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Light in the Empire #10
More Than Honor
As he hunts the one who killed her father, will he learn the secret that could lead to her death?Devotion to duty and dogged determination make Tribune Titianus the most feared investigator of the Urban Cohort. Honor drives him to hunt down anyone who breaks Roman law, but it becomes personal when Lenaeus, his old tutor, is murdered in his own classroom. Why kill a respected teacher of the noble sons of Rome, a man who has nothing worth stealing and no known enemies? Had he learned something too dangerous to let him live?Pompeia was only a girl when Titianus studied with Father before her family became Christians. She and her brother Kaeso can’t move their school from the house where their father was killed. But what if the one who killed Father comes to kill again? Kaeso’s friend Septimus insists they spend nights at his father’s well-guarded home. But danger lurks there as well. As Titianus hunts for the murderer, will he discover their secret faith and arrest them as enemies of the Empire?When Titianus gets too close to finding the killer, the hunter becomes the hunted. While he recovers at his cousin Septimus’s house, Pompeia becomes the first woman to touch his heart. But a tribune’s loyalty is sworn to Rome, no matter how he feels. When her faith is revealed, will truth and love mean more to him than honor? Does honor require more than devotion to Rome?Dangerous times, difficult friendships, lives transformed by forgiveness and loveMore Than Honor is the tenth volume in the Light in the Empire series. These novels will take you around the Empire, from Germania and Britannia to Thracia, Dacia, Judaea, North Africa, Roman Egypt, and, of course, to Rome itself. Each can be read as a stand-alone and includes discussion questions for groups."This is a fabulous ancient-world series of novels that follow the lives of fictional early Christians. Carol is meticulous with her research and a true expert on Ancient Rome! History lovers and those who enjoy my biblical books are going to LOVE this series!" -- Roseanna White, best-selling author and Christy Award winner.If you enjoy the Roman-era Biblical fiction of Tessa Afshar and Francine River’s Mark of the Lion series, you’ll love the stand-alone novels of the Light in the Empire series.Buy More Than Honor to enjoy a faith-filled adventure today.
- GenresChristian Fiction
328 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 15, 2021
47 people are currently reading
47 people want to read
About the author
Carol Ashby
15 books141 followersCarol Ashby has been a professional writer for most of her life, but her articles and books were about lasers and compound semiconductors (the electronics that make cell phones, laser pointers, and LED displays work). She still writes about light, but her Light in the Empire series tells stories of difficult friendships and life-changing decisions in dangerous times, where forgiveness and love open hearts to discover their own faith in Christ. Her fascination with the Roman Empire was born during her first middle-school Latin class. A research career in New Mexico inspires her to get every historical detail right so she can spin stories that make her readers feel like they’re living under the Caesars themselves.
Set during the reigns of Trajan and Hadrian, her Light in the Empire series will take you around the Empire, from Germania and Britannia to Thracia, Dacia, Africa, and Judaea and, of course, to Rome itself.
Each novel can be read stand-alone, but they do sometimes share characters or locations. To see how all the stories are related, visit https://carolashby.com/novel-relation....
Read her articles about many facets of Roman history at "Life in the Roman Empire: Historical Fact and Fiction" (carolashby.com) or join her at her blog, "The Beauty of Truth," at carol-ashby.com.
Set during the reigns of Trajan and Hadrian, her Light in the Empire series will take you around the Empire, from Germania and Britannia to Thracia, Dacia, Africa, and Judaea and, of course, to Rome itself.
Each novel can be read stand-alone, but they do sometimes share characters or locations. To see how all the stories are related, visit https://carolashby.com/novel-relation....
Read her articles about many facets of Roman history at "Life in the Roman Empire: Historical Fact and Fiction" (carolashby.com) or join her at her blog, "The Beauty of Truth," at carol-ashby.com.
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
June 11, 2021
Another fantastic post-Biblical historical fiction from Carol Ashby! This one follows Tribune Titianus as he attempts to solve the mystery of who burned down a warehouse with a dead man inside that continues to turn up dead bodies and assassination attempts. With this book taking place less than 100 years after the time of Christ, it's set in the time of the Roman Empire when they were best known for killing Christians. Seeing Christians such as Pompeia in this environment was both fascinating and eye-opening. This book had a full cast of characters that were likable and relatable, in spite of the differences in culture.
In addition to the characters, this book had an enjoyable plot-line with some suspenseful scenes and a sweet romance thread. This is one of the few fiction books that, had I not been a Christian at the time of reading, I would have learned how to become one without it feeling overly preachy or eyeroll-worthy. There was a solid faith thread. There was a great depth of emotion as well as one of the deaths greatly impacted all of the main characters. Having lost my dad late last year to Covid, the grief scenes were difficult to read, but also were good for me to read. This book had a little bit of everything and is one I'd highly recommend!
One additional note - I would definitely recommend taking the time to read the cast of characters and notes at the beginning pertaining to roman words and names as that made the story less confusing and tedious than it would have been if I had to figure out all of the characters as they entered the story and wonder why they had 3 names. :) I'd also recommend reading the historical notes at the end, as those lend authenticity to the historical accuracy of the story and added to my enjoyment of the story.
Special thanks to the author for an advance e-copy of this book. I was under no obligation to provide a review and the thoughts contained herein are my own.
In addition to the characters, this book had an enjoyable plot-line with some suspenseful scenes and a sweet romance thread. This is one of the few fiction books that, had I not been a Christian at the time of reading, I would have learned how to become one without it feeling overly preachy or eyeroll-worthy. There was a solid faith thread. There was a great depth of emotion as well as one of the deaths greatly impacted all of the main characters. Having lost my dad late last year to Covid, the grief scenes were difficult to read, but also were good for me to read. This book had a little bit of everything and is one I'd highly recommend!
One additional note - I would definitely recommend taking the time to read the cast of characters and notes at the beginning pertaining to roman words and names as that made the story less confusing and tedious than it would have been if I had to figure out all of the characters as they entered the story and wonder why they had 3 names. :) I'd also recommend reading the historical notes at the end, as those lend authenticity to the historical accuracy of the story and added to my enjoyment of the story.
Special thanks to the author for an advance e-copy of this book. I was under no obligation to provide a review and the thoughts contained herein are my own.
June 22, 2021
Loved it!
This is the first book I have read that is set in ancient times in decades. I honestly wasn't sure if I would enjoy it, but I did! I loved the character of Pompeia - so full of love, wisdom and faith, with a feisty side. Titianus was a great character as well - so determined, so 'black and white', but so kind underneath his seriousness. This novel was entertaining, uplifting, and a learning experience!
This is the first book I have read that is set in ancient times in decades. I honestly wasn't sure if I would enjoy it, but I did! I loved the character of Pompeia - so full of love, wisdom and faith, with a feisty side. Titianus was a great character as well - so determined, so 'black and white', but so kind underneath his seriousness. This novel was entertaining, uplifting, and a learning experience!
February 5, 2023
Another good one
I really enjoy the prayers in these books. Simple, direct, and answered. I like how in this book we see the thoughtful, sensitive, caring side of Titianus. The whole story, setting, relationships, and interchanges are extremely well done and enjoyable. That we learn things about Ancient Roman times, is a bonus. Highly recommend the whole series.
I really enjoy the prayers in these books. Simple, direct, and answered. I like how in this book we see the thoughtful, sensitive, caring side of Titianus. The whole story, setting, relationships, and interchanges are extremely well done and enjoyable. That we learn things about Ancient Roman times, is a bonus. Highly recommend the whole series.
August 14, 2021
Great series
I have read every book in this series and have so enjoyed them I really hope the story of Titianus and Pompeia will continue!! So please don’t stop there Carol Ashby.
Penny Callaghan
I have read every book in this series and have so enjoyed them I really hope the story of Titianus and Pompeia will continue!! So please don’t stop there Carol Ashby.
Penny Callaghan
January 21, 2023
I took a few days to read this book. It’s a historical fiction story set in Rome. And this author is new to me. I felt that the story was interesting in the beginning and then got slow before it picked up again. I received this book as a gift and I liked the story.
March 22, 2022
Good Read!
I have read the whole series and this book get a four star because ending was rushed. Very disappointing from Ashby I thought her
I have read the whole series and this book get a four star because ending was rushed. Very disappointing from Ashby I thought her
December 22, 2022
More than Honer
It is a great story about early Christians in Rome, very intriguing and interesting plots included, enjoyed it very much
It is a great story about early Christians in Rome, very intriguing and interesting plots included, enjoyed it very much
June 18, 2021
This was my first Carol Ashby book and I really enjoyed it. Carol is a wonderful writer. I got caught up in the story and wanted to find out what happened at the end. I also fell fast in love with the characters, especially Titus Titianus.
The timeline threw me for a bit at one point because I thought it had been longer than the author said it was in the ending chapters. I also thought the one storyline wrapped up very quickly, however, I know that Carol's books feature characters from each book and I have a feeling we will find out more about it all in a future book, which I will be looking for.
I had some trouble following all the Roman names, but that's always an issue for me when I read about ancient Rome and it doesn't take away from the story. I simply had to slow down and reread the names to make sure I knew who was who.
There was a lot of excitement and adventure in this book and I will be sure to read more of Carol's books in the future.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author/publisher and was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.
The timeline threw me for a bit at one point because I thought it had been longer than the author said it was in the ending chapters. I also thought the one storyline wrapped up very quickly, however, I know that Carol's books feature characters from each book and I have a feeling we will find out more about it all in a future book, which I will be looking for.
I had some trouble following all the Roman names, but that's always an issue for me when I read about ancient Rome and it doesn't take away from the story. I simply had to slow down and reread the names to make sure I knew who was who.
There was a lot of excitement and adventure in this book and I will be sure to read more of Carol's books in the future.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author/publisher and was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.
June 16, 2021
I have to admit, I have mixed feelings about this book.
I really enjoyed the murder investigation that kicks off the story. The characters involved were intriguing and well developed, and watching the villain dig himself into a deeper and deeper hole was highly entertaining.
But sadly, the investigation fizzled out, and it felt as if the main characters lost interest. There is a lot of planning and discussion between characters in this book, which sometimes slowed the pacing to a crawl.
Interesting historical details are woven throughout the narrative, like bread baked with string for a handle. I really enjoyed these little glimpses into life in Ancient Rome!
This story was definitely overt in its Christian message and gospel hope. If you love historical coming-to-Christ stories, I suggest you give Carol Ashby a read!
I received a complementary ARC from the author, and was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.
I really enjoyed the murder investigation that kicks off the story. The characters involved were intriguing and well developed, and watching the villain dig himself into a deeper and deeper hole was highly entertaining.
But sadly, the investigation fizzled out, and it felt as if the main characters lost interest. There is a lot of planning and discussion between characters in this book, which sometimes slowed the pacing to a crawl.
Interesting historical details are woven throughout the narrative, like bread baked with string for a handle. I really enjoyed these little glimpses into life in Ancient Rome!
This story was definitely overt in its Christian message and gospel hope. If you love historical coming-to-Christ stories, I suggest you give Carol Ashby a read!
I received a complementary ARC from the author, and was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.
June 24, 2021
Once again Carol Ashby comes through with another wonderful story of early Christian life in ancient Rome. This time we follow along as a series of crimes are investigated by Rome's top tribune. His investigation reconnects him with his former teacher's family. As a man of honor and justice, Tribune Titus diligently tries to solve the crimes as well as protect the teacher's daughter. Afraid he will learn their secret, she is both drawn to Titus and afraid to get too close.
As the story unfolds, Carol once again finds unique ways to share the full message of the Gospel, showing us why these early believers would even be willing to risk their lives in order to follow Jesus. Titus does uncover the greatest Truth of all and learns that there things more valuable than justice and honor.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. The opinion expressed in my review are strictly my own.
As the story unfolds, Carol once again finds unique ways to share the full message of the Gospel, showing us why these early believers would even be willing to risk their lives in order to follow Jesus. Titus does uncover the greatest Truth of all and learns that there things more valuable than justice and honor.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. The opinion expressed in my review are strictly my own.
June 15, 2021
Carol Ashby’s details of the lives of the early Christians during the Roman Empire is top notch!
As Tribune Titianus pursues the killer of his former tutor, he finds that his journey leads him down unforeseen paths of discovery. Unexpected friendships lead him to challenge his beliefs of honor and duty. With expert pacing, the plot shifts between a fast to a slow pace, as the author expertly illustrates God working in the main characters' hearts.
Fans of religious biblical fiction will love Carol Ashby's Light of the Empire series. Each book in the series can be read as a standalone. However, once you have read one, you will want to read others in the series.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author/publisher and was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.
As Tribune Titianus pursues the killer of his former tutor, he finds that his journey leads him down unforeseen paths of discovery. Unexpected friendships lead him to challenge his beliefs of honor and duty. With expert pacing, the plot shifts between a fast to a slow pace, as the author expertly illustrates God working in the main characters' hearts.
Fans of religious biblical fiction will love Carol Ashby's Light of the Empire series. Each book in the series can be read as a standalone. However, once you have read one, you will want to read others in the series.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author/publisher and was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.
September 6, 2021
"A man’s true worth isn’t decided by his family ties, his social rank, or his wealth. It’s his honor.”
Another great story written by Carol Ashby. Prepare to be transported back in time to the early-Christian and roman gladiator era. Always interesting to read these historically-rich stories and I truly appreciate all the research which goes into writing historical fiction.
More Than Honor is a stand-alone book which brings back characters previously introduced in her other writings. This one is a murder-mystery type story with a touch of romance.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author and was not required to write a review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Another great story written by Carol Ashby. Prepare to be transported back in time to the early-Christian and roman gladiator era. Always interesting to read these historically-rich stories and I truly appreciate all the research which goes into writing historical fiction.
More Than Honor is a stand-alone book which brings back characters previously introduced in her other writings. This one is a murder-mystery type story with a touch of romance.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author and was not required to write a review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
June 13, 2021
Another great book by Carol Ashby! Pompeia and Titianus had met when her father was his teacher. Now, years later, they meet again when her father is murdered. Titianus is drawn to Pompeia, though he doesn't know her secret that could destroy her family. She's drawn to him, but fights the attraction, since she's a Christian and he is not. When they're together at Septimus' house, and especially after someone tries to kill him, will Titianus be open to learning more about God and follow Him, or will this secret destroy Pompeia and her family when he learns of it?
I received a complimentary copy of this book, was not required to leave a review, and the opinion expressed is my own.
I received a complimentary copy of this book, was not required to leave a review, and the opinion expressed is my own.
June 15, 2021
This is the first book of the Light in the Empire series that I have read, and it was so good that I’m going to go back and read the rest of them! It had a little bit of everything...wonderful messages about God’s love, action, suspense, humor and good, clean romance. All of that combined with awesome characters made this book a must read! I also truly appreciate all of the research that had to have been done for this book. I learned a lot of interesting facts about Ancient Rome while enjoying a great story!
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author but was not required to write a review. All opinions are mine and 100% honest😊
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author but was not required to write a review. All opinions are mine and 100% honest😊
June 12, 2021
This book has so much to recommend it that I can't do it justice in a short review. You will just have to read it. The author is an expert in ancient Rome. You feel like you are there without being overwhelmed by details. The honorable investigator, the education system of Rome, the powerlessness of people against the ruling elite, Christians in hiding and the miraculous protection by God. This book can stand alone, but you will want to read every book in this series.
June 12, 2021
Another great installation in the series! I love visiting ancient Rome through her books and am never disappointed in any one of them. She always gives rich details through impeccable research.
Each of her books can be read as stand-alone novels, and each book is filled with characters you grow close to and love. This book is no exception. It is a heartwarming tale about love and honor, forgiveness and redemption. Thank you Carol for another great novel! Hope to read another soon!
Each of her books can be read as stand-alone novels, and each book is filled with characters you grow close to and love. This book is no exception. It is a heartwarming tale about love and honor, forgiveness and redemption. Thank you Carol for another great novel! Hope to read another soon!
June 12, 2021
This is a wonderful summer read. It’s a gospel/romance story rolled into a murder mystery with a lovely happily ever after. My only complaint with the book is the reality of the timeline. I can’t reveal that without spoiling the book. If you want a slice of second century Roman life, pick up this book.
June 12, 2021
This is a wonderful inspirational read that will keep you reading way past bedtime, you just can't put it down. This is well written story about early Christians and combines Roman history and customs to show what it meant to be a true follower of Christ. This book stays in your mind long after you've read the last page.
June 7, 2021
f you love fiction about early Christians you MUST read this
Love. And Honour. His main goal as an inspector is always honour. And when love comes into the picture it changes him. I cannot even begin to say how much I loved this book. READ it — you will NOT be disappointed.
Love. And Honour. His main goal as an inspector is always honour. And when love comes into the picture it changes him. I cannot even begin to say how much I loved this book. READ it — you will NOT be disappointed.
June 8, 2021
This is my favourite yet of Carol’s books. A strong mystery element. Wonderful conversations about truth and characters that truly understand the difference it makes to follow Jesus. All contained in the package of Roman history and customs made real.
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews