One of the most compelling aspects of John Roberts’ novels is his portrayal of power—both in heroes and villains. In The Sons of the Empire, three exiled brothers must navigate betrayal, politics, and war to reclaim their throne. But what separates a just ruler from a tyrant?
Literature has given us iconic villains who were once heroes—Darth Vader, Macbeth, and even Thanos.
Similarly, The Return of the King raises the question: when King Aldric steps out of exile, is he truly a savior, or has vengeance corrupted him? Roberts excels at writing morally complex characters who defy simple categorization.
This post would explore the psychology of power, the thin line between justice and oppression, and how characters can be shaped by their circumstances. Are villains truly evil, or are they products of the choices they’ve made? This discussion invites readers to reconsider their perceptions of morality in storytelling.