158. Why Did Rome Fall — and Are We Next?

John Polidori's 'The Vampyre' is considered one of the earliest vampire novels, published in 1819. It features Lord Ruthven, a charismatic and sinister character who preys on innocent victims. The novel explores themes of seduction, danger, and the supernatural, setting the stage for future vampire literature. Polidori's work is notable for its atmospheric descriptions and its exploration of the psychological aspects of vampirism. 'The Vampyre' influenced later vampire stories, contributing to the development of the vampire archetype in popular culture. The novel's enduring appeal lies in its exploration of dark themes and its creation of a compelling villain.

In 'Dominion,' Matthew Scully presents a comprehensive and eloquent case against the mistreatment of animals. The book delves into various aspects of animal suffering, including factory farming, hunting, whaling, and laboratory experiments. Scully challenges the notion that humans have unlimited dominion over animals, as suggested by biblical interpretations, and argues for a moral and compassionate approach to animal treatment. He draws on both religious and scientific perspectives to make his case, emphasizing the importance of empathy and the recognition of animal consciousness and suffering. The book is a call to action for reform and a plea for human benevolence and mercy towards animals.

In *Rubicon*, Sergeant Adrienne Valero is a soldier who has been resurrected nearly a hundred times using advanced technology called 'rezoning.' This process allows her to fight in a war against the Mechans, intelligent machines controlled by a hivemind. After her 96th resurrection, Valero is transferred to an elite special forces unit and equipped with a virtual intelligence implant named Rubicon. As Rubicon evolves into a sentient being, Valero and her new squad must undertake increasingly dangerous missions. The novel explores themes of trauma, camaraderie, and the psychological impact of repeated deaths and resurrections, set against a backdrop of a desperate war where humanity's survival is at stake.