Every Knee Shall Bow

Author: Bryan Litfin

Series: Constantine’s Empire #2

Publisher: Revell

Release Date: October 12, 2021

Yet another well researched novel!

Flavia and her mother have taken up the life of nuns following the Bishop Ossius on a journey.  They receive word that her uncle has passed and left his fortune to Flavia to be used for the young Christian church.  On the journey back to Rome, the vessel that Flavia and her mom are aboard is taken captive by human traffickers who intend to hold the bishop hostage for ransom and sell off all the women to the highest bidder.  Will Flavia manage to get out of this mess?

After being banished to the Roman navy, Rex has had enough of the harsh treatment of the sailors.  He mutinies against the soldiers and those who side with him take over control of the ship.  Now pirates on the open sea, Rex has been claiming cargo to keep his crew paid.  When he hears of a skirmish where the Bishop has been kidnapped and nuns sold into slavery, Rex knows it is probably Flavia.  He makes the decision to try to rescue her at any cost.

If you’ve read the first book in this series, then you will enjoy the continued adventures of Rex and Flavia.  Two unlikely characters thrown together.  Flavia, a devout Christian follower who somehow managers to find herself in life threatening situations, and Rex, a hardened soldier who gave up his country for love.  And the story is set against the backdrop of the Emperor Constantine’s empire converting the state religion to Christianity. 

This book will not be for everyone.  Litfin dives deep into research to set up accurate portrayals of the time period as well as supporting historical characters.  If you like this type of history (as I do), then you will enjoy sitting down and spending some time with this book.  Both the story of Rex and Flavia is captivating while getting to explore more of this time period.  Most ancient Roman novels are set during previous periods, so it is fun to learn more during this time and see it from the viewpoint of members of the early church.

I received a complimentary copy of this title from the publisher.  The views and opinions expressed within are my own.