ABOUT THE BOOK
Rings of Iron
A Novel of the Second Punic War
Coming December 1
Book Two of the Palladium Trilogy
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In "Rings of Iron," the second gripping installment of the "Palladium" trilogy, the fate of Rome hangs precariously in the balance. Following the catastrophic events of the First Punic War, Rome is reeling from its losses. Carthage, under the ingenious command of Hannibal Barca, capitalizes on this moment of weakness, unleashing a campaign of terror that brings the once invincible Roman legions to their knees.
As the shadow of Hannibal looms over the Italian Peninsula, the Roman Republic finds itself embroiled not only in a battle for survival but also in a struggle for its very soul. Amidst this backdrop, two young Romans, Scipio and Aemilia, emerge as unlikely saviors. Bound by their love for Rome, yet disillusioned by its flaws, they must navigate a labyrinth of war and political treachery.
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Scipio, no longer the boy in his father's shadow, must rise to the occasion, learning from the brutal lessons dealt by Hannibal. His journey from defeat to leadership is one marked by resilience, strategic brilliance, and an unyielding commitment to his cause. Aemilia, grappling with personal loss and political upheaval, finds herself at the forefront of a battle against the rise of authoritarian populism, fighting to preserve the democratic ideals of the Republic.
"Rings of Iron" is a tale of courage against insurmountable odds, of love amidst despair, and of leadership forged in the fires of war. It explores the depths of fear and the power of honor, painting a vivid picture of a pivotal moment in history where the future of a civilization was decided on the battlefield.
As the second book in the "Palladium" series, "Rings of Iron" sets the stage for an epic conclusion, where the destinies of individuals and the fate of nations are intertwined. This novel is a compelling blend of historical authenticity and riveting storytelling, sure to captivate fans of historical fiction and those fascinated by one of history's greatest conflicts.
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The Palladium of Rome
From Wikipedia:
The Palladium of Rome was a cult image of great antiquity on which the safety of Troy and later Rome was said to depend, the wooden statue (xoanon) of Pallas Athena that Odysseus and Diomedes stole from the citadel of Troy and which was later taken to the future site of Rome by Aeneas. The Roman story is related in Virgil's Aeneid and other works. Rome possessed an object regarded as the actual Palladium for several centuries; it was in the care of the Vestal Virgins for nearly all this time.
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Its Meaning
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The Palladium represents the inviolability and strength of the city and, by extension, the Roman Republic itself. This series delves into a pivotal and tumultuous period in Roman history, marked by the existential threat posed by Hannibal Barca during the Second Punic War. Much like the mythical Palladium, the series explores themes of protection, resilience, and the struggle to preserve the core values and integrity of the Republic amidst war, political turmoil, and social upheaval.
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The title "Palladium" metaphorically reflects the central narrative of the trilogy – the fight to safeguard the heart and soul of Rome against formidable external enemies and internal decay. Through the lenses of various characters – Roman, Carthaginian, and others – the series examines the intricate dynamics of power, loyalty, and ambition, all revolving around the central quest to uphold or redefine what Rome stands for. The characters in this trilogy grapple with their roles as defenders, preservers, or transformers of their society in an era defined by conflict and change.
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Thus, "Palladium" is not only a nod to a key symbol in Roman lore but also a thematic encapsulation of the trilogy's exploration of what it takes to protect and maintain the essence of a republic during its darkest and most defining hours.