“If you don't trust us, why tell us?”
And so Leo’s ominous plans for expanding the British Empire continue, while the Resistance fights back, in the second instalment of Russell Dumper’s Britannia series.
Having got my head around the world-building in the first book, I settled into Britannia Strikes very quickly this time, now that I know who everyone is and what their roles are. I still can’t help picturing our current Royal Family as this fictitious one though 🙈 — it’s been very cleverly imagined by the author.
I’m not usually a fan of political stories, but this series has really grabbed my attention. The level of research that must have gone into it is phenomenal, and I’m full of admiration for Russell’s dedication to a world he’s been developing since his teenage years.
This is a dystopian novel full of intrigue and mystery — and it’s quite frankly unsettling at times, as you realise how easily its events could mirror the real world, with all its relentless and often controversial decisions.
If you’re a fan of dystopian fiction, sci-fi, politics, or spy thrillers, this book has it all. I’m already eager to see what happens next.
Thank you to Russell Dumper for the gifted copy of Britannia Strikes.
About the Book
With King Alfred concentrating on Outpost, the British Empire is following a new, more sinister path. King Regent Leopold is pushing through his dream of expansion as he seeks to crush the rebellions rising in opposition. His plans, formed in the shadows, will have a devastating effect on his enemies and confirm The Empire as the only, true world superpower.
The Dayak are enjoying support and growth, following their victory in the Battle of Serpent Valley. With Nepal on the cusp of independence from the iron grip of The Empire, they must consolidate their position. But the British never give up so easily and the East India Company should never be underestimated. Letitia Pearl, Bob Royce, and the monks, must all spot the dangers lurking just across the border. And maybe closer to home, too...
Jamie Bayston is recovering from the loss of his family the only way he can - by throwing himself into his work. As Ed MacLoughlin and Trevor Layttle train him, and try to find answers, it looks increasingly likely that they will need to head back into the jaws of the lion to find them.
About Russell (taken from The Spalding & South Holland Voice)
Russell Dumper has followed his childhood dream of becoming an author. “I’ve always loved writing and it has brought be so much joy since I was a small boy. It’s a fire that burns inside of me, a passion that I’ve always had. I have so many more books to write, and I can’t wait to write them,” he said.
His book, Britannia Rises, is set in an alternate near future ruled by the British Empire.
“There are all kinds of characters, twists, links into modern events, action, suspense and surprises galore. “When asked, I describe it as a kind of modern Game of Thrones meeting a James Bond origin story. There are many plots overlapping each other and the main characters are deep and complex,” he added.
The father of two small children, who lives in Spalding, said he had the idea for the story aged 14 or 15.
“It’s developed a lot over the years, as you can imagine, with several rewrites to get to where it is now. It will appeal to anyone who loves thrillers and suspense books, from young adults upwards.
“It’s a story that will make you love and hate the same character. I suspect the full series will be seven or eight books,” said Russell.
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