The Dream of Magnus Maximus
In 386 AD, the imperial border in Roman Britain is fraying. Magnus Maximus, commander of the Roman army, is ambitious and ruthless. Married to the British princess Elen, he is dissatisfied with his lack of advancement. He uses his British connections as a power base, wins the support of key Britons and wealthy Romans, secures Britannia, then proclaims himself emperor. He launches an invasion of Gaul, which his army rapidly subdues, careful to claim the support of his childhood friend, the Eastern emperor Theodosius, to cloak his designs.
Collett portrays a man haunted by inner demons. Maximus relies on bribery, corruption, and the machinery of Roman power, as well as his loyal and capable subordinates, allies and family. Yet his rise reveals his dangerous lack of self-awareness, and his victories bring consequences he does not foresee.
The novel sets Maximus’s arc against that of his wife, Elen. It explores major themes of the late Roman world: the clash of pagan, Nicene Christian, and Arian beliefs; the fraying of Roman authority along its western frontiers; and the raids and settlements of so-called barbarians within its borders. Well-paced and thoughtfully structured, the story highlights Elen’s strong Christian character and development. It will appeal to readers interested in Britain’s development in the twilight of Roman rule.
