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Legionary #9
Legionary: The Emperor's Shield
Easier to split the sky, than part a soldier from his blade.
386 AD. The Eastern Roman Empire faces a trident of threats. The Gothic truce grows unstable. The standoff with Persia escalates. And the ambitions of the usurper on the Western throne grow dangerously unchecked.
Pavo, a broken veteran of the legions, cares for none of these things. His life is one of pastoral seclusion on his Thracian farm. A life of love, of peace. His wife and young son are his world. Still, every so often, things seen and done in his old life haunt him, like a cold and unwelcome breeze. But that is all they are, echoes of the past…
…until the past rises, like a shade, to rip his world and the Roman Empire apart.
_________________________
Praise for The Emperor's Shield ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
"Doherty once again proves himself a master of Roman fiction. His ability to weave detailed knowledge of the Roman world into a rip-roaring adventure is second to none. This novel is authentic, enthralling, and a must read for anyone in search of swords, adventure, or just to be transported to the ancient world." - Peter Gibbons, author of the hit 'Viking Blood and Blade' series & winner of the 2022 Kindle Storyteller Award
"I loved this book. You are gripped from the moment you begin to read. Intrigue and treachery ooze from every word of the prologue, guaranteeing that you will read on. An epic story of life in a decaying and self-destructive empire, I can highly recommend the latest book from a master of his craft." - Griff Hosker, author of over 150 bestselling historical novels
" A page-turning adventure in a meticulously detailed world, with a likeable hero in the weary ex-legionary Pavo, entwined once more - reluctantly - in the tangled and bloody politics of the late fourth century Roman Empire and the machinations of a mysterious saboteur." - Damion Hunter, bestselling author of Roman fiction, including 'Shadow of the Eagle'
"The novel is thick with adventure, intrigue, and high drama. Doherty is a skillful author who draws the reader in with the force of his vision." - Historical Novel Society
"I’ve found my book of 2023! I don’t think you’ll find any better storyteller out there!" - David's Book Blurg
"What an adventure! Pavo is the perfect protagonist, and Gordon Doherty is one of the best storytellers around." - History, the Interesting Bits!
"Action-packed, assured, thrilling" - WhatCathyReadNext
386 AD. The Eastern Roman Empire faces a trident of threats. The Gothic truce grows unstable. The standoff with Persia escalates. And the ambitions of the usurper on the Western throne grow dangerously unchecked.
Pavo, a broken veteran of the legions, cares for none of these things. His life is one of pastoral seclusion on his Thracian farm. A life of love, of peace. His wife and young son are his world. Still, every so often, things seen and done in his old life haunt him, like a cold and unwelcome breeze. But that is all they are, echoes of the past…
…until the past rises, like a shade, to rip his world and the Roman Empire apart.
_________________________
Praise for The Emperor's Shield ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
"Doherty once again proves himself a master of Roman fiction. His ability to weave detailed knowledge of the Roman world into a rip-roaring adventure is second to none. This novel is authentic, enthralling, and a must read for anyone in search of swords, adventure, or just to be transported to the ancient world." - Peter Gibbons, author of the hit 'Viking Blood and Blade' series & winner of the 2022 Kindle Storyteller Award
"I loved this book. You are gripped from the moment you begin to read. Intrigue and treachery ooze from every word of the prologue, guaranteeing that you will read on. An epic story of life in a decaying and self-destructive empire, I can highly recommend the latest book from a master of his craft." - Griff Hosker, author of over 150 bestselling historical novels
" A page-turning adventure in a meticulously detailed world, with a likeable hero in the weary ex-legionary Pavo, entwined once more - reluctantly - in the tangled and bloody politics of the late fourth century Roman Empire and the machinations of a mysterious saboteur." - Damion Hunter, bestselling author of Roman fiction, including 'Shadow of the Eagle'
"The novel is thick with adventure, intrigue, and high drama. Doherty is a skillful author who draws the reader in with the force of his vision." - Historical Novel Society
"I’ve found my book of 2023! I don’t think you’ll find any better storyteller out there!" - David's Book Blurg
"What an adventure! Pavo is the perfect protagonist, and Gordon Doherty is one of the best storytellers around." - History, the Interesting Bits!
"Action-packed, assured, thrilling" - WhatCathyReadNext
- GenresHistorical Fiction
420 pages, Paperback
Published January 18, 2023
111 people are currently reading
91 people want to read
About the author
Gordon Doherty
41 books298 followersI'm a Scottish writer, addicted to reading and writing historical fiction.
My love of history was first kindled by visits to the misty Roman ruins of Britain and the sun-baked antiquities of Turkey and Greece. My expeditions since have taken me all over the world and back and forth through time (metaphorically, at least), allowing me to write tales of the later Roman Empire, Byzantium, Classical Greece and even the distant Bronze Age.
All of my novels are available from good online stores in paperback and eBook format.
Happy reading!
My website: www.gordondoherty.co.uk
My Twitter: @GordonDoherty
My Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GordonDohert...
My YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCybC...
My love of history was first kindled by visits to the misty Roman ruins of Britain and the sun-baked antiquities of Turkey and Greece. My expeditions since have taken me all over the world and back and forth through time (metaphorically, at least), allowing me to write tales of the later Roman Empire, Byzantium, Classical Greece and even the distant Bronze Age.
All of my novels are available from good online stores in paperback and eBook format.
Happy reading!
My website: www.gordondoherty.co.uk
My Twitter: @GordonDoherty
My Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GordonDohert...
My YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCybC...
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Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews
March 27, 2023
I kid a lot about wanting to grow up to be just like (famous author)...I say that a lot when I'm reading this particular author. Pavo and his mates have been a part of my reading for quite a few years now.. they've been through the ringer many times, and each time the telling gets better. In The Emperor's Shield, Pavo is forced out of retirement at the behest of the Emperor.. what follows is a tale that had me guessing the whole book as to who was the traitor in their midst. Twists and turns placed along the pathway keeps one from closing the book, despite desperate pleas from grand children for a snack, despite the need to sleep, despite the other three books you're reading, or the one you're writing (in my case).. In other words, you can't put it down. A five star episode in a 5 star series.
February 12, 2023
The Emperor's Shield is the ninth book in the Legionary series featuring Roman soldier, Pavo. It's only the second book in the series I've read - the other was number seven, The Blood Road - although I've also read two books in the Rise of Emperors series co-written with Simon Turney.
As the book opens, Pavo has swapped the military life for that of a farmer - or, at least, that's what he thinks.
The Roman Empire is divided and in turmoil, well on the path to its eventual decline and fall, with the bonds that held its disparate parts together weakening and enemies beyond its borders a growing threat. Add the machinations of those hungry for power within the Empire and you have a time bomb waiting to explode.
It's no surprise that Pavo's military experience and strategic nous sees him receiving a recall to the service of Emperor Theodosius. It's a recall he initially refuses until the repercussions of the turmoil in the Empire come frighteningly close to home. 'F**k Rome and its fat aristocrats and magnates. All that matters to me is my family... They are my empire.'
Reading the author's note one realises just how skilfully he has conjured an exciting story out of historical fact, adding fictional characters such as the secretive Frugilo, Pavo's faithful friend, Sura, and, of course, Pavo himself.
Once again, Pavo lives up to his reputation as a formidable fighter, an inspired tactician and a loyal comrade. But you can't see and do the things Pavo has without it having an impact. As he confides, 'In my sleep, I see the ones who have fallen. So many, too many'. But is the scene that haunts his dreams over and over again, a memory of his past or a vision of the future?
The Emperor's Shield is historical fiction with something for everyone. There are intense, bloody and bone-crunching battle scenes, including some brilliant set pieces such as the storming of a seemingly impregnable fortress. There is detail of Roman army structure, weaponry and military strategy that oozes authenticity. (A helpful glossary is provided for those who don't know their hexareme from their liburnian.) And an element of mystery is introduced by means of a man known only as Peregrinus, whom we know is a wily and ruthless traitor at the very heart of Theodosius' inner circle, but whose identity remains a secret. His mission is to create havoc, something he does very successfully with others paying the price of his deadly game.
I thoroughly enjoyed The Emperor's Shield. The author reveals the next book will be the last in the series. What does the future hold for Pavo? I'd like to hope it involves a peaceful life alongside his wife and son - after some more exciting adventures of course.
As the book opens, Pavo has swapped the military life for that of a farmer - or, at least, that's what he thinks.
The Roman Empire is divided and in turmoil, well on the path to its eventual decline and fall, with the bonds that held its disparate parts together weakening and enemies beyond its borders a growing threat. Add the machinations of those hungry for power within the Empire and you have a time bomb waiting to explode.
It's no surprise that Pavo's military experience and strategic nous sees him receiving a recall to the service of Emperor Theodosius. It's a recall he initially refuses until the repercussions of the turmoil in the Empire come frighteningly close to home. 'F**k Rome and its fat aristocrats and magnates. All that matters to me is my family... They are my empire.'
Reading the author's note one realises just how skilfully he has conjured an exciting story out of historical fact, adding fictional characters such as the secretive Frugilo, Pavo's faithful friend, Sura, and, of course, Pavo himself.
Once again, Pavo lives up to his reputation as a formidable fighter, an inspired tactician and a loyal comrade. But you can't see and do the things Pavo has without it having an impact. As he confides, 'In my sleep, I see the ones who have fallen. So many, too many'. But is the scene that haunts his dreams over and over again, a memory of his past or a vision of the future?
The Emperor's Shield is historical fiction with something for everyone. There are intense, bloody and bone-crunching battle scenes, including some brilliant set pieces such as the storming of a seemingly impregnable fortress. There is detail of Roman army structure, weaponry and military strategy that oozes authenticity. (A helpful glossary is provided for those who don't know their hexareme from their liburnian.) And an element of mystery is introduced by means of a man known only as Peregrinus, whom we know is a wily and ruthless traitor at the very heart of Theodosius' inner circle, but whose identity remains a secret. His mission is to create havoc, something he does very successfully with others paying the price of his deadly game.
I thoroughly enjoyed The Emperor's Shield. The author reveals the next book will be the last in the series. What does the future hold for Pavo? I'd like to hope it involves a peaceful life alongside his wife and son - after some more exciting adventures of course.
February 16, 2023
The Emperor’s Shield by Gordon Doherty is the ninth book in the Legionary series, and you guessed it, it’s the first book in the series that I’ve read:) (This is somewhat of a theme for me).
That said, I had no problem being gripped by the story. Pavo is a wonderful character, and while to begin with, I did think this was ‘his’ story, more characters were quickly introduced, and the world of the late 300s of the Roman Empire sharply come into focus. This isn’t a period I know a great deal about – especially not in the Eastern Empire, but Pavo, his wife, son and Frugilo make the period come alive. The camaraderie between Pavo and his old friends adds the human touch to the story, which is a complex web of lies and misdirection taking place over vast distances.
This is truly a story on an epic scale. It probably has a cast of thousands, although not all of them are named. There are warriors from all corners of the Roman Empire, East and West, and Pavo is in the thick of it all as one of the Eastern Emperor’s elite bodyguards.
The tension throughout the final 25% of the book ramps up spectacularly, and I had to stop myself from googling the period to find out what actually happened before I got to the end.
A thrilling tale of empire and conspiracy that certainly leaves the reader desperate to go back to book 1, or eagerly waiting for book 10.
That said, I had no problem being gripped by the story. Pavo is a wonderful character, and while to begin with, I did think this was ‘his’ story, more characters were quickly introduced, and the world of the late 300s of the Roman Empire sharply come into focus. This isn’t a period I know a great deal about – especially not in the Eastern Empire, but Pavo, his wife, son and Frugilo make the period come alive. The camaraderie between Pavo and his old friends adds the human touch to the story, which is a complex web of lies and misdirection taking place over vast distances.
This is truly a story on an epic scale. It probably has a cast of thousands, although not all of them are named. There are warriors from all corners of the Roman Empire, East and West, and Pavo is in the thick of it all as one of the Eastern Emperor’s elite bodyguards.
The tension throughout the final 25% of the book ramps up spectacularly, and I had to stop myself from googling the period to find out what actually happened before I got to the end.
A thrilling tale of empire and conspiracy that certainly leaves the reader desperate to go back to book 1, or eagerly waiting for book 10.
February 16, 2023
Oh Pavo, it feels like an eternity since we’ve seen you. After Pavo’s last adventure I had worried it was the last we would see of him.. that last battle left him with some serious wounds that mean he’s fought his last… or maybe not?
The Empire is on the brink of war again… the Goths have amassed and the Emperor want’s Pavo’s help.. he was instrumental in the last war with the Goths so hiss knowledge is invaluable.
The issue is he’s a shell of the man he was, weak and unable to help out on his farm for more than an hour or two..
But there’s one man who can help him, Frugilo! This is the first time we’ve met the man but instantly you are alert.. this man holds his cards tight to his chest but he knows what he’s doing and he’s a shining star of this instalment. He manages to give back to Pavo a little of what he thought lost... when you learn the truth about the man.. it's an battle to control your emotions.
This was probably the most interesting part detail wise for me, Frugilo teaching Pavo to be the man he was again. I really enjoyed the use of a porpax shield to enable Pavo to fight once again for the Empire.. for his family!
Pavo races to the Emperors side and soon notices things aren’t right..there’s a dark force out there.. who wants only to see war... but why?
The issue with the Goths isnt the only trouble..a usurper wishes to see chaos so he may rule the Empire himself.
In these uncertain times the Emperor enlists Pavo to join his small band of elite protectors, he is to be a shield!
I’m never one for spoilers but things move quickly, there’s deception, tension and you really don’t know what will happen next. I'd say the last 30% of the book I demolished in the early hours while the family were fast asleep.. it’s not often I can really say that a book made it impossible for me to put down but The Emperor's Shield did just that.
It was great to see Pavo back, and it was even sweeter when his old comrades show up including Sura..I love their relationship.. Sura still needs his old friend one last time as he tries to settle into the role previously held by Pavo’s.. big shoes to fill! Pavo need's these men too.. needs to remember who he was.. what he is still capable of.
The twists in this book really make it special.. I thought I had things worked out.. but no…and it was really lovely to be reminded of those we’ve lost along the way, each have left their mark on Pavo.
A resounding 5 star without a shadow of a doubt.. we may only be in February but I can confidently say I’ve found my book of 2023!
What Doherty managed to do is keep the series fresh and give depth, more life to the characters.. he’s really found the balance between detail and plot to make the book come alive.
I hate to say it.. but I don’t think you’ll find any better storyteller out there! If you disagree, then unfortunately I’m sorry to say you are wrong! Ha
Final thought… this isnt the end.. there’s more to come..I don’t know when or what will happen but I’ll be there ready to immerse myself in Pavo’s next tale..his last journey? Time will tell. Regardless.. Pavo will live with me forever!
The Empire is on the brink of war again… the Goths have amassed and the Emperor want’s Pavo’s help.. he was instrumental in the last war with the Goths so hiss knowledge is invaluable.
The issue is he’s a shell of the man he was, weak and unable to help out on his farm for more than an hour or two..
But there’s one man who can help him, Frugilo! This is the first time we’ve met the man but instantly you are alert.. this man holds his cards tight to his chest but he knows what he’s doing and he’s a shining star of this instalment. He manages to give back to Pavo a little of what he thought lost... when you learn the truth about the man.. it's an battle to control your emotions.
This was probably the most interesting part detail wise for me, Frugilo teaching Pavo to be the man he was again. I really enjoyed the use of a porpax shield to enable Pavo to fight once again for the Empire.. for his family!
Pavo races to the Emperors side and soon notices things aren’t right..there’s a dark force out there.. who wants only to see war... but why?
The issue with the Goths isnt the only trouble..a usurper wishes to see chaos so he may rule the Empire himself.
In these uncertain times the Emperor enlists Pavo to join his small band of elite protectors, he is to be a shield!
I’m never one for spoilers but things move quickly, there’s deception, tension and you really don’t know what will happen next. I'd say the last 30% of the book I demolished in the early hours while the family were fast asleep.. it’s not often I can really say that a book made it impossible for me to put down but The Emperor's Shield did just that.
It was great to see Pavo back, and it was even sweeter when his old comrades show up including Sura..I love their relationship.. Sura still needs his old friend one last time as he tries to settle into the role previously held by Pavo’s.. big shoes to fill! Pavo need's these men too.. needs to remember who he was.. what he is still capable of.
The twists in this book really make it special.. I thought I had things worked out.. but no…and it was really lovely to be reminded of those we’ve lost along the way, each have left their mark on Pavo.
A resounding 5 star without a shadow of a doubt.. we may only be in February but I can confidently say I’ve found my book of 2023!
What Doherty managed to do is keep the series fresh and give depth, more life to the characters.. he’s really found the balance between detail and plot to make the book come alive.
I hate to say it.. but I don’t think you’ll find any better storyteller out there! If you disagree, then unfortunately I’m sorry to say you are wrong! Ha
Final thought… this isnt the end.. there’s more to come..I don’t know when or what will happen but I’ll be there ready to immerse myself in Pavo’s next tale..his last journey? Time will tell. Regardless.. Pavo will live with me forever!
February 26, 2023
Brilliant.
It's great to visit with Pavo again. He's an old friend now. He has had to retire from the Claudia due to the injuries he suffered in his fight to the death with the previous emperor of the west, Gratian. He lives on his farm with his wife Izadora and his son Marcus. Life is good even though his injuries prevent him from doing all the work needed. Unfortunately it doesn't last. A raid on his farm by the Goths, a vicious fight to the death and a huge surprise that saves the lives of Pavo and his young family all conspire to take Pavo away from everything he loves. Leaving one family to help the Eastern empire, Pavo reunites with his old family, the Claudia legion.
I couldn't put it down. Twists and turns and a huge twist near the end brings some things full circle. Awesome read people. Highly recommended. Impatiently waiting for the next and last book in the series.
It's great to visit with Pavo again. He's an old friend now. He has had to retire from the Claudia due to the injuries he suffered in his fight to the death with the previous emperor of the west, Gratian. He lives on his farm with his wife Izadora and his son Marcus. Life is good even though his injuries prevent him from doing all the work needed. Unfortunately it doesn't last. A raid on his farm by the Goths, a vicious fight to the death and a huge surprise that saves the lives of Pavo and his young family all conspire to take Pavo away from everything he loves. Leaving one family to help the Eastern empire, Pavo reunites with his old family, the Claudia legion.
I couldn't put it down. Twists and turns and a huge twist near the end brings some things full circle. Awesome read people. Highly recommended. Impatiently waiting for the next and last book in the series.
May 15, 2023
As i read a lot of historical fiction it took a few pages to reveal who is the main character, "Pavo". The story is of the battle between the East and West Roman Empires. There is a character who at first a western spy in the East who then spy's for the east. Pavo tries to find out it is. His identity is revealed on the last page. On reading the author's notes it is with sadness there will only be 1 more Pavo book.
March 2, 2023
Another very well written book .Gordon does it again recommend all series Character like Pavo aSura
Great read I enjoy all Gordon Doherty
Series
Keep up great work .Hope others enjoy this Byzantine Roman series.Can't wait for future bo
Great read I enjoy all Gordon Doherty
Series
Keep up great work .Hope others enjoy this Byzantine Roman series.Can't wait for future bo
March 13, 2023
What a blast
A marvellous page turner a heart thumping read.Gordon has done it again blood betrayal and the return of a hero thought lost ,an utter masterpiece of a read ,could not put it down
A marvellous page turner a heart thumping read.Gordon has done it again blood betrayal and the return of a hero thought lost ,an utter masterpiece of a read ,could not put it down
March 5, 2023
brilliant
As always the next one can’t come fast enough. Amazing book in an incredible series. My biggest complaint is that Gordon doesn’t write as fast as I read
As always the next one can’t come fast enough. Amazing book in an incredible series. My biggest complaint is that Gordon doesn’t write as fast as I read
March 10, 2023
Another cracking book in the Legionary series. New friends, new enemies, some old enemies, old friends, and a little teaser that carries on almost right through to the end.
August 23, 2023
Too many Roman emperors (two West, one East) and restless Goths in and out of the Empire. What could go wrong!? Historical fiction at its best.
November 14, 2024
A good read as were the previous books of the series.
April 16, 2025
Penultimate volume in this series
Good mix of action and intrigue based on actual events. Thought I knew who the spy was - until the end. On to the final story ,book 10.
Good mix of action and intrigue based on actual events. Thought I knew who the spy was - until the end. On to the final story ,book 10.
December 25, 2024
I picked up The Emperor's Shield as I wanted to finish the Legionary series this year.
Without spoiling anything Doherty does a great job bringing the series together in a climatic finale that leaves the reader wanting this historical fiction to go on through the 5th century.
Doherty is smart to contain the story to the 4th century as its the historical context and expertise which made the entire series so enjoyable for me.
An easy read for anyone who likes historical fiction, Roman history, or just wants a solid read. Bitter sweet to have completed the series as I want more Pavo but overall pleased with the series.
Without spoiling anything Doherty does a great job bringing the series together in a climatic finale that leaves the reader wanting this historical fiction to go on through the 5th century.
Doherty is smart to contain the story to the 4th century as its the historical context and expertise which made the entire series so enjoyable for me.
An easy read for anyone who likes historical fiction, Roman history, or just wants a solid read. Bitter sweet to have completed the series as I want more Pavo but overall pleased with the series.
Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews