Last Prophecy of Rome

Myles Munro #2

by Iain King

An ancient empire. A terrifying threat to the World’s Superpower. Only one man can stop it.

ROME: Maverick military historian Myles Munro is on holiday with girlfriend and journalist Helen Bridle. He’s convinced a bomb is about to be detonated at the American Embassy.

NEW YORK: A delivery van hurtling through Wall Street, blows up, showering the sky with a chilling message: America is about to be brought down like the Roman Empire.

Juma, an African warlord, set free by the Arab Spring, plans to make it happen.

When a US Senator is taken hostage, a chilling chain of events begins, and Myles finds himself caught in a race against time to stop Juma. But, he’s not prepared for the shocking truth that the woman he once loved, Juma’s wife, Placidia, has now become a terrorist.

Genres: Thriller, Adventure

344 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 28, 2016

About the author

Iain King has just become one of the top twenty best-selling thriller authors on Amazon.com.

Iain has worked in ten conflicts and warzones, including Iraq, South Sudan, and throughout the Balkans. In Afghanistan, where he came under fire several times, he served alongside both the battalion commanders who became UK's most senior casualties, and was deployed to more frontline bases in the notorious Helmand Province than any other civilian. In 2013, he became one of the youngest people to be made a Commander of the British Empire (CBE).

It was while based in Benghazi, coordinating international civilian support during part of the 2011 Libyan war, that Iain met some of the refugees who feature so prominently in his new thriller, 'Last Prophecy of Rome'. The book begins with terrorists threatening to inflict on America the fate of ancient Rome. Could Western civilisation be destroyed by barbarians a second time...? Read 'Last Prophecy of Rome' to find out - an edge-of-your-seat thriller with some unexpected warnings from history. The book has just been published, and is already receiving excellent reviews.

Since its release in July 2015, 'Secrets of the Last Nazi' has topped kindle charts in both the US and the UK. The story traces an extraordinary pursuit across Europe, as Cold War rivals hunt the secrets of former SS Captain Werner Stolz. The debut novel has won effusive reviews both as a compulsive page-turner and for the amazing secret at the heart of the tale. Readers have called it 'gripping', 'spell-binding', and 'suspenseful', and several have said it was the best book they had read for years. Bloggers have called it 'unputdownable', 'fantastic', and 'mesmerising'. A well-known American reviewer described it as 'One of the most original and carefully thought out stories that have yet to appear in print,' while a Guardian columnist claims it will 'turn everybody's ideas upside down and back to front.'

Iain has also written two non-fiction books:

'How to Make Good Decisions and Be Right All the Time' is an easy-to-understand introduction to moral philosophy, which also presents a radical new theory on ethics. Used in philosophy courses, it avoids jargon and explains complicated ideas in simple language. The book invites readers to consider some practical dilemmas and long-standing problems in moral philosophy, and offers innovative solutions.

'Peace at Any Price' chronicles the international intervention in Kosovo, explaining what worked well, what didn't and why. The Economist praised it as 'refreshing, serious and well-considered... excellent,' while the Journal of Southern Europe described it as 'one of the most perceptive accounts ever written on the practical difficulties associated with peace building in the aftermath of ethnic conflict.'

Iain also edited and wrote the opening chapter of 'Making Peace in War'. This compilation of stories from civilians who served in Helmand's frontline is both moving and compelling. It tells of absurd but very human events during the war, and offers a unique and fascinating perspective on recent events in Afghanistan.

Reviews

[Maureen · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a scary scenario! Why? Because it's SO relevant given the conflict and terrorism around the world.


Pirate warlord Juma, and his half American wife Placidia are intent on bringing about the fall of America, in much the same way as the fall of the Roman Empire. They see many similarities between these two great powers. There are many theories as to what actually did cause the fall of Rome, from the plague, to the fact that they added lead to their food, which actually caused madness. Juma and Placidia are determined to test these theories on the American people, hoping to make them suffer the same fate.


This was a seriously high octane ride throughout. I did have my suspicions about who the mastermind was behind this plot pretty early on, and I was proven right. Were it not for this fact, I would have rated it 5 stars not 4. It was an exciting read though, and it had a touch of the 'Indiana Jones' about it for me.

* Thank you Netgalley and Bookouture for my free copy*

[Frances · Rating 3 out of 5]

Myles Munro a professor of History has researched over the years what occurred during the Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire. This sets the stage for Munro to be caught up in a plot by a terrorist called Juma, a pirate and psychopath, who vows he will bring down American and have it crumble the same as the Roman Empire. Myles races against the clock traveling through Iraq, Turkey and eventually to Rome to try and stop this madman. Several of the chapters had plenty of action and suspense keeping the reader guessing how, and who was really at the top controlling the events taking place around the world.

*Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for my free copy.*

[Elaine - Splashes Into Books · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is one of those books where I seriously suggest you just go get yourself a copy instead of reading my review – the book is an amazing, up to date, enthralling read that had me riveted from start to finish.

Myles Munro is a brilliant character, a highly intelligent misfit, expert analyst of military history and something of a maverick. He’s absolutely awesomely different! The knowledge and expertise of the author shines through in this superbly written, highly topical, action packed thriller. I’m putting down the modern day port in Rome to artistic licence….It is a roller coaster, highly emotive and fast paced thriller. Journeying through the historic demise of the Roman Empire to ascertain threats to modern day America with migrants, terrorists, threats to the economy, kidnapping, murder, biological threats, this story has them all – and lots more besides!

I hadn’t read anything by this author before but he’s now one I’ll certainly be looking for in future. The story has a well crafted, intricate and believable plot with so many unexpected twists and turns it will keep you (figuratively) on the edge of your seat. Even the final episodes have surprises in store for the reader! I’m going to get a copy of the earlier novel in this series and will certainly be looking out for any future works by this highly talented author. If you enjoy suspense, mysteries and thrillers this is a not to be missed novel, one I can’t recommend highly enough, totally stupendously, suspense filled and brilliant thrilling read. To give you an indication of how highly I rated this ARC, my first move after finishing it was to go purchase the previous book in this series.

Thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley, too, for letting me read an ARC of this book in exchange for this, an honest review.

[Renita D'Silva · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely adored Iain King’s debut and was waiting to get my hands on this prequel to The Secrets of The Last Nazi and wow! It is even better than the first! With nail-biting suspense, thrilling plot twists, this amazing book is incredibly well researched and extremely topical, bringing to the fore the plight of refugees and the fragile state of the Middle East and Africa. This book raises questions and delivers warning, while at the same time being incredibly entertaining and keeping you turning the pages. I loved getting to know Myles Munro even more in this book, and admire the way the author skilfully works the plot so we don't quite know who's in the right and who's in the wrong. All the characters are so real and believable and I was reading each page with a real sense of terror and tension. An amazing read from an incredibly talented author. I cannot wait for his next offering.

[Shell Baker · Rating 5 out of 5]

OMG I can not begin to tell you how fantastic The Last Prophecy Of Rome is. This is actually my first book that I have read by Iain King and definitely won't be my last. This is the pre sequel to Secrets of the Last Nazi, so in my opinion it doesn't matter which way round you read Iain's books. having not read Iain's first publication of the Myles Munro action thriller series. First of all I have to say what a brilliant vibrant cover this book has it really suits the story.

This book kept me highly entertained for two evenings it is so action packed you will not believe it. Myles Munro is on holiday in rome with girlfriend and journalist Helen Bridle. He’s convinced a bomb is about to be detonated at the American Embassy. Then the action starts with a delivery van hurtling through Wall Street in New york when BOOM, showering the sky with a chilling message that America is about to be brought down like the Roman Empire. And Juma an African warlord who is set free by the Arab Spring, plans to make it happen. A US Senator is then taken hostage, Myles finds himself caught in a race against time to stop Juma. Sounds a lot going on but for me this is what made the story. The chapters are titled with the citie and found this very easy to follow with it jumping back and forth to the different cities. Iain's writing skills are magnificent. I actually felt like I was right there with Myles on his adventure.

This book starts off with a bang and had me totally gripped. Myles goes through one hell of a rollercoaster journey where I found myself on the edge of the seat willing him along. The story just got better and better. I loved the hint of romance that was added to the story what a lovely couple Helen and Myles are. And without giving anything away I have to say what an ending I was totally blown away and found myself on the edge of my seat hyperventilating. This book is most definitely going to stay with me for a very long time and would love to see it has a movie! I can not wait to read more of Myles action packed adventures.

If you're looking for a gripping, action packed, page turner with lots of twists and turns this is the book for you. It will have you guessing until the very end which I highly recommend giving it a well deserved 5 stars.

Thank you Bookouture and Netgalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review

[Kath · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed Mr King's début novel - Secrets of the Last Nazi - so I do admit to getting a little excited when I heard about this new offering. I was also a little bit scared as I am for all sequels. Will they live up to the enjoyment that the last book gave me? Will they disappoint? Well, I am very happy to report that this one is equal to, if not better than the first!
When reading/reviewing the first book I mentioned that the writing was action packed and punchy. This has continued to be the case here too. It really does go along at a bit of a lick and the reader is dragged along with the cast literally all over the world. The main theme contained within the book is pretty pertinent and quite controversial but Mr King has tackled it very sensitively indeed, giving me as a reader quite a bit to think about.
The history contained within is explained very well for the layman and my interest was so piqued by the Fall of Rome that, had my TBR not been so long, I would have liked to have read more about the subject and I am not really a big fan of history. So hats off to Mr King for making a historical book palatable to me. Again, within my limited historical knowledge what I read makes sense and appears to be very well researched.
Another thing I do like about this author is his characterisation. He writes very well described characters that have their own distinct, individual personalities which are congruent to their contribution / purpose in the book. Apart from the obvious, it is often hard to work out who's the enemy and the real motivations behind their actions as the book weaves its way through twist, turn and dead end before finally revealing something I didn't see coming.
And Myles, dear Myles, he really deserves a special mention for what Mr King puts him through. Often the reluctant hero but always ready to fight for what he believes in and that's rather special.

So, now I have to wait for the next book. Hurry up please Mr King.

I received a free ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.

[Sean · Rating 5 out of 5]

Iain King has done it again. The Last Prophecy of Rome was amazingly insightful dealing with history and current day events.

Myles and Helen are still together and still there are outside forces trying to separate them. This book fuels the fear and war on terrorism but this time could the threat be internal as well as external.

The book had many great characters including the villains.

Juma a Somali pirate and terrorist had a vital role to play in this book. his vicious nature coupled by his brilliant wife Placidia was a deadly duo.

Myles must put his own perils on the back burner as he tries to save Western Civilization from the decline that the Roman Empire went through.

throughly enjoyable book. Can't wait to see what will happen next to Myles and Helen

[Marina · Rating 5 out of 5]

* Copy provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. *

"Whoever wishes to foresee the future must consult the past; for human events ever resemble those of preceding times. This arises from the fact that they are produced by men who ever have been, and ever shall be, animated by the same passions, and thus they necessarily have the same results."
Machiavelli

Facing with the modern day terrorism and so many refugees waiting at the border of my country, it was easy for me to connect with this book and the story in it. The plot is heartbreaking and I feel sorry for all those people who lost their homes and are seeking for better future. I feel mad and angry at all those smugglers who want to earn money out of people's misery and all those who put them in that misery at the first place. I hate all those people like Juma, who under the wing of „helping“ uses other people for his own satisfaction, and the others who use people like Juma to cause fear and death just for financial benefit.

For Myles and Helen, it all starts as a romantic vacation in Rome. Soon it turns out into a nightmare.

Juma is a Somali pirate who decides to go little further. Together with his half-American wife, Placidia, they decide to bring down America. Yes, America, USA, one of the most powerful countries in the world, and the main culprit for the misery in the third world, according to them. Placidia is a history expert, and she knows that many things can be learned from the past. Her plan is to bring down America just like the Roman Empire. And their plan works, almost. The thing is, no one really knows why Roman Empire didn't survive. There are many theories, but no one is really sure. There Myles Munro enters the story. He is a history professor, one of the best for Ancient Rome, and someone who personally knows Placidia. And the real story begins...

I was completely hooked from the very first page. It is a real net of events, like the spider's one, closing and closing until SNAP, it catches you! It literally leaves you with the jaw dropped! Fully packed with adrenaline, the story takes you on a journey all over the world, America, Rome, Africa, you name it. All the characters are well developed, the good ones and the bad ones, even if it is hard to decipher who the real bad guys are.

I still can't figure out why Myles Munro is called „a misfit“. He is smart and not that clumsy. I mean, he is not Indiana Jones, but not Adrian Monk either. I really love him as a character and love his faith in people. He is good at judging people's characters and can not be fooled easily. I haven't read the previous book from this author where Myles appears for the first time (my mistake) but I am sure that he is good as well. He is already on my list of favorite book characters.

If you are in the search of a fast-pacing action thriller with history lessons, look no further. This is the read for you. Totally recommended!

My opinion: 5 / 5.

[Brian's Book Blog · Rating 5 out of 5]

Only one man knows how to stop a terrorist plot

Military historian Myles Munro is caught up in a tornado of activity as people from his past come back to haunt him and ask for his help. A US Senator is taken hostage and the United States is threatened with terrorist attacks that will take the country back to the stone age. Or should I say the time of the fall of Rome.

The narration for Last Prophecy of Rome is done by Tim Bentinck and he absolutely crushes it. He's a British narrator (or at least he narrates in a British accent) which just adds another level to this already interesting story. Bentinck's smooth voice made listening to this book easy and enjoyable.

This story had a lot going on in it, but I never felt overwhelmed. King has a way of writing intricate and interesting plots that are both deep and fun to follow. The entire time I was reading this I felt like I was with Munro as he tried to stop plot after plot.

As a history nerd also, the tie-in's to ancient Rome were really different. I thought that King did a great job tying ancient history into modern times. This allowed for a lot of fast-paced action and deep thinking to interweave throughout the story.

Overall, I felt riveted to my seat the entire novel. I loved the Munro character and I'm excited that there is at least one more story in this series with his character in it. I haven't looked yet, but if there is an audiobook I really hope that Bentinck does that one too. He was the perfect voice for Munro.

See more reviews like this from Brian's Book Blog

[Sarahkmartinuk · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley in return for a review. Here is the blurb:

ROME: Maverick military historian Myles Munro is on holiday with girlfriend and journalist Helen Bridle. He’s convinced a bomb is about to be detonated at the American Embassy.

NEW YORK: A delivery van hurtling through Wall Street, blows up, showering the sky with a chilling message: America is about to be brought down like the Roman Empire.

Juma, an African warlord, set free by the Arab Spring, plans to make it happen.

When a US Senator is taken hostage, a chilling chain of events begins, and Myles finds himself caught in a race against time to stop Juma. But, he’s not prepared for the shocking truth that the woman he once loved, Juma’s wife, Placidia, has now become a terrorist.

I read this book having greatly enjoyed Iain King's last book 'Secrets of the Last Nazi.' Having read the blurb I was a little unsure I would enjoy this book as much as it didn't grab me in the same way. However, within the first few chapters I knew I was going to enjoy this book just as much. The book follows Myles and his girlfriend Helen as in the previous book as they get embroiled in a supposed terrorist threat against America and it's links to the downfall of Rome. Did I guess the ending? Yes I suppose I did but this did not spoil the story at all. I am looking forward to more stories involving Myles in the future and will be keeping an eye out for any books written by Iain King in the future.

[Alfred Nobile · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the 2nd book I've read by Mr King. Won't be the last. This book was the usual serving of thrills The writing was of a good quality and the short chapters made for an effortless read. Ian takes you through various locations, keeping the narrative and the action pulling the reader along and wanting more. I can recommend this book and author. If you like your thrillers with the accent on Thrill then this author and book is for you!

[David Boyle · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the second of Iain King's thrillers I have read and he does seem to have a sure, not to say impressive touch. I was completely hooked on this book within the first few pages and found myself reading oblivious. The plot is ingenious and contemporary, but weaving in some fascinating ideas about the reasons for the decline and fall of Rome. That's the reason I thoroughly enjoyed this book - it is one of those rare things: a compelling thriller that also makes you think.

[Rhonda Lomazow · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the second Ian King thriller no read this one like the first kept me racing through the pages.A twisty turning multi layered compelling read,Already looking forward to his next book.

[Donna Maguire · Rating 5 out of 5]

https://donnasbookblog.wordpress.com/...

Having read Iain King’s first novel featuring Myles Munro, Secrets of the Last Nazi, I was delighted to be able to get my hands on a copy of his new book, Last Prophecy of Rome which comes out today! I loved the first novel and gave it 5 stars, I loved this one even more and feel that the main character, Myles really develops.

With a tag line like this to drag you in- “An ancient empire. A terrifying threat to the World’s Superpower. Only one man can stop it” – the book does have a lot to live up too and King really does not disappoint.

The blurb –

ROME: Maverick military historian Myles Munro is on holiday with girlfriend and journalist Helen Bridle. He’s convinced a bomb is about to be detonated at the American Embassy.

NEW YORK: A delivery van hurtling through Wall Street, blows up, showering the sky with a chilling message: America is about to be brought down like the Roman Empire.

Juma, an African warlord, set free by the Arab Spring, plans to make it happen.

When a US Senator is taken hostage, a chilling chain of events begins, and Myles finds himself caught in a race against time to stop Juma. But, he’s not prepared for the shocking truth that the woman he once loved, Juma’s wife, Placidia, has now become a terrorist.

This book is a cracking thriller and such a page turner, I read it in just over a day and loved every page. The words flowed and I lost time reading, and did the classic, just one more page, one more chapter until before I knew it I was 75% through and might as well finish it now being so close to the end and needing to know what happened – I lost track of time and felt at times like I was living the story with them.

I really enjoyed the books written by Dan Brown when they first came out and for me, Myles is a better main character and Iain King’s books are better in my opinion, and I have read quite a few books over the last few years to get a comparison! (Check out my Goodreads stats)

Overall this book for me was a brilliant read and looking forward to more books featuring Myles and Helen. Thank you to the publishers Bookouture for letting me get my hands on a review copy!

[Vicky-Leigh Sayer · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5. stars - I really enjoyed the first novel in the Myles Monro installment 'Secrets of the last Nazi' and have been looking forward to the second installment for a while now.

Last Prophecy of Rome is a prequel to the previous novel and sees Myles drawn into helping the US fight a terrorism plot from an individual intent on destroying the country if the US doesn't agree to review its immigration policy.

As before Myles is a reluctant hero, drawn into the situation almost entirely by accident. This time due to the US senator specifically asking for him by name. It transpires that an individual that Myles studied with is intrinsically involved with the plot and will only co-operate with the US if Myles is involved.

When Myles first meets the US senator he is ready to refuse the invitation to help him out, but he isn't given the chance, and before he knows what is happening they are heading towards the middle of the danger and Myles is confronted with someone he never thought he'd see again.

The US is under threat by terrorists intent on using the fall of Rome as a template and Myles with his historical knowledge must figure out exactly which element of this are using before the US faces imminent danger.

Last Prophecy of Rome is a very relevant novel and makes you think about terrorism from a different point of view.

Recommended.

[Keri Phillips]

This newest installment by Iain King in the Myles Munro series is better than the first! From a bomb threat on the streets of New York to ancient Roman cities in the deserts of Iraq, this book keeps you turning the page for more. You are pulled into a terror plot to bring down America in the same fashion of the Roman Empire. How did that happen? Many theories abound, but only one answer resides in the mind of a terrorist. It is a non-stop action filled novel with great plot twists. I highly recommend this book and can't wait to see what is next for Myles.

[Natasha du Plessis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you Bookouture and Netgally for the ARC.

This was the first book by Iain King that I have read. It was very fast paced and I loved the intrigue surrounding the mastermind. I had my suspicions and at the end was proved correct. I loved the writing style of Iain King and the characters in the book, some of them I could visualise quite good. This book also makes real the problems that refugees around the world face. This fast paced action thriller is highly recommended.

[Thomas Sutton · Rating 5 out of 5]

An adventurous, exhilarating, easy read

Having read the Myles Munro series the wrong way round, I will now go back and read the second book. I really enjoyed this book and read it within 3 days of my holiday. Its very fast paced and I love the jump from various countries and characters! Definitely worth a read, thank you

[Neil · Rating 5 out of 5]

A gripping read that has you enthralled from start to finish.

A real page turner that will keep you awake at night trying to finish it.

Brilliant.

[Judy Stephens · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved it!!!

I absolutely loved this book!!! There are not enough words to do it justice! Wonderful plot, captivating characters and beautiful imagery. Very well done!

[robert g gleeson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Keeps you guessing

I really enjoyed this book, it was action packed, suspenseful and believable as well. Please write more like this one!

[Jennifer Robson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gripping



Well worth 5 stars due to feasible plot and twisting storyline, never saw the end coming. Great description of similarities between modern USA an ancient Rome

[John-Michael Lelievre · Rating 4 out of 5]

A prequel to Iain King's "Secrets of the Last Nazi" (Which is up next on my reading list), a fast paced, and timely thriller about African Refugees, the fall of Ancient Rome, and how the United States of America could fall to the same fate.

Our protagonist is Myles Munro, a British Military Historian who is described as a bit of a misfit, though we never really see why he is classified as such, he has a loving relationship with his girlfriend Helen, and he does seem to get along well with just about everybody, even his enemies. He is, however, an engaging character and it was enjoyable to follow along his thought processes trying to figure out the convolutions of the plot against America.

My one other small gripe is that a few patches of dialogue felt a bit contrived and stilted, but it didn't distract from the story being told and for the majority it's a flowing, well-crafted, and well researched story.

If you want a fun engaging page-turner, this one gets a recommendation from me, excited to read the next one!

[James Cambell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mind blowing thriller!

Myles Munro was with his American partner, Helen, were in Rome when he noticed a potential bomb close to the U.S. embassy. It was the false alarm causing embarrassing to himself. Meanwhile, in New York, a terrorist drove a truck laden with bombs headed downtown and Dick Roosevelt, drove the truck away from the city for safe explosion. The son of Senator Sam Roosevelt became the hero.

Placidia was the former classmate of Myles, studying together at Oxford University. She ran the terrorist group with her husband, Juma. She sent the riddle of how the Roman Empire collapsed in 476 AD. Then, she threatened that America would follow Rome's example.

Then, from the middle to the end of the story, everything changed to shocking thriller to solve the riddle. Brilliant written novel!

Caesar XIII

[Roy Gore · Rating 5 out of 5]

Superb

5 stars from me as I can't fault it in anyway! I just wish I could read quicker! This book had everything I like, action, conspiracy, suspense, twists and all the while making you think about how the world could be if this happened! As I've visited Rome where a large chunk of the book is set, allowed me to get a greater understanding of the scene, particularly the end. This helped build the suspense. A really enjoyable action packed read. I would love to see Iain produce novels on the British forces in Afghan and Iraq. Nothing is better for me than a good book with a firefight...take note Iain. Thank you.

[Jessica Codd · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book.

Forget the housework, all I wanted to do was to curl up with this book in my spare time. I bought the second book in this series "The Secrets of the Last Nazi" first when it was offered as a kindle daily deal. First thing I did when I finished it was to order this book. Can't wait for more adventures for Myles and Helen!

[Venky · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars

[Russell Hayes · Rating 5 out of 5]

A gripping thriller

As a huge Dan Brown fan, this book ranks with his twists . Looking forward to reading more thrillers from this author

[Anne Marie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fascinating

Fantastic read from start to finish. Completed gripped from the word go and didn’t predict the ending which in my mind, is the basis for a best conspiracy theory read.

[Peter · Rating 2 out of 5]

Light read, but most unlikely plot with lots of fortunate coincidences.