Exsilium

Roma Nova #0B

by Alison Morton

Exile – Living death to a Roman
AD 395. In a Christian Roman Empire, worshipping the traditional gods is a death sentence. Three Romans, Maelia, Lucius and Galla, faithful to their beliefs in Rome’s thousand-year religion and values, must choose. Do they stay, hoping for the best, or leave Rome forever – a rupture from everything they know – to search for a safer life?

Maelia Mitela, her dead husband condemned as a pagan traitor, leaving her on the brink of ruin, grieves for her son lost to the Christians and is fearful of committing to another man.

Lucius Apulius, ex-tribune, faithful to the old gods and fixed on his memories of his wife Julia’s homeland of Noricum, will risk everything to protect his children’s future.

Galla Apulia, loyal to her father and only too aware of not being the desired son, is desperate to escape Rome after the humiliation of betrayal by her feckless husband.

For all of them, the only way to survive is exile.

Sequel to JULIA PRIMA (Historical Novel Society Editors' Choice). Set at the dusk of the Roman Empire, the origin story behind the modern Roma Nova thriller series

Genres: Historical Fiction, Historical

372 pages, Kindle Edition

Published February 27, 2024

About the author

Alison Morton's award-winning thrillers feature tough but compassionate heroines. She lives in Poitou in France, the home of Mélisende, the heroine of her contemporary thrillers, Double Identity, Double Pursuit and Double Stakes.

Her eleven-book Roma Nova thriller series is set in an imaginary European country where part of the ancient Roman Empire has survived and is now ruled by women who face conspiracy, revolution and heartache with courage and a sharp line in dialogue.

Six years’ military service, a fascinating with Ancient Rome and a life of reading crime, historical and thriller fiction have inspired her writing. On the way, she collected a BA in modern languages and an MA in history.

Subscribe to her newsletter at https://www.alison-morton.com/newslet... and receive two short stories as a thank you gift.

Reviews

[Helen Hollick · Rating 5 out of 5]

Briefly. Exsilium is brilliant.

I think I say this for each new episode of Alison's Roma Nova novels - each one outdoes the previous, each going from strength to strength in author's confidence, plot, plausible adventure, believable characters, immaculate research and that essential 'give us more' enthusiasm at the end. Each new release I think: 'Surely she can't do it again? The series must tire, she must run out of ideas.' And each time I am 100% wrong!

The good guys have that right amount of human believability about them - not all-out 'goody-goodies' but they have a sense of honour and trustworthiness mixed with the ability to get things wrong, but the sense to put things right - just like real people. The baddies are bad enough for the reader to not mind when (if) they get killed, but not so bad that you can't stand reading about them.

I so enjoyed finding out about the 'history' of the characters in this novel, in particular, having 'met' many of them before by name in other novels of the Roma Nova series. Each character comes vividly to life and each book is perfectly OK to read as a stand alone - this one included - as back stories and future stories are skilfully intertwined within Alison's more than capable creative ability of story telling.

Exsilium is brilliant.
The Best Yet!
5 stars and very highly recommended.

[J.G. Harlond · Rating 5 out of 5]

As I was reading this very interesting and well-written novel, I became aware through small details that the author, Alison Morton, probably knows everything there is to know about 4th Century A.D. Rome and Romans. This knowledge deepens the story a great deal because what happens to the three main protagonists is a result of contemporary circumstances. Circumstances that resonate in our 21st Century. It is surprising, and not a little disquieting, how much our lives have not changed. Religious intolerance, gender issues, family ties and tensions, they are all here, plus the sad need to find a new place to live, and the difficulties and dangers involved in getting there.
I became invested in the main characters and found myself thinking about them between readings: Lucius Apulius, an ex-tribune, Galla Apulia, his eldest daughter, and Maelia Mitela, widow of a man labelled as a pagan traitor for holding on to belief in the ancient gods; each struggle with personal traumas along with the difficulties of a society at a critical point of change. Morton develops her characters in such a way that one can see why they make certain choices, and how they change during the course of the story. Details of everyday life such as food and clothing, household management and social expectations enrich this excellent novel. Action scenes, where the outcome is never obvious, also kept me turning pages. This is a must-read for Roman history buffs and historical fiction fans alike.

[Christina · Rating 5 out of 5]

EXSILIUM is a tale of strong men and women, strong will and strong beliefs, with characters who refuse to be dictated to in any way. When the very foundation on which they’ve built their lives is threatened, they make a monumental decision – to head into exile rather than conform. They set out on an epic journey across the northern part of what is now Italy, and into the mountains, and thanks to the author’s impeccable research, I felt I was with them every step of the way. Details of Roman life are sprinkled into the narrative, making their world come alive for the reader. Everyday life, politics and social mores are all depicted with superb authenticity, and there is tragedy and sorrow, as well as happiness and hope for the future. EXSILIUM is a fascinating and epic historical novel that will draw the reader in, keeping them engrossed until the very last page. Highly recommended!

[Shomeret · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received this book from the author, Alison Morton, earlier in the month. The title was spelled differently on the ARC I read. I have corrected the spelling in this review.

As Exsilium opens, Christians had become very powerful in Rome. Alison Morton portrays Pagans as going into exile in response.

Intolerance was an important commonality between what was happening then, and some current day problems. I was sympathetic toward the difficulties of the protagonists who chose to exile themselves from Rome.

For my complete review see https://shomeretmasked.blogspot.com/2...

[Cathie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've been waiting patiently for the release of this exciting sequel to the exceptional JULIA PRIMA, and I'm thrilled to say, the wait has been well worth it.

But have your tissues at hand, as EXSILIUM begins with a tragic plot twist. It made me feel a little bereft as I quite liked that character. But hey, such is cleverly-plotted historical fiction. Expect the unexpected.

We've reached the dying years of the once glorious Roman Empire. Christianity spreads through the ranks, amongst the members of the senate, the chosen imperator, or the many ordinary people who have converted to this new 'cult'. But there is a small group of people who refuse to follow the Christos, but instead stay true to their ancient gods. And this novel is about this select group as everyone must come to terms with the growing animosity from all sides.

The novel unfolds in three points of view, each distinctly different from the other, and in consequential order. First, we meet Maelia Mitela.

In the fight between contenders to the imperial crown of Western Rome, Maelia's husband has chosen the wrong side, the side of their true gods. When they lose the battle, and he loses his life, he is soon cast as a traitor – and her Roman home is taken over by the imperial guards. Finding some solace in the fact that, as a widow with children, she would not be forced to remarry, Maelia is carving out a life for herself and her son. But as she needs someone to run the family farm in the countryside, she choses a cousin who will have a devastating effect on her son's upbringing. Despite lawyer Marcellus Varus' hints at marriage, she remains steadfastly single, and I couldn't help but feel sorry for him. Maelia is a strong woman, a warm, caring character, but life has a few tough lessons in store for her (which I don't want to give away, obviously).

Then we switch to the POV of Lucius Apulius, senator, and husband of the wonderful Julia Prima. Following his wife's tragic death, he brings up his three daughters alone, but as the situation for those following the old gods becomes more dangerous, Lucius hatches a plan – a plan that involves his late wife's home, Noricum, and her pagan father. But will he convince others to join him? Lucius – intelligent, hard-working, and honest, finds himself as the born, if reluctant, leader. But will he prevail?

The last POV is Galla, eldest daughter of Julia and Lucius. After discovering her husband cheated on her, she demands a divorce. A strong-willed young woman, much like her mother, Galla hates the fact that being a female is detrimental to her wielding any great influence. But her administrative and negotiating skills come in handy when her father's plan takes shape, and after some reluctance, the others begin to listen to her.

Then the long journey north-east begins, but not without trouble. Will the small group make it to Noricum? Or will they be caught as traitors? Find out in the novel!






EXSILIUM begins a few years after JULIA PRIMA ends. Julia's and Lucius' relationship is a happy one, until tragedy strikes. Then the action moves fast through the next few years, as their daughters grow up, and make their own way in the Roman world.

We also hear more about other characters involved in their lives – Maelia, Marcellus, Gaius (Maelia's brother), Tellus, and then Lucius' eldest daughters, Galla and Lucilla, who turns out to be a bit of an Amazon, with her fighting skills. There is a fabulous plot twist near the end that involves her, and I really enjoyed that part, for both characters involved.

The struggle to maintain the religion that had been in place for over a millennium is well portrayed. As with every new religion that carves its place in history, the Christos followers are portrayed as threatening, unrelenting in their drive to have everyone converted, by whatever means. I know very little about that particular era, but, having read this novel, I can well imagine the bullying.

Ms Morton's research is impeccable, and as the plot unravels, we are gripped with a growing sense of unease, and concern for those who don't play ball. It was just a question of time when Pagans were removed from offices of state or the senate, and having this determined group move to safer grounds – in Noricum – makes much sense. It could have happened.

The fast-paced narrative takes your breath away at times, and as the trek heads north, dangers lurk everywhere.

I did particularly enjoy Lucius' story, as here is a man who has lost his wife, who has four young daughters who show the same traits as their rather rebellious mother, and who must juggle the two different religions vying for supremacy. I loved his intelligence and calm nature, and that he finds himself guiding a group of refugees away from the once mighty city of Rome, now descending into lawlessness and danger.

Whilst the part of their journey was fascinating – we follow the geographical trail through Italy – I thought at times that parts were a little far-fetched. If the empire wanted young men for their wars, they would not only have set up road blocks, but they surely must have known of secret tracks through nearby forests, which circumvented the main routes.

Apart from that, I could have read more books about this brave group's adventures in setting up their new home, which are perfectly outlined in the Epilogue. It explains various characters that the 'modern' Roma Nova novels refer to, and explains the origins. Though I wish we could have stayed with them for longer...

EXSILIUM is an at times evocative account of what people do when they're running out of options. The flight of the small group of believers in the old gods is incredibly moving, as every character is aware of what would happen should they be caught and their plan revealed. A tentative trust can be so easily broken.

I must return now to the Roma Nova novels of the 20th and 21st century, to discover more about everything panned out. Watch this space!

Another fascinating read by Alison Morton for fans of historical fiction, Roman fiction, and those who enjoy a touch of alternative history. It could have happened...

[Linnea Tanner · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Roman family saga of EXSILIUM by Alison Morton is the sequel to JULIA PRIMA, set in 370 AD. The Roman empire has begun to decay and Christian zealots are imposing their beliefs on others. The daughter of a powerful pagan ruler, Julia Bacausa gambles everything and travels from her homeland of Noricum to reunite and marry Lucius Apulius, a Roman commander stripped of his military rank because of his pagan beliefs.

At the start of EXSILIUM, Julia dies shortly after giving birth to her fourth daughter in 383 AD Rome. The epic tale follows the fates of the households of Lucius Apulius and his Roman comrade, Gaius Mitelus. To capture the breadth of how the rapidly changing political climate impacts the families’ lives, the story is told through the perspective of three narrators: Maelia Mitela (Gaius’s sister), Lucius Apulius, and Galla Apulia (Lucius’s oldest daughter). Maelia takes in Lucius’s daughters and helps care for them as Lucius grieves the death of his wife. Five years later, Maelia faces the possibility of losing her estate when her husband dies and is branded a traitor for fighting with the rebel emperor of Britannia, Magnus Maximus, against the Christian general Theodosius. At the risk of losing her estate, Maelia calls on the aid of Lucius and a prestigious lawyer to fend off the confiscation of her property.

The revolving door of dignitaries who rise in power threatens to trample on the pagan beliefs of Apulius’s and Mitelus’s families. So that the two families can survive and freely worship their traditional pagan gods, Lucius makes the difficult decision to start a new settlement in Julia’s homeland. Others join him on the dangerous journey to Noricum through harsh landscapes and inclement weather. They face threats of Roman commanders forcing young men to fight in their depleted armies, barbarians plundering homesteads, and bandits attacking and stealing goods from travelers. Julia’s daughters are reflections of their mother’s strength and courage as they overcome formidable obstacles to start a new life.

Author Alison Morton has masterfully crafted the chaos in the later stages of the western Roman empire as various factions take power and zealot Christians impose their religion on others. It is an epic story spanning two decades of how two Roman families bond and make the difficult decision to resurrect their society, culture, and religion in a distant land. The attention to detail reflects the author’s impeccable research and passion for the subject. A list of characters, maps, glossaries of ancient places and terms, and a historical note are extra bonuses that help a reader navigate through the story.

Symbols from Roman mythology, woven into the story, highlight the theme that individuals have the power to overcome their struggles. The prologue depicts a scene in which one of the Fates cut Julia’s lifespan short because “each mortal can only have so much of the Universe’s goodness.” As the two families escape Rome, they hide the statue of Victory in a wagon until they reach their final destination. There, they bring it back to its original golden beauty so that it can take its rightful place in Roma Nova. Mortals can’t control what tragic events befall them, but they have the will to overcome these challenges.

I highly recommend EXSILIUM as an epic, multi-generational family saga that chronicles the lives of two Roman families fighting to preserve their ancient traditions as Christian zealots gain political influence throughout the empire.

[A.M. Swink · Rating 5 out of 5]

Usually, if you are reading a book that involves followers of Christianity in the Roman era, they are portrayed as a persecuted minority. But what about the last hundred years of the Roman Empire, when Christianity was the dominant, state-mandated religion? This book highlights the religious intolerance of Christian zealots at the end of the fourth century and really gives you a window into just how they managed to destroy all manner of classical thought, relics, and innovations, which plunged western Europe into the "Dark Ages."

Exsilium tells the story of Maelia Mitela and her struggle to secure her children's futures amidst the precarious politics of the day. I was very interested in seeing how a woman, a single mother no less, in the late Roman empire would navigate such a restrictive environment. The shift in perspective to Lucius Apulius, who pays witness to the rise in religious intolerance in Rome, illustrates the growing divide between the old, ancient ways and the new. When he can stand it no longer, he devises a plan to move several like-minded families to his late wife Julia's old home in Virunum to begin a new settlement. We then see the journey through the eyes of Galla Apulia, Julia's oldest daughter, as she and the families enact a reversal of Julia's journey in 'Julia Prima.' The story concludes with the founding of Roma Nova, the fictional new Rome that managed to survive into the 21st century.

Though the story diverges from history during the last part, laying the foundations for Morton's alternative universe for her Roma Nova thrillers, there is so much grounded in historical basis here. The anxious political situation in the fourth century, in which Romans were torn between an emperor in the east and a lesser one in the west (one that was more often than not a child being controlled by a powerful entity), the ancient ways and the new, the old religion and the new, was fascinating. It also recounts the last gasps of the Roman senate's power, the end of the Vestal Virgins (in Rome at least), and the breakdown of city public works. The growing threat of barbarian tribes and the weakening of the Roman army only heightens the growing threat - you can feel the end of the empire is nigh. The history makes for a thrilling background against which the characters must struggle. And Morton's characters are compelling - I found myself struggling to put the book down as I followed the trials and tribulations of the Mitelus and Apulius households. I was highly invested in the romance between Maelia and Marcellus Varus, while my heart broke over the dissolving of Galla's family. Her hardened heart, however, sets her up well for the challenges she comes to face.

This sequel was a perfect follow-up to 'Julia Prima' and perfectly roots the Roma Nova series within a deeply historical foundation. I highly, highly recommend it!

[Paul Bennett · Rating 5 out of 5]

EXSILIUM: A Roma Nova Foundation Story
Alison Morton



BLURB
Exile – A living death to a Roman AD 395. In a Christian Roman Empire, worshipping the traditional gods is a death sentence. Three Romans, Maelia, Lucius and Galla, faithful to their beliefs in Rome’s thousand-year religion and values, must choose. Do they stay, hoping for the best, or leave Rome forever – a rupture from everything they know – to search for a safer life?Maelia Mitela, her dead husband condemned as a pagan traitor, leaving her on the brink of ruin, grieves for her son lost to the Christians and is fearful of committing to another man.Lucius Apulius, ex-tribune, faithful to the old gods and fixed on his memories of his wife Julia’s homeland of Noricum, will risk everything to protect his children’s future.Galla Apulia, loyal to her father and only too aware of not being the desired son, is desperate to escape Rome after the humiliation of betrayal by her feckless husband.For all of them, the only way to survive is exile.Sequel to JULIA PRIMA (Historical Novel Society Editors' Choice). Set at the dusk of the Roman Empire, the origin story behind the modern Roma Nova thriller series"EXSILIUM offers serious food for thought with this page-turning adventure of twelve determined families fighting to salvage their ancient culture in the face of a newly Christianized Roman Empire. In this origin story poised on the jumping-off point from recorded history into Morton’s Roma Nova series, Morton upends the historical novel trope of persecuted Christians in a thought-provoking look at what happens when any single religion becomes dominant over its competition." – Amanda Cockrell writing as Damion Hunter‘Alison Morton proves she is a master of her craft with EXSILIUM, the engrossing story of two Roman families fighting for survival as the society and culture that has nurtured them for generations disintegrates before their eyes. Her research and knowledge of the period is evident on every page, but delivered with the deftest of touches. As darkness closes in and they decide to flee the all-consuming clutches of a dangerous new fanaticism, the reader is swept along with the characters every step of the way – Douglas Jackson, author of Gaius Valerius Verrens (Hero of Rome) series“Morton skilfully threads this greater history into the personal plight of Roman families who choose exile to preserve their customs and religion. EXSILIUM concludes the gripping genesis story of the Roma Nova thrillers for new readers and established fans alike.” – Elisabeth Storrs, author of A Tale of Ancient Rome series
REVIEW
Now, that is a prequel. Having read and thoroughly enjoyed the modern-day Roma Nova books, I always had this thought in the back of my mind…how did it begin? Well, now we know, and this tale, is quite simply, brilliant. Rome had been invaded before, but the foes always left. Not this time. The Christian Faith, with the full blessing of Rome’s rulers, has conquered and is staying. Centuries of worshipping the old gods are now illegal. Faced with this crisis, the author has constructed a tale of woe and self-imposed exile for those who refuse to abandon their gods. It is a gripping tale full of nasty plot twists that will keep you glued to the pages. It is a tale of bravery and hardship and is the perfect fit for the coming of age of Roma Nova. 5 STARS

[M.K. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Alison Morton’s Roma Nova series is based on the idea that a group of senators committed to the old gods and unwilling to accept Christianity left Rome in the 4th century, ultimately settling in the hills north of Italy. There they founded a colony where they could keep their own traditions and worship the old gods. In this new society, women gained significant leadership roles because the men were so often away defending their territory. The citizens of Roma Nova discover silver in the surrounding mountains which gives them wealth. Over time, they become a very influential, but tiny, country.

Alison Morton’s latest novel, Exsilium, one of two origin stories for Roma Nova, spans the period AD 383-395. Exsilium takes place at a disruptive period when Rome’s rule was diminishing with land loss, the Christian religion undermining Rome’s thousand year traditions, barbarian incursions, and the rise of warlords controlling child emperors. Roman citizens were forced to make very difficult decisions to protect themselves. Within eighty years, there would be no Western Roman Empire.

I had the privilege of reading Exsilium last month and was captivated by the history of the time and the main characters who tell the story: Maelia Mitela, Lucius Apulius, and Galla Apulia. Alison Morton writes with a deft hand and keen knowledge of that era. Exsilium truly transports us in time and place – a key test of successful historical fiction – and provides the reader with a page-turning story that’s hard to put down. Read Alison Morton's The What Ifs of History for insight: https://awriterofhistory.com/2015/06/...

[Jaffareadstoo · Rating 5 out of 5]

Those readers who follow these historical thrillers will be delighted with EXSILIUM which is the sequel to JULIA PRIMA. It's a thrilling story which takes us back to the very foundations of Roma Nova and into an ancient world which this author recreates so vividly.

We meet up with Maelia Mitela and Lucius Apulius both characters we have met before but this time their destiny lies in a very different direction. With pagan Gods being replaced by Christian Gods, and with families facing ruin, the old way of life is changing, and with this change comes intrigue, and danger, especially for those who find that their futures are becoming more and more uncertain. Moving from an old way of life and into exile is never easy and yet the author describes everything so vividly I felt like I travelled with them on their epic journey as they face the perils and pitfalls of moving into the unknown. Strong female characters find their rightful place in this Roma Nova world and it has been a real delight to see them flourish and progress in this new world.

With a thrilling historical adventure at its core EXSILIUM has a strong story-line with equally strong characters. Beautifully written, and authentically researched, the author recreates this ancient world with imaginative flair bringing time, place and people to life in glorious detail. It's been a real pleasure to follow the Roma Nova series from the beginning and now with JULIA PRIMA and EXSILIUM added to the catalogue of stories we have a unique perspective on the foundations of the Roma Nova world.

[Charlene · Rating 5 out of 5]

Who hasn’t heard about the fall of the Roman Empire? I learned a bit about it in World History classes back in high school but knew very few specifics, and even less about every day life of those living in the 4th century.

Ms. Morton brings the era to life – the characters’ joys and sorrows, politics and wars, religion, the hazards of a slowly cracking society, and traveling hundreds of miles to establish a new country.

EXSILIUM is a ‘foundation story’ for Morton’s Roma Nova series. It follows the lives of several families in Rome, who, rather than risk persecution and death over their traditional religious beliefs, choose to self-exile. I like the writer’s use of three point of view characters – 2 women and 1 man – seeing their world fall apart, and experiencing how changes impact them and their families.

The novel is well-told, has good pacing, and believable characters. I appreciate the map showing the exiles’ journey, the glossary, and a list of place names with their modern equivalents.

I admit to being confused by all the characters – emperors, soldiers, senators, and more. But it was the little details of places in Rome, customs, and the journey north for the exiles that made Exsilium enjoyable for me. I have been to Italy and loved it, and now know just a bit more of its history thanks to the author. When an author can take you back in time through her words and give you a sense of what life was like: incredible. Kudos, Ms. Morton!

[David Baird · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m not sure how Alison Morton manages to, but once again the reader is given another powerful read that builds on the fabulous Roma Nova series.

What hit me straight away was the emotion..from the very first page we explore fate..destiny.. so beautifully written but so heart wrenching.

If you’ve read the rest of the series you’ll know about the strong characters and a very plot driven tale, what Exsilium offers the reader is a bit more history.. the beginnings of this fabulous place the author has envisaged, it builds on the humanity of the time and the characters.

The author tackles very real issues such as religious intolerance within the pollical landscape and while set in a different time period you can’t help but see similarities with the world we live in.. there’s a realness to the characters and their depth just pours off the page but in typical style for the author the overall message is positive.. we all deal with the bad side of the world but we need to keep striving for better.. it might not change our world as we know it but we can create positive changes for future generations…that’s what Roma Nova is for me.. a bastion shining in the dark.

I never like to spoil books but what I can say is Exsilium fits is superbly and builds on what is already a strong and established series. To manage to do this.. wow..Morton continues to do justice to the series and the dream of Roma Nova.

[Elizabeth John · Rating 5 out of 5]

A complex and sweeping story, told with vivid world-building and an enthralling voice, Exsilium takes us back to an ancient world which is the foundation of Ms. Morton’s brilliant Roma Nova series. And, true to form, the novel is a beguiling mix of compelling characters and superbly researched historical detail. Mapped against the crumbling Roman empire, Exsilium is the ultimate quest novel…a journey so epic and fraught with emotion and danger that the reader is quickly enveloped within the story and travels alongside the Roman families fighting for their survival. Along the way, the main characters emerge, each with their flaws and foibles, and Ms. Morton has created a memorable cast of travellers. She has also echoed many familiar contemporary reflections of humanity caught up in a rapidly changing communal environment, and it doesn’t take much to extrapolate the ancient troubles to today’s collective societal pressures.

I particularly enjoy the way Ms. Morton blends her encyclopaedic knowledge of Ancient Rome with a truly creative storyteller’s eye. The substantial detail and, for me, a relatively unknown world, does not make this a quick read. However, I can say that Exsilium is a rich and totally immersive novel, and one that is well worth the time spent. Highly recommend.

[Merissa (Archaeolibrarian) · Rating 4 out of 5]

EXSILIUM is part of the Roma Nova series. I have read Inceptio but none of the others. I don't feel this impacted my enjoyment of the story or the characters.

Told in three separate parts by Maelia, Lucius, and Galla, this was a brilliant insight into how Rome could have been at the time when the old Gods were disappearing and the new Christos was taking over. I think the only thing that confused me was Maelia's story. The majority of it was incredibly well-written, but in the blurb, it says about him being a pagan traitor. It took me a while to understand that his backing the wrong emperor was also a fight between the two religions.

Full of hard times and sorrow, it is a story also full of hope, of working together to make things better - or at least, most of them did! The characters, whether you like them or not, are all relatable, especially considering the circumstances of their exile.

I found the epilogue to be perfect, giving me an update on all the characters I'd grown to love, while also jumping to the future to mention Inceptio. That was a surprise for me and made me want to read that story again, with the knowledge gained from this story.

A smooth pace and a full and well-rounded story and characters. Alison Merton is an author I never have a problem reading. Definitely recommended by me.

** same worded review will appear elsewhere **

* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book; the comments here are my honest opinion. *

Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Mar 14, 2024

[Eileen Iciek · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was the second in the foundation story series of Roma Nova. I have so enjoyed these books that show a different side of what was going on in the Roman Empire in the 4th century. I do wonder how different the world would have been if something like this had happened.

The heroine of the first foundation story, Julia, has died in childbirth. As time goes on, her four daughters and her husband, Lucius Apulius, come to realize that Rome has changed in ways that cannot and will not be corrected. They decide, with other families, to try to continue their lives far from Rome, so that they can adhere to the traditional Roman values and religious practices that their ancestors practiced. Their journey to that new world, both mentally and physically, is what this exceptional novel shows us.

If you have enjoyed the author's previous novels, you will love this one! I know that I did!

Highly recommended!

[Lucienne Boyce · Rating 5 out of 5]

Exsilium is the latest instalment in Alison Morton’s series of origin stories about the state of Roma Nova, the setting for her series of alternate history novels. It follows on from Julia Prima, which introduced Julia and her husband Lucius. Now Lucius and his family must decide how to survive in a Christianised Rome which is becoming increasingly hostile to worshippers of the traditional Roman gods. He decides that the only way to preserve the old religions is for him and like-minded citizens to leave Rome and found their own state – but there are many obstacles to overcome before Roma Nova can become a reality.

Exsilium is an exciting addition to Alison Morton’s series of origin stories about the state of Roma Nova and I really enjoyed reading it. It left me with a sense that there are still many obstacles to overcome and I hope we’ll hear more about them in future!

[A.J. · Rating 5 out of 5]

History and fantasy woven well

This engaging tale deftly blends history and fantasy into a memorable, triumphant odyssey. As Rome crumbles, as the new religion of the Christos-followers gains ascendancy, the old religion of Rome is forbidden, the temples are shut and the pagan statues are removed from their places of honor. Those who do not accept the new religion are denied advancement, threatened and shunned. Finally, one man decides to do something unthinkable - he will take his family and like-minded friends, and leave Rome, to make a new home in the barbarian wilderness to the north and east. This is the long-awaited saga of the founding of Roma Nova. Don't miss it!

[Elizabeth Ducie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I've been reading the Roma Nova books from the start and have always enjoyed them. In Exsilium, we go right back to the beginning and see the founding families as they face growing jeopardy in the original Rome and gradually realise their own chance of maintaining their way of life and traditions is to make themselves voluntary exiles. There's a huge amount of historical detail, but it never overburdens the reader, as it is skillfully woven into the plot. A very good read. Highly recommended.

[Heather Osborne · Rating 5 out of 5]

At a time when Rome was at a conflicted crossroads, two families are faced with unfathomable choices...
A beautifully written and well-researched piece by Alison Morton. I really enjoyed Maelia's character the most, I think. I was able to relate to her struggles, trying to secure her son's legacy, while also making sure her family was provided for. I liked how the book began with a nod to the gods. I certainly will read more of Alison Morton in the future.

[Juliet Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

What does it mean to be an exile? This book Exsilium excellently explores this theme via three different protagonists as they leave Rome for the provinces. The subtle feminist theme of women gradually taking on bigger roles in the exile community was appreciated as was the crash course in the politics of the late Roman empire.