The epic journey of Venu continues in the Second Volume of Blood of Empires. This fictional novel has the fugitive Venu living in a world woven with the rich tapestry of history and culture during the Roman era. The conception of the Roman Empire leads to the birth of many innovations and improvements including aqueducts, calendars, and the interconnection of all-weather roads. The progressive society of Rome embraced paganism when a new light penetrated the darkness, and brought forth a new hope for mankind. Venu hides in Palestina as a mercenary soldier while he flees bounty hunters and many other dangers as the story continues to address the universal struggle that permeates all ages. In Volume II, Venu will be reunited with his Spartan teacher from Athens's Lyceum while he discovers a new teacher named Nicodemus, and Venu will befriend the infamous woman caught in adultery. Historical and spiritual doors are opened while Venu continues his search for truth and answers. Ultimately, while Venu travels the length and breadth of the Promised Land, he will encounter the words and works of Jesus of Nazareth. Will Venu follow the Empire that spills blood or the one that will be formed by the shedding of blood? JOHN LAWRENCE BURKS - is a well-traveled educator and has lived in seven states. He and his wife currently reside in Michigan, where he presently teaches world religions and ancient history at the college level. In addition to writing, he is also a bronze sculptor.