When Belief Becomes Violence: Linea Tanner on Myth, Power, and Empire

In this episode of Down Under Interviews, Australian author and host Paul Rushworth-Brown speaks with Linea Tanner, author of Apollo’s Raven.Set in Roman-occupied Britannia, Tanner’s work uses myth and history to explore how belief systems shape power, justify violence, and sustain empire. Rather than offering simple heroes or moral resolution, the conversation examines myth as a tool of control, resistance, and survival.This long-form discussion looks at writing historical fantasy grounded in research, the role of legend in normalising conquest, and how ancient stories reflect real historical pressures.Recorded for Down Under Interviews.Also airing via History Bards Podcast and Meet the Author (US).