What should I read next / FAQ

Are you curious about diving into my novels but unsure where to start? This guide is here to help.

TOC

1. ❓ What series should I start with?
2. 🔄 Is there character continuity in the Whispers of Atlantis series?
3. 👥 Which books in the Whispers of Atlantis series follow Deon and Eurydice?
4. ⚔️ How are the Cleopatra and Spartacus series different?
5. 🏛️ Which ancient civilizations do books in the Whispers of Atlantis anthology cover?
6. 📏 How long are your books?
7. ✍️ What’s your writing style like?
8. 📜 How historically accurate are your books?
9. 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Are the books appropriate for young readers?
10. ✅ Are your books available on Kindle Unlimited?
11. 🌐 Are any of your books set in the modern world?
12. 🤪 What is “Cousin Clay’s Confounding Claims” about?

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What series should I start with?

The most straightforward approach is to begin with the inaugural book of a series, as highlighted on my homepage. For the Whispers of Atlantis, start with The Atlantis Papyrus. For The Last Pharaoh on Cleopatra, dive into Regent. And for Spartacus, it’s Soldier. For the modern thrillers, start with The Weave.

So, how do you choose among these series? It’s all about your personal taste:

• For a diverse range of adventures in each book, begin with the Whispers of Atlantis.
• If you’re keen on a biographical style, then either The Last Pharaoh on the famous queen Cleopatra or The Spartacus Rebellion on the famed Gladiator will satisfy, based on which historical backdrop intrigues you more. Just so you know, these are not biographies or academic treatises. They are based on the famous characters and blend history with an exciting storyline full of twists and turns.
• For someone who loves a setting in the modern world, start with The Weave. It brings you to a world of technology, politics, and mystery, woven with a twist of history.

Is there character continuity in the Whispers of Atlantis series?

Yes, some books in the Whispers of Atlantis series feature recurring characters, specifically the duo Deon and Eurydice. However, each book in this anthology is a complete story with a logical ending—there are no cliffhangers.

Which books in the Whispers of Atlantis series follow Deon and Eurydice?

If you enjoy consistent character arcs, these books follow Deon and Eurydice:

1. The Atlantis Papyrus (#1)
2. The Curse of Ammon (#3) - Note: This is a prequel to #4, but features Deon and Eurydice’s first meeting.
3. Sinister Sands (#4)
4. Maurya (#6)

After these, you can read the other Whispers of Atlantis books in any order.

To see how these books interconnect, visit this page.

How are the Cleopatra and Spartacus series different?

They’re based on different historical figures and eras. If you prefer political intrigue, the lives of royals, and are fascinated by the famous queen, then the Cleopatra series is for you. The Spartacus books are grittier and take you to a more grim world of Roman rule, slavery, gladiator sport, revolt, and rebellion, no less compelling though. It’s about which world you’d like to explore first.

Which ancient civilizations do books in the Whispers of Atlantis anthology cover?

The Whispers of Atlantis covers a range, but here’s a quick summary of the major civilizations covered in each book:

• The Atlantis Papyrus: Egypt, Levant, India, set during and after Alexander the Great’s death.
• The Wrath of God: Egypt and a maritime power in the Great Green Sea, set in the time of the beginning of the 18th dynasty of Egypt, with Pharaoh Ahmose I.
• The Curse of Ammon: Egypt, set during Persian Emperor Cambyses’ invasion of Egypt.
• Sinister Sands: Egypt, set in the times of Ptolemy’s rule in Egypt.
• The Death Pit: Mesopotamia (Sumerian civilization), around the time of Ibbi-Sin, the last Sumerian king.
• Maurya: Persia, India, during the time of Seleucus Nicator and Chandragupta Maurya.
• The Crimson Aten: Egypt in the Amarna period of Akhenaten and Nefertiti.

Each book takes you to exciting eras. Pick the world you love the most!

How long are your books?

My books typically range from 300-450 pages, with most hovering around 350 pages. They’re designed to be substantial enough to fully develop characters and plot while maintaining a brisk pace. For those who prefer shorter reads, A Dangerous Daughter is a novella at 144 pages. For binge readers, the box sets (The Last Pharaoh Complete Collection and The Whispers of Atlantis BoxSet) offer over 1,000 pages of continuous storytelling. There are no cliffhangers in these books—each one is a complete story, even in series.

How historically accurate are your books?

I strive to stay close to known historical events while weaving fictional narratives through the gaps in our historical knowledge. You will find a notes section in each book that details the historical context of the story. I usually research the following:

• Historical timelines and events
• Cultural details and customs
• Geographic locations
• Political systems
• Military tactics and weapons
• Daily life in ancient times

When I do take creative liberties, it’s to enhance the story while remaining plausible within the historical context.

If you enjoy authors who combine historical authenticity with page-turning excitement, you’ll feel right at home.

Are the books appropriate for young readers?

My books are written for adult readers and contain:

• Complex political themes
• Military conflicts and battle scenes
• Violence and strong language
• Occasional sexual themes

While mature teenagers who enjoy historical fiction might appreciate these books, they’re primarily intended for adult readers.

Are your books available on Kindle Unlimited?

Yes, most of my books are available on Kindle Unlimited! The exceptions are Cousin Clay’s Confounding Claims and A Dangerous Daughter (which is exclusively available through newsletter subscription).

Are any of your books set in the modern world?

Yes. The new Dark Shadows series is set in the modern world and is a mix of thriller, mystery, and archeological elements. The first book is The Weave. If you enjoy a good conspiracy, tech, and twists, then grab it!

What is “Cousin Clay’s Confounding Claims” about?

Cousin Clay’s Confounding Claims takes a different approach from my other books. It’s a lighthearted yet informative exploration of 14 popular historical myths often circulated on social media. You’ll follow the entertaining and often misguided Cousin Clay as he shares his favorite viral history posts. Then, we dive into the facts, using archaeological evidence, ancient sources, and insights from figures like Herodotus and Plutarch to separate fact from fiction.

This book covers intriguing questions like:

• Did Atlantis exist?
• Were the pyramids built by a lost civilization?
• Was Cleopatra Egyptian?
• Did Caesar burn the Library of Alexandria?

It’s perfect for history enthusiasts, trivia lovers, and anyone who enjoys a good chuckle while learning.

I hope the answers above gave you a sense of what to expect from these books. I look forward to having you as a reader!

Jay (https://jaypenner.com)