Britain is the most powerful nation on Earth, with rivals vying to ursurp the superpower at all costs.
But there is unrest after The Queen dies, and her successor must do everything in his power to maintain the Empire's position.
Enter our main character, Jamie, who witnesses a murder and is thrust into the gloomy underworld that exists somewhere between The Empire, it's challengers, and that murky grapple to keep a grip on and maintain the fragile order.
But that's enough of the story, so to find out more, be sure to pick your copy up.
So all in all, this was a throughly entertaining read.
For me, it had a dystopian-ish feel, and combine that with more than a dash or two of action, a good handful of suspense, and a nice big helping of espionage, and what you get is quite the impressive debut novel.
The characters are believable and feel real, and the story bobs along at a great pace and will hold your attention until the final page.
Like all good spy thrillers should, it's full of twists and turns, and keeps you guessing all the way through.
A great start to what could be a great series.
4 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟 's from me.
Set in the near future, Britain is the most powerful nation on Earth, with rivals vying to ursurp the superpower at all costs.
But there is unrest after The Queen dies, and her successor must do everything in his power to maintain the Empire's position.
Enter our main character, Jamie, who witnesses a murder and is thrust into the gloomy underworld that exists somewhere between The Empire, it's challengers, and that murky grapple to keep a grip on and maintain the fragile order.
But that's enough of the story, so to find out more, be sure to pick your copy up.
So all in all, this was a throughly entertaining read.
For me, it had a dystopian-ish feel, and combine that with more than a dash or two of action, a good handful of suspense, and a nice big helping of espionage, and what you get is quite the impressive debut novel.
The characters are believable and feel real, and the story bobs along at a great pace and will hold your attention until the final page.
Like all good spy thrillers should, it's full of twists and turns, and keeps you guessing all the way through.
A great start to what could be a great series.
4 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟 's from me.
April 5, 2024
What a ride! This was action packed from start to finish. Set in an alternate universe where the British Empire is still ruling the waves, a Royal family who may or may not sound a touch familiar, are grappling with keeping the Empire on top after their beloved Queen dies, when everyone is looking to take them down.
Subterfuge and distrust are rampant amongst the cast of spy’s, Royals and wrong doers as this fast paced story takes us from London to mainland Europe to Mongolia and back again!
There are quite a lot of characters that took me a while to get my head around but they all tied in seamlessly with one other as the story progressed.
Full of tongue in cheek British humour and twists and turns, this is a must read for lovers of spy novels with a hint of The Crown and the sophistication and charm of 007!
Thanks so much @russ2000_uk for sending me a copy. I thoroughly enjoyed it!
Subterfuge and distrust are rampant amongst the cast of spy’s, Royals and wrong doers as this fast paced story takes us from London to mainland Europe to Mongolia and back again!
There are quite a lot of characters that took me a while to get my head around but they all tied in seamlessly with one other as the story progressed.
Full of tongue in cheek British humour and twists and turns, this is a must read for lovers of spy novels with a hint of The Crown and the sophistication and charm of 007!
Thanks so much @russ2000_uk for sending me a copy. I thoroughly enjoyed it!
May 29, 2025
This has plenty of things going on, a storyline involving politics, betrayals and undercover missions to murder. The characters are varied and really interesting, they come from all walks of life, they all have their own agendas but some of the characters align with others. I love seeing the goings on from both sides, from tyrants in royalty to the common folk that make up the resistance.
I really enjoyed the outpost programme points in the story, this is a near future setting where there is British dominance across the world, who are working with and against other world powers like the Asian coalition, the Russians and the EU. It is clear from a very early stage the lengths the British Empire will go to for the survival of The Empire.
The descriptions and scene setting from the beginning was in depth and painted a picture for the reader. Given it's a trilogy (I believe) there was loads of in-depth plot set up and covering the lives of the characters, by the end of this book we have got to the point where the main characters have revealed what their agendas are and whose side they are on.
I really enjoyed the outpost programme points in the story, this is a near future setting where there is British dominance across the world, who are working with and against other world powers like the Asian coalition, the Russians and the EU. It is clear from a very early stage the lengths the British Empire will go to for the survival of The Empire.
The descriptions and scene setting from the beginning was in depth and painted a picture for the reader. Given it's a trilogy (I believe) there was loads of in-depth plot set up and covering the lives of the characters, by the end of this book we have got to the point where the main characters have revealed what their agendas are and whose side they are on.
July 17, 2025
Britannia Rises was an interesting read packed with action. The book is set in near future, in a dystopian setting where Britain still has America and many other territories, Russia wants to join the EU, and David Beckham is the Prime Minister of Britain. After the death of the Queen, the Empire is at crossroads. While King Alfred is mostly worried about the outpost program, prince Leopold is set on expanding the empire. Told in multiple POVs, this story expands over countries and weaves in several storylines. It’s like James Bond, the Crown and GoT sans fantasy vibes all packed into one action filled story, ending in a way that suggests sequels. This book is for you, if you like
📖 political satire
📖 historical fiction
📖 fast paced action
📖 what if mind play
📖 multiple storylines
📖 morally gray characters
📖 political satire
📖 historical fiction
📖 fast paced action
📖 what if mind play
📖 multiple storylines
📖 morally gray characters
January 27, 2024
This feels like an idea that should have been done long ago. It’s such a good idea, I can’t believe it hasn’t been.
There’s complex characters, intertwining story arcs, fights, blood, action, thrills, suspense and intrigue in abundance.
It felt like watching The Crown, but with Tom Cruise or The Rock in the lead roles and a bunch of action sequences.
I also felt like Game of Thrones fans would like this, albeit without the fantasy aspect. But if you like epic stories that keep you turning the page, and leave you wanting more, then this is for you.
Can’t wait for the next instalment. This is going to be the next series the fanboys and fangirls are swooning over, I think
There’s complex characters, intertwining story arcs, fights, blood, action, thrills, suspense and intrigue in abundance.
It felt like watching The Crown, but with Tom Cruise or The Rock in the lead roles and a bunch of action sequences.
I also felt like Game of Thrones fans would like this, albeit without the fantasy aspect. But if you like epic stories that keep you turning the page, and leave you wanting more, then this is for you.
Can’t wait for the next instalment. This is going to be the next series the fanboys and fangirls are swooning over, I think
July 14, 2025
Britannia Rises is a wonderful political thriller that pulls you in from the start. The novel takes place in a future Britain where the Queen has died, and her son Alfred steps into power along with all the enemies waiting to take the empire down.
At the same time, Jamie Bayston, a school teacher, witnesses a murder and finds himself in the middle of a dangerous fight he never asked for.
What follows is a deadly spiral into a world of secrets and manipulation. Truth is buried, loyalty is rare, and survival comes at a cost.
Loved this book. It's fast paced and characters are easy to love.
At the same time, Jamie Bayston, a school teacher, witnesses a murder and finds himself in the middle of a dangerous fight he never asked for.
What follows is a deadly spiral into a world of secrets and manipulation. Truth is buried, loyalty is rare, and survival comes at a cost.
Loved this book. It's fast paced and characters are easy to love.
October 3, 2024
I really enjoyed reading this, it had that concept that I was looking for in a thriller novel. It was a strong overall concept and had that suspenseful atmosphere that I was hoping for. Russell Dumper has a strong writing style and can't wait to read the next chapter in this series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 16, 2025
The British empire is at a crossroad, the reign of the Queen has ended and her son must bring order to chaos. This is a compelling conspiracy thriller that has spies and cover ups. This a future world where the citizens are controlled and disposed of with no regard to their humanity. Power is the game and people are used and sacrificed. This book is fast paced and has fantastic characters in the story.
July 30, 2025
My first thoughts when I finished this book was I wish my grandad was still here so that I could talk to him about it and gift him my copy.He loved old school spy thrillers in a political landscape, he would of enjoyed this one as much as I did.The world builing is simply brilliant it is so vivid and following the death of the Queen and the family struggles that followed felt very real in light of the recent events in the UK and how some members have been treated.I can't wait for book two.
September 27, 2025
Great book in the Britiannnia series. This was such an amazing read. The attention to detail was spot on by the author. I really enjoyed this historical novel. The empire is at cross roads but what will happen next ? This book is for you if you like political satire and historical fiction. This book is full of suspense. Definitely a 5⭐️ read
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