A family. An empire. A continent moving toward war. The story of those who could see the future gathering—yet could not stop it.
Beginning in the final years of Queen Victoria's reign, An Empire of Days follows the diplomat Edward Ashton through the alliances, rivalries and private loyalties of a Europe that believes its institutions will endure.
Across drawing rooms and diplomatic offices, through marriage, family and the approach of war, one life becomes a witness to a changing world.
Start with The Second Son, the opening volume of An Empire of Days: The Long Fuse.
1889–1893
Edward Ashton's journey begins in the corridors of Victorian diplomacy, where personal ambition and political foresight collide with the forces reshaping Europe.
For availability and purchasing information, visit Arthur Pemberton's author website.
Visit the author siteThe story continues beyond the first six volumes into the years of the Great War.
From the diplomatic balance of late Victorian Europe to the human cost of the First World War.
Six volumes chart the political tensions and personal choices that shape the years before Europe descends into war.
As diplomacy yields to conflict, the saga follows the consequences for Edward Ashton, his family and the world they have known.