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Gaius Valerius Verrens #3
Avenger of Rome
Emperor Nero's grip on power is weakening. In every shadow he sees an enemy and like a cornered animal he lashes out at every perceived threat. His paranoia settles on the figure of Gnaeus Domitius Corbulo, Rome's greatest General who leads the imperial legions in the East.
So popular is Corbulo with his men that he effective presides over an Empire within an Empire. Is Corbulo preparing to march against Rome and take the purple?
Gaius Valerius Verrens, Hero of Rome, is ordered to Antioch with the power of life and death over Corbulo, a soldier he worships. There he finds word of his mission has preceded him and every man's hand is turned against him. But Corbulo's eyes are not on Rome, but on a new threat to the Empire's border. The Parthian King of Kings, Vologases, is marching to war and with such an army that if not stopped he might overwhelm the entire Roman east.
Valerius marches at Corbulo's side. Outnumbered they make a stand in the barren wastes beyond the Tigris to meet Vologases in an epic contest of military might and ingenuity that will decide the fate of the Empire. And while he fights for the Empire, and for his own survival on the battlefield, Valerius must decide whether to complete his mission, or risk incurring his Emperor's dangerous wrath.
So popular is Corbulo with his men that he effective presides over an Empire within an Empire. Is Corbulo preparing to march against Rome and take the purple?
Gaius Valerius Verrens, Hero of Rome, is ordered to Antioch with the power of life and death over Corbulo, a soldier he worships. There he finds word of his mission has preceded him and every man's hand is turned against him. But Corbulo's eyes are not on Rome, but on a new threat to the Empire's border. The Parthian King of Kings, Vologases, is marching to war and with such an army that if not stopped he might overwhelm the entire Roman east.
Valerius marches at Corbulo's side. Outnumbered they make a stand in the barren wastes beyond the Tigris to meet Vologases in an epic contest of military might and ingenuity that will decide the fate of the Empire. And while he fights for the Empire, and for his own survival on the battlefield, Valerius must decide whether to complete his mission, or risk incurring his Emperor's dangerous wrath.
341 pages, Hardcover
First published August 16, 2012
105 people are currently reading
586 people want to read
About the author
Douglas Jackson
39 books263 followersAka James Douglas
Douglas Jackson turned a lifelong fascination for Rome and the Romans into his first novel, Caligula. He was born in Jedburgh, in the Scottish Borders and now lives in Bridge of Allan. He is an assistant editor at The Scotsman.
Douglas Jackson turned a lifelong fascination for Rome and the Romans into his first novel, Caligula. He was born in Jedburgh, in the Scottish Borders and now lives in Bridge of Allan. He is an assistant editor at The Scotsman.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
November 19, 2021
Read this book in 2012, and its the 3rd volume of the magnificent "Gaius Valerius Verrens" series.
In this tale Valerius will head East to deal with Rome's greatest General Gnaeus Domitius Corbulo, because this great General seems to be a threat to the weakening rule of power of the paranoid Emperor Nero.
This General Corbulo is acting so effectively in the East with his armies that he's seen as an Empire within an Empire.
And so the Hero of Rome, Valerius is sent to Antioch by Emperor Nero with the power of life and death over this same General Corbulo, but before he reaches his destination he will find out that his mission has preceded him and everyone turns against him.
But before he act on his lethal mission, he must face another threat with the Roman Legions, and that's the threat from the East in the form of the Parthian King of Kings, Vologases.
This confrontation between the forces of General Corbulo against the forces of King Vologases will be a clash of wills of military might, but the ingenuity of General Corbulo will be the decisive factor to safeguard the Empire.
At the same time during this clash and afterwards, Valerius must decide will complete his mission of death or risk the wrath of Rome.
What is to follow is a masterpiece of a Roman historical adventure, in which Valerius and all others parties concerned are wonderfully dealt with in their actions concerning life and death, whether in battle and/or privately, and where also the battles in the East and human interaction are amazingly pictured within this marvellous Roman tale.
Highly recommended, for this is another wonderful addition to this awesome series, and that's why I like to call this episode: "A Superb Valerius Eastern Campaign"!
In this tale Valerius will head East to deal with Rome's greatest General Gnaeus Domitius Corbulo, because this great General seems to be a threat to the weakening rule of power of the paranoid Emperor Nero.
This General Corbulo is acting so effectively in the East with his armies that he's seen as an Empire within an Empire.
And so the Hero of Rome, Valerius is sent to Antioch by Emperor Nero with the power of life and death over this same General Corbulo, but before he reaches his destination he will find out that his mission has preceded him and everyone turns against him.
But before he act on his lethal mission, he must face another threat with the Roman Legions, and that's the threat from the East in the form of the Parthian King of Kings, Vologases.
This confrontation between the forces of General Corbulo against the forces of King Vologases will be a clash of wills of military might, but the ingenuity of General Corbulo will be the decisive factor to safeguard the Empire.
At the same time during this clash and afterwards, Valerius must decide will complete his mission of death or risk the wrath of Rome.
What is to follow is a masterpiece of a Roman historical adventure, in which Valerius and all others parties concerned are wonderfully dealt with in their actions concerning life and death, whether in battle and/or privately, and where also the battles in the East and human interaction are amazingly pictured within this marvellous Roman tale.
Highly recommended, for this is another wonderful addition to this awesome series, and that's why I like to call this episode: "A Superb Valerius Eastern Campaign"!
September 1, 2012
Whew. I finished it. Not a phew as in ‘that was tough going’ but a phew as in ‘wow what a powerful conclusion.’
I’ve been reading Doug Jackson’s books since Caligula first appeared in hardback, while I was still writing my first, and I love his work. But when he started the Valerius Verrens series, something changed and his work stepped up several notches.
Hero of Rome (the novel that introduces the character) is one of the best Roman novels I’ve read and the scenes of the evacuation of Colonia in advance of Boudicca’s attack were among the most powerful I’ve seen. The second Valerius novel, Defender of Rome, had a different feel and a different tack. It was a brave novel and a powerful one, if a little bleak and soul-withering at times.
Avenger of Rome is a book I’ve been waiting to read for some time. I found it difficult to see how the story could progress after the second book.
Well Doug did good! Avenger is a triumph of a novel. It has the tension of the first book in the series and the depth of the second combined, but it also has much more. It is far and away the best of the series so far and left me wanting more.
After the horrifying events in Rome in ‘Defender’, in this great tale, Valerius is sent east with the remit of investigating General Corbulo for signs of treason. But nothing is as it seems and, as Valerius becomes more and more involved in matters, he finds himself becoming a valuable and trusted member of the great general’s staff as Corbulo defies imperial edict in order to safeguard the empire, whatever the cost to himself.
Certain things stand out about this book, to me. Firstly, the journey – which occupies a quarter of the book – is a magnificent tale in itself and could quite easily have made the basis for a novel on its own.
Secondly, the book features some of my favourite characters from Roman history (Vespasian, Titus and Corbulo) and does each of them proud, the depiction of Corbulo particularly striking a chord with me as it is very much how I have always imagined him. While I would hardly describe Nero as one of my favourites, I also have to admire the way Doug handles the complex character of the youthful emperor. Nero is an enigma and the character is built upon from the second book to a strangely almost understandable and certainly pitiable combination of paranoia, pride, neediness and hubris. He is too complex to pigeonhole, which is, I suspect, as close to the truth as any writer will get. Indeed, hubris is a strong theme among the more powerful characters in the novel.
Thirdly, the battle. Wow, the battle. Well, come on, it’s hardly a spoiler, is it? You knew there was going to be a battle, right? I know from personal experience how hard it is to write a good battle. Not an ok battle, but a good one. I’ve tried. And in the end, I come down to showing any battle from a point of view of individual encounters, as I simply cannot adequately convey the scale of the whole thing. Doug just did. The scale was immense, the time it took, the numbers, the sheer organisation, and yet not a single detail is lost. Not even the noise. The smell. The tension. The fear. It is a work of sickening beauty.
The upshot? Valerius is one of the most interesting characters in Historical fiction at the moment and each book Doug writes adds to the depth and power of the character. This book has, however, stepped another notch upwards and, where the first left me feeling a little drained with the heart-wrenching conclusion and the second left me feeling weary and saddened, this one left me feeling awed and astounded and waiting to see what comes next (the conclusion almost pushes you straight into the next tale). Valerius, I will watch you put things right! My sword arm is with you.
Well done, Doug. A fab read. When’s the next due out?
I’ve been reading Doug Jackson’s books since Caligula first appeared in hardback, while I was still writing my first, and I love his work. But when he started the Valerius Verrens series, something changed and his work stepped up several notches.
Hero of Rome (the novel that introduces the character) is one of the best Roman novels I’ve read and the scenes of the evacuation of Colonia in advance of Boudicca’s attack were among the most powerful I’ve seen. The second Valerius novel, Defender of Rome, had a different feel and a different tack. It was a brave novel and a powerful one, if a little bleak and soul-withering at times.
Avenger of Rome is a book I’ve been waiting to read for some time. I found it difficult to see how the story could progress after the second book.
Well Doug did good! Avenger is a triumph of a novel. It has the tension of the first book in the series and the depth of the second combined, but it also has much more. It is far and away the best of the series so far and left me wanting more.
After the horrifying events in Rome in ‘Defender’, in this great tale, Valerius is sent east with the remit of investigating General Corbulo for signs of treason. But nothing is as it seems and, as Valerius becomes more and more involved in matters, he finds himself becoming a valuable and trusted member of the great general’s staff as Corbulo defies imperial edict in order to safeguard the empire, whatever the cost to himself.
Certain things stand out about this book, to me. Firstly, the journey – which occupies a quarter of the book – is a magnificent tale in itself and could quite easily have made the basis for a novel on its own.
Secondly, the book features some of my favourite characters from Roman history (Vespasian, Titus and Corbulo) and does each of them proud, the depiction of Corbulo particularly striking a chord with me as it is very much how I have always imagined him. While I would hardly describe Nero as one of my favourites, I also have to admire the way Doug handles the complex character of the youthful emperor. Nero is an enigma and the character is built upon from the second book to a strangely almost understandable and certainly pitiable combination of paranoia, pride, neediness and hubris. He is too complex to pigeonhole, which is, I suspect, as close to the truth as any writer will get. Indeed, hubris is a strong theme among the more powerful characters in the novel.
Thirdly, the battle. Wow, the battle. Well, come on, it’s hardly a spoiler, is it? You knew there was going to be a battle, right? I know from personal experience how hard it is to write a good battle. Not an ok battle, but a good one. I’ve tried. And in the end, I come down to showing any battle from a point of view of individual encounters, as I simply cannot adequately convey the scale of the whole thing. Doug just did. The scale was immense, the time it took, the numbers, the sheer organisation, and yet not a single detail is lost. Not even the noise. The smell. The tension. The fear. It is a work of sickening beauty.
The upshot? Valerius is one of the most interesting characters in Historical fiction at the moment and each book Doug writes adds to the depth and power of the character. This book has, however, stepped another notch upwards and, where the first left me feeling a little drained with the heart-wrenching conclusion and the second left me feeling weary and saddened, this one left me feeling awed and astounded and waiting to see what comes next (the conclusion almost pushes you straight into the next tale). Valerius, I will watch you put things right! My sword arm is with you.
Well done, Doug. A fab read. When’s the next due out?
December 8, 2015
This series is getting better in writing style and in characterization. It turned out to be quite a page-turner and quite exciting, on the whole. I am glad that future books in the series will take Valerius from Nero's Rome, beginning with the upheaval following Nero's suicide. But that is to come. I think Nero's been overdone; we all know his cruelty, megalomania, narcissism, paranoia. I skimmed over the chapters dealing with him.
This time Valerius is tasked by Nero to spy [er, 'write a report'] on General Corbulo in the East. Nero feels Corbulo is intending to usurp the throne. Half of the book concerns Valerius's bringing Corbulo's daughter to him in Antioch. To me, this was the most fascinating part of the story: sea voyage, pirate attack, storm, shipwreck, thirst...
The other half concerns itself with Corbulo's fight and final battle with Parthians. Valerius is Corbulo's second-in-command. There's an assassination attempt on Corbulo's life; preparation for the final conflict; and the battle itself. Fight and battle scenes are up to the author's standard. However, I'm jaded towards battles in any book of any era. I've found that their descriptions and dialogue can so easily slip into banality unless some new, startling, unexpected element can be worked into the narrative. The capture of the assassin was very well done. The assassin's fustuarium [punishment by clubbing to death by a group of fellow soldiers] was handled well but was terribly gruesome! Reading an article on this punishment in an encyclopedia or the sanitized versions I've read in other novels did not prepare me fully for this. I'd read a couple of sentences, close my eyes for a minute, then resume reading and repeat. I actually got chills at the brutality.
The characterization has shown positive development. I disliked Lady Domitia, the heroine, through most of the novel, for her patrician arrogance AND for the fact she shamelessly initiated physical intimacy with Valerius, when they were shipwrecked. [I guess I'm old-fashioned]. She was very irritating and much too aggressive for my taste. She did redeem herself somewhat in my eyes towards the end. Although she was a strong female character, I was glad to see the façade crack several times to reveal more of a human being. I liked that the author showed the psychological and conflicted background of the assassin. I actually sympathized a little with him through the fustuarium. I'm glad Valerius remained his decent, honorable self and we were told more about Serpentius, his servant and friend.
Highly recommended for lovers of Roman military fiction.
This time Valerius is tasked by Nero to spy [er, 'write a report'] on General Corbulo in the East. Nero feels Corbulo is intending to usurp the throne. Half of the book concerns Valerius's bringing Corbulo's daughter to him in Antioch. To me, this was the most fascinating part of the story: sea voyage, pirate attack, storm, shipwreck, thirst...
The other half concerns itself with Corbulo's fight and final battle with Parthians. Valerius is Corbulo's second-in-command. There's an assassination attempt on Corbulo's life; preparation for the final conflict; and the battle itself. Fight and battle scenes are up to the author's standard. However, I'm jaded towards battles in any book of any era. I've found that their descriptions and dialogue can so easily slip into banality unless some new, startling, unexpected element can be worked into the narrative. The capture of the assassin was very well done. The assassin's fustuarium [punishment by clubbing to death by a group of fellow soldiers] was handled well but was terribly gruesome! Reading an article on this punishment in an encyclopedia or the sanitized versions I've read in other novels did not prepare me fully for this. I'd read a couple of sentences, close my eyes for a minute, then resume reading and repeat. I actually got chills at the brutality.
The characterization has shown positive development. I disliked Lady Domitia, the heroine, through most of the novel, for her patrician arrogance AND for the fact she shamelessly initiated physical intimacy with Valerius, when they were shipwrecked. [I guess I'm old-fashioned]. She was very irritating and much too aggressive for my taste. She did redeem herself somewhat in my eyes towards the end. Although she was a strong female character, I was glad to see the façade crack several times to reveal more of a human being. I liked that the author showed the psychological and conflicted background of the assassin. I actually sympathized a little with him through the fustuarium. I'm glad Valerius remained his decent, honorable self and we were told more about Serpentius, his servant and friend.
Highly recommended for lovers of Roman military fiction.
January 9, 2018
The Hero of Rome is back! In this third novel, Valerius is sent east by an emperor with only the slightest of grips on reality - Nero. His mission is to spy on the immensely successful general Corbulo who may have been a little too victorious with the Parthians for his own good. But nothing is as straightforward as it seems and it's not long before Valerius is tested again to prove his loyalty, courage and honour.
This is a book of two halves - the first follows Valerius' most arduous journey to Antioch escorting the lady Domitia to her father Corbulo, both strong and fascinating characters. The second half places Valerius in his more familiar surroundings - the bloody battlefield.
While the astonishing Temple of Claudius scenes of the first novel of the three, Hero of Rome, make that a difficult novel to beat, Avenger of Rome at least equals it. Another great read from Douglas Jackson that not only thrills but also moves. It's not often a novel about a Roman soldier moves me to tears, but this one managed it.
This is a book of two halves - the first follows Valerius' most arduous journey to Antioch escorting the lady Domitia to her father Corbulo, both strong and fascinating characters. The second half places Valerius in his more familiar surroundings - the bloody battlefield.
While the astonishing Temple of Claudius scenes of the first novel of the three, Hero of Rome, make that a difficult novel to beat, Avenger of Rome at least equals it. Another great read from Douglas Jackson that not only thrills but also moves. It's not often a novel about a Roman soldier moves me to tears, but this one managed it.
March 29, 2019
I recently finished “Avenger of Rome” the 3rd book in the Gaius Valerius series by Douglas Jackson
This is a very exciting series that is both informative and exciting – the action packed pace does not stop
Douglas Jackson really is a top notch historical fiction author.
“action-packed adventure featuring his on-time gladiator hero, Gaius Valerius Verrens...”
I really can not wait to continue on with the series – that is a total of 9 books
The detail and research on the history, background and visuals are amazing.
This is a very exciting series that is both informative and exciting – the action packed pace does not stop
Douglas Jackson really is a top notch historical fiction author.
“action-packed adventure featuring his on-time gladiator hero, Gaius Valerius Verrens...”
I really can not wait to continue on with the series – that is a total of 9 books
The detail and research on the history, background and visuals are amazing.
July 22, 2021
Supremely engrossing
What a book!!!! Each book in the series, so far, is better than its predecessor. I would love to comment on two things in particular which really got to me, but they would be very spoiler-y. Excellent pacing, characterizations, attention to historical detail, and plot; in short, superbly written. Douglas Jackson has become a new favorite author of mine!
What a book!!!! Each book in the series, so far, is better than its predecessor. I would love to comment on two things in particular which really got to me, but they would be very spoiler-y. Excellent pacing, characterizations, attention to historical detail, and plot; in short, superbly written. Douglas Jackson has become a new favorite author of mine!
February 2, 2013
Review:
Douglas Jackson and his hero Gaius Valerius Verrens returns in book three of the same named series.
As pointed out by the Splendid reviewer Kate this is two books in one tome, We follow our hero on a journey to Antioch escorting the lady Domita to visit her father. Its not an easy journey, full of intrigue danger and coming together of characters. The other part of the book puts us on Valerius home turf, the battlefeld, if you have read the other two books you know how good the author is at writing battles. Whilst part one is battle for survival on a small scale, it is mainly about bringing some of the main character together on a personal/ respectful level forming bonds. I love the way that Douglas Jackson can very quickly build a character and invest you in their life and survival. Part two is fighting the might of the Parthians, never easy and always full of action.
My favourite scene in all Douglas Jacksons book will so far remain the battle for the temple of Claudius in book one, I have never felt such raw emotion in a book.
This latest book though has many emotive, triumphant and heroic scenes it just enthrals from page 1 to 352, putting this writer as one of the best in the genre. There is no let up in this story, there are no weak sections, there is no respite from the story. You will not want to put this down. (it kept me up until 3am)
Very highly recommended
(Parm)
Description
Emperor Nero's grip on power is weakening. In every shadow he sees an enemy and like a cornered animal he lashes out at every perceived threat. His paranoia settles on the figure of Gnaeus Domitius Corbulo, Rome's greatest General who leads the imperial legions in the East.
So popular is Corbulo with his men that he effective presides over an Empire within an Empire. Is Corbulo preparing to march against Rome and take the purple?
Gaius Valerius Verrens, Hero of Rome, is ordered to Antioch with the power of life and death over Corbulo, a soldier he worships. There he finds word of his mission has preceded him and every man's hand is turned against him. But Corbulo's eyes are not on Rome, but on a new threat to the Empire's border. The Parthian King of Kings, Vologases, is marching to war and with such an army that if not stopped he might overwhelm the entire Roman east.
Valerius marches at Corbulo's side. Outnumbered they make a stand in the barren wastes beyond the Tigris to meet Vologases in an epic contest of military might and ingenuity that will decide the fate of the Empire. And while he fights for the Empire, and for his own survival on the battlefield, Valerius must decide whether to complete his mission, or risk incurring his Emperor's dangerous wrath.
Douglas Jackson and his hero Gaius Valerius Verrens returns in book three of the same named series.
As pointed out by the Splendid reviewer Kate this is two books in one tome, We follow our hero on a journey to Antioch escorting the lady Domita to visit her father. Its not an easy journey, full of intrigue danger and coming together of characters. The other part of the book puts us on Valerius home turf, the battlefeld, if you have read the other two books you know how good the author is at writing battles. Whilst part one is battle for survival on a small scale, it is mainly about bringing some of the main character together on a personal/ respectful level forming bonds. I love the way that Douglas Jackson can very quickly build a character and invest you in their life and survival. Part two is fighting the might of the Parthians, never easy and always full of action.
My favourite scene in all Douglas Jacksons book will so far remain the battle for the temple of Claudius in book one, I have never felt such raw emotion in a book.
This latest book though has many emotive, triumphant and heroic scenes it just enthrals from page 1 to 352, putting this writer as one of the best in the genre. There is no let up in this story, there are no weak sections, there is no respite from the story. You will not want to put this down. (it kept me up until 3am)
Very highly recommended
(Parm)
Description
Emperor Nero's grip on power is weakening. In every shadow he sees an enemy and like a cornered animal he lashes out at every perceived threat. His paranoia settles on the figure of Gnaeus Domitius Corbulo, Rome's greatest General who leads the imperial legions in the East.
So popular is Corbulo with his men that he effective presides over an Empire within an Empire. Is Corbulo preparing to march against Rome and take the purple?
Gaius Valerius Verrens, Hero of Rome, is ordered to Antioch with the power of life and death over Corbulo, a soldier he worships. There he finds word of his mission has preceded him and every man's hand is turned against him. But Corbulo's eyes are not on Rome, but on a new threat to the Empire's border. The Parthian King of Kings, Vologases, is marching to war and with such an army that if not stopped he might overwhelm the entire Roman east.
Valerius marches at Corbulo's side. Outnumbered they make a stand in the barren wastes beyond the Tigris to meet Vologases in an epic contest of military might and ingenuity that will decide the fate of the Empire. And while he fights for the Empire, and for his own survival on the battlefield, Valerius must decide whether to complete his mission, or risk incurring his Emperor's dangerous wrath.
August 8, 2013
Avenger of Rome is the third novel (following Defender of Rome and Hero of Rome) in a series that follows young tribune Gaius Valerius Verrens as he travels around the empire, trying to survive, while back in Rome politics can be just as deadly as any sweaty barbarian’s blade.
I particularly enjoyed the beginning and end of this book. Gaius is sent to Antioch to spy on the enormously popular General Corbulo, but the voyage there is fraught with danger and really sucks you into the characters’ world right from the start.
Indeed, after a few chapters, each one ending on a nail-biting cliff-hanger, I began to wonder if the pace would keep up as it was starting to become a bit too much. The effect was a little desensitizing, and the edgy chapter-endings were losing power.
Thankfully, the pace settles down (somewhat!) once Antioch is reached, although things begin to build up again near the end, with battle scenes and a quite fantastic twist which I honestly didn’t see coming, leaving the reader satisfied as the final page is turned.
I found myself noting down some negatives with the book – for example, I’d really like the other characters to be explored a bit more (Serpentius in particular, he could even have a spin-off of his own), and I find it a bit off-putting when the author keeps referring to certain characters by their full titles (e.g. Gnaeus Domitius Corbulo, rather than just Corbulo).
The scenes with Emperor Nero also felt a little tacked on, serving to show the twisted political machinations back in Rome, but not really feeling like they had all that much to do with the main story. That said, I’m sure those scenes have a part to play in setting things up for the next book in the series, Sword of Rome which has just come out in hardback.
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed Avenger of Rome – my criticisms are minor and mostly nit-picking. Gaius Valerius Verrens has become a favourite character of mine in recent years and I look forward to continuing his adventures for a long time. If you haven’t read any of this series yet, I advise you to get reading.
Oh, one more thing: Douglas Jackson has a quite disturbing way of writing torture scenes so the faint-hearted might want to skip those parts…I can see why he also writes crime fiction!
I particularly enjoyed the beginning and end of this book. Gaius is sent to Antioch to spy on the enormously popular General Corbulo, but the voyage there is fraught with danger and really sucks you into the characters’ world right from the start.
Indeed, after a few chapters, each one ending on a nail-biting cliff-hanger, I began to wonder if the pace would keep up as it was starting to become a bit too much. The effect was a little desensitizing, and the edgy chapter-endings were losing power.
Thankfully, the pace settles down (somewhat!) once Antioch is reached, although things begin to build up again near the end, with battle scenes and a quite fantastic twist which I honestly didn’t see coming, leaving the reader satisfied as the final page is turned.
I found myself noting down some negatives with the book – for example, I’d really like the other characters to be explored a bit more (Serpentius in particular, he could even have a spin-off of his own), and I find it a bit off-putting when the author keeps referring to certain characters by their full titles (e.g. Gnaeus Domitius Corbulo, rather than just Corbulo).
The scenes with Emperor Nero also felt a little tacked on, serving to show the twisted political machinations back in Rome, but not really feeling like they had all that much to do with the main story. That said, I’m sure those scenes have a part to play in setting things up for the next book in the series, Sword of Rome which has just come out in hardback.
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed Avenger of Rome – my criticisms are minor and mostly nit-picking. Gaius Valerius Verrens has become a favourite character of mine in recent years and I look forward to continuing his adventures for a long time. If you haven’t read any of this series yet, I advise you to get reading.
Oh, one more thing: Douglas Jackson has a quite disturbing way of writing torture scenes so the faint-hearted might want to skip those parts…I can see why he also writes crime fiction!
August 15, 2012
I rather like the fact that Gaius Valerius Verrens has grown as a person and a character through the three books. The first book had slight flaws ( a slightly rushed relationship) and left Verrens a hero, but very much a broken hero. So in the second book we had a man coming to terms with his fame and his injury and being thrown into the dark pit of Roman politics and at the whim of the very dangerous Nero.
So Avenger of Rome finds him trying to keep out of the limelight but Nero has another poisoned chalice of a mission for him. General Corbulo is getting far too popular for Nero's liking and Nero fears he will turn his attention and troops towards Rome. On the other hand, Verrens greatly admires Corbulo and is not pleased to be thrown into his legion as Second in Command and with the news that he is Nero's spy arriving before he does.
And with a journey involving pirates, shipwreck and the general's daughter, our hero arrives to find distrust and treachery and the small matter of conflict with the Parthians.
So, with his options limited he has to watch his back as he turns towards a ferocious enemy.....
I very much enjoyed this, the author grows more confident with his character and the stories are well plotted, fast moving and great historical adventures. You can read this in isolation but you would be missing a treat if you don't read the first two. Very much in the vein of Simon Scarrow, Anthony Riches and Ben Kane and equally recommended.
So Avenger of Rome finds him trying to keep out of the limelight but Nero has another poisoned chalice of a mission for him. General Corbulo is getting far too popular for Nero's liking and Nero fears he will turn his attention and troops towards Rome. On the other hand, Verrens greatly admires Corbulo and is not pleased to be thrown into his legion as Second in Command and with the news that he is Nero's spy arriving before he does.
And with a journey involving pirates, shipwreck and the general's daughter, our hero arrives to find distrust and treachery and the small matter of conflict with the Parthians.
So, with his options limited he has to watch his back as he turns towards a ferocious enemy.....
I very much enjoyed this, the author grows more confident with his character and the stories are well plotted, fast moving and great historical adventures. You can read this in isolation but you would be missing a treat if you don't read the first two. Very much in the vein of Simon Scarrow, Anthony Riches and Ben Kane and equally recommended.
March 20, 2016
I finished Avenger of Rome, or it finished me. Hard to decide. One hell of a thrilling ride. Four books into what was originally described as a trilogy and no sign of slacking, just getting better and better. There is no doubt for me that, at the moment, when we’re talking Roman-period Historical Fiction, it’s Douglas Jackson, Robert Fabbri - and then the rest.
The story has now moved into quite a recognisable and well-trodden period of Roman history. We’re in AD66 and Nero is persuaded to rid himself of the leading Roman General of the time, Gnaeus Domitius Corbulo. Not because Corbulo is incompetent, disloyal or even a threat to Nero, but because he is too good and as such, seen as a threat. An increasingly mentally fragile Nero sends his ‘Hero of Rome,’ Gaius Valerius Verrens to the east, to Antioch, to spy on Corbulo. Problem is, Corbulo knows Valerius is a spy and Valerius knows he knows and so do the soldiers loyal to Corbulo and…well, it gets complicated from there. The Roman forces in what is now the Middle East, are trying to hold off the expansionist ambitions of the Parthian King (probably ‘of Kings’) Vologases. Though, Rome’s definition of ‘expansionist’ would probably also cover sitting there, minding your own business, doing none any harm, of course. But Vologases has dared to raise an army of simply stupendous size and has decided to take on Rome in what Rome obviously considers, their backyard. The Roman forces are surrounded and not just death, but annihilation seems inevitable. Amongst all this, Valerius he falls both for Corbulo’s daughter - and her father’s brilliance as a leader. Corbulo’s mistake, is then two-fold - to remain loyal to Nero and to think for himself as to what the best solution to the Parthian problem might be. He is old-fashioned enough to still believe in honour and duty and Rome.
Can they rescue the situation? There’s the problem with writing a series and people reading the series knowing it is a series and that there are more to come - how to build up sufficient tension and doubt, when readers know there is another book after this one? I have no idea how he does it, but Douglas Jackson does it wonderfully well. Valerius seems to have become harsher. He’s certainly more on edge and there is also an edge to his personality that has developed from the previous book, ‘Defender of Rome.’ He seems less at peace with himself and his situation and though he still enjoys his soldiering he may well be beginning to see he can’t hide behind the ’simple soldier’ epithet much longer. What it is, I think, is that Valerius is realising his devotion to Rome is devotion to an ideal of Rome, that isn’t quite reflected in the reality. I wouldn’t say he’s become or becoming, cynical, as he still believes it can be changed. Maybe he is realistic enough to realise it can’t be changed ‘back,’ as it has never quite lived up to the ideals that were perhaps originally set. But, that it could be changed to something that is better able to strive after those ideals, if never quite achieve them. Soldiers like Valerius and Corbulo realise they need to be loyal to ‘Rome’ and therefore their Emperor, but, in this case, not necessarily to Nero. And where does that leave their (different ideas of) honour? Valerius has had to struggle with this before, but during ‘Avenger’, he seems to be beginning to break ‘free’ of his mental chains. The question is, would a change of Emperor help him, or weaken his loyalty to Rome further?
Douglas Jackson must be our leading writer of this type of Roman Historical Fiction, the real sort, the exciting, stirring, solidly rooted in the facts and actual events sort. It is superbly well put together, deftly paced and rewarding on a variety of levels. Powerful at times, harsh at others, soft, reflective and thoughtful at others. There is all the stomach-clenching tension, heart-breaking sadness you need to put yourself through the mangle, get your pulse pounding and give your brain some useful exercise. As previously, he scatters interesting tidbits of Roman information throughout the book. Not IN YOUR FACE, like I find Harry Sidebottom, not getting in the way of the story as his most often are, but complimentary, whilst always retaining the flow. There are of course the requisite signs of the Roman Writer’s Club, with some eyebrow-raising, though they are mercifully few and, interestingly, on one occasion even without eyebrows. That’s never easy.
If your fingers aren’t pounding out ’S.W.O.R.D. O.F. R.O.M.E’ on your keyboard on whatever on-line shop you get your books from, or banging on the door of your local bookshop, check your pulse - you may have died.
PS : If you’re wondering where this fits with the other Roman Epic series there are around at the moment - it’s the same period as Robert Fabbri’s ‘Vespasian' and Henry Venmore-Rowland’s two books. Anthony Riches has his Legions - and their eyebrows - in Rome at about the same time just now as well.
More world-class reviews on Speesh Reads
The story has now moved into quite a recognisable and well-trodden period of Roman history. We’re in AD66 and Nero is persuaded to rid himself of the leading Roman General of the time, Gnaeus Domitius Corbulo. Not because Corbulo is incompetent, disloyal or even a threat to Nero, but because he is too good and as such, seen as a threat. An increasingly mentally fragile Nero sends his ‘Hero of Rome,’ Gaius Valerius Verrens to the east, to Antioch, to spy on Corbulo. Problem is, Corbulo knows Valerius is a spy and Valerius knows he knows and so do the soldiers loyal to Corbulo and…well, it gets complicated from there. The Roman forces in what is now the Middle East, are trying to hold off the expansionist ambitions of the Parthian King (probably ‘of Kings’) Vologases. Though, Rome’s definition of ‘expansionist’ would probably also cover sitting there, minding your own business, doing none any harm, of course. But Vologases has dared to raise an army of simply stupendous size and has decided to take on Rome in what Rome obviously considers, their backyard. The Roman forces are surrounded and not just death, but annihilation seems inevitable. Amongst all this, Valerius he falls both for Corbulo’s daughter - and her father’s brilliance as a leader. Corbulo’s mistake, is then two-fold - to remain loyal to Nero and to think for himself as to what the best solution to the Parthian problem might be. He is old-fashioned enough to still believe in honour and duty and Rome.
Can they rescue the situation? There’s the problem with writing a series and people reading the series knowing it is a series and that there are more to come - how to build up sufficient tension and doubt, when readers know there is another book after this one? I have no idea how he does it, but Douglas Jackson does it wonderfully well. Valerius seems to have become harsher. He’s certainly more on edge and there is also an edge to his personality that has developed from the previous book, ‘Defender of Rome.’ He seems less at peace with himself and his situation and though he still enjoys his soldiering he may well be beginning to see he can’t hide behind the ’simple soldier’ epithet much longer. What it is, I think, is that Valerius is realising his devotion to Rome is devotion to an ideal of Rome, that isn’t quite reflected in the reality. I wouldn’t say he’s become or becoming, cynical, as he still believes it can be changed. Maybe he is realistic enough to realise it can’t be changed ‘back,’ as it has never quite lived up to the ideals that were perhaps originally set. But, that it could be changed to something that is better able to strive after those ideals, if never quite achieve them. Soldiers like Valerius and Corbulo realise they need to be loyal to ‘Rome’ and therefore their Emperor, but, in this case, not necessarily to Nero. And where does that leave their (different ideas of) honour? Valerius has had to struggle with this before, but during ‘Avenger’, he seems to be beginning to break ‘free’ of his mental chains. The question is, would a change of Emperor help him, or weaken his loyalty to Rome further?
Douglas Jackson must be our leading writer of this type of Roman Historical Fiction, the real sort, the exciting, stirring, solidly rooted in the facts and actual events sort. It is superbly well put together, deftly paced and rewarding on a variety of levels. Powerful at times, harsh at others, soft, reflective and thoughtful at others. There is all the stomach-clenching tension, heart-breaking sadness you need to put yourself through the mangle, get your pulse pounding and give your brain some useful exercise. As previously, he scatters interesting tidbits of Roman information throughout the book. Not IN YOUR FACE, like I find Harry Sidebottom, not getting in the way of the story as his most often are, but complimentary, whilst always retaining the flow. There are of course the requisite signs of the Roman Writer’s Club, with some eyebrow-raising, though they are mercifully few and, interestingly, on one occasion even without eyebrows. That’s never easy.
If your fingers aren’t pounding out ’S.W.O.R.D. O.F. R.O.M.E’ on your keyboard on whatever on-line shop you get your books from, or banging on the door of your local bookshop, check your pulse - you may have died.
PS : If you’re wondering where this fits with the other Roman Epic series there are around at the moment - it’s the same period as Robert Fabbri’s ‘Vespasian' and Henry Venmore-Rowland’s two books. Anthony Riches has his Legions - and their eyebrows - in Rome at about the same time just now as well.
More world-class reviews on Speesh Reads
September 13, 2012
Avenger of Rome is the third book in Doug Jackson’s series to feature the hero Gaius Valerius Verrens.
The Eastern Empire is in flames, Judea as risen up in rebellion and slaughtered its Roman garrison and the Parthian Empire, sensing Roman weakness has set it sights on placing its own puppet ruler on the buffer state of Armenia. Only one man can stop the Parthians, General Gnaeus Domitius Corbulo. Adored by his legions he has a plan to smash the power of Parthia once and for all. If he fails then the whole of the Eastern Empire could be lost.
In Rome, Corbulo is viewed with suspicion by the Nero and his court. He is too popular with the people and too powerful with the legions at his back, will he make an attempt for the throne? With Nero descending into madness and paranoia the Emperor needs someone to spy on and report back any treacherous actions or thoughts by Corbulo and his officers, that man is Gaius Valerius Verrens the Hero of Rome.
Valerius, our reluctant spy is sent out to the east as Corbulo’s second in command. With his mission compromised before he even leaves Rome, Valerius must contend with Pirate attacks, shipwreaks, Mutiny, hostile officers and the beautiful Domitia, Corbulo’s headstrong daughter. If he survives all that is thrown at him then he still has to survive Corbulo’s plan to defeat Parthia and the paranoia of Nero and his cronies.
I have to say right off that I am a huge fan of Doug Jackson’s Valerius series and this is the best of the series so far. After the more political settings of Defender of Rome it is good to see Valerius back where he belongs, leading troops and fighting Rome’s enemies. This isn’t to say that Jackson has completely jettisoned the political story. Between battles and fights we follow Nero and his court as fear and suspicion leads Nero to ever more brutal methods to maintain his tenuous grip on power and as madness grips him even his closest advisers start looking over their shoulders.
The main strength of this book are the battles scenes, Jackson writes them on an epic scale and the battle between Rome and Parthia is no exception. Throughout the book, the battles scenes are written with a pace and a realism and makes them very enjoyable to read. Valerius is a great character and he has a great supporting cast and I’m hoping Domitia is a character that sticks around.
This is a seriously good book and I’m looking forward to the rest of the series and as we edge ever closer to 69AD and the year of the 4 Emperors. It will be interesting to see where the author takes Valerius in this troubling time.
The Eastern Empire is in flames, Judea as risen up in rebellion and slaughtered its Roman garrison and the Parthian Empire, sensing Roman weakness has set it sights on placing its own puppet ruler on the buffer state of Armenia. Only one man can stop the Parthians, General Gnaeus Domitius Corbulo. Adored by his legions he has a plan to smash the power of Parthia once and for all. If he fails then the whole of the Eastern Empire could be lost.
In Rome, Corbulo is viewed with suspicion by the Nero and his court. He is too popular with the people and too powerful with the legions at his back, will he make an attempt for the throne? With Nero descending into madness and paranoia the Emperor needs someone to spy on and report back any treacherous actions or thoughts by Corbulo and his officers, that man is Gaius Valerius Verrens the Hero of Rome.
Valerius, our reluctant spy is sent out to the east as Corbulo’s second in command. With his mission compromised before he even leaves Rome, Valerius must contend with Pirate attacks, shipwreaks, Mutiny, hostile officers and the beautiful Domitia, Corbulo’s headstrong daughter. If he survives all that is thrown at him then he still has to survive Corbulo’s plan to defeat Parthia and the paranoia of Nero and his cronies.
I have to say right off that I am a huge fan of Doug Jackson’s Valerius series and this is the best of the series so far. After the more political settings of Defender of Rome it is good to see Valerius back where he belongs, leading troops and fighting Rome’s enemies. This isn’t to say that Jackson has completely jettisoned the political story. Between battles and fights we follow Nero and his court as fear and suspicion leads Nero to ever more brutal methods to maintain his tenuous grip on power and as madness grips him even his closest advisers start looking over their shoulders.
The main strength of this book are the battles scenes, Jackson writes them on an epic scale and the battle between Rome and Parthia is no exception. Throughout the book, the battles scenes are written with a pace and a realism and makes them very enjoyable to read. Valerius is a great character and he has a great supporting cast and I’m hoping Domitia is a character that sticks around.
This is a seriously good book and I’m looking forward to the rest of the series and as we edge ever closer to 69AD and the year of the 4 Emperors. It will be interesting to see where the author takes Valerius in this troubling time.
November 19, 2018
Excellent battle with some solid intrigue I recommend
December 1, 2019
For those of us interested Roman history, Douglas Jackson and authors like him are able to transport you to pivotal moments throughout the period and put you in the middle of the action. Valerius becomes the time portal through which we're able to witness all these pivotal events first hand. And Jackson does it so well.
Everything about these stories is great. He writes battle so well, but he also takes you into the background of the Roman life and society. The reader gets to see witness wonders of ancient roman life and also the ugly side in vivid and explicit detail. From the slums, their dirty and dangerous alleyways to the heights of the patrician quarters.
Nero's reign is well known for its debauchery and downright descent into madness. In this account Valerius is despatched to report on the loyalty of Rome's most successful General and to be wary for the first sign of treachery.
After arriving Valerius becomes entranced with the brilliance and genius of the famous Roman general and becomes embroiled in the plans of Roman politics and powerplays.
I would recommend the Avenger of Rome to any avid Roman history buff and also anyone that loves action, intrigue, mystery and even some good old fashioned romance and who-dunit.
Everything about these stories is great. He writes battle so well, but he also takes you into the background of the Roman life and society. The reader gets to see witness wonders of ancient roman life and also the ugly side in vivid and explicit detail. From the slums, their dirty and dangerous alleyways to the heights of the patrician quarters.
Nero's reign is well known for its debauchery and downright descent into madness. In this account Valerius is despatched to report on the loyalty of Rome's most successful General and to be wary for the first sign of treachery.
After arriving Valerius becomes entranced with the brilliance and genius of the famous Roman general and becomes embroiled in the plans of Roman politics and powerplays.
I would recommend the Avenger of Rome to any avid Roman history buff and also anyone that loves action, intrigue, mystery and even some good old fashioned romance and who-dunit.
August 11, 2020
Full review soonBLURB
Emperor Nero’s grip on power is weakening. In every shadow he sees an enemy and like a cornered animal he lashes out at every perceived threat. His paranoia settles on the figure of Gnaeus Domitius Corbulo, Rome’s greatest General who leads the imperial legions in the East.
So popular is Corbulo with his men that he effective presides over an Empire within an Empire. Is Corbulo preparing to march against Rome and take the purple?
Gaius Valerius Verrens, Hero of Rome, is ordered to Antioch with the power of life and death over Corbulo, a soldier he worships. There he finds word of his mission has preceded him and every man’s hand is turned against him. But Corbulo’s eyes are not on Rome, but on a new threat to the Empire’s border. The Parthian King of Kings, Vologases, is marching to war and with such an army that if not stopped he might overwhelm the entire Roman east.
Valerius marches at Corbulo’s side. Outnumbered they make a stand in the barren wastes beyond the Tigris to meet Vologases in an epic contest of military might and ingenuity that will decide the fate of the Empire. And while he fights for the Empire, and for his own survival on the battlefield, Valerius must decide whether to complete his mission, or risk incurring his Emperor’s dangerous wrath.
REVIEW
Once again I find myself way behind in a captivating series, though I suppose that's understandable. A little background - I first came across Douglas Jackson's books while searching for Roman fiction and read his Claudius and his Caligula books and enjoyed them so much I searched for more. That search uncovered a multitude of extraordinary authors dabbling in Roman fiction (e.g. Ben Kane, SJA Turney, Gordon Doherty, Robert Fabbri, Simon Scarrow, LJ Trafford, Antony Riches, et al) thus my reading spread out over many authors in the same genre. Thus I am lagging behind because these authors keep writing books I cannot ignore. Anyway, in this installment of the Verrens series, the author has penned a real page turner. The plot/subplots are full of surprises and keep the readers on their toes(or maybe on the edge of their seats) ... the struggle to survive a shipwreck...the tense atmosphere surrounding Verrens arrival at Corbulo's headquarters...the sheer scope of the battle... Yes, this is a heart pounding tale that is hard to put down. What with the fall of Nero and the Year of the Four Emperor's waiting in the wings, I can't wait to get into book 4. 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Emperor Nero’s grip on power is weakening. In every shadow he sees an enemy and like a cornered animal he lashes out at every perceived threat. His paranoia settles on the figure of Gnaeus Domitius Corbulo, Rome’s greatest General who leads the imperial legions in the East.
So popular is Corbulo with his men that he effective presides over an Empire within an Empire. Is Corbulo preparing to march against Rome and take the purple?
Gaius Valerius Verrens, Hero of Rome, is ordered to Antioch with the power of life and death over Corbulo, a soldier he worships. There he finds word of his mission has preceded him and every man’s hand is turned against him. But Corbulo’s eyes are not on Rome, but on a new threat to the Empire’s border. The Parthian King of Kings, Vologases, is marching to war and with such an army that if not stopped he might overwhelm the entire Roman east.
Valerius marches at Corbulo’s side. Outnumbered they make a stand in the barren wastes beyond the Tigris to meet Vologases in an epic contest of military might and ingenuity that will decide the fate of the Empire. And while he fights for the Empire, and for his own survival on the battlefield, Valerius must decide whether to complete his mission, or risk incurring his Emperor’s dangerous wrath.
REVIEW
Once again I find myself way behind in a captivating series, though I suppose that's understandable. A little background - I first came across Douglas Jackson's books while searching for Roman fiction and read his Claudius and his Caligula books and enjoyed them so much I searched for more. That search uncovered a multitude of extraordinary authors dabbling in Roman fiction (e.g. Ben Kane, SJA Turney, Gordon Doherty, Robert Fabbri, Simon Scarrow, LJ Trafford, Antony Riches, et al) thus my reading spread out over many authors in the same genre. Thus I am lagging behind because these authors keep writing books I cannot ignore. Anyway, in this installment of the Verrens series, the author has penned a real page turner. The plot/subplots are full of surprises and keep the readers on their toes(or maybe on the edge of their seats) ... the struggle to survive a shipwreck...the tense atmosphere surrounding Verrens arrival at Corbulo's headquarters...the sheer scope of the battle... Yes, this is a heart pounding tale that is hard to put down. What with the fall of Nero and the Year of the Four Emperor's waiting in the wings, I can't wait to get into book 4. 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
January 7, 2019
This series just gets better with each book and is becoming one of my favourite historical series. This one sees our hero sent east to spy on one of nero's generals, the journey east covers the bulk of the book and involves pirates, shipwreck and rescue. The action comes thick and fast and the four hundred and ninty plus pages flew by. Highly Recommended.
November 10, 2013
This was a solid historical fiction book. Characters were well developed, the plot had quite a bit of turns and twists. The only thing that was not to my liking were the author's descriptions of battles. Ever since the beginning of the first book, the battles were a bit rushed, and I think author himself has a great difficulty describing what is happening. Therefore he usually starts the description, which is for some reason terminated in the middle. The rest is then summarized in the aftermath of the battle. While I think this is a useful narration tool, it shouldn't be overused.
November 17, 2015
Valerius es enviado al Este, a cumplir una misión secreta del Emperador Nero. Pero la misión será un secreto a voces y obligará al guerrero a convertirse en espía y político. Enorme plasticidad en la descripción de las batallas y la acción.
December 28, 2012
This has been the 21st Roman HistFic book which I have read this year and, to my mind, the very best of a great bunch.
September 16, 2012
Great read........
May 23, 2018
Not quite the finished article.
Fortunately I read the 8th book in this series first, which was a terrific read , so good that I decided to try out the earlier books.
In this, the third in the series, I thought that it was a work in progress and had I picked this up first, I probably would have just thought, " it's ok but not a stand out from the competition in this crowded field" and I would not have bothered with the rest of the series.
In this outing Verrens is sent to the empires eastern provinces and a meeting with one of Romes greatest, real life soldiers, Gnaeus Corbulo.
The action is well described and the battle scenes are as good as in any book I have read.
Well worth the read, but the best is yet to come.
Fortunately I read the 8th book in this series first, which was a terrific read , so good that I decided to try out the earlier books.
In this, the third in the series, I thought that it was a work in progress and had I picked this up first, I probably would have just thought, " it's ok but not a stand out from the competition in this crowded field" and I would not have bothered with the rest of the series.
In this outing Verrens is sent to the empires eastern provinces and a meeting with one of Romes greatest, real life soldiers, Gnaeus Corbulo.
The action is well described and the battle scenes are as good as in any book I have read.
Well worth the read, but the best is yet to come.
July 21, 2019
Well paced and filled with action. Compared to the first two books, there is often a clear goal for Valerius to pursue, either having to get somewhere (alive!) or fight a battle.
In between these, we get to know two really well written characters, Tiberius and Corbulo. Scenes where these were interacting with Valerius were somehow always entertaining one way or the other.
Gotta say though, there’s a really unbelievable sex scene in here that made little sense, given the situation they were in.
Fun book, and about time I read it :)
In between these, we get to know two really well written characters, Tiberius and Corbulo. Scenes where these were interacting with Valerius were somehow always entertaining one way or the other.
Gotta say though, there’s a really unbelievable sex scene in here that made little sense, given the situation they were in.
Fun book, and about time I read it :)
August 28, 2020
Duty or Choice
Valerius joins a generals army to fight against the Parthians, with a superior force and in doing so learns more of what duty and honor mean.
I gave this book five stars. I didn't want to stop reading, and that Valerius seems to be smarter plus more in his environment, a soldier on the field of war with a couple other situations thrown in, pirates, an assassin.
I recommend this book to others that have read the previous books, you get a background, although this book can be read alone.
Valerius joins a generals army to fight against the Parthians, with a superior force and in doing so learns more of what duty and honor mean.
I gave this book five stars. I didn't want to stop reading, and that Valerius seems to be smarter plus more in his environment, a soldier on the field of war with a couple other situations thrown in, pirates, an assassin.
I recommend this book to others that have read the previous books, you get a background, although this book can be read alone.
August 11, 2020
Well researched and a tremendous tale
This part of the saga is packed with action from start to finish. It's very well researched and the fiction is believable and it makes for a page turner of a reading experience. The description of the action is so good it immerses you in the battles and skirmishes. The only criticism I will make is that numbering of the instalments could be far better other than that it's well written with no obvious typos or mistakes
This part of the saga is packed with action from start to finish. It's very well researched and the fiction is believable and it makes for a page turner of a reading experience. The description of the action is so good it immerses you in the battles and skirmishes. The only criticism I will make is that numbering of the instalments could be far better other than that it's well written with no obvious typos or mistakes
July 15, 2024
Easily the best of the three books in the series that I've read so far.
Jackson recovered his writing stride nicely in this entry (after the ho-hum 'Defender of Rome', which stretched credibility far too many times). The pacing, tension, and battle scenes are excellent. The interspersed chapters with pathetically deranged Nero and the conniving Tigellinus were a nice touch that gave us a breather from the intense action in the East.
I'm very much looking forward to the next one.
Jackson recovered his writing stride nicely in this entry (after the ho-hum 'Defender of Rome', which stretched credibility far too many times). The pacing, tension, and battle scenes are excellent. The interspersed chapters with pathetically deranged Nero and the conniving Tigellinus were a nice touch that gave us a breather from the intense action in the East.
I'm very much looking forward to the next one.
November 9, 2020
Verrens’ Marches On
A great 3rd installment in the series. The focus on “duty” was particularly interesting because it is a “duty” unbounded by a moral/ethical foundation in fact it suggests that “duty” is it’s own moral/ethical foundation. So very interesting to think about that.
A great 3rd installment in the series. The focus on “duty” was particularly interesting because it is a “duty” unbounded by a moral/ethical foundation in fact it suggests that “duty” is it’s own moral/ethical foundation. So very interesting to think about that.
February 24, 2021
Honor and duty magnified
Nero may be experiencing a rebirth in Rome as more of his home is excavated but the treachery of his politics is on display here. I admire the way Valerius conducts his life but I temper that with the cheapness Rome of that era valued the lives of non-Romans.
Nero may be experiencing a rebirth in Rome as more of his home is excavated but the treachery of his politics is on display here. I admire the way Valerius conducts his life but I temper that with the cheapness Rome of that era valued the lives of non-Romans.
January 13, 2022
This is the 3rd book in the series and it's filled with non-stop action. Our hero, Valerius, moves from one mortal danger to the next, barely escaping with his life. We learn lots about the roman life, both at peace, and at war. Valerius learns some bitter lessons and makes promises about his future which will be hard to keep. I will keep reading this series.
February 16, 2019
Intrigue
A narrative that rivals all the intrigue of Ancient Rome and the paranoia brought up through greed -insanity- and lust for power
The Hero of Rome is placed in a place of little joy - truly a masterful design and read
A narrative that rivals all the intrigue of Ancient Rome and the paranoia brought up through greed -insanity- and lust for power
The Hero of Rome is placed in a place of little joy - truly a masterful design and read
December 26, 2020
Thoroughly enjoyable read. A thrilling, well developed story with strong Roman themes of honour and duty, along with military strategy and engineering. Character development was strong. The action sequence were true to the time, brutally realistic at times and exciting.
February 13, 2021
Series getting better and better
An excellent series that seems to be improving with each book. Well written, not repetitive, and exciting. Approaching the likes of patrick obrien for historical action fiction.
An excellent series that seems to be improving with each book. Well written, not repetitive, and exciting. Approaching the likes of patrick obrien for historical action fiction.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews