Every subject serves Rome. Only a few can save it.
An aristocrat. A slave. A pair of disgraced soldiers. And a legendary general.
Five strangers. One secret war.
When an elite gladiator defies death in the arena, his shocking victory earns him more than glory—it draws him into the heart of a secret mission that could change the fate of the Empire. Hardened by brutality and betrayal, Jason is recruited into a covert task force to stop an insidious coup from toppling Rome from within.
Joining him are Mallia, a senator's daughter suffocating in privilege; Argus and Tacitus, ex-legionnaires cast out by the very army they swore to serve; and Severus, a retired general and the Emperor's most trusted ally. Together, they are reborn as the Septem Fideles—seven loyal ones—and sworn to protect Rome from the shadows.
As rebellion stirs and enemies close in, loyalties are tested, forbidden love ignites, and ancient powers threaten to awaken. The Empire's fate rests on the shoulders of five outcasts who must fight as one . . . or fall divided.
Seal of Rome is a sweeping tale of heroes and villains, betrayal and sacrifice, forbidden love and unrelenting suspense.
“There is no claim to victory, because as long as there is Evil we will have to challenge it.”
It would help to read the prequel available on the author's website first before diving in. It introduces the four unsuspecting heroes and also gives a brief look into the intent behind Severus' urgency to pursue his plan.
For much of the start, middle, and a few turns shy of the finale, I did not feel that the plot was going anywhere - running in the same circles. The details were so dressed up - it felt like it was creating this illusion of grand expectations to thwart some devious coup d'état, when actually much of the actual progression felt more wispy than concrete. 😶🌫️
“It's the contradictions that capture my attention. The extraordinary displays of human nature set apart from the rest.”
I'm not sure why Jason repeatedly served as the designated punching bag -literally and figuratively - but after a while, instead of feeling sympathy, I became slightly put off by the constant physical and emotional abuse and the levels of cruel intolerance and injustice he faced. Yes, I know, he's a slave, but the constant emphasis on why it’s always Jason who has to pay the highest price for our victories felt too deliberate to be impactful. 🤷🏻♀️
Also, aside from Jason, I didn't feel anything significantly special for the two disgraced soldiers and a young senator’s daughter Severus chose to serve as Septem Fideles, ghost warriors, chosen for an eternal purpose, with the Seal of Rome, as a scar of honor. ⚔️ The tempo and action felt so drawn-out with the varios interactions leading up to the climax that when all the lines eventually converged, it failed to impress.
“Violence, blood, love, lust. It’s all the same these days, isn’t it? We’ve combined love with hate, fury with compassion.”
It was a good idea in theory that promised much oomph, but the execution failed to deliver. There is heart and effort in the attempt, and it ends on a note with potential for a series. I see the vision, but my heart just wasn't in it and I don't think I cared enough, as much as I could've - should've. 😮💨
Also, it is an arc, so maybe it'll be edited in the final version, but... if a character's POV continues, there's no need to point it out when it carries into the next scene. It was a confusing choice that bothered me the numerous times it occurred. 🤦🏻♀️
What an incredible read. It amazes me how anyone in the last could agree with slavery of any kind of a human being. This story really resonated with me. Making me hate humans for their actions toward other human, I know it's history but it was wrong in so many different levels. I was so engaged with all of these characters, it was truly a fascinating story that will reside with me always
The Seal of Rome, by Eden Maddox is a fantastic novel of passion, intrigue and bravery. I got swept away to ancient Rome where gladiators fight and corrupt senators plot to overthrow the emperor. The characters were well-written and compelling. I loved how different they all were, but how they worked together to protect Rome. This wasn’t a light read, but I finished it quickly because it was so hard to put down. I would highly recommend it. This is the first novel I’ve read by this author and I can’t wait to read more!
One phrase: ancient Rome meets secret mission chaos ⚔️🏛️
Seal of Rome gave me Five Broken Blades vibes, but make it ancient Rome, political intrigue, secret task force, forbidden yearning, and a group of outcasts sworn to protect the Empire from the shadows.
And honestly? I was so into it.
This story follows five strangers pulled together for one dangerous mission. An aristocrat, a slave, two disgraced soldiers, and a legendary general become the Septem Fideles, a covert force created to stop an insidious coup from toppling Rome from within.
Think Gladiator meets Mission Impossible, but with more political tension, hidden enemies, brutal class systems, and characters who slowly become something stronger together.
What really worked for me was the team. Each character has their own history, wounds, strengths, and place within Roman society, and I loved watching them bring their different perspectives together. They are living in a world built on cruelty and injustice, but they are still trying to choose honor, loyalty, and something better.
Jason’s storyline especially hit hard. As a slave and gladiator, his place in the world is shaped by violence and survival, and the book does not shy away from the reality of that society. There are definitely heavier themes here, so check content warnings, but I appreciated that the story still held onto hope.
The multi POV structure also worked so well. It gave the world more depth and made the danger feel bigger, while still letting the characters shine individually. There is action, betrayal, class inequity, political maneuvering, ancient power, friendships, and just enough romance and yearning to make me want to yell “kiss already” at the page.
The ending wraps up well while still leaving room for more, and I would absolutely come back to these characters. I need more of the Septem Fideles. Not want. Need.
✨ Tropes and vibes: 🏛 ancient Rome inspired fantasy ⚔️ secret task force 🗡 gladiator character 👑 political intrigue 🤝 found family team 🖤 forbidden yearning 🔥 slow burn romance sparks 💔 class inequity 🛡 disgraced soldiers 👀 assassination plot 🌑 heroes in the shadows ✨ hope in darkness
📚 Read this if you like: Five Broken Blades vibes, ancient Rome settings, political fantasy, found family missions, gladiators, secret societies, forbidden romance tension, and stories where broken people fight for something bigger than themselves.
This was immersive, layered, suspenseful, and full of characters I genuinely want more of.
This book gave me Five Broken Blades vibes, except it's set in ancient Rome (while also feeling modern, in its way), and instead of assassinating the Emperor, our team is tasked with the opposite: serving the Emperor and protecting the Empire. Content warning: The author does not shy away from the reality of a slave society. Abuse (sexual and physical) is common in this world, both for slaves and for women. Maddox does not present these in especially graphic ways, but these themes are present.
Part of what I liked about this book was that it takes place in a world full of injustice and cruelty, yet our main team is filled with characters of, well, character. They are unwilling to accept that things must be the way they are. They see the injustice and cruelty and long for better. Even the Emperor is someone who wants to be just and fair. My favorite quote would have to come from the note from the author, where Maddox says "this story is a reminder that even in the darkest of shadows, there can be flickers of light, heroes who emerge against the odds to give us hope. Although, you can’t site the “events” you’re about to read, you can cling to our shared duty to take care of one another and fight for a better world no matter the cost."
This book is multi-POV, with the four main characters each having their own developed history and place within this society. There are friendships and forbidden attractions. Each character follows his or her own leads, through his or her own place in the hierarchy, to uncover and stop the attempted assassination of the Emperor. We see how they each bring their unique talents and perspectives together in this team, each presence strengthening it.
We have action, danger, political intrigue, class inequity, yearning, romance, and more. The ending leaves room for possible sequels, which was nice, as I would enjoy coming back to these characters, as I thought this book was well done and came to truly feel for them, and I wouldn't mind seeing our four upped to the full seven over time, either.
"Death isn't always an end. Often, it gives birth to a greater enemy. " "Love can melt stone."
Severus, former general and an advisor to Emperor, senses threats growing against the empire and, most importantly, the Emperor. He gathers 4 talented strangers together to help stop a secret war. They will be warrior ghosts in service to the emperor, unknown and recognized to the world. An aristocrat ( Mallia), a slave ( Jason), a pair of disgraced soldiers ( Tacitus and Argus), and a legendary general ( Severus) form the Septem Fideles. A legendary force that protects Rome at costs. Imagine if Gladiator or Rome had a book baby with a show like MI5 or Mission Impossible. That's kinda of the premise vibes Seal Of Rome gives. It sounds a little different, but it's sooo good. The story was so immersive with historical details and terminology about daily life in ancient Rome. There's lots of layers of world building with politics and allies. One of the main characters, Jason, is a slave ( check TW). It's very telling how ingrained slavery is in the daily Roman life when the rest of Septem Fideles, who has accepted Jason as a member, suddenly become aware simple things like how much information slaves and gladiators overhear. There's also a splash of romance and YEARNING between some characters that just make you want to yell, " Kiss her already!!!"🤣🤣 Book 1 wraps nicely but yet leaves room for a book 2 ( which I desperately need, not want, need). Thank you for choosing me to be an ARC Reader
A gladiator. An aristocrat. A general. Two banished soldiers. Five strangers who all have had different experiences living in Ancient Rome now unite to protect the Empire. They are part of the undercover Septem Fideles. Their mission is to protect and ensure the survival of the Empire. Their mission is a secret.
They all face challenges in their missions and in the changing world order of Ancient Rome. I enjoyed the intrigue, action, and the thorough research in the book to learn about the people of Ancient Rome.
I enjoyed the multiple perspectives in each chapter as we saw the setting through each of the characters’ points of view in their experiences of life in Rome. They were well-paced across and within the chapters. Each character’s role is unique. A gladiator in arena has a different lived experience compared to an aristocrat or a soldier. We see how these characters form a bond - one of soldiers to save Rome.
The novel is an exploration not just of the characters’ experiences in Rome, but also is a character-driven exploration of their loyalty, love and connection, societal expectations, and their values. I found it fascinating exploration of psychology.
Thank you to Eden Maddox, City Owl Books, and Love Books Tours for the opportunity to be part of the tour! I was provided a copy of this book and am leaving an honest review.
Although this is not my typical genre to read, I enjoyed the ride leading up to the destruction of the Roman Empire. The writing style was flown and detailed, making the book an action packed page turning that had me wondering what the characters were going to do next. I felt like I was reading a cleaner (less spicy) script for Spartacus. Roman time storylines, to me, tend to be some of the gruesome, scandalous stories out there and I am HERE for it! The multiple point of views was a great touch, as there are quite a few characters that make up the plot and allowing us to follow each characters' shoes made the story that much more enjoyable. I know it is kind of a side story, but one of my favorite parts of the book was the relationship between Argus and Seia. A man taking in a child in need tugs at my heart strings. 💙 This book had a little bit of everything in it. It's a retelling in terms of Roman times, a bit of romance, and lots of adventure. A brilliant novel to enjoy!
"It’s a testament to the horrors of what we do to one another, and the beautiful way we heal and love beyond reason."
Seal of Rome by Eden Maddox is the beginning of a belter of a Saga (although it can be read as a standalone, the fact that there will be more gives me the joyfuls)
First and foremost, this book reflects the reality of the time, the brutal, cruel and sadistic reality of how people were treated as things instead of sentient beings. The level of dehumanising involved in Roman slavery is depicted without restraint and I respect how the author defined the experiences of master and slave on so many different levels, let alone those who observed from afar
This is the foundation to what is a blistering multi pov novel of five unlikely friends coming together to fight for a common goal, to prevent a coup from destroying Rome
The historical accuracy is absolutely on point and the unlikely friends trope is beautifully crafted. I cannot even hope to describe the true magnitude of this book, only that it left me breathless (metaphorically, but not far off the reality of it)
A glorious saga and I am looking forward to reading more!
Thank you to Netgalley, the author and City Owl Press for this lovely ARC. My review is left voluntarily and all opinions are my own
Seal of Rome was an intriguing and thoroughly captivating read from beginning to end. As a new-to-me author, this book completely exceeded my expectations.
The seamless transition between the five main narrators was one of the strongest aspects of the story. Each POV was short, concise, and perfectly timed, always leaving me eager to return to the next character’s perspective.
The mystery and suspense were woven beautifully throughout the novel, keeping the story engaging without ever feeling confusing or disjointed. The author handled multiple narrators with impressive skill, creating a flow that felt effortless and natural.
What impressed me most was that I genuinely couldn’t find anything about this story I didn’t enjoy. The writing was intelligent, immersive, and compelling from start to finish. While the book doesn’t end on a cliffhanger, it opens the door perfectly for the next installment in the series, and I’m already looking forward to continuing the journeys of these five characters.
Wow! What a stunning debut. I did not want to put The Seal of Rome by Eden Maddox down. All of my other books got put on hold (and meals too) while I binged it in one go.
I loved:
- [ ] The fast pace
There was always a fight, meeting, or political matter at hand. The romance was there- but not the main focus. Tacitus’s point of view was my favorite, but I always wanted to read the other’s POVs too.
- [ ] The Setting
The book takes place in Ancient Rome, but with a modern twist, making the characters quite relatable. I think the lack of religion/ mythology also aided in this. Gods and Goddesses are not addressed in this book. Given the setting, I was surprised. It was a very refreshing and graciously accepted switch up.
- [ ] The open ending
There are no big cliffhangers, but there is definitely room for more story. If there are future books, a deeper dive into the character’s past’s would be awesome. I’d also be excited to see more “brotherly” bonding time between the Septem Fideles.
If you’ve read and enjoyed Babylonia by Constanza Casati (the grit and determination), Lengendborn by Tracy Deonn (for the brotherhood), or have watched and enjoyed shows that re-tell ancient history (Spartacus, Rome, or Alexander: The Making of a God) you will likely appreciate Seal of Rome.
Thank you Edelweiss and City Owl Press for providing me with this book for review. All opinions are my own.
Wow!!! What a journey this book just took me on. I have never read a book like this before and I'm so glad I picked this one up. It was so good. Intrigue adventure and a yearning so good, you are begging the characters to kiss already. The world building made me feel like I was actually there. I fell hard for the characters. Laughed with them. Cried with them. My heart broke for them. The author did such an amazing job telling this story and I cannot wait to see what comes next.
Highly recommend reading the prequel first as it introduces you to the characters.
“Every breath is a threat in these dark times. Every heartbeat. I did not accept this position to rule, but to serve. I know my time is short. Many scheme to eliminate me as we speak. But I’ve sworn an oath to protect this Empire and its people for as long as I’m alive, and I plan to do exactly that. Evil has reigned for far too long. It’s time to fight back."
Thank you Love Books Tours for the gifted copy of this book!
I LOVED this book! If you're a fan of historical fiction with lots of political intrigue and forbidden love--this one is for you.
This book is so well-written and is so intriguing and keeps you wanting to know what happens next. It is set in Ancient Rome and the characters are so mutli-faceted and complex. The book is written from different povs including the pov of a slave, a general, a senator's daughter, one disgraced soldier, and another soldier. They are working together in a secret organization called the Septem Fideles which was formed the protect the interests of Rome and the Emperor. Additionally, the tension in the forbidden relationships is great.
I will add that this book does represent the brutality of Ancient Rome pretty graphically and includes themes of torture, slavery, sexual assault, and domestic violence. So keep that in mind if you read this book.
The very first thing I need to say about this book is that several themes and topics are covered that could be considered triggering. Some elements of the story are brutal - I would go as far as to say savage - so please do your research and proceed with caution.
That being said, there is nothing gratuitous about the more difficult scenes and events. They are appropriate and in keeping with the story. I don’t believe anything has been included for shock value. What I liked best about the book was the multiple POVs throughout. It gave the story added dimension and perspective and I felt it worked really well. As the reader I felt like I got a more rounded, accurate version of events because I could see a multifaceted telling. While this is a story about Ancient Rome and an army, it’s also very people-centric. There is emotion and connection and for me that’s what sets this book apart from many more basic historical fiction novels. Well worth your time, highly recommended
Thank you Netgalley, City owl Press and Eden Maddox for accepting my request to read and review Seal of Rome. Wow, and this is just the beginning of the series, what an incredible way to start. Fantasy meets historical facts, this novel allows you to reflect on the time period that was brutal, grotesque and downright sadistic on a daily basis. This novel gives you an insight into how people were treated as objects passed around, treated badly and dehumanized for sport and fun. The author was able to bring to life the harsh reality of ancient Rome of the social hierarchy of Emperor, middle class and slaves. The sexual, emotional and physical abuse of men, women and children. Bringing together a group of people from different social status and backgrounds to form relationships and a bond to find a family amongst them. Show strength, courage and determination of each character’s point of view. Amazing work from the author, kept me on the edge of my seat all the way to the end. I look forward to seeing where they story is taken throughout the series,
First of all, I would like to thank NetGalley and City Owl Press for providing an ARC. As a lover of history my attention was immediately drawn by both the cover and the blurb. My interest was only further sparked after reading a short prequel on the author’s website. I have to say, the story absolutely did not disappoint me. It offers a raw and compelling look at the complex reality of Ancient Rome. A portrayal that really sticks with you as you read the different stories of the five characters. In addition to the emotional intensity there’s fortunately also room for humor, suspense, intrigue, and action-packed scenes. The writing style is smooth and accessible which, combined with a carefully constructed plot, keeps the story engaging until the very last page. Before you know it, you’ve reached the end … Frax! Hopefully the sequel won’t be long, because one thing is certain, I want more of this unusual group of “friends”!
I really enjoyed this book. It is set the time of Ancient Rome and there are 5 POVs each in a different part of Roman society and each with a role to play.
There is a socialite that is horrified with her the company she keeps and what people like her seem to deem acceptable. A top tear soilder with connections to the Emperor. 2 disgraced legionnaires who find purpose again after leaving the army and a gladiator who is lowest of the low trusted and rescued.
Each person bring a different view and resources to help protect their Emperor and their world. What will they give up in order to do so and what will they gain?
I loved the growth that each character had and how even though there was hints of romance this would be considered a very slow burn.
Thank you to Eden Maddox, NetGalley and City Owl Press for the ARC Copy in exchange for my honest review.
Oh, wow, what a read! If you're a history buff like me and you enjoy big, epic stories/shows like Game of Thrones and Gladiator, then this book is a must for you! The story takes place in Ancient Rome, and Eden did her homework when it comes to...well, everything! The world-building was phenomenal, and I felt like I stepped back in time and was a ghost warrior right alongside the group whose main goal is to protect the Emperor. The details are rich, but so is the emotion. Mallia and Jason were my favorite--forbidden love between a senator's daughter and a gladiator slave? Absolutely delicious, and it left me wanting so much more. Fingers crossed this story is just the beginning because it feels like we're getting a whole series, and the setup for what's to come is exciting.
This book made me want to move to Ancient Rome and change my name to Hazaelia.
First, the world-building. Creating an entirely new world is easy in many aspects, because the author can do whatever they want. Dropping readers into a world that already existed but shaping to be new and unique is a gift. I felt the cobblestone streets. I smelled the dirt. I heard the cheers and leers from the crowds. Simply put, Seal of Rome isn't just a book—it's a full sensory experience.
Eden Maddox's writing made me want to step beyond being an observer and join forces with Septem Fideles. I was so connected to the cast of characters and felt every emotion they did. The pacing? The underlying character arcs? The overall mission? Chef's kiss.
I have been looking forward to this book since I watched the trailer and read the prequel many months ago. I was intrigued by the uniqueness of the concept, and I was invested in the characters and their stories before I ever received this book. My thanks to the author for this advance copy!
My absolute favorite part of this book is the cast of main characters and the bond between them. This author must have put their entire heart into creating these characters, because they are truly unforgettable. I wanted much more of them. They are all so very different, and they come from completely different walks of life, yet they have a common purpose, a common goal, and there is a deep respect and connection between them. That connection is truly the light in the darkness of their world, and it’s the ribbon of hope that weaves its way through this story.
While I love all of the main characters, Jason and Mallia are two of my favorites from this book. Take care in reading the note from the author at the beginning, because there are parts of this story that are very difficult to read. Jason’s life especially is not an easy one, but I feel knowing the truth of his life as a slave is important to the story and to the mission of the group as a whole. I was angry many times over the horrible things humans are capable of inflicting on each other, but then astounded by the beauty that exists in others, like Mallia. Her character brought me so much peace while reading this book. The beauty and goodness of her character was inspiring. She’s truly the best of us.
This was left with room for (at least) one more book to follow, and I am very much looking forward to seeing what comes next!
I received an early copy of this book from the author, Seal of Rome by Eden Maddox completely pulled me into its world from the very beginning. The atmosphere felt rich and immersive, balancing danger, power, and emotion in a way that kept me turning pages late into the night.
One of my favorite parts of this story was the tension woven throughout the relationships and political dynamics. The characters felt layered and compelling, with motivations that slowly unfolded as the story progressed.
The story wraps up nicely without a cliffhanger, leaving the door wide open for more adventures. I’m already looking forward to seeing these characters again!
I received an ARC from the author despite this not being my usual read. I was pleasantly surprised and absolutely loved this story. The world building was wonderful, making me feel like I was there in ancient Rome. I loved the characters, Jason being a personal favorite. If you enjoy a rich, historical setting with likeable characters and intrigue don't hesitate to give this a try. I am now looking forward to more books about these people I came to adore.
It does not end on a cliffhanger at all. But it leaves it open for further books.
What a debut novel! This was a type of read I was new to and I really enjoyed it. It grabbed my attention from the start and kept me enthralled throughout. Each character was well developed and had their own story entwined through the larger story. Eden did a great job writing each individual story line within the overall arc and truly created a story where you could love each individual character. My heart broke for Jason throughout but his character continued to heal. I can’t wait to see where we go with the overall story and each individual character!
I received an ARC from the author despite this not being my usual read. I was pleasantly surprised and absolutely loved this story. The world building was wonderful, making me feel like I was there in ancient Rome. I loved the characters, Jason being a personal favorite. If you enjoy a rich, historical setting with likeable characters and intrigue don't hesitate to give this a try. I am now looking forward to more books about these people I came to adore.
It does not end on a cliffhanger at all. But it leaves it open for further books.
Seal of Rome was a fantastic book with character development that made you care about the people’s lives and amazing worldbuilding that takes you to a time of gladiators and death matches in the arena. I don’t want to give too much away, but I loved the friendships/relationships that formed as the 5 of them became a team, working to thwart the plans of those who want to overthrow the empire. This is the first book in the series, and I’m looking forward to book 2! 5 out of 5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Seal of Rome was engrossing! I was fortunate to receive an ARC. From the moment I started reading, I had trouble putting it down. The characters are well-drawn. The world building is amazing. The characters of Jason and Mallia are particularly compelling. I look forward to the next book—can’t come soon enough!
What do a retired legion commander, two disgraced soldiers, a senator's daughter, and a slave have in common? That is the mystery created and sloved in this Roman-World Fantasy penned by Eden Maddox. It is a action-packed tale of riddled with intrigue and betrayal, where loyalties are tested and violence rules the day.
In a city inspired by all of the excess found during the height of Roman corruption, the Emperor has decided that this broken society must be saved from its imminent destruction. The unique and unexpected team assembled to save Rome from the beast within is made up from a few brave souls with pure hearts and iron wills.
Eden Maddox weaves an unforgettable story where love blooms amidst the most brutal and unlikely circumstances. This tale is thrilling and dotted with the most tender, heart-rending moments. From the chaos that is based in the ancient Roman Empire, love grows with all of the fragility and passion that fuels the human heart.
Seal of Rome is stunning treasure and the beginning of a series that already has me anticipating the next installment. On my opinion, it is the only ROMEance worth reading this year.
I was given a free copy of "Seal of ROME" via LibraryThing. I have a new author to follow. This is one of the best books I have read in a while. Very well written, engaging, well developed characters, and an interesting, yet mysterious plot. This book was seriously hard to put down. I will keep my eye out for other books by Eden Maddox.
I was on the edge of my seat! The intrigue, the relationships (found family maybe more?!), the secrets, I loved it! They're from different walks of life and seeing the world through each of their eyes was so interesting! I cannot wait for more!