The Etruscan Cipher

In the shadow of a rising empire, an ancient city teeters on the brink of destruction. Veii, a jewel of the Etruscan League, faces an implacable foe in the form of expansionist Rome, but the true danger may lie within its own walls. Larth, a young haruspex in training at the Temple of Voltumna, finds his world upturned by ominous prophecies and a web of political intrigue. As Rome's legions gather on the horizon, Larth uncovers a conspiracy that threatens to tear Veii apart from within—a secret cult, long-forgotten gods, and a betrayal that strikes at the heart of his city's leadership. Thrust into a desperate race against time, Larth must master his divinatory skills, forge unlikely alliances, and unlock the secrets of the Oculus of Tarchon, a powerful Etruscan artifact that could be Veii's only hope. But can he unravel the threads of treachery before Rome's shadow engulfs everything he holds dear? A sweeping tale of ancient magic, political manoeuvring, and cultural collision, this novel plunges you into the vibrant world of Etruria and explores the timeless struggle between destiny and free will. For fans of historical fantasy and gripping narratives with a touch of the mystical.