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Roman Time Travel #2

After the Fall

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After the Fall ratchets up the tension as time traveler Gigi Perrin and her husband, the Roman warrior Quintus Magnus, join forces with the Visigoth King Alaric to march on Rome. There waits Princess Galla Placidia, the admirable sister of the despicable Emperor Honorius. About to be forced into an arranged marriage by her brother, Placidia fears a bleak future, trapped in a loveless union.
In an attempt to save Rome from barbarian invasion, Placidia puts aside her troubles and meets with Alaric’s delegation, which includes Gigi and Magnus, and the king’s second-in-command, the Visigoth prince, Athaulf. The attraction between Placidia and Athaulf is instantaneous and overwhelming, but theirs is a forbidden love, destined to fail because of implacable politics and impending war.
Bound by a friendship that transcends time, Gigi and Placidia must do whatever they can to protect the men they love, after the fall of Rome.

"Sensuality Level" Sensual

After the Fall is the second book in this Roman Time Travel series. Books one and three are Love, Eternally and Return to Me.

192 pages, Kindle Edition

First published October 1, 2012

39 people are currently reading
1300 people want to read

About the author

Morgan O'Neill

13 books102 followers
A chance meeting at a writers' conference brought Cary Morgan and Deborah O'Neill Cordes together, two award-winning and Amazon #1 best-selling authors who connected because of a mutual love of time travel fiction. Collaboration ensued, the search for a pen name the first step in their working relationship. Their maiden names provided the solution - and Morgan O'Neill was born.

Cary and Deborah's backgrounds are uniquely suited to writing stories steeped in atmosphere and history: Deborah has a master's degree in history and is a dedicated genealogist; Cary is a talented linguist in French and is currently a student of Latin. They've traveled to Europe's ancient and medieval sites many times, with Cary living on the Continent for five years.

The Morgan O'Neill time travel novels have received a number of literary awards, including two finalist wins in the Booksellers' Best Awards, two semifinalist wins in the William Faulkner-William Wisdom Creative Writing Competition, first, second, and third place wins for the Mainstream Novel with Strong Romantic Elements category of the Golden Rose Contest, a top ten finalist award in the Pacific Northwest Writers' Conference Zola Awards Literary Contest, and a top ten finalist win in the Orange Rose Contest. In 2014, the Oshawa Public Libraries, Ontario, Canada included their entire Roman trilogy (Love, Eternally, After the Fall, and Return to Me) in their list of the Top 100 Romance Novels of All Time.

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5 stars
133 (47%)
4 stars
73 (26%)
3 stars
56 (20%)
2 stars
12 (4%)
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5 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
Profile Image for Erin Richards.
Author 27 books134 followers
October 3, 2012
Kudos to a fantastic sequel! I eagerly awaited this second installment in the Roman Time Travel Series after the fabulous LOVE, ETERNALLY. Sophomore books in a series sometimes disappoint, but not in this series. AFTER THE FALL was definitely worth the wait. Once again, I was immediately drawn into this lush, adventurous, dangerous, and romantic world during the fall of Rome, which the impeccable writing team of Morgan O’Neill began in LOVE, ETERNALLY.

Throughout the savage intensity of war between the Romans and the Visigoths, betrayals, loss and separation, and political machinations, the authors weave in the enduring romance between Gigi and Magnus. Not only does the love affair with Gigi and Magnus continue, but I was also excited to read about the building love between evil Honorius’s sister Placidia and Athaulf brother of the Visigoth leader. Belonging to two warring factions, the unlikely pair faced tumultuous circumstances that kept them apart, but also happily brought them together.

Like LOVE, ETERNALLY, the writing is gorgeous, lush and impeccable. The historical aspects are excellently researched and woven in. Fans of Diana Gabaldon’s Outlander series will love Morgan O’Neill’s Roman Time Travel series. Even though it will be sad to let go of Gigi and Magnus, I can’t wait to read how the trilogy ends. Run, don’t walk to get your copy of both LOVE, ETERNALLY and AFTER THE FALL. Fall in love with Rome like I did.
Profile Image for Elizabeth Meyette.
Author 15 books235 followers
September 23, 2012
After the Fall
A Page-turner!
Hold on to your togas because once again the incredible research behind After the Fall treats the reader to a thrilling adventure through ancient Rome. Because I enjoyed Love, Eternally so much, I was afraid that I would be disappointed in the sequel, but no need to fear—it is just as good. Magnus and Gigi have joined with the Visigoths who are perched to invade Rome. Emperor Honorius continues his vile and debauched customs, and his sister, Placidia flees the palace to avoid a loveless marriage. She meets Athaulf, the brother of the Visigoth’s leader, King Alaric, and the two fall in love despite the circumstances that separate them. Once again, Morgan O’Neill has painted a vivid picture of destruction, courage, revenge and passion that transcends war. Although published as a paranormal because of time travel, I highly recommend After the Fall to fans of historical romance, too.
Profile Image for Peggy Bird.
Author 40 books105 followers
December 26, 2012
"After the Fall" continues the story of 21st century Gigi Perrin and her not-so-modern Roman lover Magnus. Through the magic of a ring, Gigi has been transported back to ancient Rome where she has met and married Magnus. Rome, ruled by the corrupt Emperor Honorius, is under attack by the Visigoths, who have taken in Magnus and Gigi after they escape Rome under threat of death from the emperor.

In "After the Fall" a second set of lovers is introduced, Placida, the sister of the emperor, and Athaulf, second-in-command of the Visigoths. The four lovers try to find a way to spare Rome the sacking that a Visigoth victory will bring and give the Visigoths what they are entitled to but machinations on both sides interfere. The war, the interference of a wicked woman in the Visigoth's camp, the determination of Honorius to wreak havoc on those he hates all provide tension and a satisfying number of plot twists to the story. The final plot twist--the surprising ending--certainly makes the reader eager to find out how it all turns out in the final book of the series.

The authors have done some amazing research--and writing--to bring the ancient world to life. For a history buff like me, feeling as if I'm there, in Rome, in the Visigoth encampment, is the fun of reading these stories. I'm looking forward to number 3!
Profile Image for Stephanie Freeman.
33 reviews1 follower
October 1, 2012
In this highly anticipated second installment to the Love, Eternally Roman Time Traveler Series, Morgan O’Neill continues to captivate the imagination. Each chapter unfolds like a rich tapestry filled with the subtle nuances and intrigues that can only come from this masterful writing team. Where Love, Eternally had a mystical, lyrical quality to it, After the Fall possesses a savage beauty that draws the reader in at page one.
We discover that much has changed in the lives of our heroes Magnus and his beloved Gigi Perrin. A rumor of war thunders in the distance and our heroes must again face old adversaries with long memories and newer, more insidious tools to exact their revenge. During the darkest of times a new and unlikely alliance blooms. Betrayal and redemption go hand in hand. By the end, we are reminded that love in all its marvelous phases is a gift much like hope…. fragile yet hard to kill.
After the Fall is a fantastic read. Riveting, beautifully written and well worth the wait! I was honored to read the uncorrected galley of this gifted writing team’s work. I look forward to reading the third installment of this series not as a fellow author, but as a devoted fan.

Stephanie Freeman


Profile Image for Pam B Morris.
Author 2 books12 followers
October 15, 2012
Concept… a modern woman flautist is transported magically back to 408 A.D. Rome. What is not to love about this story idea? And Morgan O’Neill, with fine writing, captivating characters and adventurous plot twists has continued the wondrous love story between Magnus and Gigi Perrin which began in Love, Eternally. After The Fall begins with the siege of Rome by the Visigoths. The journey we take alongside this cast of personalities we fell for in the first book, winds through magnificent settings, personal sacrifices and battles between right and wrong during a war no one can win without terrible loss and cruel destruction. A brutal political murder begins the ‘edge of your seat’ intensity. My emotions engaged immediately. I am there, in Rome, fighting alongside Magnus and Gigi, Placidia and Athaulf in an impossible, personal and political fight for survival. The historical background is brilliantly researched and written in an elegant and engrossing style. I loved this story, the emotional ups and downs, the madness, the sense of futility leading up to a surprising turn that tipped me towards, yes, a third book! And I’m jazzed, because I don’t want this captivating, dramatic story to end. Ever.

(Review written without payment from a pre-release copy of After The Fall)
Profile Image for Urszula.
324 reviews12 followers
March 30, 2013
I won this book through the goodreads.com giveaways, and I am very glad that I did. The fact that I have not read the first book in this series, did not diminish my enjoyment of this book at all.

I loved the concept of time travel. But since I have not read the first book I was not sure how Gigi found herself back in time. It would have been better if that was explained at the beginning of this story.

I found the descriptions of the ancient Rome and country very interesting. The brutal way of living was very accurate of that time, and the authors described it very well.

The story had an easy flow to it, but I found that the time frame jumped quite quickly and it left me a bit disorientated.

The ending was very unexpected. The fact that Gigi was away from her time only for one day, was quite interesting. What if she came back not only with a husband but a child as well? How would she explained that?

It was a great, quick read. And I am looking forward to the next book in the Roman Time Travel Series.
Profile Image for Sharon Clare.
Author 9 books62 followers
November 27, 2012
Morgan O'Neill does it again! After the Fall is another novel, as rich in character, description, intrigue and deceit as the first book in this Roman Series, Love, Eternally. Once again, I was set firmly in ancient Rome with Magnus and Gigi, characters whose fate I didn’t want left to the imagination after book one. Readers might wonder how Gigi’s life could be as exciting as it was in Love, Eternally, but After the Fall does not disappoint. A woman trapped in the past, Gigi continues to be a strong heroine who faces constant conflict as Rome is attacked and she must fight for those she loves all the way to the surprise ending. We also revisit Placidia who must defy her brother, the evil and powerful emperor Honorius, to save her soul and follow her heart. If you haven’t read Love, Eternally and After the Fall, hurry up! I’ve heard the story continues in Return to Me. And I can’t wait!
Profile Image for Tara.
Author 36 books120 followers
October 14, 2012
I protest. I protest that I finished this book too soon. I protest that it sucked me in, sucked my heart dry, and spit me out on the rocks, deliriously happy and sad at the same time.

Beyond the movie, Bill and Ted's Excellent Adventure, I haven't really delved into time travel stories. That's all changed thanks to Morgan O'Neill. I'm a fan.

I really appreciated the historical accuracy and at the same time loved that a modern woman - a flutist for god's sake! - held her own alongside her battle-seasoned hero against their thoroughly loathsome nemesis. There were heart-thumping moments, especially at the end, and rich rewards. I enjoyed this story immensely and look forward to the last of the trilogy. It can't come soon enough.

Profile Image for Rowena May O'Sullivan.
Author 9 books42 followers
March 9, 2013
After The Fall is book 2 in this wonderful Roman Time Travel Series by Morgan O'Neill and continues on a few months after we left Gigi Perrin and Quintus Magnus in Love Eternally.

Now firmly entrenched in the Visigoth camp Gigi and Magnus head to Rome to depose the roman emperor, tyrant emperor, Honorius. This is a fantastic series. The history is well researched, and a new romance is introduced between the gentle, kind and strong Galla Placidia and the Visigoth Prince Athaulf.

I've learned so much from reading Morgan O'Neill's work, and the end solution in the lead-up to book 3 was the only conclusion. A truly satisfying end. Looking forward very much to reading book 3, Return To Me to see what happens next.
Profile Image for Micah Persell.
Author 19 books160 followers
January 2, 2013
This book got better and better the more I read until I was breathlessly rushing to reach the end. I couldn’t believe how action-packed the middle to end of this installment was! The villains are SO evil! I was burning with anger as their cruelty continuously topped itself. And I love, love, love it when the heroine is the rescuer on a gallant steed instead of the damsel in distress. I cannot wait to find out what is next for Gigi and Magnus. Picking up the final installment of the Roman Time Travel Trilogy right now!

Profile Image for Becky Lower.
Author 43 books195 followers
September 17, 2012
Ancient Rome lives on.

After The Fall continues the story of 21st century flutist, Gigi Perrin and her savior and lover from ancient Rome, Magnus. The pair flee from debauched leader of Rome, Honorius, and take up with the Visigoths, whom I envision as bearded, blue-eyed hunks. They are never far from the wrath of Honorius, though, and spells and potions abound to keep them in mortal danger. This book is riveting, and the excitement doesn't let up. Can't wait for the final book in the trilogy.
Profile Image for Diane Jewkes.
Author 4 books14 followers
April 19, 2013
After the Fall is a thoroughly enjoyable follow-up to Love Eternally. The story follows the historical understanding of the period, but is anything but dry or academic. Morgan O'Neill deliver their history with sensual sights, tastes and smells. Their characters are full of life and emotion. I look forward to reading the conclusion of the trilogy with Return to Me.
Profile Image for Leslie G..
39 reviews3 followers
October 7, 2012
I highly recommend Morgan O'Neill's Roman time travel series. Gigi and Magnus have a timeless love, and the new romance between Placidia and Athaulf evolves beautifully. I read that the authors are writing their third novel. Can't. Wait. For. It. Hurry!
7 reviews
December 5, 2012
Another Great Read!


Morgan O'Neill have done it again. I could not put this book down until the last exciting page. If you love time travel and Roman history that comes to life, this book is for you. Can't wait for more thrilling stories.
Profile Image for Patti M..
33 reviews4 followers
May 17, 2013
I don't know how to complete this review without spoiling anything, so I'd just go ahead and say

I love it! I think it's amazing!

Especially that part with the boat and broken English. For anyone who understands. :))
Profile Image for Danielle .
1,138 reviews60 followers
Read
February 27, 2016
Since I haven't switched back to east coast time, I stayed up very late reading this sequel to Love Eternally. I'm about halfway through, and it's just as readable as the first book.
Profile Image for Alyssa.
234 reviews31 followers
October 10, 2012
Gigi and Magnus return in this second installment, and while readers have become well acquainted with their love story, the authors also introduce the romance of secondary characters Placidia and Athaulf. Although Placidia and Athaulf's romance was, quite simply, insta-love, I found I didn't mind so much. I could have done without reading so many scenes dedicated to their love story, though.

I didn't enjoy this book as much as the first. I think this was largely due to events that didn't seem to matter all that much, such as Gigi and Magnus' lengthy separation. Plus, there wasn't all that much "I am a strong twenty-first century woman" in this book, at least not until Gigi briefly confronts Honorius later on.

However, I was rather pleased with the ending. Although I do believe there is a third installment due out, the ending of this book would have been a nice overall ending for Gigi and Magnus. Admittedly, however, there are many things left unresolved. By this, I mainly mean Honorius, who remains the despicable pervert and psychopath readers came to hate in the first book.

I suppose a quick death would be too kind to Honorius, who deserves so, so much more for all the rage I accumulated reading about him.

Like the first installment, After the Fall is well-researched. Another enjoyable feature is that the sex scenes are not excessive, and instead the story is focused on actual story-telling rather than smut. So, props to the authors for that.

Fans of time-travel romances should definitely give this series a chance. Especially since most time-travel romances are focused on the Scottish highlands. To me, togas are far more exciting than kilts, but to each their own.
Profile Image for Lillie Roberts.
Author 11 books29 followers
March 4, 2015
After the Fall picks up Gigi Perrin's life from Love, Eternally. With her husband, Magnus, at her side, they love and live with the barbarian Visigoths. King Alaric and his queen, Verica, are first burned out and then rebound to take the ancient city of Rome. But, trouble gathers on the horizon for our star-crossed lovers and all they hold dear.

After the Fall is the second book of the Roman Time Travel series and another wonderful addition to the storyline and genre. Writing duo, Morgan O'Neill brings history to life whipping it together with fiction. Not one to miss for historical lovers and time travel enthusiasts. I'm looking forward to the third book, Return to Me.

Five out of five fairy kisses for this reader.
Profile Image for Brenna Chase.
34 reviews1 follower
August 15, 2015
In this second book of the series, Gigi Perrin and Quintus Magnus find themselves aiding the Visigothic King, Alaric and his people, who only want what was promised to them by the Emperor. But betrayal sends them marching on Rome, where the Emperor’s sister, Galla Placidia, must treat with them. The attraction between Placidia and Alaric’s second, Athaulf, is instantaneous and seemingly doomed after Rome is sacked. And Gigi and Magnus must overcome loss and betrayal of their own. Another absolutely riveting read!
Profile Image for Morgan O'Neill.
Author 13 books102 followers
April 5, 2023
Welcome, friends! We hope you enjoy our Roman time travel series. To those of you who have embraced us, our sincere gratitude. We have put our hearts and souls into these novels, and it is wonderful to know we have touched your lives. Thank you!
7 reviews
March 12, 2013
Morgan O'Neill have done it again. I could not put this book down until the last exciting page. If you love time travel and Roman history that comes to life, this book is for you. Can't wait for more thrilling stories.
Profile Image for T.
1,025 reviews8 followers
September 27, 2021
In what shouldn’t surprise me, the issues I have with the first book have translated over to this book. So this one also gets 3 stars (but just barely).

At this point, I’m so far in, I might as well finish out the series and read the 3rd and final installment. Let’s see if my issues and questions remain unanswered.

PS - The cover slays me. They out here telling me a woman who time traveled to Ancient Rome would have perfectly manicured nails? Complete with little sparklies to bedazzle them?
Profile Image for SuzyHD.
1,210 reviews3 followers
February 6, 2019
Outstanding 5+*

After book one introduced you to the main characters with such a overwhelming desire to learn more, this second book does not let you down. You'll find yourself totally involved in the character development and this time travel adventure the more you read. Highly recommend.
Profile Image for Susanna Chin.
465 reviews12 followers
May 17, 2019
Despite being based on historical facts, the story was too far fetched to be taken seriously. Unfortunately not as enthralling as other books from these talented authors.
Profile Image for Rebecca.
79 reviews36 followers
May 18, 2020
I liked this better than the first one, but these two authors are utterly enjoyable regardless of preference in the minute details. The side love story was my favourite bit, and way more believable than the main couple in my opinion. But I have to admit that the main couple's bond felt more authentic than it did in the first book considering they’ve been together for years in universe throughout book 2. Also I always get really excited when I learn certain things were actually true, which is always featured in a pleasurable section at the back of every one of their books. Athaulf and Placidia were so sweet and the fact that I actually happened... its details like that which make history so rich and wonderful for me.

As always I will be finishing the trilogy.
Profile Image for Shei Love.
159 reviews34 followers
November 7, 2014
Lo voy a poner de esta manera: I officially had my dose of 3-person-POV-narration.
This was an ok reading, a good ending to the first instalment. The thing is, a third book? really? Was it necessary? If I'm going to read it, it's not going to be right away.
Profile Image for Tiffany.
454 reviews7 followers
July 20, 2016
I wouldnt say I really finish this book since I skipped most chapters due too so many conflics going on. However, I am quite content with the happy ending and a little bit sad that Athaulf is dead and Placida has to stay in the past.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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