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SEVERUS: The Black Caesar
Severus follows the amazing true story of a rebellious boy who grew up in an African province and became the first Black Caesar of the Roman Empire, the head of a dynasty that would lead Rome through bloody civil wars and rapidly changing times. As a young man, Severus hates the Romans and conspires to humiliate them. What begins as a childish prank unfurls into a bloodbath that sends Severus careening into his future. Through a tragic love affair, dangerously close battles and threats both internal and external, Severus accrues power — and enemies — in his unlikely rise to become the most powerful man in the ancient world.
Kindle Edition
Published July 1, 2024
26 people are currently reading
21 people want to read
About the author
Steve Exeter
13 books35 followersSteve Exeter is a master storyteller whose works captivate readers with their vivid imagination and compelling narratives. With a passion for weaving intricate plots and creating unforgettable characters, Steve has established himself as a prominent voice in literary fiction.
Steve’s journey as a writer began at a young age, fuelled by a love for reading and a fascination with the power of words. Over the years, he has honed his craft, drawing inspiration from a diverse range of genres and life experiences. His books are known for their rich detail, emotional depth, and the ability to transport readers to new and exciting worlds.
In addition to his novels, Steve is an accomplished filmmaker. His award-winning short film, Òran na h-Eala (Song of the Swan), is a vivid dream exploration of Moira Shearer’s heart and mind, just before and after she agreed to star in Powell and Pressburger’s beloved cinema classic “The Red Shoes.” The film has received extensive critical acclaim for its creativity, depth, and stunning visuals.
Steve’s journey as a writer began at a young age, fuelled by a love for reading and a fascination with the power of words. Over the years, he has honed his craft, drawing inspiration from a diverse range of genres and life experiences. His books are known for their rich detail, emotional depth, and the ability to transport readers to new and exciting worlds.
In addition to his novels, Steve is an accomplished filmmaker. His award-winning short film, Òran na h-Eala (Song of the Swan), is a vivid dream exploration of Moira Shearer’s heart and mind, just before and after she agreed to star in Powell and Pressburger’s beloved cinema classic “The Red Shoes.” The film has received extensive critical acclaim for its creativity, depth, and stunning visuals.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
January 7, 2026
4.5 🌟 rounded up 🖤
omg, I absolutely loved this book.
I loved how we followed Severus throughout his life, the ups, the downs THE TRAUMA.
Steve has such an incredible writing range, and I LOVE how he writes women.
I'd definitely recommend this book to everyone!!
omg, I absolutely loved this book.
I loved how we followed Severus throughout his life, the ups, the downs THE TRAUMA.
Steve has such an incredible writing range, and I LOVE how he writes women.
I'd definitely recommend this book to everyone!!
April 30, 2020
I enjoyed the first few chapters - kids will be kids, eh? I enjoyed the first half, to be honest, though after that my enjoyment became less.
A long review comes, and I know I complain, but I'm a reader not easy to please, possibly, I have my own bias, and know we can all fall victim to history's version, but it's another country we can't help but put our own spin on, and this is well-written, despite my opinions!
We see very little of the Emperor, merely large jumps in time, though I guess there are few sources for the Roman Emperors once we pass the twelve of Suetonius' book of gossip and the few who follow which are well covered by the other sources such as Tacitus.
The depravity of Commodus is not proven, merely whispers of the sources speaking with their own agendas, just as all sources do, and I'd bet ten to a dozen that the writer was influenced in his depictions by Hollywood. Similarly with Caracalla, though we are advised by the sources that neither man was studious or ready for ruling an empire, we do know they were young men with absolute power, which corrupts anyone, let alone the young, but god forbid we portray Henry VIII like that, he was only a murderer of loved ones once he was older and in a lot of pain, and his victims are the ones with the bad press! Though look at Edward II - called a homosexual even in his own time, as was James I (VII of the Scots), and Henry VI, son of England's most revered hero (himself a hedonistic young prince when his father lived), and we see how history paints us all in the light we possibly least deserve! After all, Henry V the hero may have won Agincourt, but it was a fluke, and most of the deaths were through arrows from a dsitance or prisoners, powerless to defend themselves; Henry VIII was surrounded with the greatest minds of his age and yet still murdered the mother of his most intelligent long lived and most historically revered monarch, a woman born to the wife whom he claimed to love, who helped him change the religion of a nation, and belonged to the Howard clan, the most respectable of the country!
Anyway, History paints us not as we deserve, but as those who follow us want to say, or not say, about us. And to believe those jealous of a man for his luck, or hating him for his religion or colour - that's just not what we'd like to believe we ourselves will be remembered!
Would have been great to have seen a little less silliness and a little more reformation of their character - we don't need to see the evil in others to believe that one is good, we all know there is no black and white in life, but shades of grey in a mist we are blinded by! I would have loved to have seen the father watch how his son following his own policies meant they spread malicious gossip to make the masses rise in revolt meaning he had to take over and calm their ire with his paternal power, or perhaps show him to take an already Pregnant woman as wife to save her, instead of being cuckolded, or a thousand other possibilities to dispel the myths of the few writers surviving - who knows what the destroyed sources say, and what could have been made from such an open literary arena!
A long review comes, and I know I complain, but I'm a reader not easy to please, possibly, I have my own bias, and know we can all fall victim to history's version, but it's another country we can't help but put our own spin on, and this is well-written, despite my opinions!
We see very little of the Emperor, merely large jumps in time, though I guess there are few sources for the Roman Emperors once we pass the twelve of Suetonius' book of gossip and the few who follow which are well covered by the other sources such as Tacitus.
The depravity of Commodus is not proven, merely whispers of the sources speaking with their own agendas, just as all sources do, and I'd bet ten to a dozen that the writer was influenced in his depictions by Hollywood. Similarly with Caracalla, though we are advised by the sources that neither man was studious or ready for ruling an empire, we do know they were young men with absolute power, which corrupts anyone, let alone the young, but god forbid we portray Henry VIII like that, he was only a murderer of loved ones once he was older and in a lot of pain, and his victims are the ones with the bad press! Though look at Edward II - called a homosexual even in his own time, as was James I (VII of the Scots), and Henry VI, son of England's most revered hero (himself a hedonistic young prince when his father lived), and we see how history paints us all in the light we possibly least deserve! After all, Henry V the hero may have won Agincourt, but it was a fluke, and most of the deaths were through arrows from a dsitance or prisoners, powerless to defend themselves; Henry VIII was surrounded with the greatest minds of his age and yet still murdered the mother of his most intelligent long lived and most historically revered monarch, a woman born to the wife whom he claimed to love, who helped him change the religion of a nation, and belonged to the Howard clan, the most respectable of the country!
Anyway, History paints us not as we deserve, but as those who follow us want to say, or not say, about us. And to believe those jealous of a man for his luck, or hating him for his religion or colour - that's just not what we'd like to believe we ourselves will be remembered!
Would have been great to have seen a little less silliness and a little more reformation of their character - we don't need to see the evil in others to believe that one is good, we all know there is no black and white in life, but shades of grey in a mist we are blinded by! I would have loved to have seen the father watch how his son following his own policies meant they spread malicious gossip to make the masses rise in revolt meaning he had to take over and calm their ire with his paternal power, or perhaps show him to take an already Pregnant woman as wife to save her, instead of being cuckolded, or a thousand other possibilities to dispel the myths of the few writers surviving - who knows what the destroyed sources say, and what could have been made from such an open literary arena!
July 12, 2020
( Format : Audiobook )
"Emperors are now chosen by blood."
This reader has a great fondness for all things Roman, so was delighted to find a novel about Serverus, the black Caesar of the later second centuary, an era more frequently overlooked by novelists. Unfortunately, the narration by Ifeyinwa Unachukwa was dreadful: although her voice was pleasant, it was hard to listen to it, being too slow and jerky, rather than a smooth delivery. Speeding the play back to 1.25 helped, but did not solve, the problem. Some pronunciations were unusual, as in 'Gau-us' rather than the more frequently used 'Gye-us', and, although her intonation was good, she seemed to have no involvement with the text, and there was no attempt at individual character voicing.
The failure of the narration to hold this reader's attention could certainly have been mitigated had the written test itself been of high standard. Sadly, it was not, reading, as another reviewer has already suggested, more like the script for a film than a novel, with directions such as, "General Protinax sits alone" and, " The Praetorian guard escorts him out". Overall, the story of the life and rise of Lucius Septimus Severus Pertinax from younger son of an aristocratic Punic family in one of the richest parts of the Roman Empire to Emperor of that Empire from 193 to 211, is simplified and made bland despite the inherent drama of the realities.
My thanks to the rights holder of Severus, the Black Caesar, who, at my request freely gifted me with a complimentary copy via Audiobook Boom. The underlying story is a fascinating one and would certainly make an excellent and exciting film. As a n audiobook, however, it is not so good: better to read a print version.
"Emperors are now chosen by blood."
This reader has a great fondness for all things Roman, so was delighted to find a novel about Serverus, the black Caesar of the later second centuary, an era more frequently overlooked by novelists. Unfortunately, the narration by Ifeyinwa Unachukwa was dreadful: although her voice was pleasant, it was hard to listen to it, being too slow and jerky, rather than a smooth delivery. Speeding the play back to 1.25 helped, but did not solve, the problem. Some pronunciations were unusual, as in 'Gau-us' rather than the more frequently used 'Gye-us', and, although her intonation was good, she seemed to have no involvement with the text, and there was no attempt at individual character voicing.
The failure of the narration to hold this reader's attention could certainly have been mitigated had the written test itself been of high standard. Sadly, it was not, reading, as another reviewer has already suggested, more like the script for a film than a novel, with directions such as, "General Protinax sits alone" and, " The Praetorian guard escorts him out". Overall, the story of the life and rise of Lucius Septimus Severus Pertinax from younger son of an aristocratic Punic family in one of the richest parts of the Roman Empire to Emperor of that Empire from 193 to 211, is simplified and made bland despite the inherent drama of the realities.
My thanks to the rights holder of Severus, the Black Caesar, who, at my request freely gifted me with a complimentary copy via Audiobook Boom. The underlying story is a fascinating one and would certainly make an excellent and exciting film. As a n audiobook, however, it is not so good: better to read a print version.
September 3, 2020
Listened to audio narrated by Ifeyinwa Unachukwu. I was not a big fan of most of this narration. There was very little variation between characters so it was difficult to keep up with who was speaking unless you were paying very close attention. Especially in the beginning chapters, words were drawn out and spoken very slowly and carefully, with very little inflection or energy. Their were some enjoyable parts when it felt like the narrator stopped thinking about what they were saying and just let the words flow, which was very engaging but then they would fall back to the previous style. I actually considered increasing the playback speed because it seemed so slow.
An interesting fictionalized story about Lucius Septimius Severus starting when he was a young African male activist against Rome, following his life and what led him to eventually become Caesar. The story jumps a lot to fast forward to highlight moments in his life. The time jumps made it difficult to follow, especially in an audiobook format.
This story is loosely based on the actual Lucius Septimus Severus' life. It does deviate from actual historical facts so enjoy it as Roman fiction, with just enough true facts to make it feel real. The author does a good job giving the reader a gritty portrayal of those conquered by Rome and it's bloody politics, highlighting the year of five Caesars, but skips over so many other details that I was left feeling like I only skimmed the surface of Severus' life.
I received this audiobook at no-cost from Audiobook Empire. The gifting of this audiobook did not affect my opinion of it. If you like my reviews I hope you will follow my blog. https://wyldheartreads.wordpress.com/
An interesting fictionalized story about Lucius Septimius Severus starting when he was a young African male activist against Rome, following his life and what led him to eventually become Caesar. The story jumps a lot to fast forward to highlight moments in his life. The time jumps made it difficult to follow, especially in an audiobook format.
This story is loosely based on the actual Lucius Septimus Severus' life. It does deviate from actual historical facts so enjoy it as Roman fiction, with just enough true facts to make it feel real. The author does a good job giving the reader a gritty portrayal of those conquered by Rome and it's bloody politics, highlighting the year of five Caesars, but skips over so many other details that I was left feeling like I only skimmed the surface of Severus' life.
I received this audiobook at no-cost from Audiobook Empire. The gifting of this audiobook did not affect my opinion of it. If you like my reviews I hope you will follow my blog. https://wyldheartreads.wordpress.com/
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 30, 2020
Review originally posted to https://tinyurl.com/y8ooxrtg.
Severus is from an African town that is under the control of the Roman empire and he is determined to do what he can to take his country back, even though his mother is a Roman. As he has always had a way with animals he is able to control elephants and is convinced by a rebellion to join forces to rid his country of the oppression. When things go wrong Severus departs for a place he once hated and everything in his life changes. For sometimes things are not what they seem and betrayal is around every corner. Just how far can one man go to protect an idea?
This book was read as an audio-book and I am glad that I did. I do not think I would have enjoyed it as much had I read it myself. This book follows the life of one man: Septimius Severus. While this is a fiction book it also holds truths. Septimius was indeed Caesar of Rome, as was his son Caracalla. Beyond that I don't have a in depth knowledge of the Roman empire. However, what I do know of it this book fits along those lines.
For anyone who enjoys a historical fiction book, look no further than this one. It is a great read and there are plenty of battles to enjoy. It seems that the author really did his homework with this one and it is easily enjoyable.
Severus is from an African town that is under the control of the Roman empire and he is determined to do what he can to take his country back, even though his mother is a Roman. As he has always had a way with animals he is able to control elephants and is convinced by a rebellion to join forces to rid his country of the oppression. When things go wrong Severus departs for a place he once hated and everything in his life changes. For sometimes things are not what they seem and betrayal is around every corner. Just how far can one man go to protect an idea?
This book was read as an audio-book and I am glad that I did. I do not think I would have enjoyed it as much had I read it myself. This book follows the life of one man: Septimius Severus. While this is a fiction book it also holds truths. Septimius was indeed Caesar of Rome, as was his son Caracalla. Beyond that I don't have a in depth knowledge of the Roman empire. However, what I do know of it this book fits along those lines.
For anyone who enjoys a historical fiction book, look no further than this one. It is a great read and there are plenty of battles to enjoy. It seems that the author really did his homework with this one and it is easily enjoyable.
May 15, 2021
SEVERUS; The Black Caesar is one of the best historical fiction I have ever read since it is based on real facts.
At the beginning, I thought it would be difficult to follow or dull due to the historical content present, but I soon realised I did not need to know so much about the Roman Empire in order to enjoy and understand the sequences of events which unfold chapter after chapter.
Author Exeter has done an amazing job here, he has been able to combine reality with fiction and he has done so in a dramatic and suspenseful manner. This book is also proof that the author took his time to do an extensive research on how things had occurred during those days.
This narrative has it all: history, suspense, entertaining actions and an epic ending. I consider it a great piece of literature. Thanks author Exeter!
At the beginning, I thought it would be difficult to follow or dull due to the historical content present, but I soon realised I did not need to know so much about the Roman Empire in order to enjoy and understand the sequences of events which unfold chapter after chapter.
Author Exeter has done an amazing job here, he has been able to combine reality with fiction and he has done so in a dramatic and suspenseful manner. This book is also proof that the author took his time to do an extensive research on how things had occurred during those days.
This narrative has it all: history, suspense, entertaining actions and an epic ending. I consider it a great piece of literature. Thanks author Exeter!
May 17, 2021
The author of this book, Steve Exeter, traces the history of Severus, the first black Roman’s Emperor in a vivid and coherent manner.
As I expected when I read and chose the title, “Severus: the Black Caesar” is relaxed and easy to read which made me remember a lot of information in the best possible way. Also, the level of historical research put into the pages is impressive, it is clear that this talented writer did everything in his power to ensure readers have the most accurate, exciting, absorbing and comprehensible piece. It is very descriptive and well written and I dare to say this is something I always look for in a good narrative. It is easy to get immersed in it and I felt like I was there watching the story happen.
I recommend this masterpiece with a plethora of information and an amazing, brave and strong main character.
As I expected when I read and chose the title, “Severus: the Black Caesar” is relaxed and easy to read which made me remember a lot of information in the best possible way. Also, the level of historical research put into the pages is impressive, it is clear that this talented writer did everything in his power to ensure readers have the most accurate, exciting, absorbing and comprehensible piece. It is very descriptive and well written and I dare to say this is something I always look for in a good narrative. It is easy to get immersed in it and I felt like I was there watching the story happen.
I recommend this masterpiece with a plethora of information and an amazing, brave and strong main character.
June 27, 2021
First of all, SEVERUS: The Black Caesar by Steve Exeter has such a gorgeous cover. It invited me to read the book immediately as soon as it landed on my Kindle. What I love about this book is that its genre is historical fiction and that it is actually based from true happenings. I love books with this kind of genre because it is interesting and it has so much to offer.
I particularly love the main character in this book. He is so driven and determined and I love his strength that enable him to be successful in becoming the first Black Caesar of the Roman Empire. The story-telling skills of the author Steve Exeter was also hats off amazing. I love the series of conversations shared by the characters and also, how the world building was created. It was a great experience reading this book!
I particularly love the main character in this book. He is so driven and determined and I love his strength that enable him to be successful in becoming the first Black Caesar of the Roman Empire. The story-telling skills of the author Steve Exeter was also hats off amazing. I love the series of conversations shared by the characters and also, how the world building was created. It was a great experience reading this book!
December 16, 2023
"SEVERUS: The Black Caesar" by Steve Exeter is a work of historical fiction that captivated me from the first page. This novel takes the reader on an intriguing journey through an alternate reality of the Roman Empire, and does so in a way that is both thrilling and deeply thoughtful.
What really makes this novel stand out is the author's ability to weave history into fiction.
The way he presents the protagonist, as a man with self-doubt, internal struggles and ethical conflicts, is truly fascinating. This complexity in characterization makes the reader identify with and become completely immersed in Severo's world.
I was enchanted and have found it to be a read that goes beyond being simply entertaining; it is an immersive experience that has awakened deep emotions and reflections in me. I highly recommend it.
What really makes this novel stand out is the author's ability to weave history into fiction.
The way he presents the protagonist, as a man with self-doubt, internal struggles and ethical conflicts, is truly fascinating. This complexity in characterization makes the reader identify with and become completely immersed in Severo's world.
I was enchanted and have found it to be a read that goes beyond being simply entertaining; it is an immersive experience that has awakened deep emotions and reflections in me. I highly recommend it.
April 23, 2021
This is an amazing book that narrates the story of Severus, the first black Emperor of Rome. It is written by the gifted author Steve Exeter who wittifully combined true facts with some fictional events to add some drama and adventure to the plot. Exeter has done a marvellous job in depicting an imperial atmosphere and I could feel I was another character of the time. There are some interesting themes developed in the story, being loyalty, determination and passion the main ones. I must admit that what I enjoyed the most apart from the epic battles is the love relationship between Severus and Julia, who is adamant about his triumph as the Caesar of Rome. This amazing novel is highly entertaining and action packed.
April 23, 2021
It has been a while since I have read such an exciting novel! Severus is one of those books which is nearly impossible to put down. From the very first chapter, the author does a magnificent job captivating our attention and leading us into this amazing story.
This is a historical novel that tells the story of Septimius Severus, and African boy that became the Emperor of Rome. Clearly, the main character will not be forgotten, thanks to the author fantastic portrayal of this complicated and powerful character.
There’s almost something for everybody in this book. It is filled with action, adventure and a perfect pacing. The author has written a thoroughly gripping novel that I highly recommend reading!
This is a historical novel that tells the story of Septimius Severus, and African boy that became the Emperor of Rome. Clearly, the main character will not be forgotten, thanks to the author fantastic portrayal of this complicated and powerful character.
There’s almost something for everybody in this book. It is filled with action, adventure and a perfect pacing. The author has written a thoroughly gripping novel that I highly recommend reading!
April 25, 2021
I was drawn into this one because of the novelty of it being a work of historical fiction, though based on a true story. Before reading the story, I only had a small amount of knowledge about the Roman empire, though I now feel that I've almost had a first-hand experience due to the author's ability to describe the scenes with photographic quality. This is a great choice for any reader who enjoys historical fiction, specifically that which involves the Romans. I did feel as though the story jumped forward a bit too quickly, not allowing enough time to get to know the characters until the time and place flashes quickly to another. I did discover a few editing errors while I was reading as well, though they were minor enough not to dampen my reading experience.
December 16, 2023
Amazing book
"SEVERUS: The Black Caesar" by Steve Exeter is a captivating historical novel that transports readers to ancient Rome with a compelling narrative and meticulous attention to historical detail. The author's masterful storytelling introduces the complex character of Severus, adding depth to the tale of political intrigue and cultural richness. The novel mixes historical accuracy with imaginative flair, creating an immersive experience that keeps readers engaged from start to finish. The vivid portrayal of the Roman Empire, coupled with expertly crafted pacing, ensures a gripping journey through this fascinating era.
This book is a must-read for both history enthusiasts and fiction lovers seeking an authentic and enthralling exploration of ancient Rome.
"SEVERUS: The Black Caesar" by Steve Exeter is a captivating historical novel that transports readers to ancient Rome with a compelling narrative and meticulous attention to historical detail. The author's masterful storytelling introduces the complex character of Severus, adding depth to the tale of political intrigue and cultural richness. The novel mixes historical accuracy with imaginative flair, creating an immersive experience that keeps readers engaged from start to finish. The vivid portrayal of the Roman Empire, coupled with expertly crafted pacing, ensures a gripping journey through this fascinating era.
This book is a must-read for both history enthusiasts and fiction lovers seeking an authentic and enthralling exploration of ancient Rome.
April 30, 2021
“SEVERUS: The Black Caesar” by author Steve Exeter is a quite long length book, but yet easy and fast to read. This is a fictional story, but inspired in the life of Septimius Severus, the African Emperor of Rome. Under a bloody and violent reality, typical of the time, this main character authenticity is also passionate and inspiring. Moreover, the author wittily weaves ties of intrigue, romance and family drama, so actually all characters and their stories feel original. As a result, this is a unique and engaging novel.
I think that, same as me, all kinds of readers will be delighted with these compelling characters, and the engaging and fascinating plot.
I think that, same as me, all kinds of readers will be delighted with these compelling characters, and the engaging and fascinating plot.
May 1, 2021
An immersing historical fiction
Steve Exeter’s “Severus: The Black Caesar” is an historical novel set in the times of the Roman Empire.
The story presents the struggles of a young and ambitious black man who becomes one of the most powerful leaders of the ancient era.
I found the story was not entirely believable but it is agreeable and recreational. All of a sudden, I realized I spent an entire afternoon devouring the story, and I did not sense the time was passing.
The character is lovable, which made me interested in his actions and decisions.
In my opinion, this is a beautiful book that young adults might agree with me in cataloguing it as absorbing.
Steve Exeter’s “Severus: The Black Caesar” is an historical novel set in the times of the Roman Empire.
The story presents the struggles of a young and ambitious black man who becomes one of the most powerful leaders of the ancient era.
I found the story was not entirely believable but it is agreeable and recreational. All of a sudden, I realized I spent an entire afternoon devouring the story, and I did not sense the time was passing.
The character is lovable, which made me interested in his actions and decisions.
In my opinion, this is a beautiful book that young adults might agree with me in cataloguing it as absorbing.
June 24, 2021
Politically Intriguing
Steve presents us with a historical fiction that has all the nitty-gritty that makes a novel exciting. He employs real facts in the story to make the fiction one to make you feel that you a reading a historical account. The novel follows the story of a rebellious black boy who lived in the province of Africa and grew to become an Emperor. There are many useful facts to draw from this young man called Severus who has an intriguing back story. Lovers of Roman History will love this book. I strongly recommend this book for lovers of historical fiction with a particular interest in Roman history.
Steve presents us with a historical fiction that has all the nitty-gritty that makes a novel exciting. He employs real facts in the story to make the fiction one to make you feel that you a reading a historical account. The novel follows the story of a rebellious black boy who lived in the province of Africa and grew to become an Emperor. There are many useful facts to draw from this young man called Severus who has an intriguing back story. Lovers of Roman History will love this book. I strongly recommend this book for lovers of historical fiction with a particular interest in Roman history.
July 3, 2023
Ancient rome
Severus is the name of one of ancient romes' most influential and interesting leaders. Born in Africa in poverty, Severus soon develops a hatred for Roman's and seeks to destroy them. Inthus book, we follow Severus's rise to power over the Romans, a civil war, countless ladies and brutal battles. The book, while set in history and following some true people, is mostly fictional and as such I found it highly entertaining. The ancient Roman's are some of my favorite characters and the author didn't disappoint. I could really feel the hatred and determination from Severus and I lost my self easily in this book.
Severus is the name of one of ancient romes' most influential and interesting leaders. Born in Africa in poverty, Severus soon develops a hatred for Roman's and seeks to destroy them. Inthus book, we follow Severus's rise to power over the Romans, a civil war, countless ladies and brutal battles. The book, while set in history and following some true people, is mostly fictional and as such I found it highly entertaining. The ancient Roman's are some of my favorite characters and the author didn't disappoint. I could really feel the hatred and determination from Severus and I lost my self easily in this book.
December 15, 2023
''SEVERUS: The Black Caesar'' is a fiction novel written by Steve Exeter, which shows us an alternative history of Rome. This book tells the story of Lucius Septimius Severus, a boy who grew up in Africa but who, with his extraordinary talent, managed to be a general and then emperor of Rome. This story is captivating, full of action, betrayal, politics, and love, everything you need to entertain yourself. The book is well written and has good historical content about that era that makes it seem real even when it is fiction. This is one of those books that you will enjoy reading. I would recommend it.
May 2, 2021
I love stories where real facts and fiction come together, not only because we learn about general culture while we read, but we also enjoy the moment where we can travel with our mind. This is the case of this incredible novel “SEVERUS: The Black Caesar” written by Steve Exeter.
Severus is a rebellious boy who grew up to become the first Black Caesar of the Roman Empire and who became one of the most powerful men in the ancient world. I think this book is perfect for people who want to read a good book with historical facts and I certainly recommend it.
Severus is a rebellious boy who grew up to become the first Black Caesar of the Roman Empire and who became one of the most powerful men in the ancient world. I think this book is perfect for people who want to read a good book with historical facts and I certainly recommend it.
July 4, 2023
'SEVERUS: The Black Caesar' unveils the captivating saga of Severus, a defiant young boy who defied the might of the Roman Empire.
This enthralling historical novel transports readers through a tumultuous era of civil wars, love, and power struggles. As Severus ascends to become the most influential figure of his time, the author skillfully intertwines history and fiction, bringing to life the complexities of ancient Rome and the relentless pursuit of power.
Prepare to be enthralled by this remarkable tale of ambition, rebellion, and the rise of an extraordinary leader.
This enthralling historical novel transports readers through a tumultuous era of civil wars, love, and power struggles. As Severus ascends to become the most influential figure of his time, the author skillfully intertwines history and fiction, bringing to life the complexities of ancient Rome and the relentless pursuit of power.
Prepare to be enthralled by this remarkable tale of ambition, rebellion, and the rise of an extraordinary leader.
July 4, 2023
As I delved into "Severus," I found myself completely immersed in the gripping story of a young African boy who challenged the might of the Romans and became the first Black Caesar. From the outset, I felt a deep connection to Severus as he embarked on his rebellious journey, driven by a burning desire for revenge. The author's skilful narration transported me to the heart of ancient Rome, where I witnessed Severus's rise to power amidst bloodshed and internal conflicts. This enthralling tale of love, power, and struggle kept me on the edge of my seat until the very end. A recommended read!
March 21, 2021
Interesting story, but the writing style is very confusing. It often reads more like a play or a film script than a novel. I call it a novel, because I am not sure how close it is to know or conjectured 'facts'. Bottom line, I read it to the end and was interested enough to do a bit of research, but the writing style could definitely be improved. I was sure I was going to smack the next character who smirked!
December 15, 2023
Overall, I really enjoyed this story. I don't know anything about Severus, and I think this is a great way to introduce him before diving deep into his actual history. The time jumps were a bit hard to follow at times, but I picked up on it quickly. Seeing Severus' timeline was a lot of fun. We have romance, betrayal, action, etc. and it was a nice balance of everything you'd want in a story. Now I want to go read more about him and his sons!
December 28, 2023
Severus: The black Caesar is the book everyone who likes historical fiction should read. It is well set and the descriptions provided by the author makes this an immersive reading experience, making you be part of the story.
The characters were well developed and described and this is the best part of the book in my opinion. I will undoubtedly recommend reading it.
The characters were well developed and described and this is the best part of the book in my opinion. I will undoubtedly recommend reading it.
April 24, 2021
I really enjoyed the pace, the plot, the individual story arcs in the overall story line, and the characters. Narrative was well done and clear. Overall, very enjoyable
November 9, 2022
Really enjoyed this book, many twist and turns. Could definitely see this a a tv series or film.
May 16, 2023
An interesting fictional biography of the Roman emperor, Septimius Severus, from his life in Leptis [called herein Lepcis] Magna [in present day Libya] where he was deeply involved in a local rebellion, which turned into a bloodbath, and after leaving Africa, following his life until his death. I enjoyed most the last part, where he lies dying, reviews his life, and tries to justify his actions. As he is dying, he meets those who were important in his life who have passed on before him, from family members to first wife to friends to the emperor Marcus Aurelius.
As far as the subtitle of the novel, I'd sooner have said the Brown Caesar, since I believe he was basically mostly Punic i.e. Carthaginian -- think Hannibal. But I guess the author thought that adjective he used would grab someone's attention more readily.
As far as the subtitle of the novel, I'd sooner have said the Brown Caesar, since I believe he was basically mostly Punic i.e. Carthaginian -- think Hannibal. But I guess the author thought that adjective he used would grab someone's attention more readily.
June 29, 2023
Steve Exeter's rendition of Septimius Severus's life is a delightful dip into the Roman era. The book's narrative is rich with detail, offering a vivid glimpse of battles, garrisons, and choices that shaped Severus's destiny as Rome's first Black Caesar. Despite being a historical fiction piece, it had me fully engrossed, learning about this lesser-known, compelling figure. The plot seamlessly blends personal conflicts with political machinations of the time. A captivating read, this tale of an unsung hero is recommended for anyone seeking a captivating journey back in time. It's an epic story begging for a series adaptation.
December 13, 2023
Would be good with some editing
I wanted to like this book; I really did. I was looking forward to learning some history - I had never heard of Septimus Severus and didn't even realize he was a real person until I read the other reviews. So, I was excited to read it! But unfortunately, this book was one of those cases where the poor writing makes it impossible for me to get into the book. Sometimes I can set poor writing aside if the story is intriguing enough, but the writing in this book was just too stilted, dry, and awkward. I did get to the end, because I wanted to know what happened. So, if good writing isn't important to you, I'd recommend it.
I wanted to like this book; I really did. I was looking forward to learning some history - I had never heard of Septimus Severus and didn't even realize he was a real person until I read the other reviews. So, I was excited to read it! But unfortunately, this book was one of those cases where the poor writing makes it impossible for me to get into the book. Sometimes I can set poor writing aside if the story is intriguing enough, but the writing in this book was just too stilted, dry, and awkward. I did get to the end, because I wanted to know what happened. So, if good writing isn't important to you, I'd recommend it.
December 16, 2023
A good historical fiction.
Severus: The Black Caesar by Steve Exeter is a historical fiction novel set in Rome or at least an alternative version of it. The novel follows Severus from his beginning to becoming Emperor. At the same time, the story talks about the customs and culture of the ancient city and the influence of African culture.
The author definitely involves many characters and addresses many historical issues while creating a great plot. I think it lacks a little order but it is still understandable and captivating. You have to read it very carefully so as not to miss any details. I think fans of fiction and historical fiction will enjoy this read. I recommend it!
Severus: The Black Caesar by Steve Exeter is a historical fiction novel set in Rome or at least an alternative version of it. The novel follows Severus from his beginning to becoming Emperor. At the same time, the story talks about the customs and culture of the ancient city and the influence of African culture.
The author definitely involves many characters and addresses many historical issues while creating a great plot. I think it lacks a little order but it is still understandable and captivating. You have to read it very carefully so as not to miss any details. I think fans of fiction and historical fiction will enjoy this read. I recommend it!
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