Jess Steven Hughes's Blog, page 13
March 16, 2016
Book Review - Historical Novel Society - The Wolf of Britannia, Part I
THE WOLF OF BRITANNIA
by
Jess Steven Hughes
Reviewed by Jeff Westerboff, Historical Novel Reviews, a publication of the Historical Novel Society
Between 27 and 40 AD, Britain is inhabited by several tribes, all ruled by kings, each with his own parcel of land. They have to defend their lands not only from the Romans, but also from other tribes. Caratacus, a young prince of the Cymbeline tribe in lower Britain, wants to unite several of the tribes to eventually defend themselves against the Romans. Presently, the tribes trade with Rome, but he feels someday the Roman army may want to conquer their country like they did in Gaul. There are those, like his brother Aminios, who want to side with the Romans because they wish to take over more territory and become friends with Rome when their army invades Britain.
This book is Volume I of the saga of Caratacus, a real-life leader of the Catuvellaunian tribe prior to the invasion of the Roman army under Emperor Claudius in the middle of the 1st century. This book is a well-written and well-paced story of early British life and the power struggles that flourished during this time. The author has managed to mix fictional and historical characters, although there is very little written history available for this period other than those of a few Roman writers. The tension builds between the tribes as they each try to gain control of Britain. The battle scenes are realistic, conveying the chaos and panic during the fighting.
I found this book entertaining to read as I became immersed in the story. I highly recommend this novel of early Britain and look forward to reading its sequels.
http://www.amazon.com/Wolf-Britannia-...
http://www.amazon.com/Wolf-Britannia-...
http://www.sunburypressstore.com/The-...
http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-w...
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Wolf-Britanni...
http://www.amazon.de/Wolf-Britannia-P...
http://www.amazon.it/Wolf-Britannia-P...
http://www.amazon.es/Wolf-Britannia-P...
http://www.amazon.fr/Wolf-Britannia-P...
http://www.amazon.co.jp/Wolf-Britanni...
http://www.junglee.com/The-Wolf-Brita...
Copies available @ Barnes & Noble 15310 E. Indiana Ave., Spokane Valley, WA (509) 922-4104
Copies available @ Barnes & Noble 5353 Almaden Expressway, San Jose, CA (408) 979-0611
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-8w8a...
by
Jess Steven Hughes
Reviewed by Jeff Westerboff, Historical Novel Reviews, a publication of the Historical Novel Society
Between 27 and 40 AD, Britain is inhabited by several tribes, all ruled by kings, each with his own parcel of land. They have to defend their lands not only from the Romans, but also from other tribes. Caratacus, a young prince of the Cymbeline tribe in lower Britain, wants to unite several of the tribes to eventually defend themselves against the Romans. Presently, the tribes trade with Rome, but he feels someday the Roman army may want to conquer their country like they did in Gaul. There are those, like his brother Aminios, who want to side with the Romans because they wish to take over more territory and become friends with Rome when their army invades Britain.
This book is Volume I of the saga of Caratacus, a real-life leader of the Catuvellaunian tribe prior to the invasion of the Roman army under Emperor Claudius in the middle of the 1st century. This book is a well-written and well-paced story of early British life and the power struggles that flourished during this time. The author has managed to mix fictional and historical characters, although there is very little written history available for this period other than those of a few Roman writers. The tension builds between the tribes as they each try to gain control of Britain. The battle scenes are realistic, conveying the chaos and panic during the fighting.
I found this book entertaining to read as I became immersed in the story. I highly recommend this novel of early Britain and look forward to reading its sequels.
http://www.amazon.com/Wolf-Britannia-...
http://www.amazon.com/Wolf-Britannia-...
http://www.sunburypressstore.com/The-...
http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-w...
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Wolf-Britanni...
http://www.amazon.de/Wolf-Britannia-P...
http://www.amazon.it/Wolf-Britannia-P...
http://www.amazon.es/Wolf-Britannia-P...
http://www.amazon.fr/Wolf-Britannia-P...
http://www.amazon.co.jp/Wolf-Britanni...
http://www.junglee.com/The-Wolf-Brita...
Copies available @ Barnes & Noble 15310 E. Indiana Ave., Spokane Valley, WA (509) 922-4104
Copies available @ Barnes & Noble 5353 Almaden Expressway, San Jose, CA (408) 979-0611
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-8w8a...
March 14, 2016
Blog Update
Book Signing and New Novel Update
Book signings
I conducted four book signings since my last blog entry. Two of them (Hastings, South Hill, Spokane, WA and Hastings, Spokane Valley, were moderately, successful. The most successful I conducted at Barnes and Noble, Kennewick, Washington, Saturday, March 5th. I met lots of interesting people, gave out lots of fliers and signed many copies of my historical novels from The Sign of the Eagle Trilogy, Several people complemented the portrait I displayed depicting the book cover from The Wolf of Britannia, Part II, painted by
artist Tal Dibner.
I want to thank Community Relations Manager, Wendy Lilly and Merchandising Manager, Jim, for their assistance in making this a successful event.
The Wolf of Britannia Part I
Ranked in the top ten of Book Sales
My historical novel about pre-Roman Britain, in the First Century A.D,, The Wolf Britannia, Part I, was ranked number 7 in sales out of the top 30 for Sunbury Press (www.sunburypress.com) for the month of February. Sales at my book signings were a significant contributor to this number. Thank you, to everyone who bought a copy.
New Project Continues to Move Forward (slowly)
The research for my new historical novel is still in the earliest stages of planning and progressing slowly. This will be a sequel to The Sign of the Eagle. The working title, Return to Britannia, remains in place. One of my major sources of research is Roman Britain, by Peter Salway. It is by far the most thorough and in depth books I have found dealing with Britain during this period. It deals not only with the political, but social and economic history as well. It gives an in-depth look as to how the people of the period lived. What is even better is that it is very readable. Just as a reminder, Macha, the novel's main character follows her husband, Titus, to Britannia when he has been assigned to investigate a series of murders of petty government officials. During the investigation, he discovers that the victims had embezzled a large amount of money from the provincial government treasury. What did they do with the money and where did it go?
Greek Mosaics Stunning 2200-Year-Old mosaics Discovered in Ancient Greek City
Three new mosaics were recently discovered in the ancient Greek city of Zeugma, which is located in the present-day province of Gaziantep in southern Turkey. The incredibly well-preserved mosaics date back to 2nd century BC.
Zeugma was considered one of the most important centers of the Eastern Roman Empire and the ancient city has provided a treasure trove of discoveries with 2000-3000 houses in remarkably good condition. Excavations at Zeugma started in 2007 and continue to this day.
For additional information go to below link.
http://www.newshubs.info/stunning-220...,
Son of Zeus Sons of Zeus - Historical Novel
I am currently in the process of reading the above novel which is set in ancient Greece during the Peloponnesian War which took place 431-405 B.C. It is seen through the eyes of a young warrior named, Nikias, who is from the city state of Plataea, which is caught between the war's two arch-rivals, Athens and Sparta. This is what the book jacket says about the story:
In 431 B.C., Ancient Greece experienced its own "Pearl Harbor"―a treacherous sneak attack that would mark the start of the bloody war between the democracy of Athens and the tyranny of Sparta. Caught between these superpowers, the independent city-state of Plataea became the arena where their battle for control of all of Greece would begin.
In Plataea, the young Greek warrior Nikias dreams of glory in the Olympic games as he trains for the pankration―the no-holds-barred ultimate fighting of the era―until an act of violence in defense of his beloved threatens to send him into exile. But before his trial can take place, a traitor opens the city gates to a surprise attack force.
Suddenly trapped inside their own fortress, the Plataeans are fighting for their lives. As Nikias seeks to discover the identity of the man who betrayed the city, he makes a daring escape, gathers an army, and leads this ragtag band into a suicidal battle at the gates of the citadel―a battle that will decide the fates of his family, his friends, and the woman he loves.
In the vein of Bernard Cornwell, Conn Iggulden, and Steven Pressfield, Sons of Zeus marks the beginning of a richly detailed new action-adventure series.
I will write my on evaluation of the novel when I am finished. There don't seemed to be that many historical novels about Greece on the book market, but this is one of them. So far, I am enjoying it.
The Broken Lance
My latest historical, The Broken Lance, will be evaluated by a professional "book doctor", the same one I have used on my previous three novels in April. Once she completes her evaluation, I will make the necessary changes she recommends. Depending on what will be involved, this could take anywhere from one to six-seven months. My goal is to submitted to Sunbury Press by end of this year, and if they accept it for publication, it will be available sometime in 2017. Wish me good luck that the rewrite will be completed sooner than later.
Veronica Dance Champion
On a Personal Note
My granddaughter, Veronica, (lower left kneeling in picture) is a member of the Presentation High school ( San Jose, California ) dance team. They won the national championship in their categories (Medium Classification and Extra Small Classification) down in Florida this last weekend (March 5th/6th). Congratulations, ladies!
That's it for now. Until next time, Ave At Que Vale! Hail and Farewell!
Book signings
I conducted four book signings since my last blog entry. Two of them (Hastings, South Hill, Spokane, WA and Hastings, Spokane Valley, were moderately, successful. The most successful I conducted at Barnes and Noble, Kennewick, Washington, Saturday, March 5th. I met lots of interesting people, gave out lots of fliers and signed many copies of my historical novels from The Sign of the Eagle Trilogy, Several people complemented the portrait I displayed depicting the book cover from The Wolf of Britannia, Part II, painted by
artist Tal Dibner.
I want to thank Community Relations Manager, Wendy Lilly and Merchandising Manager, Jim, for their assistance in making this a successful event.
The Wolf of Britannia Part I
Ranked in the top ten of Book Sales
My historical novel about pre-Roman Britain, in the First Century A.D,, The Wolf Britannia, Part I, was ranked number 7 in sales out of the top 30 for Sunbury Press (www.sunburypress.com) for the month of February. Sales at my book signings were a significant contributor to this number. Thank you, to everyone who bought a copy.
New Project Continues to Move Forward (slowly)
The research for my new historical novel is still in the earliest stages of planning and progressing slowly. This will be a sequel to The Sign of the Eagle. The working title, Return to Britannia, remains in place. One of my major sources of research is Roman Britain, by Peter Salway. It is by far the most thorough and in depth books I have found dealing with Britain during this period. It deals not only with the political, but social and economic history as well. It gives an in-depth look as to how the people of the period lived. What is even better is that it is very readable. Just as a reminder, Macha, the novel's main character follows her husband, Titus, to Britannia when he has been assigned to investigate a series of murders of petty government officials. During the investigation, he discovers that the victims had embezzled a large amount of money from the provincial government treasury. What did they do with the money and where did it go?
Greek Mosaics Stunning 2200-Year-Old mosaics Discovered in Ancient Greek City
Three new mosaics were recently discovered in the ancient Greek city of Zeugma, which is located in the present-day province of Gaziantep in southern Turkey. The incredibly well-preserved mosaics date back to 2nd century BC.
Zeugma was considered one of the most important centers of the Eastern Roman Empire and the ancient city has provided a treasure trove of discoveries with 2000-3000 houses in remarkably good condition. Excavations at Zeugma started in 2007 and continue to this day.
For additional information go to below link.
http://www.newshubs.info/stunning-220...,
Son of Zeus Sons of Zeus - Historical Novel
I am currently in the process of reading the above novel which is set in ancient Greece during the Peloponnesian War which took place 431-405 B.C. It is seen through the eyes of a young warrior named, Nikias, who is from the city state of Plataea, which is caught between the war's two arch-rivals, Athens and Sparta. This is what the book jacket says about the story:
In 431 B.C., Ancient Greece experienced its own "Pearl Harbor"―a treacherous sneak attack that would mark the start of the bloody war between the democracy of Athens and the tyranny of Sparta. Caught between these superpowers, the independent city-state of Plataea became the arena where their battle for control of all of Greece would begin.
In Plataea, the young Greek warrior Nikias dreams of glory in the Olympic games as he trains for the pankration―the no-holds-barred ultimate fighting of the era―until an act of violence in defense of his beloved threatens to send him into exile. But before his trial can take place, a traitor opens the city gates to a surprise attack force.
Suddenly trapped inside their own fortress, the Plataeans are fighting for their lives. As Nikias seeks to discover the identity of the man who betrayed the city, he makes a daring escape, gathers an army, and leads this ragtag band into a suicidal battle at the gates of the citadel―a battle that will decide the fates of his family, his friends, and the woman he loves.
In the vein of Bernard Cornwell, Conn Iggulden, and Steven Pressfield, Sons of Zeus marks the beginning of a richly detailed new action-adventure series.
I will write my on evaluation of the novel when I am finished. There don't seemed to be that many historical novels about Greece on the book market, but this is one of them. So far, I am enjoying it.
The Broken Lance
My latest historical, The Broken Lance, will be evaluated by a professional "book doctor", the same one I have used on my previous three novels in April. Once she completes her evaluation, I will make the necessary changes she recommends. Depending on what will be involved, this could take anywhere from one to six-seven months. My goal is to submitted to Sunbury Press by end of this year, and if they accept it for publication, it will be available sometime in 2017. Wish me good luck that the rewrite will be completed sooner than later.
Veronica Dance Champion
On a Personal Note
My granddaughter, Veronica, (lower left kneeling in picture) is a member of the Presentation High school ( San Jose, California ) dance team. They won the national championship in their categories (Medium Classification and Extra Small Classification) down in Florida this last weekend (March 5th/6th). Congratulations, ladies!
That's it for now. Until next time, Ave At Que Vale! Hail and Farewell!
March 7, 2016
Five Star Review from Amazon
Another Five Star Review from Amazon for THE WOLF OF BRITANNIA, PART II.
A historical joy ride!, March 1, 2016
By Drew Brown
I read part 1 of this series and it was instantly one of my favorites earning a place of honor among the many other classics on my personal collection shelf. Part II did not dissapoint. Jess Steven Hughes has a genuine passion for history and storytelling that is manifest in this series of books. I would recommend this book to anyone interested in history, England, Rome, compelling stories, or to anyone with a pulse! Treat your mind and read this series!
http://www.amazon.com/The-Wolf-Britan...
A historical joy ride!, March 1, 2016
By Drew Brown
I read part 1 of this series and it was instantly one of my favorites earning a place of honor among the many other classics on my personal collection shelf. Part II did not dissapoint. Jess Steven Hughes has a genuine passion for history and storytelling that is manifest in this series of books. I would recommend this book to anyone interested in history, England, Rome, compelling stories, or to anyone with a pulse! Treat your mind and read this series!
http://www.amazon.com/The-Wolf-Britan...
Book Signing Follow-up
Book signing success at Barnes and Noble, Kennewick, Washington, Saturday, March 5th. I met lots of interesting people, gave out lots of fliers and signed many copies of my historical novels from THE SIGN OF THE EAGLE TRILOGY, published by Sunbury Press Books (www.sunburypress.com). Several people complemented the portrait I displayed depicting the book cover from The Wolf of Britannia, Part II, painted by artist Tal Dibner.
I want to thank Community Relations Manager, Wendy Lilly and Merchandising Manager, Jim, for their assistance in making this a successful event.
I want to thank Community Relations Manager, Wendy Lilly and Merchandising Manager, Jim, for their assistance in making this a successful event.
February 28, 2016
Book Signing Reminder
Book signing double-header. For those of you who live in the Columbia River Basin area of Washington State, I will be signing copies of my historical novels, The Sign of the Eagle and The Wolf of Britannia, Part I & Part II (published by Sunbury Press www.sunburypress.com) at the following stores: (1) Hastings Books, Music & Videos, 601 S. Pioneer Way, Moses Lake, Friday, March 4th, 3/8 pm;(2) Barnes & Noble Booksellers, 1321 N. Columbia Center Blvd., Kennewick, Saturday, March 5th, 12/5 pm. The books are also available on Kindle from Amazon. http://www.amazon.com/Sign-Eagle-Je…/...…
February 19, 2016
Book Signing Reminder
BOOK SIGNING. For those who live in Eastern Washington (State) and North Idaho, I will be signing copies of THE SIGN OF THE EAGLE TRILOGY. published by Sunbury Press (www.sunburypress.com) @ Hastings Books, Music & Videos, 15312 E. Sprague Ave., Spokane Valley, Washington, Saturday, February 20, 12/6 p.m.
February 9, 2016
The Sign of the Eagle in publisher's top 30
Once again my first historical novel, THE SIGN OF THE EAGLE, made the top 30 list in sales for Sunbury Press (www.sunburypress.com) for the month of January, coming in at number 17. You can get signed copies of this book along with signed copies of my prequels, THE WOLF OF BRITANNIA, PART I AND II @ my next signing @ Hastings Books, Music & Videos, 2512 E. 29th Ave., Spokane, Washington, this Friday, Feb. 12th, 3/8 pm.
February 8, 2016
Blog Update
Great Book Signing Event
A very successful weekend. I conducted signings of my historicals, THE SIGN OF THE EAGLE TRILOGY at Barnes & Noble Booksellers, Spokane Valley, Washington on Saturday and Sunday, January 16th & 17th. Both days were a success. I met lots of interesting people from all around the Inland Northwest and Canada, signed lots of copies and heard several compliments on the adjacent portrait that was painted by FB friend and military history artist, Tal Dibner. The weekend manager, Krissie, approached me on Sunday afternoon and said. "You were awesome, you can return anytime you want!"
I want to thank store manager, Leslie, weekend manager, Krissie, assistant manager, Kelsey, and associate, Ashley, who's assistance and cooperation made this a successful event. Will return Saturday, April 9th, for an encore.
New Project Going Forward
As I mentioned in my last blog, I have begun the work on a new historical novel and still in the earliest stages of planning. It is a sequel to The Sign of the Eagle. I'm using the working title, Return to Britannia, until I can think of something much better. I know this one boring and doesn't say anything about the story. Just as a reminder, Macha, the novel's main character, is determined to follow her husband, Titus, to Britannia when he has been assigned to investigate a series of murders of petty government officials who were murdered in conjunction with the robbery from the provincial government treasury. As the investigation progresses, a conspiracy is uncovered which involves the planning of another uprising on the size of the Boudiccan revolt which had occurred eleven years earlier (60 A.D.) The conspirators plan to hire Irish mercenaries, and to the shock of Macha, they are determine to place her on the throne of the Trinovantes and Catuvellaunians. These are the Celtic tribes which had been ruled by her father, Caratacus, before the Roman invasion of 43 A.D.
This is the basic premise and a lot of research and work must be done before I start writing. I have written many questions which have to be answered. I have to develop believable characters, both fictional and historical, before I can begin to write the story. It will be at least two-three years before the novel is completed.
Giving New Life to Some of Pompeii's Dead
In the enclosed article from Archaeology Magazine carries a slide show of the plaster casts of victims covered by the lava from the eruption of Mt. Vesuvius, which buried the Roman city of Pompeii in 79 A.D. "Pompeii’s tragic casts of human and animal victims are getting a close inside look and some much needed preservation. This is an interesting update in Archaeology Magazine about one of the most poignant sets of remains from the past."
--Judith Starkston
"For two days, the volcano erupted ferociously, on the first day expelling millions of tons of debris, burying Pompeii at a rate of roughly six inches an hour. Thousands of people were trapped: “You could hear the shrieks of women, the wailing of infants, and the shouting of men; some were calling to their parents, others their children or their wives, trying to recognize them by their voices,” writes Pliny. On the second day, surges of superheated rock, ash, and gases, called pyroclastic flows, rushed down the mountain at speeds of more than 100 miles per hour, flattening the buildings that remained standing, and scalding or perhaps suffocating those who had not already been buried. By the end of August 25, more than 2,000 people likely had died in Pompeii, and at least 15,000 had probably perished in the region."
For further reading see enclosed link.
Pompeii Casts
Dictator by Author Robert Harris
Book Reading Recommendation
For those who like reading historical fiction about ancient Rome, I highly recommend reading Author Robert Harris' compelling trilogy about the life and times and rise and fall of one of the Roman Republic's greatest orator's and statesmen, Cicero. These are: Imperium; Conspirata and the final and latest release, Dictator. Although in many ways a snob, he was still a man for the people (if not with them) and staunch defender of the Roman republic making enemies of Julius Caesar, Crassus and Marc Antony. These books are compelling page turners. I have read the first two volumes and now working the last. I find myself staying up late a night finding it difficult to put down. The first two volumes you can purchase in paperback from Gallery Books and Dictator is available from Knopf in Hardback. Below is a link to Amazon.
The Broken Lance (Update)
I will be submitting the manuscript of my historical novel, The Broken Lance, to my book doctor (she doesn't want her name mentioned) April 1, for evaluation. This will take approximately one month. Depending on her recommendations (how much revision will be needed), I hope I will be able to submit the work to Sunbury Press for consideration for publication sometime early 2017. It will be another duo-logy consisting of The Broken Lance and The Peacekeeper. I will keep you up to date on its progress.
Maintaining the Public Safety of Ancient Rome
Although I finished the series with section XXIII, for those who are interested, I am including a bibliography and set of Roman criminal justice definitions for the final installment XXIV. You will find this on the Ancient World Notes Page.
Book Signing Update & Additions
Check the book signing page on my website for the latest book signing additions.
That's it for now. Until next time, Ave At Que Vale! Hail and farewell!
A very successful weekend. I conducted signings of my historicals, THE SIGN OF THE EAGLE TRILOGY at Barnes & Noble Booksellers, Spokane Valley, Washington on Saturday and Sunday, January 16th & 17th. Both days were a success. I met lots of interesting people from all around the Inland Northwest and Canada, signed lots of copies and heard several compliments on the adjacent portrait that was painted by FB friend and military history artist, Tal Dibner. The weekend manager, Krissie, approached me on Sunday afternoon and said. "You were awesome, you can return anytime you want!"
I want to thank store manager, Leslie, weekend manager, Krissie, assistant manager, Kelsey, and associate, Ashley, who's assistance and cooperation made this a successful event. Will return Saturday, April 9th, for an encore.
New Project Going Forward
As I mentioned in my last blog, I have begun the work on a new historical novel and still in the earliest stages of planning. It is a sequel to The Sign of the Eagle. I'm using the working title, Return to Britannia, until I can think of something much better. I know this one boring and doesn't say anything about the story. Just as a reminder, Macha, the novel's main character, is determined to follow her husband, Titus, to Britannia when he has been assigned to investigate a series of murders of petty government officials who were murdered in conjunction with the robbery from the provincial government treasury. As the investigation progresses, a conspiracy is uncovered which involves the planning of another uprising on the size of the Boudiccan revolt which had occurred eleven years earlier (60 A.D.) The conspirators plan to hire Irish mercenaries, and to the shock of Macha, they are determine to place her on the throne of the Trinovantes and Catuvellaunians. These are the Celtic tribes which had been ruled by her father, Caratacus, before the Roman invasion of 43 A.D.
This is the basic premise and a lot of research and work must be done before I start writing. I have written many questions which have to be answered. I have to develop believable characters, both fictional and historical, before I can begin to write the story. It will be at least two-three years before the novel is completed.
Giving New Life to Some of Pompeii's Dead
In the enclosed article from Archaeology Magazine carries a slide show of the plaster casts of victims covered by the lava from the eruption of Mt. Vesuvius, which buried the Roman city of Pompeii in 79 A.D. "Pompeii’s tragic casts of human and animal victims are getting a close inside look and some much needed preservation. This is an interesting update in Archaeology Magazine about one of the most poignant sets of remains from the past."
--Judith Starkston
"For two days, the volcano erupted ferociously, on the first day expelling millions of tons of debris, burying Pompeii at a rate of roughly six inches an hour. Thousands of people were trapped: “You could hear the shrieks of women, the wailing of infants, and the shouting of men; some were calling to their parents, others their children or their wives, trying to recognize them by their voices,” writes Pliny. On the second day, surges of superheated rock, ash, and gases, called pyroclastic flows, rushed down the mountain at speeds of more than 100 miles per hour, flattening the buildings that remained standing, and scalding or perhaps suffocating those who had not already been buried. By the end of August 25, more than 2,000 people likely had died in Pompeii, and at least 15,000 had probably perished in the region."
For further reading see enclosed link.
Pompeii Casts
Dictator by Author Robert Harris
Book Reading Recommendation
For those who like reading historical fiction about ancient Rome, I highly recommend reading Author Robert Harris' compelling trilogy about the life and times and rise and fall of one of the Roman Republic's greatest orator's and statesmen, Cicero. These are: Imperium; Conspirata and the final and latest release, Dictator. Although in many ways a snob, he was still a man for the people (if not with them) and staunch defender of the Roman republic making enemies of Julius Caesar, Crassus and Marc Antony. These books are compelling page turners. I have read the first two volumes and now working the last. I find myself staying up late a night finding it difficult to put down. The first two volumes you can purchase in paperback from Gallery Books and Dictator is available from Knopf in Hardback. Below is a link to Amazon.
The Broken Lance (Update)
I will be submitting the manuscript of my historical novel, The Broken Lance, to my book doctor (she doesn't want her name mentioned) April 1, for evaluation. This will take approximately one month. Depending on her recommendations (how much revision will be needed), I hope I will be able to submit the work to Sunbury Press for consideration for publication sometime early 2017. It will be another duo-logy consisting of The Broken Lance and The Peacekeeper. I will keep you up to date on its progress.
Maintaining the Public Safety of Ancient Rome
Although I finished the series with section XXIII, for those who are interested, I am including a bibliography and set of Roman criminal justice definitions for the final installment XXIV. You will find this on the Ancient World Notes Page.
Book Signing Update & Additions
Check the book signing page on my website for the latest book signing additions.
That's it for now. Until next time, Ave At Que Vale! Hail and farewell!
January 18, 2016
Book Signing Follow-up
A very successful weekend. I conducted signings of my historicals, THE SIGN OF THE EAGLE TRILOGY @ Barnes & Noble Booksellers, Spokane Valley, Washington on Saturday and Sunday, January 16/17. Both days were a success. I met lots of interesting people from all around the Inland Northwest and Canada, signed lots of copies and heard several compliments on the adjacent portrait that was painted by FB friend and military history artist, Tal Dibner. The weekend manager, Krissie, approached me on Sunday afternoon and said. "You were awesome, you can return anytime you want!"
I want to thank store manager, Leslie, weekend manager, Krissie, assistant manager, Kelsey, and associate, Ashley, who's assistance and cooperation made this a successful event. Will return later in the spring for an encore.
I want to thank store manager, Leslie, weekend manager, Krissie, assistant manager, Kelsey, and associate, Ashley, who's assistance and cooperation made this a successful event. Will return later in the spring for an encore.
January 3, 2016
Blog Update
Book signing Update - November
Of the three book signings for The Sign of the Eagle Trilogy, in November, I conducted two successful events (Albertson's, Liberty Lake, Washington, Nov. 7th, and Barnes & Noble Booksellers, Spokane Valley, Washington, Nov. 28th/29th). Unfortunately, the signing at Hastings Books, Music & Videos, Moses Lake, Washington (November 20th), was disappointing, especially, since I had conducted successful events there in the past. The book manager, Yelena, said book sales in all categories have been like peaks and valleys from one week to the next. I will give the place another try during Spring, 2016, to see if sales improve.
Yes, I did an encore at Barnes & Noble Booksellers, Spokane Valley, Washington, on Saturday/Sunday Nov. 28/29. Thanksgiving weekend is a great time for a signing, and I met lots of people, gave out lots of flyers and signed lots of books. This time I had the portrait of the book cover, THE SIGN OF THE EAGLE, on display which was painted by my niece, Artist, Katrina Hughes Brennan. This received a lot of praise and compliments. I will be rotating the portraits of each book cover at future events.
I want to thank Albertsons assistant store manager, Donna; and Barnes & Noble store manager, Leslie; assistant manager, Kasey, and weekend manager, Kelsey, for their assistance in making Nov. 7th and Nov. 28th/29th successful events.
I am in the process of arranging book signings in 2016, Nine dates have already been confirmed starting January 15, 2016. For those interested in my schedule, go to my website JessStevenHughes.com for details. Nine dates are listed and more will be arranged.
Review - The Wolf of Britannia, Part II
For those of you who still have not purchased or read a copy of The Wolf of Britannia, Part II, below is a review by renowned author of historical fiction and fantasy, Janet Morris.
Brilliant historical novel of Ancient Britain and Rome
By Janet Morris
This review is from: The Wolf of Britannia Part II
Jess Steven Hughes is a real talent floating in a sea of wannabees. Books of vivid and evocative historical fiction about ancient Britain clashing with Rome come few and far between these days, requiring as they do deep research and a sensibility that will put you in the minds and souls of characters long buried. Jess Steven Hughes has these skills, and more. This is the third Hughes book I have read, and I hope for many more. His prose is always crisp, his scholarship fine-honed but never obtrusive. But these qualities alone don't make a book exceptional or unforgettable: a story must have the ability to grab you by the throat and not let you go until the last line on the very last page. Hughes has the gift of breathing life into his characters, which is a skill that a true historical writer must have, or fail in the task of transporting the reader into a vanished world.
Read The World of Britannia II and you will be transported into the mind of a great Celtic warrior, Caratacus, as he fights for freedom against the whole of Rome. Wolf of Britannia II has war and death, mystery and betrayal, love and glory, and an intrepid band of men and women fighting a battle that may be hopeless -- but then, perhaps not...
Here's a sample from Hughes' brilliant Wolf II: "Caratacus watched as wave after wave of his and Fergus ap Roycal's charioteers hurtled through the roiling dust, working opposite sides of the Roman column and hurling spears at the Roman shield-wall. Several penetrated and a few soldiers went down screaming. But the wall instantly closed around the dead men."
Read this prequel to The Sign of the Eagle slowly if you can. Take your time. Savor it. Delight in Hughes' deft plotting, his ability to breathe life into his characters. If you love historical fiction, I can nearly guarantee you will devour this books and its sequels and hope for more.
Below is an article about Roman Cavalry Forts along Hadrian's Wall in England.
The Mysterious Absence of Stables at Roman Cavalry Forts
Many barracks have been found in Roman cavalry forts, such as Chesters on Hadrian’s Wall, but few stables – and visitors often ask where the horses were kept. Until recently it was believed that there must have been separate stables, but these have only rarely been found. Now, thanks to recent excavations, we can understand why.
In 1998–2000 the first complete modern excavations of cavalry barracks on Hadrian’s Wall took place at Wallsend and South Shields. At both sites, each of the contubernia – the pairs of rooms into which barrack blocks were divided – contained a centrally placed, elongated pit in its front room. Corresponding with each front-room pit was a hearth in the rear room.
This arrangement was immediately recognized as exactly resembling that found in some Roman fort buildings on the Continent, where preserved hay and fodder showed that horses had been stabled in the front room. The pits, covered with boards or stone slabs, collected horse urine and kept the floor dry.
For further information, go to the following link: http://www.english-heritage.org.uk/le...
The following is a an interesting if somewhat smelly story about sanitation in the Roman World
What Toilets and Sewers Tell Us About Ancient Roman Sanitation
November 19, 2015 by Ann Olga Koloski-Ostrow, The Conversation
I've spent an awful lot of time in Roman sewers – enough to earn me the nickname "Queen of Latrines" from my friends. The Etruscans laid the first underground sewers in the city of Rome around 500 BC. These cavernous tunnels below the city's streets were built of finely carved stones, and the Romans were happy to utilize them when they took over the city. Such structures then became the norm in many cities throughout the Roman world.
Focusing on life in ancient Rome, Pompeii, Herculaneum and Ostia, I'm deeply impressed by the brilliant engineers who designed these underground marvels and the magnificent architecture that masks their functional purpose. Sewer galleries didn't run under every street, nor service every area. But in some cities, including Rome itself, the length and breadth of the main sewer, the Cloaca Maxima, rivals the extent of the main sewer lines in many of today's cities. We shouldn't assume, though, that Roman toilets, sewers and water systems were constructed with our same modern sanitary goals in mind.
Full Article by Anna Olga Koloski-Ostrow,: http://phys.org/news/2015-11-toilets-...
Ancient World Notes
Click onto Ancient World Notes for the latest installment of Maintaining the Public Safety of Ancient Rome - Part XXII http://www.jessstevenhughes.com/blog....
Book Signings
Check the book signing page for the list of book signings, Winter/Spring 2016. This is a partial with more signings to be arranged. Besides Barnes & Noble and the Hastings Entertainment Group, I plan on events at Albertsons Grocery Stores in the Spokane, Washington area as well.
Winter has arrived at the Hughes residence with snow falling in late November. Being the holiday season is upon us I want to wish all of you Happy Holidays in whatever manner you celebrate them. From my house to yours a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
Until Next time, Ave Atque Vale! Hail and Farewell!
Of the three book signings for The Sign of the Eagle Trilogy, in November, I conducted two successful events (Albertson's, Liberty Lake, Washington, Nov. 7th, and Barnes & Noble Booksellers, Spokane Valley, Washington, Nov. 28th/29th). Unfortunately, the signing at Hastings Books, Music & Videos, Moses Lake, Washington (November 20th), was disappointing, especially, since I had conducted successful events there in the past. The book manager, Yelena, said book sales in all categories have been like peaks and valleys from one week to the next. I will give the place another try during Spring, 2016, to see if sales improve.
Yes, I did an encore at Barnes & Noble Booksellers, Spokane Valley, Washington, on Saturday/Sunday Nov. 28/29. Thanksgiving weekend is a great time for a signing, and I met lots of people, gave out lots of flyers and signed lots of books. This time I had the portrait of the book cover, THE SIGN OF THE EAGLE, on display which was painted by my niece, Artist, Katrina Hughes Brennan. This received a lot of praise and compliments. I will be rotating the portraits of each book cover at future events.
I want to thank Albertsons assistant store manager, Donna; and Barnes & Noble store manager, Leslie; assistant manager, Kasey, and weekend manager, Kelsey, for their assistance in making Nov. 7th and Nov. 28th/29th successful events.
I am in the process of arranging book signings in 2016, Nine dates have already been confirmed starting January 15, 2016. For those interested in my schedule, go to my website JessStevenHughes.com for details. Nine dates are listed and more will be arranged.
Review - The Wolf of Britannia, Part II
For those of you who still have not purchased or read a copy of The Wolf of Britannia, Part II, below is a review by renowned author of historical fiction and fantasy, Janet Morris.
Brilliant historical novel of Ancient Britain and Rome
By Janet Morris
This review is from: The Wolf of Britannia Part II
Jess Steven Hughes is a real talent floating in a sea of wannabees. Books of vivid and evocative historical fiction about ancient Britain clashing with Rome come few and far between these days, requiring as they do deep research and a sensibility that will put you in the minds and souls of characters long buried. Jess Steven Hughes has these skills, and more. This is the third Hughes book I have read, and I hope for many more. His prose is always crisp, his scholarship fine-honed but never obtrusive. But these qualities alone don't make a book exceptional or unforgettable: a story must have the ability to grab you by the throat and not let you go until the last line on the very last page. Hughes has the gift of breathing life into his characters, which is a skill that a true historical writer must have, or fail in the task of transporting the reader into a vanished world.
Read The World of Britannia II and you will be transported into the mind of a great Celtic warrior, Caratacus, as he fights for freedom against the whole of Rome. Wolf of Britannia II has war and death, mystery and betrayal, love and glory, and an intrepid band of men and women fighting a battle that may be hopeless -- but then, perhaps not...
Here's a sample from Hughes' brilliant Wolf II: "Caratacus watched as wave after wave of his and Fergus ap Roycal's charioteers hurtled through the roiling dust, working opposite sides of the Roman column and hurling spears at the Roman shield-wall. Several penetrated and a few soldiers went down screaming. But the wall instantly closed around the dead men."
Read this prequel to The Sign of the Eagle slowly if you can. Take your time. Savor it. Delight in Hughes' deft plotting, his ability to breathe life into his characters. If you love historical fiction, I can nearly guarantee you will devour this books and its sequels and hope for more.
Below is an article about Roman Cavalry Forts along Hadrian's Wall in England.
The Mysterious Absence of Stables at Roman Cavalry Forts
Many barracks have been found in Roman cavalry forts, such as Chesters on Hadrian’s Wall, but few stables – and visitors often ask where the horses were kept. Until recently it was believed that there must have been separate stables, but these have only rarely been found. Now, thanks to recent excavations, we can understand why.
In 1998–2000 the first complete modern excavations of cavalry barracks on Hadrian’s Wall took place at Wallsend and South Shields. At both sites, each of the contubernia – the pairs of rooms into which barrack blocks were divided – contained a centrally placed, elongated pit in its front room. Corresponding with each front-room pit was a hearth in the rear room.
This arrangement was immediately recognized as exactly resembling that found in some Roman fort buildings on the Continent, where preserved hay and fodder showed that horses had been stabled in the front room. The pits, covered with boards or stone slabs, collected horse urine and kept the floor dry.
For further information, go to the following link: http://www.english-heritage.org.uk/le...
The following is a an interesting if somewhat smelly story about sanitation in the Roman World
What Toilets and Sewers Tell Us About Ancient Roman Sanitation
November 19, 2015 by Ann Olga Koloski-Ostrow, The Conversation
I've spent an awful lot of time in Roman sewers – enough to earn me the nickname "Queen of Latrines" from my friends. The Etruscans laid the first underground sewers in the city of Rome around 500 BC. These cavernous tunnels below the city's streets were built of finely carved stones, and the Romans were happy to utilize them when they took over the city. Such structures then became the norm in many cities throughout the Roman world.
Focusing on life in ancient Rome, Pompeii, Herculaneum and Ostia, I'm deeply impressed by the brilliant engineers who designed these underground marvels and the magnificent architecture that masks their functional purpose. Sewer galleries didn't run under every street, nor service every area. But in some cities, including Rome itself, the length and breadth of the main sewer, the Cloaca Maxima, rivals the extent of the main sewer lines in many of today's cities. We shouldn't assume, though, that Roman toilets, sewers and water systems were constructed with our same modern sanitary goals in mind.
Full Article by Anna Olga Koloski-Ostrow,: http://phys.org/news/2015-11-toilets-...
Ancient World Notes
Click onto Ancient World Notes for the latest installment of Maintaining the Public Safety of Ancient Rome - Part XXII http://www.jessstevenhughes.com/blog....
Book Signings
Check the book signing page for the list of book signings, Winter/Spring 2016. This is a partial with more signings to be arranged. Besides Barnes & Noble and the Hastings Entertainment Group, I plan on events at Albertsons Grocery Stores in the Spokane, Washington area as well.
Winter has arrived at the Hughes residence with snow falling in late November. Being the holiday season is upon us I want to wish all of you Happy Holidays in whatever manner you celebrate them. From my house to yours a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
Until Next time, Ave Atque Vale! Hail and Farewell!
