Book excerpt: As Emperor Nero casts his madness over Rome, a loyal soldier is caught in a conspiracy that threatens the empire in this historical epic. Rome, 68 AD: The tyrant emperor Nero has no heir, and whispers of rebellion are spreading fast. As Rome faces the possibility of becoming a republic once more, the ambitions of a few are about to bring untold corruption, chaos, and bloodshed. Aulus Caecina Severus, hero of the campaign against Boudica, has become part of a conspiracy to overthrow Caesar’s dynasty. But is it really all for the good of Rome? The boundary between service and self-preservation is far from clear, and navigating this dangerous path requires all Severus’ skills: as a cunning soldier and, increasingly, a deft politician. As the Year of the Four Emperors unfolds, the mighty Roman empire will be plunged into anarchy and civil war . . .