Dragons & Spaceships

Religion, Rebellion, and Rome: Talking Vesta with Marcia Twain

Ippen Digital Season 1 Episode 43

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In this episode of Dragons and Spaceships, host Brandi sits down with author Jeffrey Hops (writing as Marcia Twain) to explore Vesta and Her Children—a powerful historical novel set in the twilight of ancient Rome. From gender and legacy to religious identity and crumbling empires, this story offers a bold reimagining of the forces that shaped history.

What we cover:

  • The inspiration behind the Marcia Twain pseudonym
  • Vesta’s character, historical context, and personal journey
  • Challenging the traditional date of Rome’s fall
  • Religion and pluralism in the late Roman Empire
  • Behind-the-scenes insights into writing impactful historical fiction
  • Vesta’s antagonists and central conflicts

Guest: Jeffrey Hops, author of Vesta and Her Children

Where to Find the Book: Available on Amazon and Goodreads

More Info: Visit marciatwainbooks.com

Content Warnings: Political violence, gender discrimination, historical trauma

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