Reviewed by Danelle Petersen for Readers' Favorite

Mask of Romulus by Mark Jamilkowski tells the story of the first emperor, Caesar Augustus, and the seer, Kamala. When Atia remarries, Augustus is sent to live with his grandmother, Julia, who introduces him to her brother, Julius Caesar. Augustus and Julius form a deep bond, and when Julius is assassinated by his fellow senators, Augustus exacts brutal revenge on them. Augustus proves his worth as a capable leader and warrior, becoming the first emperor of Rome. But there’s a sadness within Augustus which Kamala quickly detects. Plagued by self-doubt, his constant need for validation fuels his ambitions, with his need for control blinding him to his wrongs. His daughter, Julia, becomes embittered, leading her onto an isolated path of sorrow and destruction. Kamala, who has grown very fond of Augustus, vows to help him realize his true purpose. Will she succeed, or will Augustus succumb to the darkness?

Dark and brooding, Mask of Romulus invites readers on a journey of deep intrigue. The novel explores the importance of moral values, attaining them, and building diverse friendships and respecting others’ beliefs. Mark Jamilkowski paints a vivid picture of ancient times. The rich cultural diversity that I experienced through Kamala was wonderful; the smells and tastes she described as she entered each port or city took my senses on a journey of its own. Her companion, the Buddhist monk, Zarmanos, drew me in with his wise words and careful manner. The relationship dynamics of those times were shocking; the careless Infidelity among friends and the casual matching was something I never could have anticipated. I don’t doubt that Augustus loved Rome; his lack of insight and inability to love himself were the problem. I was delighted by the mention of Jesus’ birth and the three wise men; it was an unexpected connection. I thoroughly enjoyed Mask of Romulus, and so will fans of history and ancient times.