The Conqueror (Constantine’s Empire Book #1)

The Conqueror Constantine's Empire #1 By Bryan Litfin First off, I really love the cover of this book. One sees a hero fighting for what they believe in and it fits with the description of the book. The idea behind this book is more than a little intriguing - an empire on the brink. A newish religion struggling to survive in the face of opposition. But the idea, in my opinion, was better than the book. I really tried to like this book and the beginning was more than promising but the further I got into the book the harder it was to keep reading. The excessive immorality and lingering on sexuality and physical attributes just turned me off. Seriously, I had to double-check just who the publisher was as this is not what I associate with Revell. I get it that the Roman Empire was morally bereft but I would have preferred fewer details about this aspect of their decadence. I'm sure that there are those who will not have their sensibilities taxed by these scenes. But I can't recommend this if you are looking for a clean read. I have read other books, that were in a similar time and place setting that were better if you are looking for historical fiction without the blatant, in-your-face debauchery. Unfortunately, for the book, this along with the pacing kept me from connecting in any way with the characters. I was provided with a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations but that I provide my honest opinion. All thoughts expressed are my own.