When Belief Becomes Violence: Linnea Tanner on Apollo’s Raven and Roman Britain
- Amanda Smith
- Feb 16
- 3 min read
Updated: May 18
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Historical fiction often returns us to moments when power reshaped belief — and belief reshaped identity. In her appearance on Down Under Interviews, award-winning author Linnea Tanner reflects on that intersection through her novel Apollo’s Raven, set in 24 AD during Rome’s expanding influence over Celtic Britain.
Rather than presenting empire as spectacle, Tanner explores its psychological and cultural consequences. Her protagonist, Catrin — a Celtic warrior princess — finds herself positioned between prophecy and politics, sovereignty and survival. The novel situates personal loyalty within imperial pressure, asking what happens when myth, power, and ambition collide.
Rome and the Edge of Empire in Apollo’s Raven
Set during early Roman political expansion into tribal Britain, Apollo’s Raven blends archaeological research, Celtic belief systems, and documented Roman maneuvering. Tanner’s approach does not romanticise antiquity. Instead, she examines how tribal identity and imperial strategy intersect — often violently.
In conversation, Tanner discusses the tension between Druidic prophecy and Roman realpolitik. She frames Rome not simply as conqueror, but as a political machine whose influence reshaped local power structures long before formal annexation.
Myth, Sovereignty, and Female Leadership
Central to the novel is Catrin’s evolving understanding of her role as the prophesied “Raven.” The prophecy does not grant certainty; it creates burden. Tanner’s portrayal of female leadership within ancient political systems avoids modern projection while acknowledging the historical presence of women in positions of tribal influence.
The novel’s exploration of sovereignty — both personal and political — echoes broader historical questions about identity under empire. Through Catrin, readers experience not just historical change, but moral tension.
Research Grounded in Place
Tanner’s work draws upon extensive research in ancient history, Celtic mythology, and archaeological context, supported by travel to historical sites in the United Kingdom. This research anchors the mythological elements of the story in tangible geography and political structure.
As discussed in the interview, research provides foundation — but mythology provides resonance.
A Conversation on Power and Belief
During her appearance on Down Under Interviews, Tanner reflects on how fiction allows us to examine belief systems at the moment they harden into ideology. Rome’s expansion into Britain becomes more than backdrop; it becomes pressure — shaping relationships, allegiances, and identity.
Apollo’s Raven is the first novel in Tanner’s Curse of Clansmen and Kings series and has received recognition within historical fiction and historical fantasy circles, including industry reviews and international book awards.
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About Linnea Tanner
Linnea Tanner is an award-winning and bestselling author of historical fiction and historical fantasy. Her Curse of Clansmen and Kings series explores ancient Rome and Celtic Britain through the lens of political power, mythology, and personal sovereignty. She is based in Fort Collins, Colorado.
Website: https://www.linneatanner.com
Universal Buy Link: https://books2read.com/Apollos-Raven
About Down Under Interviews
Down Under Interviews is an international author interview series hosted by historical novelist Paul Rushworth-Brown. The platform features published authors in historical fiction and related genres, exploring the moral and historical tensions that shape their work.
Watch more interviews here:https://www.youtube.com/@DownUnderInterviews
Interested in being featured? Authors can register their interest here:
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