A new era in Rome has begun, for both the budding Empire, and the descendants of Titus Pullus, Legionary of Rome. In this next chapter in the bestselling, critically acclaimed Marching With Caesar saga, the torch has passed to Pullus’ namesake and adopted grandson, Titus Porcinianus Pullus. Blessed with not only the name and legacy of his adoptive grandfather but his enormous size and strength as well, young Titus enlists in the Legions. Following in the footsteps of his father Gaius Porcinus, Titus joins the Fourth Cohort of the 8th Legion, once commanded by Porcinus himself. But what Titus discovers is that the example set by his father and grandfather brings with it a heavy price, in the form of extra scrutiny and high expectations. Adding to his burden is an atmosphere of suspicion, intrigue and ominous portents as the 8th Legion joins the army of Nero Claudius Drusus, younger brother of Tiberius, on what will turn out to be his final campaign in Germania, as the upper classes of Rome begin to prepare for a world after Augustus. Will young Titus find himself an unwilling participant in a conspiracy designed to advance the fortunes of one Roman nobleman over the others vying for control of Rome?
The first adult author with whom RW Peake developed a long-term relationship was Louis L’Amour, whose body of work shaped his life philosophy. After retiring from the Marines, RW proceeded to earn a BA in History from the Honors College at the University of Houston.
Although RW wrote a novel as a kid, he didn't publish his first novel until age 50. In addition to is time in the Marines, and before the tech bubble burst in 2000, he was a paper millionaire in the software industry.
A native Houstonian, RW recently relocated to the Olympic Peninsula of Washington, where he lives with his yellow Lab, Sadie.
I had originally thought that the author would follow the traditional plot of most tales involving Rome and its Legions. I was wrong, and sadly I knew that I was wrong in my assumption as soon as I completed the first few paragraphs of the first Chapter. I lumbered through the book hoping that the author was going to liven up his story of Pullis, the main character, unfortunately it never happend. The plot was fairly predictable and the writing was at best humdrum. I now have reservations about investing either my time or money investing in any other book written by Mr. Peake.
The latest instalment of the pullus family's experiences in the legions of Rome seemed to be lacking in something compared to the previous stories. This is not to say that it isn't a good read, just not quite as strong as the previous tales. It may simply be that this is the first part of the continuing tale and I do fervently hope that that is the case as the previous books were fabulous. The research as usual is first rate so hopefully the story will match the research and previous tales from here on in
Just not held my interest in some of chapters. Found myself skipping pages again. Maybe next book will hold my interest better, if I decide to continue with next book. As I understand, author attempts to weave historical novel around actual events that occurred which I enjoy very much.
A New Era is an excellent transition to the story of Titus the Younger. Great action and description of the different challenges faced by the grandson of a legend.
3.5 stars. Titus Porcianus Pullus, grandson of Titus Pullus, and son of Porcinus, is next in line of soldiers. He is writing from an unknown point in the future. Unlike the previous book, it is written in first person. We see how Titus joins the legions expecting what Titus Sr had endured, but is in for an unpleasant surprise. I heartily recommend this book, but please read all of the other books first. The first book is Marching With Caesar- Civil War. Now I know your probably asking, If you loved it so much, why did you give it three and a half stars? First of all, I feel like Titus Jr isn't struggling as much as Titus Sr. Drusus, the commander of the army Titus Jr is in meets Titus Jr quicker than I would have liked. Second, both Titus Jr's Primus Pilus and his Pilus Prior become chummy with him. All in all though, a great book and you need to read it if you hope to read the next books in the series. Daniel
I'll admit that at first I was unsure about the newer books in the MWC series. How, I asked myself, could anyone possibly replace Titus Pullus? It was going to be difficult, I further told myself, to develop a character that could fill those awesome sandals. Peake pulled it off. Titus' adopted grandson shows every promise of becoming another remarkable character and may even surpass his famous grandfather in some respects. Like in other books in the MWC series, this one has it's share of battle and intrigue and some questions left unanswered in earlier books are resolved here. I won't spoil it, but suffice it to say that the reader will say "aha" when he or she finds those passages. As I have said before, anyone interested in Roman Empire history will love these books. They are well researched and provide the reader with a view of the period through the eyes of the grunts - views that the history books often overlook. A strong four stars.
A good book. Peake hasn't quite grabbed me like he did with the story of the original Pullus, but he's still an amazing writer that has managed to infuse the gritty reality of Legion life into his novel.
I'm intrigued by his next book about an alternate history where Caesar isn't assassinated...but I think I'm going to waive that pleasure for now and continue to follow Pullus' grandson.