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Britannia Strikes
Britannia Strikes is the next thrilling novel in The Britannia Series, continuing the events of the award-winning series debut, Britannia Rises.
With King Alfred concentrating on Outpost, the British Empire is following a new, more sinister path. King Regent Leopold is pushing through his dream of expansion as he seeks to crush the rebellions rising in opposition. His plans, formed in the shadows, will have a devastating effect on his enemies and confirm The Empire as the only, true world superpower.
The Dayak are enjoying support and growth, following their victory in the Battle of Serpent Valley. With Nepal on the cusp of independence from the iron grip of The Empire, they must consolidate their position. But the British never give up so easily and the East India Company should never be underestimated. Letitia Pearl, Bob Royce, and the monks, must all spot the dangers lurking just across the border. And maybe closer to home, too...
Jamie Bayston is recovering from the loss of his family the only way he can - by throwing himself into his work. As Ed MacLoughlin and Trevor Layttle train him, and try to find answers, it looks increasingly likely that they will need to head back into the jaws of the lion to find them.
This is Russell Dumper's third novel and the second in The Britannia Series. The first book, Britannia Rises, won awards for Debut Author, Thriller Novel and Historical Novel. He still lives in East England, with his wife and two sons. He is currently working on the rest of this highly acclaimed and exciting series.
With King Alfred concentrating on Outpost, the British Empire is following a new, more sinister path. King Regent Leopold is pushing through his dream of expansion as he seeks to crush the rebellions rising in opposition. His plans, formed in the shadows, will have a devastating effect on his enemies and confirm The Empire as the only, true world superpower.
The Dayak are enjoying support and growth, following their victory in the Battle of Serpent Valley. With Nepal on the cusp of independence from the iron grip of The Empire, they must consolidate their position. But the British never give up so easily and the East India Company should never be underestimated. Letitia Pearl, Bob Royce, and the monks, must all spot the dangers lurking just across the border. And maybe closer to home, too...
Jamie Bayston is recovering from the loss of his family the only way he can - by throwing himself into his work. As Ed MacLoughlin and Trevor Layttle train him, and try to find answers, it looks increasingly likely that they will need to head back into the jaws of the lion to find them.
This is Russell Dumper's third novel and the second in The Britannia Series. The first book, Britannia Rises, won awards for Debut Author, Thriller Novel and Historical Novel. He still lives in East England, with his wife and two sons. He is currently working on the rest of this highly acclaimed and exciting series.
315 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 6, 2025
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
October 6, 2025
This sequel is another high stakes journey of sabotage, political scheming, espionage and rebellion.
This alternative history thriller follows multiple characters as they fight for power and revenge
King Leo is aggressively expanding his empire, working to uncover spies and leaks, and getting rid of anyone that threatens his plans or isn't loyal.
You see how deep the conspiracy is with covert operations and agents in multiple countries helping to convert the populations, and the utter devotion to the rise of the Empire. The clever schemes aim to pit counties against each other, removing competitors, and claiming victory from the shadows.
On the other side you see the resistance rising across the world in different factions, and Jamie using his new skills to fight back in revenge for his family's murder.
There is plenty of tension, mystery, double crossing, twists, and that eerie dystopian feel with an unstable enemy trying to take over the world.
This alternative history thriller follows multiple characters as they fight for power and revenge
King Leo is aggressively expanding his empire, working to uncover spies and leaks, and getting rid of anyone that threatens his plans or isn't loyal.
You see how deep the conspiracy is with covert operations and agents in multiple countries helping to convert the populations, and the utter devotion to the rise of the Empire. The clever schemes aim to pit counties against each other, removing competitors, and claiming victory from the shadows.
On the other side you see the resistance rising across the world in different factions, and Jamie using his new skills to fight back in revenge for his family's murder.
There is plenty of tension, mystery, double crossing, twists, and that eerie dystopian feel with an unstable enemy trying to take over the world.
September 24, 2025
The British Empire continues to force its way to becoming the only power in the world as Prince Leopold roots out anyone who opposes him. The East India Company under empire control, fights back against the independence of Nepal and unlikely hero Jamie continues his rebellion training.
The second in the Britannia series and the fight for freedom continues as the Empire puts its nefarious plans into action. This is classic good versus evil and like all stories of this scale is epic in its range. The Outpost Project has taken away King Alfred for the time being and the pockets of rebellion, like David against Goliath, push back.
Jamie is our protagonist, a man who has nothing to lose dragged into the fray and now determined to bring down the empire. This feels genuinely perilous for him and his comrades as the intelligence they need means they have to infiltrate the enemy to save Jamie’s friend, Matt.
Part thriller part historical fiction, this is the world in parallel, a totalitarian future that could so easily come true and therein lies the terror of what could be. Action packed and moving at a breathless pace, this is an epic saga of corruption, power, intrigue and courage, exceptional!
The second in the Britannia series and the fight for freedom continues as the Empire puts its nefarious plans into action. This is classic good versus evil and like all stories of this scale is epic in its range. The Outpost Project has taken away King Alfred for the time being and the pockets of rebellion, like David against Goliath, push back.
Jamie is our protagonist, a man who has nothing to lose dragged into the fray and now determined to bring down the empire. This feels genuinely perilous for him and his comrades as the intelligence they need means they have to infiltrate the enemy to save Jamie’s friend, Matt.
Part thriller part historical fiction, this is the world in parallel, a totalitarian future that could so easily come true and therein lies the terror of what could be. Action packed and moving at a breathless pace, this is an epic saga of corruption, power, intrigue and courage, exceptional!
October 6, 2025
“If you don't trust us, why tell us?”
And so Leo’s ominous plans for expanding the British Empire continue, while the Resistance fights back, in the second instalment of Russell Dumper’s Britannia series.
Having got my head around the world-building in the first book, I settled into Britannia Strikes very quickly this time, now that I know who everyone is and what their roles are. I still can’t help picturing our current Royal Family as this fictitious one though 🙈 — it’s been very cleverly imagined by the author.
I’m not usually a fan of political stories, but this series has really grabbed my attention. The level of research that must have gone into it is phenomenal, and I’m full of admiration for Russell’s dedication to a world he’s been developing since his teenage years.
This is a dystopian novel full of intrigue and mystery — and it’s quite frankly unsettling at times, as you realise how easily its events could mirror the real world, with all its relentless and often controversial decisions.
If you’re a fan of dystopian fiction, sci-fi, politics, or spy thrillers, this book has it all. I’m already eager to see what happens next.
Thank you to Russell Dumper for the gifted copy of Britannia Strikes.
And so Leo’s ominous plans for expanding the British Empire continue, while the Resistance fights back, in the second instalment of Russell Dumper’s Britannia series.
Having got my head around the world-building in the first book, I settled into Britannia Strikes very quickly this time, now that I know who everyone is and what their roles are. I still can’t help picturing our current Royal Family as this fictitious one though 🙈 — it’s been very cleverly imagined by the author.
I’m not usually a fan of political stories, but this series has really grabbed my attention. The level of research that must have gone into it is phenomenal, and I’m full of admiration for Russell’s dedication to a world he’s been developing since his teenage years.
This is a dystopian novel full of intrigue and mystery — and it’s quite frankly unsettling at times, as you realise how easily its events could mirror the real world, with all its relentless and often controversial decisions.
If you’re a fan of dystopian fiction, sci-fi, politics, or spy thrillers, this book has it all. I’m already eager to see what happens next.
Thank you to Russell Dumper for the gifted copy of Britannia Strikes.
September 28, 2025
This book has had me hooked from the start. Following on from Britannia rises, Britannia strikes definitely struck hard here. I enjoyed the action in this one and it was quite a thrilling read. I also enjoyed the depth of the characters this time, it’s just made the story that much more interesting and enjoyable. It gets more sinister trying to crush the rebellion by all means necessary but they don’t go down without a fight, they know somethings brewing but can they avoid the worst and keep the rebellion alive?
I couldn’t put it down. It only took me forever to read it because I broke my glasses right at the start and had to wait weeks to read it again and I was so desperate to finish it.
It was well worth the wait and I can’t wait to see where it goes from here!
I couldn’t put it down. It only took me forever to read it because I broke my glasses right at the start and had to wait weeks to read it again and I was so desperate to finish it.
It was well worth the wait and I can’t wait to see where it goes from here!
October 2, 2025
Thank you to Russ for sending me an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. (Even if my puppy did eat half the cover)
This was a brilliant follow-up to book 1 in the series Britannia Rises. It is set two years after the first book and includes not only a short re-cap/ catch-up but a list of characters and what country/group they are part of. I was really pleased to see the list as it was something I felt would have been handy when starting book 1. This book was full of action once again, with plenty of fighting, undercover work, double crossing, and even a spot of romance!
There were a number of shock surprises in store throughout, and I'm looking forward to seeing how a number of the characters' storylines play out in book 3!
This was a brilliant follow-up to book 1 in the series Britannia Rises. It is set two years after the first book and includes not only a short re-cap/ catch-up but a list of characters and what country/group they are part of. I was really pleased to see the list as it was something I felt would have been handy when starting book 1. This book was full of action once again, with plenty of fighting, undercover work, double crossing, and even a spot of romance!
There were a number of shock surprises in store throughout, and I'm looking forward to seeing how a number of the characters' storylines play out in book 3!
October 6, 2025
Britannia Strikes by Russell Dumper
Book 2 of The Britannia Series
It always starts somewhere. That's the subtitle.
Well it started with Britannia Rises and continues here with a lot more intrigue, action and devastating surprises.
This is an alternate history, near-future thriller where the British Empire is sinisterly trying to control the world. King Alfred is concentrating on the mysterious Outpost while at home, King Regent Leopold is following his own agenda for ruthless expansion.
The Dayak victory appears to be short-lived as forces rise to squash the rebellion once and for all.
Jamie Bayston has joined the resistance and is struggling to cope with the loss of his family but perhaps there is hope when a friend reaches out. But in this world of plots, power struggles and geopolitics can anyone be trusted?
The plot is complex with a host of interesting characters. Thankfully there's a handy character list with their affiliations at the beginning to keep track of what is happening with this novel which combines spy stories with international politics and cinematic action.
The writing is a step up from the previous book, and that was great, as the author seamlessly changes scenes with plot elements from all around the world.
After a little build up the plot hits a breakneck pace. The very definition of a page turner.
Very exciting. Huge surprises. There's no guarantee as to who will survive. The situation looks hopeless for so many and yet there are unexpected gleams of hope pointing to various possible outcomes.
I will be eagerly awaiting the next installment in this series.
Highly entertaining. I loved it.
Thank you to the author for the ARC.
Book 2 of The Britannia Series
It always starts somewhere. That's the subtitle.
Well it started with Britannia Rises and continues here with a lot more intrigue, action and devastating surprises.
This is an alternate history, near-future thriller where the British Empire is sinisterly trying to control the world. King Alfred is concentrating on the mysterious Outpost while at home, King Regent Leopold is following his own agenda for ruthless expansion.
The Dayak victory appears to be short-lived as forces rise to squash the rebellion once and for all.
Jamie Bayston has joined the resistance and is struggling to cope with the loss of his family but perhaps there is hope when a friend reaches out. But in this world of plots, power struggles and geopolitics can anyone be trusted?
The plot is complex with a host of interesting characters. Thankfully there's a handy character list with their affiliations at the beginning to keep track of what is happening with this novel which combines spy stories with international politics and cinematic action.
The writing is a step up from the previous book, and that was great, as the author seamlessly changes scenes with plot elements from all around the world.
After a little build up the plot hits a breakneck pace. The very definition of a page turner.
Very exciting. Huge surprises. There's no guarantee as to who will survive. The situation looks hopeless for so many and yet there are unexpected gleams of hope pointing to various possible outcomes.
I will be eagerly awaiting the next installment in this series.
Highly entertaining. I loved it.
Thank you to the author for the ARC.
November 3, 2025
Britannia Strikes is book 2 in The Britannia Series, and having read book 1 ( Britannia Rises ), I had a good idea of what to expect, and it certainly lived up to those high expectations.
Having also read one of Russell's other novels ( The Hero Virus ), this was book three I've read by this author, so I'm fast becoming a big fan.
Set in the near future in an alternative history, Britain is the most powerful nation on Earth, with rivals vying to ursurp the superpower at all costs and King Leo is determinedly putting all his efforts into expanding his already bulging empire, while working to uncover leaks and to rid the land of spies in order to keep a tight grip on and maintain the fragile order.
But unrest is still abound, and we again, as in book 1, follow our main character, the intrepid Jamie, who, recovering from the loss of his family and with nothing left to lose, thows himself into his work in his efforts to bring down the empire. But to do so, he must once again infiltrate the murky world of the Empire.
But that's enough of the story, so to find out more, be sure to pick your copy up.
So all in all, this was a throughly entertaining read.
I has a great dystopian-ish feel, and combine that with more than a dash or two of action, a good handful of suspense, and a nice big helping of espionage, and what you get is quite the impressive novel.
The characters are believable and feel real, and the story bobs along at a great pace and will hold your attention until the final page.
Like all good spy thrillers should, it's full of twists and turns, and keeps you guessing all the way through.
There's intrigue, there's mystery, lots of politics and brilliant further world building ( adding on to the foundations laid in book 1 ).
A great continuation to what is shaping up to be a great series.
4 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟 's from me.
Having also read one of Russell's other novels ( The Hero Virus ), this was book three I've read by this author, so I'm fast becoming a big fan.
Set in the near future in an alternative history, Britain is the most powerful nation on Earth, with rivals vying to ursurp the superpower at all costs and King Leo is determinedly putting all his efforts into expanding his already bulging empire, while working to uncover leaks and to rid the land of spies in order to keep a tight grip on and maintain the fragile order.
But unrest is still abound, and we again, as in book 1, follow our main character, the intrepid Jamie, who, recovering from the loss of his family and with nothing left to lose, thows himself into his work in his efforts to bring down the empire. But to do so, he must once again infiltrate the murky world of the Empire.
But that's enough of the story, so to find out more, be sure to pick your copy up.
So all in all, this was a throughly entertaining read.
I has a great dystopian-ish feel, and combine that with more than a dash or two of action, a good handful of suspense, and a nice big helping of espionage, and what you get is quite the impressive novel.
The characters are believable and feel real, and the story bobs along at a great pace and will hold your attention until the final page.
Like all good spy thrillers should, it's full of twists and turns, and keeps you guessing all the way through.
There's intrigue, there's mystery, lots of politics and brilliant further world building ( adding on to the foundations laid in book 1 ).
A great continuation to what is shaping up to be a great series.
4 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟 's from me.
September 24, 2025
I’ve been eagerly awaiting this second instalment — and it did not disappoint!
I was lucky enough to get my hands on an early copy before the official publication date (October 6, 2025), and I devoured it in no time.
Just like the first book, this one takes you on a whirlwind journey around the globe — packed with political plots, corruption, and high-stakes action. But what really makes it excel are the characters: they're flawed, complex, and completely captivating.
I also loved the touch of romance that's started to develop. It brings a softer, more human side to the storyline and gives the characters even more depth.
Fast-paced, thrilling, and nearly impossible to put down. Highly recommend if you love action-packed books with a strong cast and layered storytelling.
I was lucky enough to get my hands on an early copy before the official publication date (October 6, 2025), and I devoured it in no time.
Just like the first book, this one takes you on a whirlwind journey around the globe — packed with political plots, corruption, and high-stakes action. But what really makes it excel are the characters: they're flawed, complex, and completely captivating.
I also loved the touch of romance that's started to develop. It brings a softer, more human side to the storyline and gives the characters even more depth.
Fast-paced, thrilling, and nearly impossible to put down. Highly recommend if you love action-packed books with a strong cast and layered storytelling.
September 27, 2025
I loved this book! It's the second in the Britannia rises series and i binged it in 24 hours much like the first book. It was such a well researched historical fiction book that was so well written much as any book by Russell Dumper. It was so action packed right from the very beginning. It had all the elements of a great book , history, politics, action and family relations. I would tell anybody if your looking for a historical fiction series definitely start this one or even if your not massively into historical fiction i feel anybody can read these books. I for one cannot wait for the next book!
October 10, 2025
This was a brilliant and gritty continuation of The Britannia Series. I enjoyed it tremendously. The concept of the story was strong. Absolutely excellent. The cover is good, and I liked the building on the front. It made for an excellent visual. The book is written well and flows nicely. The book has plenty of twists and I couldn't put it down. Various settings in multiple counties work very well for this book. We have a variety of characters. Returning characters and some new ones. The King Regent, Leopold, worries me! Jamie is coming into his own, which I like. I would definitely recommend the series.
October 8, 2025
Britannia Strikes picks up from where Britannia Rises left off and continues exploring an alternative (near future) version of the Empire and its impact and rule across the world.
There’s a lot going on (in a good way!) in this excellent, fast paced, action packed sequel.
There’s a great cast of characters, (don’t worry - there’s a character guide at the front!) a high body count, and the settings in numerous locations around the globe ensure that the story line flows well. I will definitely be carrying on with the series.
Politics and power, royalty and religion, world domination and corruption.
An excellent page turner!
There’s a lot going on (in a good way!) in this excellent, fast paced, action packed sequel.
There’s a great cast of characters, (don’t worry - there’s a character guide at the front!) a high body count, and the settings in numerous locations around the globe ensure that the story line flows well. I will definitely be carrying on with the series.
Politics and power, royalty and religion, world domination and corruption.
An excellent page turner!
October 23, 2025
I really enjoyed Britannia Rises, so I was excited to dive back into this world and Britannia Strikes definitely delivers. Dumper ramps up the tension, expanding the story into a darker, more politically charged direction without losing the human side of the characters.
The mix of historical grit, espionage, and military drama keeps things moving fast, and the stakes feel higher than ever. It’s got that great balance of action and intrigue that makes you want to keep turning the pages. A solid follow-up that sets the stage nicely for what’s to come.
The mix of historical grit, espionage, and military drama keeps things moving fast, and the stakes feel higher than ever. It’s got that great balance of action and intrigue that makes you want to keep turning the pages. A solid follow-up that sets the stage nicely for what’s to come.
September 30, 2025
This is the second book of the series.
It is full of action from the very beginning and you can tell the Russell has really done his research.
Political elements, historical, family relations. And very detailed descriptions.
I thought that this one delved deep in to the characters depths more than the first one.
It is full of action from the very beginning and you can tell the Russell has really done his research.
Political elements, historical, family relations. And very detailed descriptions.
I thought that this one delved deep in to the characters depths more than the first one.
November 17, 2025
The sequel is just as good as the first, this is another installment of high stakes political scheming, sabotage, betrayal, resistance groups, splinter cells and much much more. We are taken on a journey from the POV of The Empire and their royalty and political party, and the POV of the resistance and all they are trying to achieve. The King Regent is using all his power and experience to achieve what he wants, with only a few trusted people in his inner circle, and even his Privy Council is not trusted by himself.
I love the writing of this, the descriptions of the characters had me imagining their personalities and their appearance. The sense of danger is apparent throughout from both sides, and the fast paced action had me hooked and wanting to turn the next page. I love the chapter layout, with the author telling us where each one is set so we don't have to hold the information in our head along with all the POVs.
There is a lot going on, and a lot to keep track of, but each POV is connected to each other making the story flow and logical to follow, all whole giving us the picture from all sides of the political agenda.
I love the writing of this, the descriptions of the characters had me imagining their personalities and their appearance. The sense of danger is apparent throughout from both sides, and the fast paced action had me hooked and wanting to turn the next page. I love the chapter layout, with the author telling us where each one is set so we don't have to hold the information in our head along with all the POVs.
There is a lot going on, and a lot to keep track of, but each POV is connected to each other making the story flow and logical to follow, all whole giving us the picture from all sides of the political agenda.
November 12, 2025
Brilliant
I’m very impressed with this author’s writing style and his ability to create exciting storylines. So many twists, surprises, mystery, politics, intrigue, then all blended with a constant tension… These elements create a true page turner. But what shines through his books is hope, even in darkest moments. Five huge stars! Highly recommended!
I’m very impressed with this author’s writing style and his ability to create exciting storylines. So many twists, surprises, mystery, politics, intrigue, then all blended with a constant tension… These elements create a true page turner. But what shines through his books is hope, even in darkest moments. Five huge stars! Highly recommended!
September 23, 2025
💙 Blurb-
Britannia Strikes is the next thrilling novel in The Britannia Series, continuing the events of the award-winning series debut, Britannia Rises.
With King Alfred concentrating on Outpost, the British Empire is following a new, more sinister path. King Regent Leopold is pushing through his dream of expansion as he seeks to crush the rebellions rising in opposition. His plans, formed in the shadows, will have a devastating effect on his enemies and confirm The Empire as the only, true world superpower.
The Dayak are enjoying support and growth, following their victory in the Battle of Serpent Valley. With Nepal on the cusp of independence from the iron grip of The Empire, they must consolidate their position. But the British never give up so easily and the East India Company should never be underestimated. Letitia Pearl, Bob Royce, and the monks, must all spot the dangers lurking just across the border. And maybe closer to home, too...
Jamie Bayston is recovering from the loss of his family the only way he can - by throwing himself into his work. As Ed MacLoughlin and Trevor Layttle train him, and try to find answers, it looks increasingly likely that they will need to head back into the jaws of the lion to find them.
This is Russell Dumper's third novel and the second in The Britannia Series. The first book, Britannia Rises, won awards for Debut Author, Thriller Novel and Historical Novel. He still lives in East England, with his wife and two sons. He is currently working on the rest of this highly acclaimed and exciting series.
💚 Review -
Britannia Strikes is book two in the Britannia series. This was such a brilliant read. It was so action packed and full of adventure, that sometimes I forgot that I was reading. It's obvious that the author has done their research as the attention to detail was spot on. I loved the story and there was a great mix of characters. Historical and thriller fans will love it. I look forward to reading more by the author.
💝 Thank you to the author, Russell Dumper for my proof copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
Britannia Strikes is the next thrilling novel in The Britannia Series, continuing the events of the award-winning series debut, Britannia Rises.
With King Alfred concentrating on Outpost, the British Empire is following a new, more sinister path. King Regent Leopold is pushing through his dream of expansion as he seeks to crush the rebellions rising in opposition. His plans, formed in the shadows, will have a devastating effect on his enemies and confirm The Empire as the only, true world superpower.
The Dayak are enjoying support and growth, following their victory in the Battle of Serpent Valley. With Nepal on the cusp of independence from the iron grip of The Empire, they must consolidate their position. But the British never give up so easily and the East India Company should never be underestimated. Letitia Pearl, Bob Royce, and the monks, must all spot the dangers lurking just across the border. And maybe closer to home, too...
Jamie Bayston is recovering from the loss of his family the only way he can - by throwing himself into his work. As Ed MacLoughlin and Trevor Layttle train him, and try to find answers, it looks increasingly likely that they will need to head back into the jaws of the lion to find them.
This is Russell Dumper's third novel and the second in The Britannia Series. The first book, Britannia Rises, won awards for Debut Author, Thriller Novel and Historical Novel. He still lives in East England, with his wife and two sons. He is currently working on the rest of this highly acclaimed and exciting series.
💚 Review -
Britannia Strikes is book two in the Britannia series. This was such a brilliant read. It was so action packed and full of adventure, that sometimes I forgot that I was reading. It's obvious that the author has done their research as the attention to detail was spot on. I loved the story and there was a great mix of characters. Historical and thriller fans will love it. I look forward to reading more by the author.
💝 Thank you to the author, Russell Dumper for my proof copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
October 6, 2025
I devoured this book in four hours. It picks up right where Britannia Rises left off, and it was so easy to get back into the stories of each individual character. I felt like I’d read the first book a day ago!
It’s intriguing, fast-paced and full of twists and turns. If you like a story with political intrigue, shifting loyalties and plenty of tension, this is one to add to your TBR. I’m definitely curious to see where Russell Dumper takes the series next and I already can’t wait for book three!
It’s intriguing, fast-paced and full of twists and turns. If you like a story with political intrigue, shifting loyalties and plenty of tension, this is one to add to your TBR. I’m definitely curious to see where Russell Dumper takes the series next and I already can’t wait for book three!
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews