Empire in Apocalypse - by Robert Bruton (Hardcover)

About the Book

At the end of the fifth century, the Eastern Roman Empire of Constantinople was assailed by enemy armies on all sides and rapidly sliding into ruin.

Book Synopsis

At the end of the fifth century, the Eastern Roman Empire of Constantinople was assailed by enemy armies on all sides and rapidly sliding into ruin. Barbarian invasions had already swept the Western Empire into the dustbin of history, and the emperors and generals seemed unable to do anything about it. In the sixth century, however, the genius of two men and their remarkable wives stood between chaos and order. Their names were Emperor Flavius Petrus Sabbateus Justinianus and General Flavius Belisarius. Their wives, Theodora and Antonina, respectively, are perhaps two of the most extraordinary women in history.

This book is the story of the challenges they faced collectively, how a climate catastrophe turned their beloved empire into a wasteland, and how the world's first global pandemic contributed to their inability to revive the sagging fortunes of the Roman Empire permanently.

Review Quotes

"Not since Quo Vadis have I read such a gripping historical novel about life and times in the Roman Empire. Empire in Apocalypse belongs on the bookshelves of all devotees of this pivotal time in world history." - Christina Bongiovanni

"An unforgettable epic of courage, love, and betrayal told through the eyes of a young general making his mark in the waning days of the Roman empire. Bruton resurrects historical characters and events with a mastery not seen since Gladiator." - Jay Cline

"Robert Bruton's prose is economical yet substantive, and his story-telling is contoured and engaging. He brings Belisarius, Antonina, Justinian, Theodora, and others to life in the contexts of their times. Bruton fills in their emotions, aspirations, triumphs, and worries, so they become multi-dimensional people, rather than one- or two-dimensional historical figures. Bruton draws on research in ancient and modern sources in his narrative. This novel succeeds as historically-based fiction." - David J. Ulbrich, Ph.D., co-editor of The Routledge History of Global War and Society

"Robert has taken his deep knowledge and love of the Byzantine Empire along with some very interesting characters to make for a captivating story. I enjoyed this book cover to cover. I especially liked his take on Flavius Belisarius. I can't wait for the movie." - George Ross

"This fascinating fictionalized account set at the decline of the Roman Empire provides insight into the lives of the great men and women who shaped their times. It also reminds us that we - and our own time - are not so far removed from theirs as we might imagine." - Eve Marie Barner Gleason

"In this extraordinary work of historical fiction, Robert Bruton seamlessly fuses warfare, church politics, romance, and espionage. Thus, the story is certain to appeal to a wide genre of readers. Mr. Bruton's use of twists and suspense in turn shifts the characters from victim to villain and vice versa. This book took my enjoyment of reading to a new level." - Ellen Sheets

"Carefully researched and beautifully crafted, this is the stirring tale of battles won against overwhelming odds, a brilliant general's undying commitment to duty, honor, and the Roman Empire, imperial court intrigues, unrequited love, the machinations of two former courtesans who maneuvered their way into the top echelons of the Empire, and the impact of a devastating climate catastrophe that derailed the chances of restoring the empire to its former glory. Amazingly, it is all based on actual events. This is a great read for both serious consumers of histories and biographies and for those who enjoy historical fiction." - Ed Ricart