Historium Press
Page Length: 392
Genre: Dual Time-Line
What Remains is a haunting dual-timeline mystery that bridges centuries-and secrets-between ancient Rome and the modern world.
Forensic anthropologist Tori Benino has just landed the opportunity of a lifetime: leading a dig at a long-buried Roman village lost to the eruption of Vesuvius. But when she uncovers the remains of a Praetorian guard hidden in an ancient latrine-clearly murdered-Tori realizes she's stumbled onto something far more sinister than a routine excavation. As she digs deeper into the past, her own carefully ordered life begins to fall apart.
Nearly two thousand years earlier, Thalia, the daughter of a wealthy merchant, is desperate to escape an arranged marriage to a brutal and politically powerful senator. Her only hope lies with a Praetorian soldier assigned to guard her-but trusting him could cost her everything.
As past and present collide, What Remains asks: When history is buried, what truths refuse to stay hidden?
It is often said that every story has three sides, yet what happens when the truth is hidden beneath layers of volcanic ash for more than 2,000 years?
In “What Remains,” Erryn Lee intricately crafts a dual-timeline narrative that navigates between the past and the present. The story unfolds through the eyes of richly developed characters, each facing extraordinary circumstances that challenge their beliefs and resilience. As the past gradually interlaces with the present, readers are drawn into the emotional depth of the characters' experiences, revealing how their histories shape their current lives and decisions. Lee's skilful storytelling not only highlights the complexities of human relationships but also emphasises the lasting impact of unresolved issues and the quest for peace and healing.
There are three captivating threads in this novel, each intricately woven in a different time and place. The first thread plunges readers into the ancient world, where ash is raining down from the sky, a foreboding sign of the cataclysmic eruption of Mount Vesuvius. The ground trembles beneath the terrified citizens, their hearts racing with dread as they ponder the ominous question: have they angered the gods? The second thread takes us to the bustling, sun-drenched streets of modern-day Ercolano (Naples), where our determined heroine works at the remarkable archaeological site of Herculaneum. She hopes to provide National Geographic with a compelling reason to continue funding the dig. Here, remnants of a once-thriving civilisation await discovery. The third thread unfolds against the stark and poignant backdrop of contemporary Ukraine. Initially, this seems disconnected from the scenes of Herculaneum, but as the story weaves back and forth between the ancient and modern worlds, a meaningful connection begins to emerge. The historical and cultural significance of the Ukrainian events gradually surfaces, revealing their essential role in illuminating the overarching themes and the unfolding drama that binds these disparate threads together, creating a rich and enthralling story.
Thalia is an endearing character who draws readers in with her charm and resilience. At first, she is a hopeful bride, filled with fantasies of a beautiful future alongside her husband, Messalinu. As she steps into marriage, Thalia believes she will find happiness and companionship. However, as the tale unfolds, it becomes clear that Messalinu harbours a dark secret: he has no romantic interest in her at all. Although he initially treats her with respect and appears caring, his true nature soon reveals itself—he has no intention of sharing his life with her in an intimate way. As Thalia grapples with the bewildering behaviour of her husband, she faces the harsh reality of her naivety about love and marriage. In her quest for understanding, she slowly realises that Messalinu is only attracted to men and young boys. Despite her painful discoveries, Thalia makes every effort to maintain a façade of normality. She endeavours to please him by fulfilling his requests, which include gathering and relaying gossip that he can use to his own manipulative advantage. However, this approach alienates her from the women of her social class, who begin to see her as a participant in her husband’s voracious business dealings. Throughout this tumultuous journey, Thalia suffers a considerable amount of trauma. The narrative does not shy away from depicting the agonising experiences she endures, including instances of rape, domestic violence, and even the chilling threat of attempted murder. Despite these overwhelming challenges, Thalia’s spirit perseveres. She is a woman whom readers cannot help but empathise with; her struggles elicit compassion as she transforms from a once-vibrant bride into a mere shell of her former self, carrying the weight of her tragic experiences. As she navigates the darkest times of her life, her resilience and resolve to survive resonate with readers, leaving a lasting impression and reminding them of the enduring power of hope, even in the bleakest circumstances.
Vittoria “Tori” Benino is a richly developed character whose motivations are both clear and yet intricately layered. A forensic anthropologist with an unquenchable thirst for knowledge, Tori has dedicated her life to unravelling the mysteries of the past. Recently, she landed what she considers could be the pinnacle of her career: the opportunity to lead an archaeological dig at the long-buried Roman town of Herculaneum. This site was tragically lost in the catastrophic explosion of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. The town, preserved beneath layers of volcanic ash, offers Tori a rare glimpse into an era that has been frozen in time. Yet, her excitement is tempered by the looming presence of Direttore Franko Cyrano, the superintendent overseeing the ancient site. Cyrano is a man driven by ambition, desperate to make a ground-breaking discovery that not only elevates the site’s historical significance but also attracts tourists and generates vital revenue for the local economy. Herculaneum is often overshadowed by its neighbouring city of Pompeii, but that could change if something exciting is discovered. His agenda often puts him at odds with Tori’s scholarly pursuits, creating a tension that simmers just beneath the surface.
The situation takes a thrilling turn when Tori and her team make a startling discovery: a skeleton dumped in a latrine. This discovery does not merely excite Tori; it presents a multitude of questions and possibilities. Drawing upon her extensive expertise and analytical skills, Tori hypothesises that the skeleton likely belonged to a Praetorian—an elite member of the Roman guard tasked with protecting high-ranking political figures. The unusual positioning of the body, however, raises troubling questions. Tori is convinced that this individual did not just happen to meet his end in the sewer; rather, the circumstances of his death hint at a darker, more sinister narrative. This realisation ignites her curiosity and fuels her determination to uncover the truth behind his mysterious demise.
Complicating matters further, Tori’s personal life adds layers of depth to her character. Much like Thalia, she finds herself ensnared in the intricate web woven by a powerful man whose political influence allows him to operate above the law.
Tori’s story is nothing short of compelling, brimming with vivid emotions and meticulous detail. Her intense passion for anthropology breathes life into her narrative, drawing the reader into a world where the past holds secrets that are waiting to be revealed. The way Tori intertwines her individual journey with her academic pursuits creates a captivating experience that keeps readers spellbound, eager to follow her as she unearths the complexities of both the human experience and the historical narratives buried in the ashes of time.
Samir Abraimov Al’Shani is a character who instantly evokes deep compassion from readers. Once a hopeful man with dreams for the future, his life shatters when ruthless Russian forces invade his home on what was meant to be his twin sons’ 4th birthday party. The Russian soldiers showed neither mercy nor humanity. The harrowing experiences he endures—witnessing the destruction of his home and the loss of loved ones—are depicted with heart-wrenching clarity. His resilience shines through as he navigates the aftermath, facing challenges that would break even the strongest spirit. Each chapter of his story reveals the depths of his suffering, leaving readers on the verge of tears as they grapple with the weight of his journey. What he has faced and continues to face serves as a powerful testament to the human spirit’s capacity to endure in the face of overwhelming adversity and grief.
The rendering of Ancient Rome is intricately woven with meticulous attention to historical detail, immersing the reader in a colourful and dynamic world that pulses with life. The narrative opens dramatically, depicting ash falling from the sky over Herculaneum, an eerie reminder to the reader of the eruption of Mount Vesuvius. This haunting image sets the stage for a journey through time as the story gracefully transitions back to the grandeur of Rome itself. Central to the tale is the Domus Aurea, Nero’s magnificent golden palace perched majestically on the Oppian Hill. Despite the lavishness that envelops Thalia, the pursuit of genuine happiness becomes increasingly elusive in her gilded cage. Throughout this captivating narrative, it is abundantly clear that Lee has dedicated extensive hours to researching this era, skillfully crafting an authentic representation of Ancient Rome that invites readers to experience its rich history, cultural depth, and emotional complexity.
The portrayal of modern-day Italy is also exquisitely detailed, bringing the vibrant landscapes and rich culture to life. The excavation site is depicted with remarkable detail, drawing readers into its depths. What truly captivates is Tori’s profound insights as a forensic anthropologist; her expertise adds an intriguing layer to the narrative. As you immerse yourself in this book, you can easily visualise the scenes unfolding before you. It is like watching a fascinating National Geographic documentary on television.
As the narrative moves to modern-day Ukraine, the setting is vividly established, with detailed descriptions of the Ukrainian countryside, the gutted farmhouse, and the sombre burial site. The setting helps to ground the reader in the story and create a sense of realism. The juxtaposition between the serene, picturesque surroundings and the harsh brutality of war lends a profound emotional depth to the story.
In Kharkiv, the city bears the scars of invasion, with buildings marred by explosions and sombre residents. Yet, beneath this devastation lies the enchanting Metro, a world apart, where the hustle and bustle of daily life continues, surrounded by ornate tiles and intricate designs, offering a stark contrast to the chaos above. Here, in the depths of the underground, it feels as though time stands still, providing a brief escape from the grim realities that loom just outside. However, the reader is reminded that the underground station also serves as a bomb shelter, which is indeed a sobering thought.
This story is characterised by remarkable clarity and vividness, each word carefully chosen to paint striking images in the reader’s mind. The seamless flow of the narrative not only captivates the imagination but also engages the emotions, pulling readers deeper into the story. As a result, it becomes exceedingly difficult to tear oneself away from the pages, ensuring that the book remains a constant companion until the very last word is read.
“What Remains” by Erryn Lee is a captivating novel that offers an emotional journey for its readers. While the narrative is beautifully crafted, some moments can be quite distressing. In particular, the scenes set in Ukraine resonate deeply, especially considering the ongoing conflict in the region as I pen this review. The vivid descriptions and poignant storytelling bring to life the harsh realities faced by those living through such tumultuous times, making it a powerful and thought-provoking read.
This book comes highly recommended.
Review by Mary Anne Yarde
Yarde Book Reviews & Book Promotions
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Release Date: 13th September 2025
Erryn Lee
Erryn Lee has spent most of her life between the covers of books, her love for historical fiction drew her to a career as an English and History teacher, where she enjoys sharing her passion for both language and the past with young adults (at least until she needs to give it up to write full time).
When not teaching or writing she is deeply immersed in research and studying her Masters in History. Erryn lives with her husband, a fluctuating number of horses and three bossy cavoodles on a horse farm in the picturesque central west of NSW, Australia.
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