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Gaius Valerius Verrens #4
Sword of Rome
'The story I now commence is rich in vicissitudes, grim with warfare, torn by civil strife, a tale of horror even during times of peace.' Tacitus, The Histories
AD 68. The Emperor Nero's erratic and bloody reign is in its death throes when Gaius Valerius Verrens is dispatched to Rome on a mission that will bring it to a close. With Nero dead, the city holds its breath and awaits the arrival his successor, Servius Sulpicius Galba, governor of Hispania. The Empire prays for peace, but it prays in vain. Galba promises stability and prosperity, but his rule begins with a massacre and ends only months later in chaos and carnage. This will become known as the Year of the Four Emperors, a time of civil war which will tear Rome apart and test Valerius's skills and loyalties to their very limit. Fortunate to survive Galba's fall, Valerius is sent on a mission by Rome's new Emperor, Otho, to his old friend Vitellius, commander of the armies of the north. Vitellius's legions are on the march, and only Valerius can persuade him to halt them before the inevitable confrontation. In an epic adventure that will take him the length and breadth of a divided land, the one-armed Roman fights to stay alive and stave off a bloodbath as he is stalked by the most implacable enemy he has ever faced.
AD 68. The Emperor Nero's erratic and bloody reign is in its death throes when Gaius Valerius Verrens is dispatched to Rome on a mission that will bring it to a close. With Nero dead, the city holds its breath and awaits the arrival his successor, Servius Sulpicius Galba, governor of Hispania. The Empire prays for peace, but it prays in vain. Galba promises stability and prosperity, but his rule begins with a massacre and ends only months later in chaos and carnage. This will become known as the Year of the Four Emperors, a time of civil war which will tear Rome apart and test Valerius's skills and loyalties to their very limit. Fortunate to survive Galba's fall, Valerius is sent on a mission by Rome's new Emperor, Otho, to his old friend Vitellius, commander of the armies of the north. Vitellius's legions are on the march, and only Valerius can persuade him to halt them before the inevitable confrontation. In an epic adventure that will take him the length and breadth of a divided land, the one-armed Roman fights to stay alive and stave off a bloodbath as he is stalked by the most implacable enemy he has ever faced.
416 pages, Hardcover
First published August 15, 2013
116 people are currently reading
548 people want to read
About the author
Douglas Jackson
39 books265 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 44 reviews
April 11, 2019
4.5 stars
Just finished reading ‘Sword of Rome’ by Douglas Jackson – the 4th book in the “Gaius Valerius Verrens’ Series
What a great series this is! I can’t wait to carry on.
This book starts off in AD 68 - With Nero dead, the city holds its breath and awaits the arrival his successor, Servius Sulpicius Galba, governor of Hispania.
These are not books for the faint of heart, with intense battles, in the great numbers. You feel you can hear the ground move with the pounding of thousands of Roman feet marching into the battles, and the sky turn black with the launching of row after row of arrows.
I feel this is an author who really knows his Roman history, with vast descriptions on armour and history, and landscapes. I finish the books knowing so much more about the Roman conquests.
Such dialogue such as the following
"Every man’s eye was on the eagle and the only sound was the metallic crunch of hundreds of marching sandals."
’ From the cleared area where they had waited within the walls, an entire wing of green-cloaked auxiliary archers from Syria loosed their bows, sending a shower of arrows soaring into the air in a great hissing swarm. Before the first volley had reached the top of its arc, a second followed, and then a third. Fifteen hundred arrows in the space of twenty seconds. The sky above the attackers turned black. Valerius had seen barbarian assaults decimated by the arrow storm, but he watched with"
Just finished reading ‘Sword of Rome’ by Douglas Jackson – the 4th book in the “Gaius Valerius Verrens’ Series
What a great series this is! I can’t wait to carry on.
This book starts off in AD 68 - With Nero dead, the city holds its breath and awaits the arrival his successor, Servius Sulpicius Galba, governor of Hispania.
These are not books for the faint of heart, with intense battles, in the great numbers. You feel you can hear the ground move with the pounding of thousands of Roman feet marching into the battles, and the sky turn black with the launching of row after row of arrows.
I feel this is an author who really knows his Roman history, with vast descriptions on armour and history, and landscapes. I finish the books knowing so much more about the Roman conquests.
Such dialogue such as the following
"Every man’s eye was on the eagle and the only sound was the metallic crunch of hundreds of marching sandals."
’ From the cleared area where they had waited within the walls, an entire wing of green-cloaked auxiliary archers from Syria loosed their bows, sending a shower of arrows soaring into the air in a great hissing swarm. Before the first volley had reached the top of its arc, a second followed, and then a third. Fifteen hundred arrows in the space of twenty seconds. The sky above the attackers turned black. Valerius had seen barbarian assaults decimated by the arrow storm, but he watched with"
July 18, 2015
** Reread the first four in this series August 2014. They were just as enjoyable the second time around!! Revision of my original review follows. Valerius's love interest was just as annoying and irksome as before!
Easily maintains the standard of the three earlier in the series and is at least as good or better! I'm delighted the author has gone in a new direction: no more Julio-Claudians and now the power struggle following Nero's death. That couldn't have come too soon for me! I think the Julio-Claudians have been 'done to death' [wordplay intentional]!
In this installment, Nero's death marks the end of the Julio-Claudian dynasty. The appointment of General Galba, a conservative desiccated miser, begins a year of turmoil in the Empire, which will last until the dust settles. After Galba, Senator Otho is next proclaimed Emperor, and a struggle will begin between him and the grossly obese Vitellius, malleable in the hands of the power-hungry men who surround him. Who will finally wear the Purple? Having heard the rumor Vitellius has gathered support of the Rhine legions and is planning to march on Rome to seize power, Otho gives Valerius the mission of bearing his message to Vitellius in the latter's headquarters at Colonia Agrippinensis [today's Cologne, Germany] to offer him anything short of the supreme power so Vitellius will not invade. Valerius and his steadfast servant and friend Serpentius make the dangerous journey through hostile territory and combative forces. Upon Vitellius' refusal to accept Otho's terms, they start back, dangers facing them, also inimical Batavians. They also meet with treachery, deceit and misfortunes of weather. The novel climaxes in the very exciting siege of Placentia and Battle of Badriacum and its aftermath. The novelist left us at the edge of an immense metaphorical cliff; I can hardly wait until the next in the series is published.
The journeys to and from Germania Inferior were fraught with peril and many twists and turns. The battle scenes were well done and nail-biting at times. In fact the author mentioned in his 'Historical Note' "the main actions ... were as accurate as I could make them." I wish he would have given the exact citation of his [I assume primary] source.
I got a better sense of Valerius's personality. At least in thought he doesn't deny fear and is the same decisive leader. I'm glad we learned a little more about Serpentius. The author's portrayals of both Vitellius and of Otho were plausible. The irritating, unpleasant Lady Domitia is still around. Except for her independence and mettle in the face of danger, she's absolutely colorless. Unless she becomes more feminine, more human, more compassionate and caring of others, I sincerely hope she will disappear from the story. Why doesn't she express or even think about any other feelings, except her 'love' for Valerius? I hope besotted Valerius will get over his infatuation and meet some other woman, but this time, one worthy of becoming his love interest. If I read "I'm a soldier's daughter" one more time I'll scream! I hope the author develops Valerius's sister, Olivia, more in upcoming novels; she was a minor character in this story. I appreciated the maps of Valerius's journeys and of the Battle of Bedriacum.
Easily maintains the standard of the three earlier in the series and is at least as good or better! I'm delighted the author has gone in a new direction: no more Julio-Claudians and now the power struggle following Nero's death. That couldn't have come too soon for me! I think the Julio-Claudians have been 'done to death' [wordplay intentional]!
In this installment, Nero's death marks the end of the Julio-Claudian dynasty. The appointment of General Galba, a conservative desiccated miser, begins a year of turmoil in the Empire, which will last until the dust settles. After Galba, Senator Otho is next proclaimed Emperor, and a struggle will begin between him and the grossly obese Vitellius, malleable in the hands of the power-hungry men who surround him. Who will finally wear the Purple? Having heard the rumor Vitellius has gathered support of the Rhine legions and is planning to march on Rome to seize power, Otho gives Valerius the mission of bearing his message to Vitellius in the latter's headquarters at Colonia Agrippinensis [today's Cologne, Germany] to offer him anything short of the supreme power so Vitellius will not invade. Valerius and his steadfast servant and friend Serpentius make the dangerous journey through hostile territory and combative forces. Upon Vitellius' refusal to accept Otho's terms, they start back, dangers facing them, also inimical Batavians. They also meet with treachery, deceit and misfortunes of weather. The novel climaxes in the very exciting siege of Placentia and Battle of Badriacum and its aftermath. The novelist left us at the edge of an immense metaphorical cliff; I can hardly wait until the next in the series is published.
The journeys to and from Germania Inferior were fraught with peril and many twists and turns. The battle scenes were well done and nail-biting at times. In fact the author mentioned in his 'Historical Note' "the main actions ... were as accurate as I could make them." I wish he would have given the exact citation of his [I assume primary] source.
I got a better sense of Valerius's personality. At least in thought he doesn't deny fear and is the same decisive leader. I'm glad we learned a little more about Serpentius. The author's portrayals of both Vitellius and of Otho were plausible. The irritating, unpleasant Lady Domitia is still around. Except for her independence and mettle in the face of danger, she's absolutely colorless. Unless she becomes more feminine, more human, more compassionate and caring of others, I sincerely hope she will disappear from the story. Why doesn't she express or even think about any other feelings, except her 'love' for Valerius? I hope besotted Valerius will get over his infatuation and meet some other woman, but this time, one worthy of becoming his love interest. If I read "I'm a soldier's daughter" one more time I'll scream! I hope the author develops Valerius's sister, Olivia, more in upcoming novels; she was a minor character in this story. I appreciated the maps of Valerius's journeys and of the Battle of Bedriacum.
March 22, 2021
full review soon. in short - WOW.
BLURB
AD 68: The Emperor Nero's erratic and bloody reign is in its death throes when Gaius Valerius Verrens is dispatched to Rome on a mission that will bring it to a close. With Nero dead, the city and the Empire hold their breath, pray for peace and await the arrival of his successor, Servius Sulpicius Galba, governor of Hispania.
But they pray in vain. Galba promises stability and prosperity, but his rule begins with a massacre and ends only months later in chaos and carnage. And so starts the Year of the Four Emperors: a time of civil war which will tear Rome apart and test Valerius's skills and loyalties to their very limit.
Fortunate to survive Galba's fall, Valerius is sent on a mission by Rome's new Emperor, Otho, to persuade his old friend Vitellius to halt his armies, stop them marching in the north and therefore prevent inevitable confrontation and disruption.
In an epic adventure that will take him the length and breadth of a divided land, the one-armed Roman fights to stay alive and stave off a bloodbath as he is stalked by the most implacable enemy he has ever faced.
REVIEW
As this book as been read and reviewed by a substantial number of people, I am going to keep this short and sweet. A more compelling entry into the vast array of Roman historical fiction options we fortunate readers are blessed with I cannot imagine. The sheer number of conflicting emotions and choices Verrens faces propels this intense, exciting tale...and on top of all that there's the reality TV show, Who Is Emperor Today? as the backdrop that creates all of those emotions and choices.
This is the 4th book in this series. At the time of this review, I have 5 more to go. That is something to look forward to. 5⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
BLURB
AD 68: The Emperor Nero's erratic and bloody reign is in its death throes when Gaius Valerius Verrens is dispatched to Rome on a mission that will bring it to a close. With Nero dead, the city and the Empire hold their breath, pray for peace and await the arrival of his successor, Servius Sulpicius Galba, governor of Hispania.
But they pray in vain. Galba promises stability and prosperity, but his rule begins with a massacre and ends only months later in chaos and carnage. And so starts the Year of the Four Emperors: a time of civil war which will tear Rome apart and test Valerius's skills and loyalties to their very limit.
Fortunate to survive Galba's fall, Valerius is sent on a mission by Rome's new Emperor, Otho, to persuade his old friend Vitellius to halt his armies, stop them marching in the north and therefore prevent inevitable confrontation and disruption.
In an epic adventure that will take him the length and breadth of a divided land, the one-armed Roman fights to stay alive and stave off a bloodbath as he is stalked by the most implacable enemy he has ever faced.
REVIEW
As this book as been read and reviewed by a substantial number of people, I am going to keep this short and sweet. A more compelling entry into the vast array of Roman historical fiction options we fortunate readers are blessed with I cannot imagine. The sheer number of conflicting emotions and choices Verrens faces propels this intense, exciting tale...and on top of all that there's the reality TV show, Who Is Emperor Today? as the backdrop that creates all of those emotions and choices.
This is the 4th book in this series. At the time of this review, I have 5 more to go. That is something to look forward to. 5⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
March 20, 2016
Set in same period - AD68/69 - as Henry Venmore-Rowland’s ‘The Sword and the Throne’ and Robert Fabbri’s ‘Vespasian’ series, ‘Sword of Rome' might be the fourth installment in Douglas Jackson’s series about Gaius Valerius Verrens, but it shows no sign of slacking in pace or quality. ‘Avenger of Rome’ was an exceptional book, this is equally so.
It is set in the period known as ’the year of the four Emperors.’ Though as Douglas points out at the end, it’s actually five Emperors and 18 months. Valerius Verrens has snuck into Rome to try and get the Praetorian guard to declare for Galba and do the necessary with Nero. Valerius is only wanting to do what is best for Rome and eventually has to take matters into his own hands, so Galba can take the Purple. But, waiting in the wings, frustrated both at Galba’s inflexibility once in power and his own lack of subsequent advancement, is Valerius’ old companion, Otho. Who, it now turns out, has designs on doing HIS best for his idea of ‘Rome.’ The rise of Otho doesn’t - obviously, as this IS Rome after all - please everyone. Especially not the veterans in Rhine Legions. With each side promising power and riches beyond compare - and the Empire’s finances - to all and everyone, things get complicated. Not least for Valerius. Though, it has to be said, not for us. As while Douglas Jackson has a little bit more of a difficult job to do, steering Valerius’ path through surely the most complicated period in Romes already complicated history, his sure historical hand and clear, accessible writing style never falters. Valerius has some important decisions to make. Which is tricky, as the situation in Rome - and further afield - is getting more and more chaotic, not to say bloody, by the day.
It was good to have my analysis of Valerius’ situation right now, from ‘Avenger of Rome,’ proved right here in ‘Sword.’ Vitellius says “If you have a failing, Valerius, it is that you are too honest and too loyal. You will act in the best interests of Aulus Vitellis? No, Gaius Valerius Verrens will act in the best interests of Rome, because Gaius Valerius Verrens is wedded to a sugar-dusted image of Rome that has nothing to do with the sewer-breathed reality…” Valerius’ loyalty was, still is, to Rome, not necessarily the Emperor - if the Emperor proves himself unworthy of that/his loyalty. In the hands of another man, perhaps less pricipled than Valerius, that would be like giving him carte blanch to do whatever he likes and calling it ‘loyalty’ to whoever he likes. Valerius is made of sterner stuff, however snd keeps his eyes on the prize, which is a Rome he can feel comfortable supporting, not to say killing and possibly dying for. It’s a fine distinction, one that could prove his undoing, but one that is essential to Valerius’ future. The immediate and /or otherwise.
Valerius’ motivations and reasons for doing what he does, are always satisfyingly in keeping with his previous - and developing - character. There are no decisions that cause you to think “Ahhh…the Valerius I’ve got to know wouldn’t have done that!” Or “Woah! Where did THAT come from?!” The reading joy and satisfaction comes from trying to think ahead for Valerius, trying to figure out how Valerius might react if such a situation happened, or maybe that, or maybe that. And being proved wrong. The shocks and surprises come in the form of the events Valerius must try and negotiate his way safely through. They can’t be anticipated, often either by us or Valerius. It is Valerius’ reaction to these shocks, that may be surprising, but always on reflection, that fit his character. He has matured, that was clear from ‘Avenger’. He is older and wiser, and as the tumultuous events swirl around him, a figure - almost the only - of calm and common sense. A rock on which other characters crash, or realise they can cling to. Even he would admit the ‘simple soldier’ is long gone. What he is now, is a survivor. Living day to day, though that is partly because long-term plans are nigh on impossible to make - a ‘long-term plan’ in AD69 Rome, is one that sees out the day.
Valerius aside, the character that comes more to the fore for me here, is his faithful, ex-Gladiator friend Serpentius. He’s been more than a bit part previously, but here I felt he really gets some serious page-time development. He’s a threat, a friend, a companion a sparring partner. He’s become indispensible to Valerius - after all, who else is going to ‘kill’ him?
What was interesting for me, having just finished Henry Venmore-Rowland’s very wonderful ’The Sword and the Throne,’ which is set at exactly the same time, but on the opposite side to Valerius, was that ’Sword of Rome’ features several of the attacks and the final set battle from ‘The Sword and the Throne.’ Whereas in that one, my sympathies were undoubtedly, 100% with Caecina, here, he’s clearly a cowardly, arrogant upstart, and I’m convinced he’s just seizing the best chance, siding with Vitellius, while attacking Otho’s brave, loyal Legions. How good writing is that? On both sides.
There are just a couple of problems. The predilection of having (a minimum of) two emotions expressed on someone’s face, at the same time will, I guarantee, have you trying to replicate such a thing yourself and looking like you’re a participant in a gurning competition. The times when three competing emotions are present, sometimes all three named, sometimes two with ‘…something else,’ will probably necessitate being driven to hospital. Doesn’t happen in real life. I’ve tried.
Another thing I think that could be worked on for future installments is the repeated references to ‘bright/glittering/gleaming/shining (etc) iron’ used to describe either the first glimpse of an opposing force, where the actual soldiers can’t be made out, or as generally a kind of lazy shorthand, instead of describing the weapon(s) as sword, knife/dagger or spear. Oh, and he does also seem to catch a mild dose of what we Doctors are calling ‘Anthonyrichesitis’ during ’Sword.’ It is most often characterised by the pursing of the lips (to show internal conflict, emotion (of any shade) or an impending decision). Think of how your face is watching a video on YouTube where a naked guy runs into a plate glass door he hasn’t seen. That’s the one. Luckily, it’s only a mild case here, not the full-on epidemic from the dreadful ‘The Emperor’s Knives’ outbreak of 2014.
Otherwise, this is a continuation of the absolutely exellent work that has defined the ‘~ of Rome’ series as a whole. It is frustrating, that this kind of HistFic doesnt get the recognition it deserves. In the press, TV, film. If he was a woman and there was less fightin’ more lovin’ more internal conflict, less external conflict-solving, Douglas Jackson would be a household name. I’m just glad his name in my household. On the shelves. Over there >>
More world-class reviews on Speesh Reads
It is set in the period known as ’the year of the four Emperors.’ Though as Douglas points out at the end, it’s actually five Emperors and 18 months. Valerius Verrens has snuck into Rome to try and get the Praetorian guard to declare for Galba and do the necessary with Nero. Valerius is only wanting to do what is best for Rome and eventually has to take matters into his own hands, so Galba can take the Purple. But, waiting in the wings, frustrated both at Galba’s inflexibility once in power and his own lack of subsequent advancement, is Valerius’ old companion, Otho. Who, it now turns out, has designs on doing HIS best for his idea of ‘Rome.’ The rise of Otho doesn’t - obviously, as this IS Rome after all - please everyone. Especially not the veterans in Rhine Legions. With each side promising power and riches beyond compare - and the Empire’s finances - to all and everyone, things get complicated. Not least for Valerius. Though, it has to be said, not for us. As while Douglas Jackson has a little bit more of a difficult job to do, steering Valerius’ path through surely the most complicated period in Romes already complicated history, his sure historical hand and clear, accessible writing style never falters. Valerius has some important decisions to make. Which is tricky, as the situation in Rome - and further afield - is getting more and more chaotic, not to say bloody, by the day.
It was good to have my analysis of Valerius’ situation right now, from ‘Avenger of Rome,’ proved right here in ‘Sword.’ Vitellius says “If you have a failing, Valerius, it is that you are too honest and too loyal. You will act in the best interests of Aulus Vitellis? No, Gaius Valerius Verrens will act in the best interests of Rome, because Gaius Valerius Verrens is wedded to a sugar-dusted image of Rome that has nothing to do with the sewer-breathed reality…” Valerius’ loyalty was, still is, to Rome, not necessarily the Emperor - if the Emperor proves himself unworthy of that/his loyalty. In the hands of another man, perhaps less pricipled than Valerius, that would be like giving him carte blanch to do whatever he likes and calling it ‘loyalty’ to whoever he likes. Valerius is made of sterner stuff, however snd keeps his eyes on the prize, which is a Rome he can feel comfortable supporting, not to say killing and possibly dying for. It’s a fine distinction, one that could prove his undoing, but one that is essential to Valerius’ future. The immediate and /or otherwise.
Valerius’ motivations and reasons for doing what he does, are always satisfyingly in keeping with his previous - and developing - character. There are no decisions that cause you to think “Ahhh…the Valerius I’ve got to know wouldn’t have done that!” Or “Woah! Where did THAT come from?!” The reading joy and satisfaction comes from trying to think ahead for Valerius, trying to figure out how Valerius might react if such a situation happened, or maybe that, or maybe that. And being proved wrong. The shocks and surprises come in the form of the events Valerius must try and negotiate his way safely through. They can’t be anticipated, often either by us or Valerius. It is Valerius’ reaction to these shocks, that may be surprising, but always on reflection, that fit his character. He has matured, that was clear from ‘Avenger’. He is older and wiser, and as the tumultuous events swirl around him, a figure - almost the only - of calm and common sense. A rock on which other characters crash, or realise they can cling to. Even he would admit the ‘simple soldier’ is long gone. What he is now, is a survivor. Living day to day, though that is partly because long-term plans are nigh on impossible to make - a ‘long-term plan’ in AD69 Rome, is one that sees out the day.
Valerius aside, the character that comes more to the fore for me here, is his faithful, ex-Gladiator friend Serpentius. He’s been more than a bit part previously, but here I felt he really gets some serious page-time development. He’s a threat, a friend, a companion a sparring partner. He’s become indispensible to Valerius - after all, who else is going to ‘kill’ him?
What was interesting for me, having just finished Henry Venmore-Rowland’s very wonderful ’The Sword and the Throne,’ which is set at exactly the same time, but on the opposite side to Valerius, was that ’Sword of Rome’ features several of the attacks and the final set battle from ‘The Sword and the Throne.’ Whereas in that one, my sympathies were undoubtedly, 100% with Caecina, here, he’s clearly a cowardly, arrogant upstart, and I’m convinced he’s just seizing the best chance, siding with Vitellius, while attacking Otho’s brave, loyal Legions. How good writing is that? On both sides.
There are just a couple of problems. The predilection of having (a minimum of) two emotions expressed on someone’s face, at the same time will, I guarantee, have you trying to replicate such a thing yourself and looking like you’re a participant in a gurning competition. The times when three competing emotions are present, sometimes all three named, sometimes two with ‘…something else,’ will probably necessitate being driven to hospital. Doesn’t happen in real life. I’ve tried.
Another thing I think that could be worked on for future installments is the repeated references to ‘bright/glittering/gleaming/shining (etc) iron’ used to describe either the first glimpse of an opposing force, where the actual soldiers can’t be made out, or as generally a kind of lazy shorthand, instead of describing the weapon(s) as sword, knife/dagger or spear. Oh, and he does also seem to catch a mild dose of what we Doctors are calling ‘Anthonyrichesitis’ during ’Sword.’ It is most often characterised by the pursing of the lips (to show internal conflict, emotion (of any shade) or an impending decision). Think of how your face is watching a video on YouTube where a naked guy runs into a plate glass door he hasn’t seen. That’s the one. Luckily, it’s only a mild case here, not the full-on epidemic from the dreadful ‘The Emperor’s Knives’ outbreak of 2014.
Otherwise, this is a continuation of the absolutely exellent work that has defined the ‘~ of Rome’ series as a whole. It is frustrating, that this kind of HistFic doesnt get the recognition it deserves. In the press, TV, film. If he was a woman and there was less fightin’ more lovin’ more internal conflict, less external conflict-solving, Douglas Jackson would be a household name. I’m just glad his name in my household. On the shelves. Over there >>
More world-class reviews on Speesh Reads
November 19, 2021
Read this book in 2013, and its the 4th wonderful episode of the amazing "Gaius Valerius Verrens" series.
Emperor Nero's reign is at its end with his death, and the land in disarray and turmoil, when the one-armed Valerius is dispatched to Rome to restore order there.
Nero's successor, Servius Sulpicius Galba, has arrived from Hispania to take the Purple and bring stability and prosperity to Rome.
But his reign is affected with carnage and unrest, resulting with the fall of Galba, and which started as the Year of the Four Emperors.
With Rome in a time of total civil war, Valerius must somehow use his skills to survive, when the new Emperor of Rome, Otho will send Valerius on a urgent business to visit Vitellius, the Commander of the armies of the North.
But the armies of Vitellius are already on the march in an attempt to get Vitellius on the throne as Emperor, and only Valerius can try to persuade him to stop the invasion, but that attempt will fail and a final reckoning will take place between Emperor Otho and the pretender, Vitellius.
What is to follow is an engrossing historical Roman adventure, in which Valerius in a divided bloodied land will be witness and active participant in the clash between Otho and Vitellius, and in that bloodbath he's persecuted by the most implacable enemy he has ever faced, and so he's forced to do everything he can to stave off that threat and stay alive.
Highly recommended, for this is another tremendous addition to this awesome series, and that's why I like to call this episode: "An Epic Confrontation Of Rome"!
Emperor Nero's reign is at its end with his death, and the land in disarray and turmoil, when the one-armed Valerius is dispatched to Rome to restore order there.
Nero's successor, Servius Sulpicius Galba, has arrived from Hispania to take the Purple and bring stability and prosperity to Rome.
But his reign is affected with carnage and unrest, resulting with the fall of Galba, and which started as the Year of the Four Emperors.
With Rome in a time of total civil war, Valerius must somehow use his skills to survive, when the new Emperor of Rome, Otho will send Valerius on a urgent business to visit Vitellius, the Commander of the armies of the North.
But the armies of Vitellius are already on the march in an attempt to get Vitellius on the throne as Emperor, and only Valerius can try to persuade him to stop the invasion, but that attempt will fail and a final reckoning will take place between Emperor Otho and the pretender, Vitellius.
What is to follow is an engrossing historical Roman adventure, in which Valerius in a divided bloodied land will be witness and active participant in the clash between Otho and Vitellius, and in that bloodbath he's persecuted by the most implacable enemy he has ever faced, and so he's forced to do everything he can to stave off that threat and stay alive.
Highly recommended, for this is another tremendous addition to this awesome series, and that's why I like to call this episode: "An Epic Confrontation Of Rome"!
July 29, 2021
This took me longer to finish since I have had a lot of things going on in my life at the moment. As a result, the first half was very hard to get into. I think I was too distracted. But my gosh, the battle towards the end was intense!! This took place in 68-69 AD, and it was the Year of Four Emperors. I had been looking forward to Nero's demise, but holy crap, what a mess occurred in the vacuum!
April 25, 2019
Wat een geweldige serie! De omschrijvingen van de gevechten in deze boeken zijn levensecht en prachtig beschreven. Ook heb ik een zwak voor de hoofdpersoon Valerius Verrens. Elk gevecht, elke beslissing die hij neemt of voor hem genomen wordt, tekenen hem, wat in elk boek weer terugkomt. Kortom: zeker een aanrader als je van historische thrillers houdt!!
January 28, 2014
It is criminal that it’s taken me so long to read ‘Sword of Rome’. Particularly given that Doug Jackson’s books are some of the literary highlights of my year. However, events conspired to keep it from me. What that meant was that during that dark and miserable time following New Year, at least I had a book to read which I was confident would be a belter!
I was so right. The Valerius Verrens series is one of the strongest historical series on sale at the moment of ANY era, let alone just the Roman. The first book (Hero of Rome) was one of the best I have ever read, and certainly concerned one of the most tense and memorable scenes of any novel. The sequel (Defender) was a strong contender and surprisingly successful, given the dark content and the controversial subject matter. Then along came book 3 (Avenger) and it was clear at that point that Doug’s series had hit the top of the genre. Avenger was one of my favourite books, perhaps better than Hero, though nothing will ever match the ‘siege of Colonia’ scenes. And with a lot to live up to, book 4 looked like it was fighting uphill, given that its subject matter is already strongly represented in Historical Fiction. Against the odds, Jackson has managed to turn that subject into a novel that vies with the best, and at least matches the quality of his previous epics if not surpassing them.
The reason?
It was the way the story was told, for me. The year of the four emperors (the civil war of 69AD) is a famous time about which I have read a great deal, and it is hard to find a new angle to examine such a thing. Henry Venmore-Rowland produced a nicely detailed account from a traditional viewpoint. Manda Scott showed us the same events from a most unusual and fascinating perspective. So what was left? Simply, to tell Valerius’ own story using the evens of the time as the pinball table around which our unwilling hero is bounced painfully.
Valerius is an excellently-constructed and believable character. Not a superman in a cuirass or a blue-eyed boy of the people. Nor is he even the embittered veteran. He has avoided or transcended all stereotypes to become a fully rounded character in whom everyone will be able to see something familiar and to their liking. In a similar fashion, Serpentius, his right hand man, is a character who has grown beyond mere ‘supporting cast’ status now, to the point where he could almost support his own spin-off.
In this installment, Valerius, having journeyed to Spain to serve Galba, who is set on becoming Nero’s successor, finds himself drawn into a sequence of events that will see him killing emperors, acclaiming emperors, serving emperors in battle and on secret missions, and standing his moral ground against them – and we’re talking more than one emperor here. Essentially, in this turbulent year, most characters of no conscience could float through the currents by throwing their support behind whoever wears the purple this week. Most characters of conscience would live for an emperor and die for him as the next contender comes along. Valerius is lucky (or possibly UNlucky) enough that while his conscience and his unbreakable word force him to support even lost causes against old friends, blind luck and a pig-headed unwillingness to back down see him bounce back each time.
Hence the pinball analogy. That is what the book will leave you with.
You will experience this heart-stopping time in Roman history from the fertile lands of southern France, to the seething streets of Rome, to the countryside of Latium, the deadly Alpine passes, the forests of Germany, and the beleaguered lands of northern Italy. And Valerius will be your guide.
Apart from the sheer breakneck speed of the plot, and the tense action, there are three things I find recommend Sword of Rome:
Focus on unusual details. What do you know about the First Adiutrix Legion? I know their basic history and they’re quite a fascinating bunch, but I only know them from dry textbooks. Now I’ve had the chance to see them face to face.
Characters. Apart from the powerful continuing characters and at least one truly stunning, wicked bad guy returning, Jackson’s portrayals of the unyielding Galba, the unfortunate Otho, the unwilling Vitellius and the unmanned Nero are fresh and vivid and help them stand out in a year when an emperor could come and go faster than you can put on your pants!
The plot arc. The very obvious plot arc for anyone wanting to write a book on the year of the four emperors begins with Nero’s fall from grace and demise, follows through the numerous brief reigns, and ends with the accession of the dynasty-founding Vespasian. It seems clear. Henry VR split his story into two books, but it was still a standalone story in two halves. Manda covered the arc in one go. Jackson has eschewed the obvious and left the tale in a most unexpected place. Reaching the epilogue, all I could think of was ‘When is Enemy of Rome out?’
So there you have it. Breakneck action, vivid characters, a fresh, believable perspective, and a fabulous plot with a stunning, unexpected end. Don’t want to read it yet? Are you barking mad?
Another masterpiece, Doug.
I was so right. The Valerius Verrens series is one of the strongest historical series on sale at the moment of ANY era, let alone just the Roman. The first book (Hero of Rome) was one of the best I have ever read, and certainly concerned one of the most tense and memorable scenes of any novel. The sequel (Defender) was a strong contender and surprisingly successful, given the dark content and the controversial subject matter. Then along came book 3 (Avenger) and it was clear at that point that Doug’s series had hit the top of the genre. Avenger was one of my favourite books, perhaps better than Hero, though nothing will ever match the ‘siege of Colonia’ scenes. And with a lot to live up to, book 4 looked like it was fighting uphill, given that its subject matter is already strongly represented in Historical Fiction. Against the odds, Jackson has managed to turn that subject into a novel that vies with the best, and at least matches the quality of his previous epics if not surpassing them.
The reason?
It was the way the story was told, for me. The year of the four emperors (the civil war of 69AD) is a famous time about which I have read a great deal, and it is hard to find a new angle to examine such a thing. Henry Venmore-Rowland produced a nicely detailed account from a traditional viewpoint. Manda Scott showed us the same events from a most unusual and fascinating perspective. So what was left? Simply, to tell Valerius’ own story using the evens of the time as the pinball table around which our unwilling hero is bounced painfully.
Valerius is an excellently-constructed and believable character. Not a superman in a cuirass or a blue-eyed boy of the people. Nor is he even the embittered veteran. He has avoided or transcended all stereotypes to become a fully rounded character in whom everyone will be able to see something familiar and to their liking. In a similar fashion, Serpentius, his right hand man, is a character who has grown beyond mere ‘supporting cast’ status now, to the point where he could almost support his own spin-off.
In this installment, Valerius, having journeyed to Spain to serve Galba, who is set on becoming Nero’s successor, finds himself drawn into a sequence of events that will see him killing emperors, acclaiming emperors, serving emperors in battle and on secret missions, and standing his moral ground against them – and we’re talking more than one emperor here. Essentially, in this turbulent year, most characters of no conscience could float through the currents by throwing their support behind whoever wears the purple this week. Most characters of conscience would live for an emperor and die for him as the next contender comes along. Valerius is lucky (or possibly UNlucky) enough that while his conscience and his unbreakable word force him to support even lost causes against old friends, blind luck and a pig-headed unwillingness to back down see him bounce back each time.
Hence the pinball analogy. That is what the book will leave you with.
You will experience this heart-stopping time in Roman history from the fertile lands of southern France, to the seething streets of Rome, to the countryside of Latium, the deadly Alpine passes, the forests of Germany, and the beleaguered lands of northern Italy. And Valerius will be your guide.
Apart from the sheer breakneck speed of the plot, and the tense action, there are three things I find recommend Sword of Rome:
Focus on unusual details. What do you know about the First Adiutrix Legion? I know their basic history and they’re quite a fascinating bunch, but I only know them from dry textbooks. Now I’ve had the chance to see them face to face.
Characters. Apart from the powerful continuing characters and at least one truly stunning, wicked bad guy returning, Jackson’s portrayals of the unyielding Galba, the unfortunate Otho, the unwilling Vitellius and the unmanned Nero are fresh and vivid and help them stand out in a year when an emperor could come and go faster than you can put on your pants!
The plot arc. The very obvious plot arc for anyone wanting to write a book on the year of the four emperors begins with Nero’s fall from grace and demise, follows through the numerous brief reigns, and ends with the accession of the dynasty-founding Vespasian. It seems clear. Henry VR split his story into two books, but it was still a standalone story in two halves. Manda covered the arc in one go. Jackson has eschewed the obvious and left the tale in a most unexpected place. Reaching the epilogue, all I could think of was ‘When is Enemy of Rome out?’
So there you have it. Breakneck action, vivid characters, a fresh, believable perspective, and a fabulous plot with a stunning, unexpected end. Don’t want to read it yet? Are you barking mad?
Another masterpiece, Doug.
September 5, 2013
Review
Over the last few book of the Gaius Valerius Verrens series i have been forced to re-evaluate my views on Roman fiction writers. They fit into different brackets, there are the Roman crime writers, the Roman mystery writers, the Roman Blood and Guts (or sandals as some would class them) writers and there are the Roman Adventures, this last one for me is the cream of the crop, the beating heart of Roman fiction, getting into the hearts and minds of the characters and how they lived, how they died and how they interacted with the world full of conspiracy going on around them.
In book 1 Hero of Rome, Douglas Jackson wrote what i still consider to be the greatest, most evocative and emotional scene in any Roman Fiction book i have read, the temple scene left me stunned, and wondering if he could ever reach those heights again.
In book 3 Avenger of Rome Douglas Jackson took that skill and spread it throughout an entire novel. The back and forth plot lines with Gnaeus Domitius Corbulo coupled with the fast paced action packed plot made book 3 one of the best Roman fiction books written.
Book 4 Sword of Rome, for me had too much to live up to, how on earth could it rise to the heady heights of Avenger?
It tried and it made a damn fine job of it. The book covers the early part of the year of the four emperors, and reading it made for an interesting comparison to Henry Venmore Rowlands The Last Caesar and Sword and Throne: His duology following the trials of Aulus Caecina Severus where Douglas Jackson's follow Verrens and the opposite side under Otho.
This juxtaposition helped make the book an even greater experience. I was worried that Serpentius was starting to become too good, a caricature of the perfect fictional character, too good to be true, but then Douglas Jackson ended the book with a battle that was pitched just right, that played just perfectly to his ex-gladiators skills and gave the book a dramatic conclusion and set the series up to see the conclusion of the year of the 4 emperors out with our hero's front and centre and surrounded by intrigue.
If you have never read any of Douglas Jacksons books then although you can read each book as a stand alone, I would still recommend going back to the start of this series
Gaius Valerius Verrens
1. Hero of Rome (2010)
2. Defender of Rome (2011)
3. Avenger of Rome (2012)
4. Sword of Rome (2013)
You will be very hard pressed to find a finer series of books set in the Roman period.
Very Highly recommended
(Parm)
(If you are interested in an author Q&A visit my blog, link is on my profile)
Other titles
Rufus
1. Caligula: The Tyranny of Rome (2008)
2. Claudius (2009)
Over the last few book of the Gaius Valerius Verrens series i have been forced to re-evaluate my views on Roman fiction writers. They fit into different brackets, there are the Roman crime writers, the Roman mystery writers, the Roman Blood and Guts (or sandals as some would class them) writers and there are the Roman Adventures, this last one for me is the cream of the crop, the beating heart of Roman fiction, getting into the hearts and minds of the characters and how they lived, how they died and how they interacted with the world full of conspiracy going on around them.
In book 1 Hero of Rome, Douglas Jackson wrote what i still consider to be the greatest, most evocative and emotional scene in any Roman Fiction book i have read, the temple scene left me stunned, and wondering if he could ever reach those heights again.
In book 3 Avenger of Rome Douglas Jackson took that skill and spread it throughout an entire novel. The back and forth plot lines with Gnaeus Domitius Corbulo coupled with the fast paced action packed plot made book 3 one of the best Roman fiction books written.
Book 4 Sword of Rome, for me had too much to live up to, how on earth could it rise to the heady heights of Avenger?
It tried and it made a damn fine job of it. The book covers the early part of the year of the four emperors, and reading it made for an interesting comparison to Henry Venmore Rowlands The Last Caesar and Sword and Throne: His duology following the trials of Aulus Caecina Severus where Douglas Jackson's follow Verrens and the opposite side under Otho.
This juxtaposition helped make the book an even greater experience. I was worried that Serpentius was starting to become too good, a caricature of the perfect fictional character, too good to be true, but then Douglas Jackson ended the book with a battle that was pitched just right, that played just perfectly to his ex-gladiators skills and gave the book a dramatic conclusion and set the series up to see the conclusion of the year of the 4 emperors out with our hero's front and centre and surrounded by intrigue.
If you have never read any of Douglas Jacksons books then although you can read each book as a stand alone, I would still recommend going back to the start of this series
Gaius Valerius Verrens
1. Hero of Rome (2010)
2. Defender of Rome (2011)
3. Avenger of Rome (2012)
4. Sword of Rome (2013)
You will be very hard pressed to find a finer series of books set in the Roman period.
Very Highly recommended
(Parm)
(If you are interested in an author Q&A visit my blog, link is on my profile)
Other titles
Rufus
1. Caligula: The Tyranny of Rome (2008)
2. Claudius (2009)
August 20, 2013
Great,Brilliant,Fantastic and that was before i open The Sword of Rome and discovered that Douglas Jackson had me looking for more words to add to the praise of the Valerius series.The first three books have establish the series as one of the best around and my anticipation that Sword of Rome would be just good as the first three books was not missed placed,in fact,in my humble opinion this is the best yet,so Great,Brilliant,Fantastic.Chapter one sets the pace of the book and from then on it never falters,even when you are involved in the cut and thrust of the political dog fight`s of the Emperors.The action comes thick and fast as the story builds to the battle of Bedriacum and Douglas Jackson has you in the heart of the battle,standing side by side with Valerius and Serpentius as the battle rages.With great research and writing of the highest quality,Douglas has produced a page turner that makes you want much more of Gaius Valerius Varrens and Serpentius and with such a great ending i am sure Douglas Jackson will be hunch over his typewriter plotting more Great,Brilliant and Fantastic books.
January 5, 2018
Absolutely fantastic addition to arguably the finest Roman series. Douglas Jackson has an incredible ability to put the reader into the mind of his Hero of Rome Valerius and the result is a powerful rollercoaster that towards the end put my heart and stomach into my mouth. The aftermath of Nero's death was a dangerous time for Rome and here we experience exactly why. Superb.
Read
November 29, 2016Another Attention Grabber
This was the next in series that I read. It dd not disappoint and kept me interested from the start. With plots, action, and warfare during the Roman Empire year of the 4 Emporers the continued experts of the Hero of Rome makes for a great storyline and the author takes full advantage. I so enjoyed this NE that I just got the next. A real page Turner and one I found most enjoyable.
This was the next in series that I read. It dd not disappoint and kept me interested from the start. With plots, action, and warfare during the Roman Empire year of the 4 Emporers the continued experts of the Hero of Rome makes for a great storyline and the author takes full advantage. I so enjoyed this NE that I just got the next. A real page Turner and one I found most enjoyable.
September 12, 2017
Another great book in a brilliant series. Onward with the next one!
March 5, 2021
Accuracy that reads like the best fiction
Historical accuracy that telescopes between the big picture of the year of the four emporers and the minute details of the battle that brought Vitellius to the throne.
Historical accuracy that telescopes between the big picture of the year of the four emporers and the minute details of the battle that brought Vitellius to the throne.
August 10, 2016
This is the fourth in the series following Gaius Valerius Verrens and finds our hero facing the prospect of choosing sides in a bloody Roman civil war.
Jackson has quickly become one of my favourite authors – his books are the kind that lodge in your mind so months or years later you can still fondly remember where you were when you were reading them (for some reason I always seem to be on holiday/off work when I get hold of them).
I gave the previous book, Avenger of Rome, a five star review just a few months ago, but there were a couple of things I felt could be improved on in future outings. Firstly, I was hoping Serpentius, Valerius's right-hand man would play a bigger role, and I'm pleased to see he does here, using his own particular deadly skills to great effect throughout the book, although there's still plenty of scope to delve deeper into the man's character as the series progresses.
Secondly, I thought the pacing in the previous book was a little off – it started at breakneck speed, with every chapter being a breathless cliff-hanger, and after a while the effect wore off (although things righted themselves eventually). Well, Sword of Rome again seems like the pacing could have been better: this time the middle section slows down, with a lot of politics being discussed, until, as before, things get back on track and the book ends on a fantastic – and unexpected - climax.
The historical aspects are very well done, never becoming boring while retaining the air of meticulous accuracy throughout, and the many action sequences are wonderfully described. The characters themselves – even Valerius – aren't particularly well developed but it doesn't really matter since everyone except our hero and his sidekick are bit-part players anyway.
What we have here is another in what is my favourite Roman-based fiction series just now, and it lives up to the previous efforts. Despite the slow middle section, I'm glad to see Serpentius taking on more of a central role and the cracking ending has me really looking forward to what Jackson will come up with for the Hero of Rome next time.
Highly recommended!
November 11, 2018
The usual excellence.
Once again another trip through the world of the Roman Empire and once again another example of the bench-mark by which other books of the genre should be judged.
This outing for Gaius sees him embroiled in the Year of the Four Emperors, a chaotic 12 month period in Roman history, but which I have rarely seen written about in historical fiction. That Mr Jackson does it with his usual aplomb is no surprise but he also does it with accuracy and leaves you wanting to know what comes next.
Once again another trip through the world of the Roman Empire and once again another example of the bench-mark by which other books of the genre should be judged.
This outing for Gaius sees him embroiled in the Year of the Four Emperors, a chaotic 12 month period in Roman history, but which I have rarely seen written about in historical fiction. That Mr Jackson does it with his usual aplomb is no surprise but he also does it with accuracy and leaves you wanting to know what comes next.
September 21, 2019
The missing link after reading the Vespasian series. Where in the Vespasian series the civil war is just looked at from a distance and from Vespasian eyes, Verrens comes right into the middle of the battle between Otho and Vitellius that both claimed themselves emperor. Verrens has to make a choice, and whatever choice he makes, he can only lose...
April 7, 2021
WOW!
I chose this book because I love action/adventure books, but I'm also a history geek. The Latin names/terms were a bit thick but definitely worth the effort. The description of fighting was consistent with Eyewitness to History.
Can't remember who wrote that but also
a very good read.
I chose this book because I love action/adventure books, but I'm also a history geek. The Latin names/terms were a bit thick but definitely worth the effort. The description of fighting was consistent with Eyewitness to History.
Can't remember who wrote that but also
a very good read.
May 22, 2021
This is a rip-roaring, bloody and gory read. Lots of fights, battles and near-death experiences. While I cannot fault the history described in Sword of Rome, I found it to be just a little too much in terms of the continuing survival of Valerius. I have not read the previous three books in the series, and I probably won't.
June 16, 2022
Better to die with Honor and shield mates.
I love the way Jackson writes, he has a twin author who seems like a brother in arms, shield mates even. I talk of Cheney. Jackson mirrors his way of writing Roman history fiction like Cheney. Jackson is a excellent writer and I have a hard time putting down his series.
I love the way Jackson writes, he has a twin author who seems like a brother in arms, shield mates even. I talk of Cheney. Jackson mirrors his way of writing Roman history fiction like Cheney. Jackson is a excellent writer and I have a hard time putting down his series.
December 17, 2020
Another great historical fiction following Jackson's one armed Roman hero
Jackson continues to do a good job of navigating Gaius Valerius Verrens through ancient Roman history - filling in major events with engaging detailed historical fiction,
Jackson continues to do a good job of navigating Gaius Valerius Verrens through ancient Roman history - filling in major events with engaging detailed historical fiction,
March 7, 2021
This one reminded me of old Flash Gordon serials; always getting saved when all seemed lost. However, it's a lot more serious & it made me want to consult the books on Roman history. Jackson is really close.
September 9, 2023
Returning to Douglas Jackson’s, Gaius Valerius Verrens series after a year or so was rewarding. Douglas’ depiction of the year of the 4 emperors is full of action, suspense and political intrigue. Douglas includes many historically accurate details in the story. A great read.
January 7, 2018
Great
Great story again soon as I had finished reading it downloaded the next book can't wait to start it just hope its as good as the last
Great story again soon as I had finished reading it downloaded the next book can't wait to start it just hope its as good as the last
December 11, 2020
Brilliant read
This book was well worth reading from start to finish I couldn't put the book down read it all in a day
This book was well worth reading from start to finish I couldn't put the book down read it all in a day
January 7, 2021
Just fabulous
September 2, 2021
What a shock!
It took a little time to get into the story but once I did it ran away with me. On to number 5 for me.
It took a little time to get into the story but once I did it ran away with me. On to number 5 for me.
June 6, 2022
Excellent
Diverting read from start to finish. Yet another great book from Douglas Jackson. Cannot wait to read his next book in this series.
Diverting read from start to finish. Yet another great book from Douglas Jackson. Cannot wait to read his next book in this series.
April 9, 2024
Good one.
July 10, 2015
When we left Gaius Valerius Verrens at the end of Book 4 of the "Hero of Rome" series of novels by Douglas Jackson, Valerius was attempting to elude the Roman Emperor Nero's assassins in Antioch and escape to the safety of Vespasian's headquarters in Africa. He has been charged with the care of the daughter of his former commander and mentor Gnaeus Domitius Corbulo who was ordered by Nero to commit suicide and he and his faithful freedman and former gladiator, Serpentius, are determined to keep the lady (and future empress) safe.
I thought the next book, "Sword of Rome", would take place in Africa where Valerius would serve as a cavalry commander under the gluttonous Vitellius, but instead we discover it is 68 CE, the Year of the Four Emperors, and Valerius is leading a small contingent of cavalry escorting Marcus Salvius Otho to Rome where Otho's fellow conspirators are preparing to end Nero's tyranny and install the aged patrician traditionalist, Galba as the new ruler of the Roman Empire.
Galba was childless and Otho has been assured by one of Galba's favorites, Titus Vinius, that Otho would be adopted by the old general if Otho would secretly marry Vinius' daughter.
The problem with "too many caesars" though, as Octavian once put it, is that troops loyal to different imperial claimants often run into each other in the surrounding provinces. Such is the case when Valerius' troopers encounter a squad of Batavians still loyal to Nero and in the ensuing struggle Valerius kills the brother of a high-ranking Batavian commander. The resulting blood feud shadows Valerius' missions throughout the rest of the novel.
When Valerius finally arrives in Rome, he is asked to secretly meet with Nero's vile Praetorian Prefect, Tigelliunus, who has accepted a bribe from the rebels to betray his longtime benefactor. Valerius finally has the opportunity to exact vengeance on the now cowering and terrified emperor who ordered Valerius' father figure Corbulo's suicide.
Jackson then introduces a group of Roman sailors who Nero has promised the opportunity to become a new legion. Valerius meets these men and, although they are not properly trained in the use of arms, Valerius is impressed by their courage and loyalty and assures them that he will try to get the new emperor to recognize Nero's pledge.
But the pompous Galba will have nothing to do with them and orders his troops to slaughter many of the men when they confront Galba during his triumphal procession into the city. Among other mistakes Galba makes is his tight-fisted refusal to pay a promised donative to the Praetorian Guard. Then Galba names a feckless patrician youth as his heir instead of Otho and Otho incites the Praetorin Guard to put an end to Galba's blunders.
Valerius is torn by his soldier's sense of duty and honor between Galba and Otho since, by now, he has already pledged the military sacramentum to Galba. So, Valerius is caught right in the middle of this maelstrom of violence and he and Serpentius barely escape with their lives. As history tells us, Galba was not so fortunate, however.
Otho finds among Galba's papers reports that Vitellius, now governing Germania Superior, has been declared emperor by the Renus legions. So, in exchange for Valerius' life he asks Valerius and Serpentius to travel to Vitellius' headquarters as Otho's envoy to try to avert civil war.
The rest of the novel is focused on Valerius' journey to and from Germania Superior ending with the climactic battle of Bedriacum that leaves Valerius an "Enemy of Rome", the title of book five.
Once again Jackson has fleshed out the meticulously researched events of history with vibrant characters and breathtaking battle sequences. Although I was aware of the key players in the "Year of the Four Emperors", I had not studied it in depth even though I have an, as yet unread, text on the subject, "The Year of the Four Emperors" by Kenneth Wellesley. Jackson's narrative, however, has seared the events of that momentus year into my memory as no textbook could.
I am anxiously looking forward to the next novel in the series "Enemy of Rome" although it has not yet been released on audio which is my favorite format. I keep checking my Audible.com offerings and hope it will show up there soon.
I thought the next book, "Sword of Rome", would take place in Africa where Valerius would serve as a cavalry commander under the gluttonous Vitellius, but instead we discover it is 68 CE, the Year of the Four Emperors, and Valerius is leading a small contingent of cavalry escorting Marcus Salvius Otho to Rome where Otho's fellow conspirators are preparing to end Nero's tyranny and install the aged patrician traditionalist, Galba as the new ruler of the Roman Empire.
Galba was childless and Otho has been assured by one of Galba's favorites, Titus Vinius, that Otho would be adopted by the old general if Otho would secretly marry Vinius' daughter.
The problem with "too many caesars" though, as Octavian once put it, is that troops loyal to different imperial claimants often run into each other in the surrounding provinces. Such is the case when Valerius' troopers encounter a squad of Batavians still loyal to Nero and in the ensuing struggle Valerius kills the brother of a high-ranking Batavian commander. The resulting blood feud shadows Valerius' missions throughout the rest of the novel.
When Valerius finally arrives in Rome, he is asked to secretly meet with Nero's vile Praetorian Prefect, Tigelliunus, who has accepted a bribe from the rebels to betray his longtime benefactor. Valerius finally has the opportunity to exact vengeance on the now cowering and terrified emperor who ordered Valerius' father figure Corbulo's suicide.
Jackson then introduces a group of Roman sailors who Nero has promised the opportunity to become a new legion. Valerius meets these men and, although they are not properly trained in the use of arms, Valerius is impressed by their courage and loyalty and assures them that he will try to get the new emperor to recognize Nero's pledge.
But the pompous Galba will have nothing to do with them and orders his troops to slaughter many of the men when they confront Galba during his triumphal procession into the city. Among other mistakes Galba makes is his tight-fisted refusal to pay a promised donative to the Praetorian Guard. Then Galba names a feckless patrician youth as his heir instead of Otho and Otho incites the Praetorin Guard to put an end to Galba's blunders.
Valerius is torn by his soldier's sense of duty and honor between Galba and Otho since, by now, he has already pledged the military sacramentum to Galba. So, Valerius is caught right in the middle of this maelstrom of violence and he and Serpentius barely escape with their lives. As history tells us, Galba was not so fortunate, however.
Otho finds among Galba's papers reports that Vitellius, now governing Germania Superior, has been declared emperor by the Renus legions. So, in exchange for Valerius' life he asks Valerius and Serpentius to travel to Vitellius' headquarters as Otho's envoy to try to avert civil war.
The rest of the novel is focused on Valerius' journey to and from Germania Superior ending with the climactic battle of Bedriacum that leaves Valerius an "Enemy of Rome", the title of book five.
Once again Jackson has fleshed out the meticulously researched events of history with vibrant characters and breathtaking battle sequences. Although I was aware of the key players in the "Year of the Four Emperors", I had not studied it in depth even though I have an, as yet unread, text on the subject, "The Year of the Four Emperors" by Kenneth Wellesley. Jackson's narrative, however, has seared the events of that momentus year into my memory as no textbook could.
I am anxiously looking forward to the next novel in the series "Enemy of Rome" although it has not yet been released on audio which is my favorite format. I keep checking my Audible.com offerings and hope it will show up there soon.
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