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Flavius Vitulasius #1
Divided Empire
Britain, 391 AD.
The geographical, political and social outlines of the annexed nation are being constantly redefined, as the battling powers in Rome attempt to seize control of the Empire.
Flavius Vitulasius and his trusted associate, Siward, are journeying to receive a highly confidential mission, across the narrow sea, from the Master of Offices in Gaul.
On their path, they stumble upon a seeming damsel in distress, her carriage under attack from bandits. Using all their prowess and experience, Flavius and Siward rescue the damsel from certain death. Nevertheless, the beautiful young lady, Corellia Velva, is not as she seems.
When Corellia slips away the following night, Flavius thinks nothing of it. He has orders passed down from the Emperor himself to attend to. A document, the ‘Pagan Concord’, threatens to pull apart Britain at the seams, creating the lurking fear of civil war between the Christians and Pagans.
If Flavius and Siward can recover the ‘Pagan Concord’, they will be able to unmask the conspirators behind the unrest. With the help of an ardent Christian, Lucius Aurelius, the trio commence their enquiries in a clearly divided Britain.
However, their expedition takes an unexpected turn when they visit the town of their first suspect. Once again, they come across Corellia. She fervently denies any knowledge of Flavius and Siward, suggesting that it is a case of mistaken identity, prompting suspicion from Flavius.
The disquiet among Pagans soon becomes clear, as ritualistic sacrifices and mysterious disappearances soon become the norm, while Flavius attempts to track down the ‘Pagan Concord’ and save the country of his origin. It is not long before he has some unwelcome attention, as murderous villains stalk his every move.
Can Flavius locate the document in time?
Is there more to Corellia than meets the eye?
Can he escape the clutches of his murderous pursuers, and uncover a conspiracy that goes right to the top?
Divided Empire is a compelling piece of historical fiction. The first in a series, there is an unexpected twist around every action-packed corner.
Endeavour Press is the UK's leading independent digital publisher. For more information on our titles please sign up to our newsletter at www.endeavourpress.com. Each week you will receive updates on free and discounted ebooks. Follow us on Twitter: @EndeavourPress and on Facebook via http://on.fb.me/1HweQV7. We are always interested in hearing from our readers. Endeavour Press believes that the future is now.
The geographical, political and social outlines of the annexed nation are being constantly redefined, as the battling powers in Rome attempt to seize control of the Empire.
Flavius Vitulasius and his trusted associate, Siward, are journeying to receive a highly confidential mission, across the narrow sea, from the Master of Offices in Gaul.
On their path, they stumble upon a seeming damsel in distress, her carriage under attack from bandits. Using all their prowess and experience, Flavius and Siward rescue the damsel from certain death. Nevertheless, the beautiful young lady, Corellia Velva, is not as she seems.
When Corellia slips away the following night, Flavius thinks nothing of it. He has orders passed down from the Emperor himself to attend to. A document, the ‘Pagan Concord’, threatens to pull apart Britain at the seams, creating the lurking fear of civil war between the Christians and Pagans.
If Flavius and Siward can recover the ‘Pagan Concord’, they will be able to unmask the conspirators behind the unrest. With the help of an ardent Christian, Lucius Aurelius, the trio commence their enquiries in a clearly divided Britain.
However, their expedition takes an unexpected turn when they visit the town of their first suspect. Once again, they come across Corellia. She fervently denies any knowledge of Flavius and Siward, suggesting that it is a case of mistaken identity, prompting suspicion from Flavius.
The disquiet among Pagans soon becomes clear, as ritualistic sacrifices and mysterious disappearances soon become the norm, while Flavius attempts to track down the ‘Pagan Concord’ and save the country of his origin. It is not long before he has some unwelcome attention, as murderous villains stalk his every move.
Can Flavius locate the document in time?
Is there more to Corellia than meets the eye?
Can he escape the clutches of his murderous pursuers, and uncover a conspiracy that goes right to the top?
Divided Empire is a compelling piece of historical fiction. The first in a series, there is an unexpected twist around every action-packed corner.
Endeavour Press is the UK's leading independent digital publisher. For more information on our titles please sign up to our newsletter at www.endeavourpress.com. Each week you will receive updates on free and discounted ebooks. Follow us on Twitter: @EndeavourPress and on Facebook via http://on.fb.me/1HweQV7. We are always interested in hearing from our readers. Endeavour Press believes that the future is now.
270 pages, ebook
Published November 26, 2015
55 people are currently reading
81 people want to read
About the author
Brian Kitchen
5 books90 followersI was born in Scotland, but have lived in Burton upon Trent, England for almost all of my life. I am married to Lynne and have a son, Mark. My father’s family originally came from Cornwall where they were Tin Miners, but moved to North Leicestershire in the 1840s to mine coal. My mother was Scottish and met my dad during the second world war.
I’ve always had a passion for writing and started to write my first novel when I was 17 years old, but never got around to finishing it. Later in life, whilst working full time, I started writing again in my spare time.
I’d always been interested in the Romans and the late fourth century period of their rule in Britain and how it affected the native tribes. Living in the West Midlands the British tribe that originally lived in the area was the Cornovii who may also have had links with Cornwall.
My first Sci-Fi novel which I started to write all those years ago, 'The Sol 3 Agenda' was finally published in 2020. My first published novel however was ‘Divided Empire’, a historical thriller set in late 4th Century CE Roman Britain and was published in 2015 and was the first book in a trilogy. The second book of the trilogy, 'Dark Betrayal' was published in 2016.
The final book in the Divided Empire trilogy, 'The Wolves of Erin' was published in 2025
I’ve always had a passion for writing and started to write my first novel when I was 17 years old, but never got around to finishing it. Later in life, whilst working full time, I started writing again in my spare time.
I’d always been interested in the Romans and the late fourth century period of their rule in Britain and how it affected the native tribes. Living in the West Midlands the British tribe that originally lived in the area was the Cornovii who may also have had links with Cornwall.
My first Sci-Fi novel which I started to write all those years ago, 'The Sol 3 Agenda' was finally published in 2020. My first published novel however was ‘Divided Empire’, a historical thriller set in late 4th Century CE Roman Britain and was published in 2015 and was the first book in a trilogy. The second book of the trilogy, 'Dark Betrayal' was published in 2016.
The final book in the Divided Empire trilogy, 'The Wolves of Erin' was published in 2025
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
July 21, 2016
RomEXIT :
Having initially heard about 'Divided Empire' and it's author Brian Kitchen, on Radio Derby. I decided to give this book a read. I am very much interested in Roman history so I thought reading this book might just give me a different perspective to the norm.
From page one, the story hit the ground running and it did not let up till the final paragraph. The author has obviously spent a great deal of his time and effort to get the smallest of details correct.
The names of characters and the places visited throughout the book bring a good accuracy and realness to the events that occur.
The overall story is well written with characters that draw you into a plot which effortlessly keeps the pages turning. There is also an interesting parallel in the story with modern Britain and some inhabitants desire to want to leave the European Union.
There is no doubt that this will not be the last we hear of the main protagonists in this story. I look forward to reading the further exploits of Flavius Vitulasius and Siward's adventures in Roman Britain and the Roman Empire beyond.
@KhalSir - Derventio
Having initially heard about 'Divided Empire' and it's author Brian Kitchen, on Radio Derby. I decided to give this book a read. I am very much interested in Roman history so I thought reading this book might just give me a different perspective to the norm.
From page one, the story hit the ground running and it did not let up till the final paragraph. The author has obviously spent a great deal of his time and effort to get the smallest of details correct.
The names of characters and the places visited throughout the book bring a good accuracy and realness to the events that occur.
The overall story is well written with characters that draw you into a plot which effortlessly keeps the pages turning. There is also an interesting parallel in the story with modern Britain and some inhabitants desire to want to leave the European Union.
There is no doubt that this will not be the last we hear of the main protagonists in this story. I look forward to reading the further exploits of Flavius Vitulasius and Siward's adventures in Roman Britain and the Roman Empire beyond.
@KhalSir - Derventio
March 31, 2024
The Roman stuff is interesting, but..
...what a shame he is such a terrible writer!
The storytelling is okay, but he writes so badly, not just the spelling, grammar and punctuation errors (though they slow the narrative considerably) but he has no understanding of the rhythms and flow of language, making it a dull read. I think he would do well to work with a ghost writer, as his stories have potential, but I doubt very much if he could improve his writing skills enough to do them justice.
...what a shame he is such a terrible writer!
The storytelling is okay, but he writes so badly, not just the spelling, grammar and punctuation errors (though they slow the narrative considerably) but he has no understanding of the rhythms and flow of language, making it a dull read. I think he would do well to work with a ghost writer, as his stories have potential, but I doubt very much if he could improve his writing skills enough to do them justice.
March 3, 2017
This is a great novel. The story is gripping, full of action and suspense. The characters are diverse and well developed. Brian Kitchen has done a wonderful job of weaving this great tale seamlessly into a historical backdrop. It is obvious that he did a lot of research before writing this story. Even though this is fiction, I feel as though I have had a glimpse into life in Roman-era Britain.
January 22, 2016
Superb. Believable characters that actually were not superman. Travelling by civilian methods e.g. boat to market towns, an industrial area,a temple all in search of a group of criminals. Loved it as it was not, or profess to be a 'military epic!
September 3, 2017
Divided Empire is a fast-paced and action-packed story, set in the 4th century, at a time when the Roman Empire in the West was in serious decline. The author has obviously researched the period extensively and his detailed descriptions draw us into the sights, sounds and smells of the towns and countryside, as well as the religions and politics of the time.
The characters are well-drawn and believable, from the high-ranking Roman officials, some with questionable motives, to groups of bloodthirsty thugs, tempestuous travelling players and women who know how to wield a weapon or two, as well as the ability to hide a few secrets.
Following an exciting opening set in Gaul, Flavius Vitulasius, and his right-hand man, Siward, become secret agents and are sent on a mission to Roman Britain. Joined by fellow agent, the devout Christian, Lucius Aurelius, their task is to find a missing document in order to prevent a pagan uprising – and possible civil war between pagans and Christians.
Events continue at a rapid and exciting pace, with danger, intrigue and suspense present at every turn. Tense scenes of danger and bloodshed are broken by welcome touches of humour and even a little romance.
Divided Empire is a well-rounded and completely enjoyable read. The author has succeeded in bringing the period to life and, for anyone unfamiliar with the many Roman place-names used, he has included a list of their modern-day equivalent at the back of the book.
I look forward to catching up with Flavius and his friends in Book 2 of the series, Dark Betrayal.
The characters are well-drawn and believable, from the high-ranking Roman officials, some with questionable motives, to groups of bloodthirsty thugs, tempestuous travelling players and women who know how to wield a weapon or two, as well as the ability to hide a few secrets.
Following an exciting opening set in Gaul, Flavius Vitulasius, and his right-hand man, Siward, become secret agents and are sent on a mission to Roman Britain. Joined by fellow agent, the devout Christian, Lucius Aurelius, their task is to find a missing document in order to prevent a pagan uprising – and possible civil war between pagans and Christians.
Events continue at a rapid and exciting pace, with danger, intrigue and suspense present at every turn. Tense scenes of danger and bloodshed are broken by welcome touches of humour and even a little romance.
Divided Empire is a well-rounded and completely enjoyable read. The author has succeeded in bringing the period to life and, for anyone unfamiliar with the many Roman place-names used, he has included a list of their modern-day equivalent at the back of the book.
I look forward to catching up with Flavius and his friends in Book 2 of the series, Dark Betrayal.
March 18, 2023
Britain, 391 AD. While the powers-that-be in Rome vie for control of the empire, Flavius Vitulasius and his pal, Siward, are engaged on a confidential mission – an important document, the ‘Pagan Concord’, could rip Britain apart leading to civil war between the Christians and Pagans. Teaming up with an enthusiastic Christian, the pair soon realise their lives in danger…
This is the first book I’ve read by this author and is the first in the Divided Empire series. As with most historical novels set in this period, many of the names and places are unusual. I found some of these difficult to remember, which sometimes meant having to re-read certain passages. The author provides a handy glossary of town and river names, but this would have been more useful if located at the beginning of the book (I didn’t realise it was there until l reached the end). Anyway, the story is an appealing one, if at times a tad unconvincing (though this doesn’t mean it isn’t realistic). The author’s level of historical detail is admirable and really helps to visualise what’s happening. The characters are a disparate lot, reflecting the sorts of individuals who would naturally clash over such niceties as who’s in charge and who’s got the biggest sword. There’s also a nice line in humour which lightens things up a bit, though some of the dialogue seemed a little too modern and didn’t quite fit with the setting.
All in all, an interesting read that will appeal to lovers of historical fiction.
This is the first book I’ve read by this author and is the first in the Divided Empire series. As with most historical novels set in this period, many of the names and places are unusual. I found some of these difficult to remember, which sometimes meant having to re-read certain passages. The author provides a handy glossary of town and river names, but this would have been more useful if located at the beginning of the book (I didn’t realise it was there until l reached the end). Anyway, the story is an appealing one, if at times a tad unconvincing (though this doesn’t mean it isn’t realistic). The author’s level of historical detail is admirable and really helps to visualise what’s happening. The characters are a disparate lot, reflecting the sorts of individuals who would naturally clash over such niceties as who’s in charge and who’s got the biggest sword. There’s also a nice line in humour which lightens things up a bit, though some of the dialogue seemed a little too modern and didn’t quite fit with the setting.
All in all, an interesting read that will appeal to lovers of historical fiction.
August 17, 2017
Mr Kitchen takes us way back into time, to the later days of the Roman Empire; a time of political and religious division, barbarian invasions and civil wars. Flavius Vitulasius is a young secret agent hunting for an important document in his native Britain, which, if published, could lead to an uprising of the many pagans in the country. His adventures are both thrilling and hilarious, and there isn’t a dull moment in this story – a wonderfully lively spy thriller that makes ancient Rome come alive like very few historical novels I’ve read!
The historical atmosphere is very well researched and genuine, the characters are wonderful, the plot is intricate – this book will enthuse even readers who usually don’t care for historical fiction, because it depicts a story set almost 2,000 years ago like one that might just as well be taking place in modern days. And readers who are interested in history anyway will be absolutely thrilled by this trip to ancient Rome!
The historical atmosphere is very well researched and genuine, the characters are wonderful, the plot is intricate – this book will enthuse even readers who usually don’t care for historical fiction, because it depicts a story set almost 2,000 years ago like one that might just as well be taking place in modern days. And readers who are interested in history anyway will be absolutely thrilled by this trip to ancient Rome!
October 14, 2018
Highly entertaining cut and thrust -- plenty of that in this book -- tale set in late Roman Britain with a great cast of characters with the precocious Flavius leading the way. Nice mix of intrigue, great insight or imaginative use of knowledge into the politics of the time, and comedy turns too...especially an hilarious farcical scene when our hero tries to help behind the scenes at the theatrical troupe's show...Brian Rixesque or Margaret Rutherford...even if Flavius is obviously a man! Thoroughly recommend this and looking very much forward to reading the next in the series..having shamefully taken a long time to get round to this one. This is a Kitchen of haute cuisine but not pretentiously so...my only gripe lies not with the author but with whoever edited it but it is a minor quibble and certainly did not prevent me from giving this a deserved five stars.
June 21, 2024
"Divided Empire" by Brian Kitchen is a gripping historical fiction set in 391 AD Britain, a time of political and social upheaval. The story follows Flavius Vitulasius and his associate Siward on a secret mission from the Master of Offices in Gaul. Along the way, they rescue a woman named Corellia Velva from bandits, only for her to mysteriously disappear and reappear later under suspicious circumstances. Tasked with recovering a critical document, the 'Pagan Concord', to prevent civil war between Christians and Pagans, Flavius and Siward, aided by Lucius Aurelius, navigate a divided and dangerous Britain. The novel is filled with unexpected twists, ritualistic sacrifices, and relentless pursuit by villains, making for a thrilling read as Flavius uncovers a deep conspiracy.
July 19, 2017
An incredible action packed adventure!
As much as I'm a fan of historical fiction, I love superbly written novels with engaging characters and lots of action. Brian Kitchen delivers on all fronts with Divided Empire in this epic adventure set in 4th century Roman Britain. The author's keen eye for detail, character development and dialogue combined with a steady flow of action scenes makes this a fantastic read and one that I couldn't put down, but at the same time didn't want to end.
I can't wait to get started on the next installment in the Divided Empire series, Dark Betrayal. Thank you Mr. Kitchen for this spectacular 5 Star adventure!
As much as I'm a fan of historical fiction, I love superbly written novels with engaging characters and lots of action. Brian Kitchen delivers on all fronts with Divided Empire in this epic adventure set in 4th century Roman Britain. The author's keen eye for detail, character development and dialogue combined with a steady flow of action scenes makes this a fantastic read and one that I couldn't put down, but at the same time didn't want to end.
I can't wait to get started on the next installment in the Divided Empire series, Dark Betrayal. Thank you Mr. Kitchen for this spectacular 5 Star adventure!
August 22, 2020
Divided Empire had a great balance throughout. Names like Caidrud, Regina and Veldicca all added authenticity to the story, I have only a little knowledge of the Roman's in Britain and this book gave me a good feel of the life and times. Including some good conflicts that were well written and described. I knew some of the towns and cities by their Roman names and was left trying to guess the lesser known ones. At the end of the book was a key stating what the place names are in modern times. I felt if this was at the front of the book I could have referred to it and felt the geography better. Only a small point to what was a really enjoyable read and I fully recommend it.
February 5, 2017
A scintillating story of adventure in the late 4th century as agents of the Emperor try to piece together a plot to bring back Pagan worship to Britannia and to retrieve a document that identifies the leaders. Plenty of twists and surprises as Flavius and friends find there is more to it than meets the eye and people aren't always who or what they seem. Action galore awaits as the team travels in pursuit of a mysterious woman and a gang of vicious cut throats who also want that document, at any price. Well written characters and a nice descriptive narrative have me convinced to read book two. 3.8 stars
March 4, 2018
It has taken me a long time to read this book, having bought it in February, and it is perhaps this that has affected my view of it. It's not bad - and I certainly like the concept and the author's portrait of Britain in the final throes of the Roman Empire. However, I wasn't convinced by some of the dialogue and, given this is so important in driving a plot forwards, I didn't feel as invested in the main protagonists as I should have done. Asked to put a finger on why the dialogue didn't grab me, I would probably say that it felt anachronistic, a little too contemporary for my liking.
November 6, 2018
Excellent. An action-packed, fast-paced, complex yet not overwhelming murder-history-mystery set in England in the late Roman period. Flavius is a compelling, often charming protagonist, and the rest of the characters are interesting and well-rounded. The author takes us on a fabulous journey around Roman Britain. Not being familiar with this period, I learned a great deal. I particularly enjoyed the acting troop and everything to do with the native tribes. Well-researched and well-written. Highly enjoyable.
April 10, 2018
Read this a while ago now. Found it to be well researched, the author using his knowledge to build a good and believeable view on late Roman Britain.
I enjoyed the plot, it moved at a satisfying pace and didn’t lull or pause, the prose was solid.
One small gripe is I found the characters to be inconsistent at times, some of the dialogue a bit off, but it didn’t spoil the story.
Would definitely recommend
Adam Lofthouse - Author of The Centurion’s Son
I enjoyed the plot, it moved at a satisfying pace and didn’t lull or pause, the prose was solid.
One small gripe is I found the characters to be inconsistent at times, some of the dialogue a bit off, but it didn’t spoil the story.
Would definitely recommend
Adam Lofthouse - Author of The Centurion’s Son
September 21, 2024
391 A.D. Flavius Vitulasius with his associate Siward, a Frisian, are sent on a mission to Britain. Can they retrieve a certain document and therefore prevent a war between the Pagans and Christians.
An entertaining and well-written historical mystery with its likeable characters. A good start to this new series.
An entertaining and well-written historical mystery with its likeable characters. A good start to this new series.
March 22, 2021
An interesting and well researched historical fiction novel of Britain during Roman rule. The detail of the era was excellent. The book was fast-paced with plenty of action, twists and deception. Kitchen has captured the time period. Look forward to reading the sequel.
February 8, 2026
barely readable
This book is just badly written. The Kindle version is strewn with errors. The characters are almost all shallow and superficial. But above all the constant references to buxom wenches and pert bottoms made me cringe.
This book is just badly written. The Kindle version is strewn with errors. The characters are almost all shallow and superficial. But above all the constant references to buxom wenches and pert bottoms made me cringe.
October 7, 2017
Undivided
Not a bad tale but far fetched in places but hey it's a decent yarn although some phrases set not Roman like ginormous axe
Not a bad tale but far fetched in places but hey it's a decent yarn although some phrases set not Roman like ginormous axe
February 9, 2019
Voice didn't work for me.
April 1, 2024
A rattling good yarn!
Good plot and well- drawn characters.
It would have been useful to have the geographic info at the beginning.
Looking forward to the sequel
Good plot and well- drawn characters.
It would have been useful to have the geographic info at the beginning.
Looking forward to the sequel
sff-ok-bx
July 13, 2025Bx,Rokp
March 5, 2017
Divided Empire is a romp written in a classic style. The reader is thrown into a search for a missing document with murders, lies, mistaken identities and a host of other adventures. Brian Kitchen brings to life an historical period. A long gone world composed of ancient structures and places of fallen glories. An era where the hero treads a path between the politics of rule, religion and shifting power. With a breakneck pace, Mr. Kitchen, unfolds a story of action set in Roman Briton of people attempting to survive in those turbulent times.
June 13, 2016
A remarkable novel set in Roman England 391 AD. The Roman Empire has been divided into a western wing and eastern wing. Kitchen sweeps the reader into the whirlpool of intrigue, betrayal, vendetta, illicit sex and fabulous displays of wealth, which characterised Roman Empire. Evidently Roman England was equally embroiled in conspiracies as Rome itself. Despite Christianity having arrived to England, paganism abounded and Kitchen skilfully explores this facet drawing the reader into the double standards and depravity of the times. The novel subtly popses a very interesting question - should a Christian nation impose its morals and values on its pagan citizens a dilemma facing us to this day. It is obvious from the beginning that the strength of one’s allegiances meant everything and ones very life depended on it. Despite favouring a clipped militaristic style befitting the novel as it is told in the POV of the centurion Flavius Vitulasius the novel flows smoothly and makes pleasant reading. Though the Roman Empire had stabilised it was threatened with revolts. Kitchen adeptly captures the brilliance, gore and competence that marked one of the most awesome and enduring empires known to mankind. Meticulously researched Kitchens eye for minutiae and his gift for coaxing the past to life makes this one heck of a read. He impresses on the reader that these are harsh and fickle times and survival depends on swift and ruthlessly efficient reprisals to any revolts. Kitchens characters are well aware pf the dangerous times they live in and are spurred to protect the freedom they cherish. Kitchen impressively exploits these very circumstances and the result is an historical thriller full of twists and surprises liberally interspersed with humour and tinged with romance keeping the reader guessing until the very end. The depth of the plot and the well-developed characters are a credit to Kitchens genius particularly as this is his first attempt. Those readers who are not familiar with Roman England might well be surprised with this novel. The novel can be read as a stand-alone though the epilogue suggests that there is a sequel, welcome news for the reader who will undoubtedly want more. This author will definitely be on my fav list and I shall be eagerly waiting for the next installment.
April 17, 2016
Already having a keen interest in Roman history, I delved into this book with great gusto and Divided Empire certainly succeeded in bringing this period of history to life. With the sights and sounds of busy towns described so impeccably, I escaped to Roman Britain and walked in the footsteps of my ancestors thanks to Brian Kitchen.
Through the twists and turns of Flavius' mission we encounter a Roman Britain as vivid as if the author had experienced it himself. Divided Empire was wonderfully researched and could quite easily have referred to modern town names for the readers' ease but, in keeping with the period, all towns were referred to by their Roman name. I could remember some Roman names for our towns and cities from my Latin lessons, but I had great fun looking up those that I couldn't remember. As his passion for Roman history shines out of every page, I could quite easily imagine Brian Kitchen thinking in Latin first; perhaps taking a trip to Eboracum rather than York.
I certainly found it very easy to get into the story as the mystery of Corellia is a brilliant hook. Who is she and why is she leaving a trail of bodies in her wake? Then there is the tension between the Christians and the Pagans and secret messages being passed back and forth, giving Flavius lots to contend with as he tries to uncover the truth about Corellia. It was, however, complicated at times when a lot of characters were introduced, so I sometimes found myself flicking back over the pages to remind myself who was who.
With such colourful characters, anybody who reads Divided Empire will never again say that history is boring! Full of backstabbing and debauchery, Divided Empire is such a fast-paced and highly entertaining read.
I received this e-book from the publisher, Endeavour Press, in exchange for an honest review as part of the Virtual Historical Festival.
Through the twists and turns of Flavius' mission we encounter a Roman Britain as vivid as if the author had experienced it himself. Divided Empire was wonderfully researched and could quite easily have referred to modern town names for the readers' ease but, in keeping with the period, all towns were referred to by their Roman name. I could remember some Roman names for our towns and cities from my Latin lessons, but I had great fun looking up those that I couldn't remember. As his passion for Roman history shines out of every page, I could quite easily imagine Brian Kitchen thinking in Latin first; perhaps taking a trip to Eboracum rather than York.
I certainly found it very easy to get into the story as the mystery of Corellia is a brilliant hook. Who is she and why is she leaving a trail of bodies in her wake? Then there is the tension between the Christians and the Pagans and secret messages being passed back and forth, giving Flavius lots to contend with as he tries to uncover the truth about Corellia. It was, however, complicated at times when a lot of characters were introduced, so I sometimes found myself flicking back over the pages to remind myself who was who.
With such colourful characters, anybody who reads Divided Empire will never again say that history is boring! Full of backstabbing and debauchery, Divided Empire is such a fast-paced and highly entertaining read.
I received this e-book from the publisher, Endeavour Press, in exchange for an honest review as part of the Virtual Historical Festival.
November 11, 2016
The Golden Age of Imperial Rome is coming to an end, and Flavius Vitulasius has his orders — he is to return to Britain and find a document known only as the ‘Pagan Concord.’ If this document were to fall into the wrong hands, it would undoubtedly cause, not just unrest, but civil war between the Roman Christians and the native Pagans of this cold and damp little island.
What, on the face of it, appears to be a simple assignment, turns into a complicated nightmare, and Flavius must keep his wits if he is to escape with his life.
What a refreshing and compelling read. With likeable characters and an engaging plot, Divided Empire, is a wonderfully refreshing take on the last days of Roman Britain.
Kitchen's attention to detail is staggering. He has created a world that is not only fresh but as accurate as it possibly could be in the telling. It is obvious Kitchen has spent a great deal of time researching this fascinating period.
This book kept me guessing throughout. I was intrigued by the character of Corellia. She is a mysterious and intriguing woman, who has an interesting past and a somewhat precarious lifestyle! Flavius certainly met his match when he stumbled upon her!
Full of intrigue and suspense, Divided Empire is a sit-down and finish book. I look forward to reading more books by this author.
What, on the face of it, appears to be a simple assignment, turns into a complicated nightmare, and Flavius must keep his wits if he is to escape with his life.
What a refreshing and compelling read. With likeable characters and an engaging plot, Divided Empire, is a wonderfully refreshing take on the last days of Roman Britain.
Kitchen's attention to detail is staggering. He has created a world that is not only fresh but as accurate as it possibly could be in the telling. It is obvious Kitchen has spent a great deal of time researching this fascinating period.
This book kept me guessing throughout. I was intrigued by the character of Corellia. She is a mysterious and intriguing woman, who has an interesting past and a somewhat precarious lifestyle! Flavius certainly met his match when he stumbled upon her!
Full of intrigue and suspense, Divided Empire is a sit-down and finish book. I look forward to reading more books by this author.
December 15, 2023
Divided Empire unfolds as a captivating narrative of murder and chaos intricately interwoven into the rich tapestry of 4th-century Roman Britain.
The plot is riveting, brimming with action and suspense that keeps you on the edge of your seat. The cast of characters is wonderfully diverse. Their clashes over leadership and the size of their weaponry add an intriguing layer to the story.
Moreover, Brian Kitchen has masterfully blended this enthralling tale seamlessly into the historical backdrop. His evident dedication to research shines through, offering readers a compelling glimpse into life in Roman-era Britain.
While this is a work of fiction, it provides an immersive experience that transports you to another time.
'Divided Empire' is an immensely enjoyable read that combines historical depth with thrilling storytelling.
March 25, 2016
An excellent novel in which the author brings to life the world of ancient Britain towards the end of the Roman period. It is full of good description of the times and embellished with plenty of action. The plot and the characters are strong and I particularly liked the main character Flavius and two of the female characters the sisters, Corellia and Veldicca. In all a very good read and recommended.
May 13, 2016
Divided Empire is a tale of murder and mayhem woven into the tapestry of 4th century Roman Britain. Vivid descriptions offer the reader clear images of the era, and the historical accuracy confirms Kitchen’s knowledge and expertise – both as a historian and an author. With unforgettable characters and a plot that continually twists and turns, Divided Empire is a must read for those that love historical fiction.
April 1, 2017
Divided Empire is a remarkable tale. I found myself immersed within the eclectic landscape of 4th century Roman Britain. This novel will keep you guessing until the final page. There were endless twists and turns, epic battle scenes and finely crafted dialog. I was simply not ready for this book to end. I'm looking forward to its sequel, Dark Betrayal. How will Flavius Vitulasius' legacy play out? I'm ready to discover what's in store for this captivating warrior!
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