Assessment:

Plot/Idea: The Emperor is a sprawling historical epic that follows Heraclius as he rises to prominence and leads his army into battle against the Avar horde. The author gracefully portrays the emperor with all of his strengths, internal struggles, and pitfalls fully on display.

Prose: Storm's text is bookended with a prologue, an epilogue, timelines, and maps to help place story in its historical context. The Imperial settings are beautifully rendered, while the thirst for blood in the battles and sieges is brutal and shocking.

Originality: Though The Emperor is not a startlingly original concept, its dense and evocatively described passages bring ancient Rome to life, beautifully echoing the sights, sounds, and aromas of the time.

Character/Execution: The author successfully breathes life into historical figures by portraying their flaws and idiosyncrasies with nuance and detail. The central character of Heraclius is hugely impressive, and the awe that he inspires literally seeps through the pages.

Blurb: A breathtaking journey into the heart of ancient Rome.

Date Submitted: August 22, 2023