Audiovisual Tour Guides
Simon Turney lives with his wife, children, rabbits and dog in rural North Yorkshire. Having spent much of his childhood visiting historic sites with his grandfather, a local photographer, Simon fell in love with the Roman heritage of the region, beginning with the world famous Hadrian’s Wall. His fascination with the ancient world snowballed from there with great interest in Egypt, Greece and Byzantium, though his focus has always been Rome.
Simon received an honours degree in classical history through the Open University. He then set off on an epic journey to turn Caesar’s Gallic War diaries into a novel. The first volume of Marius’ Mules was completed in 2003 and has garnered international success, bestseller status and rave reviews, spawning numerous sequels.
Simon has also written The Damned Emperor Series and co-authored the Rise of the Emperors Series which led to his writing of the BARDEUM experience for the Palatine Hill and Domitian's Palace in Rome.
Now, with in excess of 30 novels available and 5 awaiting release, Simon is a prolific writer, spanning genres and eras and releasing novels both independently and through renowned publishers including Canelo and Orion.
Adapted from simonturney.com
It is nightfall on the 27th of October in the year 312 A.D. Marcus Aurelius Valerius Maxentius Augustus, known to history simply as Maxentius has been named Emperor by an ineffectual Senate. He has made his court on the Palatine Hill as did the first true Emperors of Rome. The usurper Constantine has claimed himself Emperor and now sits with his army on the far side of the Tiber river, just beyond the Milvian Bridge. A battle is coming.
On the eve of this defining moment, Maxentius seeks to understand Rome’s future through ancient prophecy and ceremonial offerings to the gods. The only thing certain is that the morning will herald great change amid disaster and bloodshed, and Maxentius is challenging fate and the will of gods as he prepares for the dawn.
Step Inside the Story of this true event and learn about Emperor Maxentius, this critical turning point in Rome’s history and its reliance on prophecy & sacrifice. Walk through the Palace grounds with Maxentius as he prepares for the dawn. Envision the palace through his eyes and watch as he hides a secret that lays buried for almost 1700 years. Includes digital reconstructions.
BOOKS BY SIMON TURNEY
Rise of Emperors Series with Gordon Doherty: Sons of Rome & Masters of Rome
"A page turner from beginning to end . . . A damn fine read." —Ben Kane
"An exciting new series set in the 3rd century AD, perfect for fans of Simon Scarrow and Conn Iggulden."
The Damned Emperors Series: Caligula and Commodus
"Gripping, emotional, and authentic. The best Roman novel I've read in a long time. Simon Turney is one of the best historical novelists out there." ―Christian Cameron, author of KILLER OF MEN
"Energetic and intelligent" - Mary Beard, Professor of Classics at Cambridge
Marius Mules Series: The Invasion of Gaul; The Belgae; Gallia Invicta; Conspiracy of Eagles; Hades' Gate; Caesar's Vow; Prelude to War; The Great Revolt; Sons of Taranis Pax; Gallica; Fields of Mars; Tides of War; and Sands of Egypt
"Rich with gory battle scenes and dramatic espionage." - Kirkus Reviews
"Action that any HBO Series would envy" - Parmenion Books
The Praetorian Series: The Great Game; The Price of Treason; Eagles of Dacia; and Lions of Rome
"Entertaining, exciting and beautifully researched" - Douglas Jackson
"From the Legion to the Guard, from battles to the deep intrigue of court, Praetorian: The Great Game is packed with great characters, wonderfully researched locations and a powerful plot." - Robin Carter
Tales of the Empire Series: Interregnum; Ironroot; Dark Empress; Insurgency; Emperor's Bane; and Invasion
Knights Templar Series: Daughter of War; The Last Emir; and City of God
'Turney masters politics, pace and pursuit in this death-defying twelfth-century story ... stunning story-telling’ - Prue Batten, author of The Triptych Chronicle Trilogy
The Ottoman Cycle Series: The Thief's Tale; The Priest's Tale; The Assassin's Tale; and The Pasha's Tale
Simon is also a co-author of four historical novels including A Song of War; and A Year of Ravens: A Novel of Boudica's Rebellion.