The Winds of Fate

Make the Darkness Light, Book 2

By: S. M. Stirling

Narrated by: Dean Gallagher

In a world where history can be rewritten at will, the threads of destiny intertwine in ways no one could have foreseen.

Years after their groundbreaking journey into the past, Artorius and his team stumble upon a devastating revelation: the Chinese government has dispatched five time-travelers and a trove of advanced technology back to 165 CE, during the waning days of the Han dynasty. While believing they were guiding Rome toward a new era of modernization and unity, the emergence of Chinese influence threatens to unravel everything they have fought for.

As whispers of innovation ripple through the ancient world, Artorius and his companions realize they are in a race against time—not just to protect their vision for a united future, but to prevent a catastrophic clash that could bring about nuclear war centuries sooner than they ever imagined.

With their own presence now at risk of exposure, they must navigate the treacherous waters of politics, technology, and culture in a world caught between two colossal powers. As the balance of history teeters on a knife's edge, loyalties will be tested, alliances forged, and the very fabric of fate will hang in the balance.

©2025 S. M. Stirling (P)2026 Tantor Media

great continuation from the first book

the attention to detail and kept me hooked and now waiting in anticipation for the Third book

History of weapons and warfare

Always love Sterling’s work but this was a bit repetitive. Still waiting for Conquistador to make it to Audible.

Fun

Love the story, though I cannot wish to see how things could have gone with out the Chinese ISOT added to our Roma-boos time travel.

A masterpiece of alternate history

I can’t wait for the third installment! This is definitely one of my favorite alternate history/time travel novels. Marcus Aurelius if one of my favorite historical characters and I love that he looms large in this series.

Artorius the repetitive

The first book was ok and the premise was interesting to me so I decided to continue the series even though I had issues with the first book. This one though took a nosedive, the Chinese being there makes absolutely no sense even if time travel were somehow possible and all these time travelers manage to survive in the past without a single one dying and we dont even meet 3 of the 5 Chinese at all. Then we have to hear for the millionth time about the intricacies of agriculture and how its benefited the Roman's. I could go on but wont with this series or this review.