What do you think?
Rate this book
Rex Electi
Caius Serica, a pilot in the Roman military in the year 1999, is whisked away from his camp in the middle of the night under mysterious circumstances. He soon learns that every aspect of his life so far, including the staged deaths of his parents, has been arranged by the Senate Tribunal in an attempt to mold him into the perfect leader. Now there are only thirty candidates, including Caius, left competing to be the Emperor's heir. Success in a series of Trials will reunite him with his family and make him the most powerful man in the world, but failure will lead to a life of isolation and imprisonment hidden in the eaves of the palace. As Caius enters the trials, it becomes apparent that the tests themselves are not the it is the twenty nine other candidates willing to do whatever it takes to win, including maim or kill their top competitors. Can Caius navigate the pitfalls of imperial politics and cutthroat competition, all while performing well enough to succeed in the trials fair and square?
- GenresFictionHistorical
326 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 9, 2016
24 people are currently reading
156 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
December 28, 2016
Great read. Finding indie books this well written is rare and delightful.
The premise grabbed me and I stayed interested the entire time, finishing the book in only two days. I think the main character, Caius, could have gone through more development (or any development at all, really). The minor characters were well drafted and interesting. The concept and the plot are the strongest aspects--definitely a recommended book!
The premise grabbed me and I stayed interested the entire time, finishing the book in only two days. I think the main character, Caius, could have gone through more development (or any development at all, really). The minor characters were well drafted and interesting. The concept and the plot are the strongest aspects--definitely a recommended book!
March 7, 2023
Младежка турнирна книга, където Избрания (естествено, кой друг...) таен син на императора трябва да се бори с останалите му деца за да стане бъдещия император.
Елементарно написана с елементарен сюжет. Единственото, което ме заинтересува в нея и поради което я подхванах беше, че действието е базирано в Римската империя, която не е паднала през 5ти век, а продължава да съществува и да бъде световна сила в бъдещето.
За съжаление изпълнението е слабо, а и имаме вече хубава книга с подобен сюжет.
Елементарно написана с елементарен сюжет. Единственото, което ме заинтересува в нея и поради което я подхванах беше, че действието е базирано в Римската империя, която не е паднала през 5ти век, а продължава да съществува и да бъде световна сила в бъдещето.
За съжаление изпълнението е слабо, а и имаме вече хубава книга с подобен сюжет.
January 8, 2021
I heard of this book through reddit r/writingprompts, and it's cool to see that this was actually turned into a novel! I enjoyed it and it kept me interested enough to finish. However I was a bit disappointed with the lack of world-building. The hook is that the Roman Empire still exists in the year 1999. In the first few chapters we learn a little built about the Empire, but that completely drops off once the Trials begin. There are also a few plotholes and some typos that take you out of the story. But kudos for publishing a novel!
February 1, 2018
This is a book that I've followed and contributed to since it's early development. It stemmed from a mere narrative prompt post on Reddit, with a user named Luna_LoveWell responding to it, yet it quickly turned into so much more. Instantly getting large amounts of feedback and praise, Kimball continued to develop the story and forged an exciting, yet flawed read.
Taking place in a parallel universe where the Roman Empire never collapsed, we see a Chinese pilot named Caius experience corrupted politics, impossible competitions, and thrilling exchanges when he partakes in trials to be the heir of a modern day Roman Empire. This concept stood out because of it's different take on dystopian literature with it's unique world-building and plot design, but it also leaves room for many holes and errors, which is where this book fell.
The book began with countless grammatical errors, which could be forgiven, but quickly escalated into a shallow and rushed novel. There is very little depth in the characters, as they all literally had the same background due to the requirements of the trials, and there is even less depth in the setting. A modern day Rome is something that can be crafted into something far more intriguing than what Kimball did here, as little history or background is used to structure a futuristic empire. It just doesn't feel like a Roman Empire.
What really hurts this book is the plot holes, in which the theoretical idea is simply impossible. You cannot have secret trials for the next heir of the Empire due to the complete lack of secrecy. There were dozens, possibly hundreds of people present at the trials that could easily alert the world stage in a matter of seconds if they so wanted to, and Kimball made this idea go way too easily. There were too many questions left unanswered, and not in the good way that we're used to from big name authors.
Overall, for a new author, this book is astounding. It features an engaging storyline that kept me on the edge of my seat and a idea that few authors would have the courage to tackle.
Taking place in a parallel universe where the Roman Empire never collapsed, we see a Chinese pilot named Caius experience corrupted politics, impossible competitions, and thrilling exchanges when he partakes in trials to be the heir of a modern day Roman Empire. This concept stood out because of it's different take on dystopian literature with it's unique world-building and plot design, but it also leaves room for many holes and errors, which is where this book fell.
The book began with countless grammatical errors, which could be forgiven, but quickly escalated into a shallow and rushed novel. There is very little depth in the characters, as they all literally had the same background due to the requirements of the trials, and there is even less depth in the setting. A modern day Rome is something that can be crafted into something far more intriguing than what Kimball did here, as little history or background is used to structure a futuristic empire. It just doesn't feel like a Roman Empire.
What really hurts this book is the plot holes, in which the theoretical idea is simply impossible. You cannot have secret trials for the next heir of the Empire due to the complete lack of secrecy. There were dozens, possibly hundreds of people present at the trials that could easily alert the world stage in a matter of seconds if they so wanted to, and Kimball made this idea go way too easily. There were too many questions left unanswered, and not in the good way that we're used to from big name authors.
Overall, for a new author, this book is astounding. It features an engaging storyline that kept me on the edge of my seat and a idea that few authors would have the courage to tackle.
November 23, 2016
Somewhat light reading, without any deep ideas or philosophy, but written competently enough, and the ending surprised me somewhat.
However, I was disappointed by a major plot-hole, on which a big part of premise of the book is based:
However, I was disappointed by a major plot-hole, on which a big part of premise of the book is based:
December 1, 2016
This story reminded me a lot of The Hunger Games, though I appreciated the alternative history take as a fresh change from many of the dystopian novels these days. The worldbuilding was intriguing and efficient, with just enough information to keep me interested but never coming close info dumping.
My only complaint was that the protagonist was somewhat of a Mary Sue, with no real faults or flaws. He didn't really develop or grow as a character throughout the story, other than a few times when he questioned the morality of his actions.
Overall, this was just plain fun to read. The author has a knack for engaging readers and keeping them invested in every word.
My only complaint was that the protagonist was somewhat of a Mary Sue, with no real faults or flaws. He didn't really develop or grow as a character throughout the story, other than a few times when he questioned the morality of his actions.
Overall, this was just plain fun to read. The author has a knack for engaging readers and keeping them invested in every word.
July 18, 2017
It was quite an enjoyable read and a very interesting premise.
The story is compelling and surprisingly personal, with good characterization and a few twists at the end that made the final chapters engrossing.
The world that's been constructed is similarly well represented and the writing mostly stays clear of large and disruptive expositions. Information about the world is delivered as it becomes relevant to the protagonist and the plot, a style that is reminiscent of Steven Erikssons works but thankfully more forgiving here.
The world building is interesting and I would have liked to see more of it. I found the different levels of advancement in technology an intriguing idea for instance.
This is an independent work and as such there are a few rough spots. There are a few spelling errors, a few gender pronouns wrong and the like but nothing that spoiled the immersion overly.
I've been following the author on Reddit for a couple of years now and I remember reading the genesis of this story on r/WritingPrompts. Seeing the journey completed at last is very satisfying and I'm hoping to see more books from her in the future.
The story is compelling and surprisingly personal, with good characterization and a few twists at the end that made the final chapters engrossing.
The world that's been constructed is similarly well represented and the writing mostly stays clear of large and disruptive expositions. Information about the world is delivered as it becomes relevant to the protagonist and the plot, a style that is reminiscent of Steven Erikssons works but thankfully more forgiving here.
The world building is interesting and I would have liked to see more of it. I found the different levels of advancement in technology an intriguing idea for instance.
This is an independent work and as such there are a few rough spots. There are a few spelling errors, a few gender pronouns wrong and the like but nothing that spoiled the immersion overly.
I've been following the author on Reddit for a couple of years now and I remember reading the genesis of this story on r/WritingPrompts. Seeing the journey completed at last is very satisfying and I'm hoping to see more books from her in the future.
February 12, 2017
Great book nice ending
I first thought it would be some form of Hunger Games like book but it stands apart from that.
The concept makes me wonder so much more. Like what would happen if Rome still existed. Think about everything in our history that would be different. I want to learn more about this alternate universe. No "Americas," no World Wars, what happens to the Natives in the New World. All kinds if questions
The story is great and the climax still had me hoping for the main character. Good read, now to find other books by the same author.
I first thought it would be some form of Hunger Games like book but it stands apart from that.
The concept makes me wonder so much more. Like what would happen if Rome still existed. Think about everything in our history that would be different. I want to learn more about this alternate universe. No "Americas," no World Wars, what happens to the Natives in the New World. All kinds if questions
The story is great and the climax still had me hoping for the main character. Good read, now to find other books by the same author.
September 19, 2017
I found this book because of a post of Reddit. Overall, this was fun, enjoyable read about a world that potentially could have happened.
I honestly wouldn't mind more in this series (if there is to be more) and I think the author has potential to dive much deeper into their characters. I wanted to understand motivations, aspirations and to truly have that understanding that comes from some more depth.
The couple of twists at the end of the book all almost happened too quickly to be enjoyed. I was overwhelmed and wanted more time to process.
I honestly wouldn't mind more in this series (if there is to be more) and I think the author has potential to dive much deeper into their characters. I wanted to understand motivations, aspirations and to truly have that understanding that comes from some more depth.
The couple of twists at the end of the book all almost happened too quickly to be enjoyed. I was overwhelmed and wanted more time to process.
February 16, 2018
Well, that was a good read. I enjoyed the plot immensely, as well as the plot-twist (which I expected since I read the reviews before-hand; oh well), and the book was, on the whole, very enjoyable, especially considering the indie/born-on-reddit nature of this book.
While character development might not have been the best, I believe the plot more than made up for this. I guess this book is my cue to read more historical fiction/alternate reality historical fiction.
While character development might not have been the best, I believe the plot more than made up for this. I guess this book is my cue to read more historical fiction/alternate reality historical fiction.
August 26, 2018
Some interesting ideas and the story of how this story came about - from a Reddit writing prompt about the Roman Empire lasting until modern times - is cool. But it's just not a very good book. There are significant logic problems and the writing is amateurish. It's a shame the author didn't do another, thorough rewrite.
June 12, 2022
Surprisingly great book. I tore through it like few others, constantly surprised by the world building and story. It's a breath of fresh air.
It's not a perfect book – there are a number of plot holes and other mistakes an editor should/would have picked up, but it will not stop me recommending it to anyone. Not only that, but it's a great example of why self-publishing is great.
It's not a perfect book – there are a number of plot holes and other mistakes an editor should/would have picked up, but it will not stop me recommending it to anyone. Not only that, but it's a great example of why self-publishing is great.
February 14, 2020
Interesting premise that fails to deliver - the whole idea of Roman society isn’t explored enough. Writing is also very amateur (genders change, way too many adjectives, etc.) Finally, way too derivative of Hunger Games
July 24, 2020
Really amazing and fun book. I love this author’s style I hope they write more books!
January 15, 2022
A decent read but unsatisfying.
This was a decent read but unsatisfying at the end. The ending could have been expanded a bit more over all.
This was a decent read but unsatisfying at the end. The ending could have been expanded a bit more over all.
September 13, 2021
I found this book through a writing prompts subreddit. The last book I stumbled upon this way was really disappointing so I was worried it would be similar in quality. I was pleasantly surprised though.
This book was a fun, quick read. The plot is predictable most of the time, but the individual trials the characters are facing are very entertaining and, most of the time, quite creative.
I loved the segment where they judged Caius and his character. It was cleverly written, developed him pretty well and gave Marcus, his advocate, some time to shine.
While on the topic of characters, it's pretty impressive how a story in which the main character is supposed to be almost perfect from the get-go doesn't get stale. I feel like it's pretty hard to accomplish that without any character flaws.
The rest of the cast was serviceable. They served their function in the story well, but none of them were properly fleshed out.
The ending felt a little bit cliche and I wished the premise of a modern times Roman Empire was explored more, but overall the book was pretty good.
This book was a fun, quick read. The plot is predictable most of the time, but the individual trials the characters are facing are very entertaining and, most of the time, quite creative.
I loved the segment where they judged Caius and his character. It was cleverly written, developed him pretty well and gave Marcus, his advocate, some time to shine.
While on the topic of characters, it's pretty impressive how a story in which the main character is supposed to be almost perfect from the get-go doesn't get stale. I feel like it's pretty hard to accomplish that without any character flaws.
The rest of the cast was serviceable. They served their function in the story well, but none of them were properly fleshed out.
The ending felt a little bit cliche and I wished the premise of a modern times Roman Empire was explored more, but overall the book was pretty good.
November 28, 2016
Interesting Concept, Needs Refining
The basic concept was interesting--what if the Roman Empire never collapsed? The world building was pretty good, though tiny details were thrown in that seemed out of place at times. If it were possible to learn more about the world without slowing the story down, I would want to see that.
There are many parts that just give the story away as being self-published. A lot of pronouns are mixed up, and a couple seem to change gender halfway through the story. There are a few continuity errors in that respect as well. If the reader focuses on names and not pronouns, it won't be too big of an issue but it can take you out of the story.
Overall it was a good read, and kept me interested, but needs a bit more refining.
The basic concept was interesting--what if the Roman Empire never collapsed? The world building was pretty good, though tiny details were thrown in that seemed out of place at times. If it were possible to learn more about the world without slowing the story down, I would want to see that.
There are many parts that just give the story away as being self-published. A lot of pronouns are mixed up, and a couple seem to change gender halfway through the story. There are a few continuity errors in that respect as well. If the reader focuses on names and not pronouns, it won't be too big of an issue but it can take you out of the story.
Overall it was a good read, and kept me interested, but needs a bit more refining.
November 21, 2016
Good hunger games variation
The descriptions and world building done within this novel were very creative. I enjoyed the minor characters and the pure descriptiveness.
However, the main character was a bit too perfect, with a back story that was lacking any real problems. He didn't change at all through the trials, and this story would have benefited with some sort of personal growth.
Overall, I was really impressed with the creation of the world and the plot was good enough for me to finish the novel within a couple of days.
The descriptions and world building done within this novel were very creative. I enjoyed the minor characters and the pure descriptiveness.
However, the main character was a bit too perfect, with a back story that was lacking any real problems. He didn't change at all through the trials, and this story would have benefited with some sort of personal growth.
Overall, I was really impressed with the creation of the world and the plot was good enough for me to finish the novel within a couple of days.
November 28, 2016
The author should study history more or at least peruse more alt-history forums before attempting such a project. The metaphors and similes in this book are laughably bad and remind me of HS students' writings.
Concept is great, but fails because of amateur execution. I still love the author's writing prompt stories, but this has been a huge disappointment added on to the fact that I've waited years for this release.
Concept is great, but fails because of amateur execution. I still love the author's writing prompt stories, but this has been a huge disappointment added on to the fact that I've waited years for this release.
December 29, 2017
My son enjoys reading this author's writing prompts on reddit, and loaned me the book after he read it.
This story started as a writing prompt about if the Roman Empire still existed. The story is about Caius who is taken from the military and has an opportunity to become Emperor, following him along that path.
The story is really about Caius and the testing process to become Emperor. It was enthralling to follow his progress, and all that happened along the way. I highly recommend it.
This story started as a writing prompt about if the Roman Empire still existed. The story is about Caius who is taken from the military and has an opportunity to become Emperor, following him along that path.
The story is really about Caius and the testing process to become Emperor. It was enthralling to follow his progress, and all that happened along the way. I highly recommend it.
December 9, 2016
Engrossing
I really enjoyed Rex Electi. It was engaging and well written. There were occasional editing slip ups, gender changed a couple times in the same paragraph (he/she). I also was surprised where the book ended, but I figure it was setting the stage for the next book. I am really glad I took the chance and picked up this book and would recommend it to others.
I really enjoyed Rex Electi. It was engaging and well written. There were occasional editing slip ups, gender changed a couple times in the same paragraph (he/she). I also was surprised where the book ended, but I figure it was setting the stage for the next book. I am really glad I took the chance and picked up this book and would recommend it to others.
November 27, 2016
Surprisingly good!
For an authors book that started as a response to a word prompt I am thoroughly impressed and was happy to spend the money on such a good book. Couldn't put it down.
For an authors book that started as a response to a word prompt I am thoroughly impressed and was happy to spend the money on such a good book. Couldn't put it down.
December 28, 2016
It was ok. I liked the main character and the trials they went through. The beginning was difficult to go through. I didn't get the main character's drive for becoming emperor. And the very end felt a bit unfinished. I wished it went on for a few more pages.
January 27, 2017
My husband bought this for me and billed it as "Alternate History." I found it rather derivative of "The Hunger Games" and didn't really seem to be quite the same type of the alternate history genre as Harry Turtledove or some of the other authors who will use actual historical figures in it.
November 26, 2016
I really enjoyed this book, so much so that I read it all in a single sitting. I really hope that the author writes more novels like this one (especially if it's a sequel!)
January 21, 2017
Enjoyable read. Only sore thumb is age of main characters whose experience and manners should make them closer to 25 than 18.
Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews