Epic adventure continues

First of all, let me give a shoutout to that gorgeous cover. Look how beautiful and erotic that cover is!

The mystery deepens in the incredibly exciting book 2 of the Dominus series.Games of Rome takes us further into the Roman traditions as we follow along the journey of Alle, Nic, Simon, Max, and the powerful, incredibly handsome, sexy Roman Commander Gaius Fabius Rufus.The murder mystery, as well as a few other surprises, provides a nice counterpoint to the developing ‘romance’ between Gaius and Allerix. What I also admire is the author's ability to write the erotica without the scenes seeming repetitive, and every sex scene furthers the characterization

I'm hoping I can pick up book three as soon as possible!

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Book 2 just as amazing as book 1! WONDERFUL!!!

In book 1 we get an incredibly thorough intro to all of the characters, the world they live in, the relationships, their backstories, and by the time you're finished, you can't wait to dive right in to the second book to see how all of this wonderful storytelling continues - and in Games of Rome, the plot gets so freaking thick you need a chainsaw to cut through it, it's SO good!

Book 1 ends cliffy and continues here right where it left off, and for the record, this one ends in a similar fashion. There are also far fewer sexy times in this second installation of the series, but there's so much going on otherwise (not too much that you can't follow - it's just so completely saturated in the plot you're 1,000% invested) that you don't even miss it. It's there when it needs to be though, and as in the first book, it's steamy as well. I'm now also getting invested in the "current day" story of the archaeologist/researcher examinating and investigating the findings he and his work partner have made that are related to the MC's in the historical story.

Oh, and total sidebar, I never cry over things that happen in books. Like, NEVER... but when one of the characters lives is cut short (not spoiling anything because I'm not telling you who it is lol), I teared up over the entire scene. Shocked the hell out of me but if that isn't a testament to how invested I am in these characters ** because the author writes them so damn well ** I don't know what is. Sometimes you feel as if they're REAL PEOPLE that you know personally. Totally amazing writing!

SO SO MANY pro's in this series, in this book, but if I had to list any con's: Book 1 was a slow burn between the MC's, but in this book, it's as if they jump from the beginning of trust with a side helping of distrust, to then being in love with each other. I guess since I read so much romance I was expecting a more delineated moment of realization of each ones love for the other, or a more dramatic or romantic declaration of love actually to one another, but I guess how it was written was far more in line with the overall tone of the story anyway. I think it was just a personal con that they aren't more romantic lol. Other than that, and the demise of one of the main side characters that I'm still a bit mad about lol, this second volume is yet another glorious read. OH - and the narration just keeps getting better and better! Nothing ruins an amazing story like horrible narration, and I'm thrilled to say that I don't think you could've found a better voice actor to tell this amazing tale! That's enough blabbering for now... ON TO BOOK 3!!!

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Even more engaging

These books are not standalones by any means, and the deeper we get into Gaius and Allerix's story, the more thrilling and twisted the plot becomes. Gaius and Allerix both struggle independently with their need for immortality, what that means to them, and what they are willing to do to achieve it. I loved the continuing growth of both the men and the relationship.

In addition to being incredibly well written and researched, the other piece that makes these novels and audio absolutely stellar literature is the supporting cast. The story is an education in Roman history, culture, mores, and social considerations, and JP has achieved this through the liberal introduction of characters from all strata of society, from Gaius' esteemed and feared grandmother (who is perhaps one of my all time favorite book characters) to Allerix's fellow pleasure slaves, to the Emperor Trajan and several of his cronies. As one reviewer of Dominus mentioned, it is important to remember the cultural differences between then and now, but with that firmly in mind I found the glimpses of Roman life to be fascinating.

Throughout the swings and reverses of the story, Hannibal and Nick do not disappoint - in fact, Hannibal in particular continues to bring the second century to life. The characters' voices are so unique that they are identifiable, even though he voices them all. Nick's narrating of the present-day wrapper story is fun, a little snarky, and very much presents the character as someone I'd like to have a drink with in a Roman rooftop bar, while learning more about his historical findings.

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Awesome as always

Another's amazing book. I love this series and can't wait for the next. The first 2 are so good. Lots of adventure, steamy scenes , and humor. Great narration too.

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Games of Love and Vengeance

Games of Rome is the second book in the Dominus series, a historical series set within an alternative timeline of ancient Rome. I highly, highly, highly recommend reading Dominus, the first book in the series, before reading Games of Rome. There are a lot of important plot points and character development that happens in the first book that is carried forward into this book.

One of my favorite elements about Games of Rome, and the Dominus series as a whole, is the INCREDIBLE world building based on accurate historical information. These details really bring the book to life and I love how certain plot elements tie in with major events that actually happened in history. I can tell the author is an expert in this subject and used her expertise to craft this rich and intriguing story. I also adore the characters – their morals and cultural norms definitely reflect the time period they are set in (which can be hard for some readers), but I found this fascinating. All the characters have depth and layers to them, and their emotions and reactions are powerful and tangible. The intensity that flows through this book made it hard to put down. This book has it all – action, drama, political intrigue, suspense, and some delicious steamy moments.

The audiobook is so well done with a wonderful production and narration. It was dueled narrated by Nick J. Russo and Hannibal Hills who both do such a fantastic job. They not only narrated this book, but performed it with a wonderful mix of emotion and energy without overdoing it. I love these narrators voice and felt captivated by their voices and the story. Overall, I was really pleased with this audiobook and enjoyed it immensely.

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Getting better all the time!

The first book to a little bit for me to get into with the narrator. However this second installment has me captivated!

Patiently waiting for book 3 of the series to be available. Which will pick up where the climactic ending of this one left off.

*Possible Spoilers*

Allerix is growing to be one of my favorite characters (previously I loved Gaius). The obvious struggles he is facing with guilt towards his people and country, revenge seems the only answer. He’s slowly realizing that he has lost his heart to his Domius, whom has already made it known how captivated by Allerix he has become.

The narrators has gained momentum with his character development, for that I’m grateful of his stronger ‘voice’ of Allerix.

This reader is still in love with the Roman red headed bastard, but his pleasure slave is slowly creeping into the lead!

Fantastic stories by a very talented writer. Her stories are incredible, I encourage everyone to listen to these. You won’t be disappointed in them.

Looking forward to the next two books in this historical series.

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Impassioned and Intriguing Historical Drama and Romance!

I loved the first book in this series, so I was excited for book 2. And it definitely did not disappoint. The story continues to be beyond intriguing and never fails to hold my interest. The world building and attention to historical detail is extremely impressive, yet the author still manages to keep the relationships relatable and real. The story really heats up in this book, and I can’t wait to see what happens in the next one!

The narration, as in book 1, was superb. The impressive variation in voices and the impassioned tone of both narrators makes for a compelling and eloquent performance. I highly recommend this particular audiobook, as well as the series.

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More Gaius and Allerix, a great sequel!

I loved this second book so much!
We find all the characters from book 1, and since we’re now acquainted with them, their personalities and interactions, the plot begins to thicken!
There’s so much in this second book: sex, politics, new lives, death and betrayal. But there’s also love and affection, hope and heartbreak.

I really hope that the audiobook for book 3 will be in our ears ASAP, I need more Gaius and Alle!

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excellent!!!

OMG!!!! This series is so amazing, I'm hooked!! I couldn't stop listening, it's so good! I love the historical setting and I absolutely adore the characters. It's really really good I highly recommend it. just keep in mind that it will break your heart. And the narrattors are brilliant! Excellent! I can't wait for the next one!

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The games continue...

The mysteries opened at the end of Dominus only deepen in this fast-paced second installment. Like the first book, Games of Rome features nuanced characters in complex and dangerous relationships, where figuring out who to trust and who to please means life or death. The narration of this series is immensely entertaining, with a talented voice actor who brings the characters and urgency to life.

Disclaimer: I received a copy for free and am voluntarily leaving a review. All opinions are my own.

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