Part of The Nero Trilogy by Conn Iggulden
Emperor Nero stands at the pinnacle of Roman power, yet enemies circle like wolves. In the imperial palace, his mother Empress Agrippina schemes against him, their relationship poisoned by years of manipulation and betrayal. The young Caesar who once dreamed of glory now rules through fear, his court a deadly maze of shifting alliances. Former allies plot in shadows while new threats emerge from the provinces. Nero must navigate treacherous political waters where a single misstep means death. The empire that Augustus built and Tiberius maintained now trembles under the weight of conspiracy. As rebellion spreads and the Praetorian Guard wavers in their loyalty, Nero realizes that ultimate dominion requires sacrifices he never imagined. In this final struggle for the throne, the emperor who fancied himself an artist must become the ruthless tyrant his enemies believe him to be. The fate of Rome hangs in the balance as Nero fights to preserve his reign against those who would see him fall.
Genres: roman, historical-fiction, political-thriller, ancient-history
Vibes: dark, suspenseful, thought-provoking
Tropes: enemies-to-lovers, power-struggle
Setting: Rome, Roman Empire
Period: Ancient Rome
Hardcover
Content warnings: death, violence