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Centurion
Every Empire Must Fall.
Journey back in time and embark on a thrilling pseudo-historical M/M action-romance set during the fall of the Roman Empire.
Cato was a Centurion of the Empire. He had marched from one end of known civilization to the other. He had waged war. He had delivered justice. He had taken lives. And he had spared them, too. But he had never known love. And so, as he stood in line with the others who had been sentenced to decimation after retreating from the latest onslaught of Visigoth forces on the frontier, he couldn't help but shake the feeling that somehow, some way, his brilliant career as a military strategist and leader had led him astray. After all, he wouldn't be awaiting his execution if it hadn't...
Alaric had chosen to be where he was. Such was the right, and burden, of his tribe. Unlike the others--the ones who labeled them barbarian without learning their language or custom--he had always had a choice. Alaric believed in what his people stood for. As a boy, he had watched the Roman Legion descend on his village, and then all the others surrounding it. The soldiers had set fire to the forests. They had raised the temples. And they had pillaged and destroyed until little remained of the place he'd called home. He'd lost his family in those raids, alongside the innocence of childhood. That's why, years later, when he took part in an attack on an unsuspecting Roman military camp, the last thing he ever expected was to come face to face with an enemy soldier who challenged everything he knew about the imperialistic demons that had forced bloodshed and fear onto his people for centuries...
History has a way of repeating itself. But sometimes, the cruel wheel of fate is broken by the simplest, most human truth of love. Can the human spirit triumph over evil? Or will cruelty and prejudice rule as they always seem to? Journey back in time and discover that the greatest love stories are forged in war and fire.
Grab a spear.
Prepare for war.
Rome will burn.
Journey back in time and embark on a thrilling pseudo-historical M/M action-romance set during the fall of the Roman Empire.
Cato was a Centurion of the Empire. He had marched from one end of known civilization to the other. He had waged war. He had delivered justice. He had taken lives. And he had spared them, too. But he had never known love. And so, as he stood in line with the others who had been sentenced to decimation after retreating from the latest onslaught of Visigoth forces on the frontier, he couldn't help but shake the feeling that somehow, some way, his brilliant career as a military strategist and leader had led him astray. After all, he wouldn't be awaiting his execution if it hadn't...
Alaric had chosen to be where he was. Such was the right, and burden, of his tribe. Unlike the others--the ones who labeled them barbarian without learning their language or custom--he had always had a choice. Alaric believed in what his people stood for. As a boy, he had watched the Roman Legion descend on his village, and then all the others surrounding it. The soldiers had set fire to the forests. They had raised the temples. And they had pillaged and destroyed until little remained of the place he'd called home. He'd lost his family in those raids, alongside the innocence of childhood. That's why, years later, when he took part in an attack on an unsuspecting Roman military camp, the last thing he ever expected was to come face to face with an enemy soldier who challenged everything he knew about the imperialistic demons that had forced bloodshed and fear onto his people for centuries...
History has a way of repeating itself. But sometimes, the cruel wheel of fate is broken by the simplest, most human truth of love. Can the human spirit triumph over evil? Or will cruelty and prejudice rule as they always seem to? Journey back in time and discover that the greatest love stories are forged in war and fire.
Grab a spear.
Prepare for war.
Rome will burn.
- GenresHistorical
201 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 10, 2025
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Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews
April 26, 2025
Centurion is a novel where historical and fantasy elements are mixed. It´s an enemies to lovers.
Cato is a centurion of a Western Roman empire that is living its last years, harassed by the Visigoths and the rest of the barbarian tribes. As a result of a defeat of the Roman army against the Visigoths, Cato's cohort faces the decision, the Roman camp is attacked again and Cato saves his life, but is captured by the Visigoths, being Alaric who takes care of him.
I have to say that it is very well set, there are historical details that are omitted because they do not serve the story, as the true role of Alaric within the Visigothic society.
I liked it, I do not know if it will have continuation, but it would be cool.
Cato is a centurion of a Western Roman empire that is living its last years, harassed by the Visigoths and the rest of the barbarian tribes. As a result of a defeat of the Roman army against the Visigoths, Cato's cohort faces the decision, the Roman camp is attacked again and Cato saves his life, but is captured by the Visigoths, being Alaric who takes care of him.
I have to say that it is very well set, there are historical details that are omitted because they do not serve the story, as the true role of Alaric within the Visigothic society.
I liked it, I do not know if it will have continuation, but it would be cool.
April 5, 2025
“Centurion” is a beautifully written story. A tale of greatness, fearless warriors, Romans and Visigoths, a decimation, battles, a horse named Blindan and the Eternal City. And yes, love.
“War makes men into animals. I wish to be better. I will be better.”
A unique bond is formed forever and beyond between Cato and Alaric. Looks like fate brought them together. They are destined to be together and eventually fight for what seems to be the only thing left to do.
“… And Cato realized then that he would have traded anything – even Rome – to make Alaric smile again.”
I really loved reading their story. The plot, the symbolisms, the characters, all unique.
“Awoo.” Alaric whispered. “Awoo.” Cato whispered back.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
“War makes men into animals. I wish to be better. I will be better.”
A unique bond is formed forever and beyond between Cato and Alaric. Looks like fate brought them together. They are destined to be together and eventually fight for what seems to be the only thing left to do.
“… And Cato realized then that he would have traded anything – even Rome – to make Alaric smile again.”
I really loved reading their story. The plot, the symbolisms, the characters, all unique.
“Awoo.” Alaric whispered. “Awoo.” Cato whispered back.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 30, 2025
Nando Gray has crafted another tale that draws you in and clutches your throat. This portrayal of Ancient Rome, from the perspective of these two soldiers, reads like the author was channeling a life they once lived, in another body.
The characters are vibrant. Two brutes who soften as they discover the deep intimacy between them.
The story is immersive and truly captures an ancient world that’s lush and honest. With nods to historical facts that feel new and true, all at once.
The book reads like an epic film as it plays out in your mind. One day it should be!
Gray’s books are a must! I am a fan for life!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The characters are vibrant. Two brutes who soften as they discover the deep intimacy between them.
The story is immersive and truly captures an ancient world that’s lush and honest. With nods to historical facts that feel new and true, all at once.
The book reads like an epic film as it plays out in your mind. One day it should be!
Gray’s books are a must! I am a fan for life!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 13, 2025
Cato Flaius Marecellianus was a great Centurion. He lead his men and some barely boys into battle to protect Rome. The battle was great but Cato had to retreat. With barely eighty men left the Visigoth had reduced his army. The men were Cato’s responsibility and to retreat left him feeling shame and failure.
General Corvinus called for Cato and his men to face the Decimation. The Arbiter of Justice for the Empire Rome, Tribunus, brought the scroll the Magister Militum for Decimation. It was an evil ritual as black and white stones would be used to bring death to the remaining men of Cato’s small army. As Cato could do nothing, for to run was a sure death, he watched as one out of every ten men faced their death. As a storm brewed Cato sacrificed himself for the young Draco who drew a black stone.
As Cato lay dying in mud and blood, he was rescued by Gundemar, Chief of a war tribe and Alaric. Gundemar took care of Alaric from a young boy. He had no home or tribe all had been destroyed. The one thing Alaric did have was Blindan, a majestic black velvet horse that was his only family.
As Cato and Alaric get to know one another their lives will face a twisted and unexpected reality.
Nando Gray creates a magnificent tale of two men with “Centurion”. It’s a tale that brings forth the cruelty and violence of Rome, not only towards their enemies but their own people. The tale is fast paced, filled with action and battles that are heart shattering. As for Cato and Alaric there is the contrast of both individuals. Alaric had come from a loving home and lost it all. Cato comes from abusive parents and never received the praise as he grew. It made Cato become the warrior that he is.
The author also takes Cato and Alaric into history and a different realm. Cato will meet Mars, God of War and protector of Rome. He will receive the lance “Hasta Martia” the spear of the old God Mars. In a dream like realm Mars will show him the wolves and the history of Rome as it continually repeats itself. Alaric will meet the three Fates: Nona the spinner, Decima the measurer an Morta the cutter. The pain that also turned the great wheel of Fate. Both will face the danger of “The Void” that becomes the reality that’s needed to make the story real.
Nando Gray is outstanding at taking history and mythology to create this tale of love, heart break, different realms and surprises. What has always left me amazed besides Nando Grays brilliant writing is the illustrations throughout the book. Each chapter illustration tells a story and brings more of “Centurion” to life. The author has also included a chapter from “Paleolithica” which is another illustrated and outstanding story.
General Corvinus called for Cato and his men to face the Decimation. The Arbiter of Justice for the Empire Rome, Tribunus, brought the scroll the Magister Militum for Decimation. It was an evil ritual as black and white stones would be used to bring death to the remaining men of Cato’s small army. As Cato could do nothing, for to run was a sure death, he watched as one out of every ten men faced their death. As a storm brewed Cato sacrificed himself for the young Draco who drew a black stone.
As Cato lay dying in mud and blood, he was rescued by Gundemar, Chief of a war tribe and Alaric. Gundemar took care of Alaric from a young boy. He had no home or tribe all had been destroyed. The one thing Alaric did have was Blindan, a majestic black velvet horse that was his only family.
As Cato and Alaric get to know one another their lives will face a twisted and unexpected reality.
Nando Gray creates a magnificent tale of two men with “Centurion”. It’s a tale that brings forth the cruelty and violence of Rome, not only towards their enemies but their own people. The tale is fast paced, filled with action and battles that are heart shattering. As for Cato and Alaric there is the contrast of both individuals. Alaric had come from a loving home and lost it all. Cato comes from abusive parents and never received the praise as he grew. It made Cato become the warrior that he is.
The author also takes Cato and Alaric into history and a different realm. Cato will meet Mars, God of War and protector of Rome. He will receive the lance “Hasta Martia” the spear of the old God Mars. In a dream like realm Mars will show him the wolves and the history of Rome as it continually repeats itself. Alaric will meet the three Fates: Nona the spinner, Decima the measurer an Morta the cutter. The pain that also turned the great wheel of Fate. Both will face the danger of “The Void” that becomes the reality that’s needed to make the story real.
Nando Gray is outstanding at taking history and mythology to create this tale of love, heart break, different realms and surprises. What has always left me amazed besides Nando Grays brilliant writing is the illustrations throughout the book. Each chapter illustration tells a story and brings more of “Centurion” to life. The author has also included a chapter from “Paleolithica” which is another illustrated and outstanding story.
April 1, 2025
A well-crafted story with unforgettable characters make this a truly amazing reading experience. An impressive array of details emerges as we learn about Cato’s life as a Roman soldier. Duty, honor, pride, sacrifice, and redemption are vitally important. Alaric, a Visigoth who is both enemy and savior, isn’t quite the barbarian that Cato believes him to be. Blindan, Alaric’s horse, is one of my favorite characters, as the bond she shares with her master is remarkable and she’s always battle ready. Overall, this book is not for the faint of heart. The violence and cruelty of ancient Rome towards their enemies as well as those within their own ranks, the grandeur and harshness of life in ancient times, the underlying belief in the power of the gods and fates in all things—these are just a few of the many fascinating facets of the story. It’s rare to find such a brilliantly constructed book in the world of m/m fiction. Nando Gray’s illustrations that accompany chapter headings are as marvelous as ever with such fine detail as to make the images fairly leap off the pages. Beautifully written and thrilling from start to finish. Bravo!
April 21, 2025
Centurion is another classic Nando book that I’ll pick up to read again and again. The story takes place in and around ancient Rome and focuses on two soldiers (Cato and Alaric) from battling armies at war with one another who, against all odds, find common ground and a common goal. The book is smartly written and the love story between these two soldiers seems to grow and flourish organically. The story itself is both prescient and timely, with its focus on power for power’s sake, indoctrination of the masses, and the way violence is used to control and manipulate people. The world-building is outstandingly detailed without being overdone. And even though there is a twinge of hopelessness Cato and Alaric carry with them throughout the book—a sign of the times—in the end, they embark on a hopeful new future by choosing to eschew everything they’ve ever known.
“Let us tell a new story, and this time, it won’t be one of conquest or Empire but one of dignity and love.”
As always with this author, this book was a beautiful and worthwhile read.
“Let us tell a new story, and this time, it won’t be one of conquest or Empire but one of dignity and love.”
As always with this author, this book was a beautiful and worthwhile read.
November 10, 2025
Cato Flavius Marcellianus is a centurion of the Roman Legion. He is older. Big and muscular, with brown eyes.
Alaric is a Visigoth barbarian. Blonde and fair, with grey eyes.
Cato comes from a prestigious area; his father is a Senator. Alaric’s entire family—and village—was slaughtered by invading Romans.
Major trust issues. Growing to understand one another.
The dreams of both men: Wolves, Rome, Mars.
Romulus and Remus.
Mythology insert is disarming.
Info dump of Cato’s family damage—after 50%—is poorly placed. Integrating this earlier, somehow, would be preferable.
The Void. Fates.
Action is blink-and-you’ll-miss-it.
The paranormal turn this takes—bizarre AF. Rome must burn…for…reasons.
Very rough copy. The typos and mistakes frustrate. Basic spelling errors are all over the place (defience, treachory). Cannot decide how to spell Colosseum. Multiple paragraphs have 5 or more sentences that begin with ‘And.’
When you don’t have the respect for your work to even spell-check it prior to publishing…should we respect it in turn??
Alaric is a Visigoth barbarian. Blonde and fair, with grey eyes.
Cato comes from a prestigious area; his father is a Senator. Alaric’s entire family—and village—was slaughtered by invading Romans.
Major trust issues. Growing to understand one another.
The dreams of both men: Wolves, Rome, Mars.
Romulus and Remus.
Mythology insert is disarming.
Info dump of Cato’s family damage—after 50%—is poorly placed. Integrating this earlier, somehow, would be preferable.
The Void. Fates.
Action is blink-and-you’ll-miss-it.
The paranormal turn this takes—bizarre AF. Rome must burn…for…reasons.
Very rough copy. The typos and mistakes frustrate. Basic spelling errors are all over the place (defience, treachory). Cannot decide how to spell Colosseum. Multiple paragraphs have 5 or more sentences that begin with ‘And.’
When you don’t have the respect for your work to even spell-check it prior to publishing…should we respect it in turn??
April 1, 2025
Amid the crumbling Roman Empire, loyal centurion Cato finds himself torn between duty and a forbidden passion that threatens everything he stands for. As battles rage and political tensions rise, his heart wages its own war—one that could cost him everything. With gripping action, historical intrigue, and an undeniable love that defies the odds, this story blends fierce loyalty with the fire of desire. A must-read for those who crave romance forged in the heat of battle and tested by the tides of history.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 25, 2025
This was a strong start to this series, it had that element that I was hoping for from a historical element that I was looking for. Nando Gray wrote this perfectly and am excited for more in this series. It had that element that I was looking for and was invested in what was going on in this historical fantasy concept. It was everything that I wanted from this type for book. The characters had that feel that I was looking for and thought they worked well overall.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 5, 2025
Nando has created another epic storyline, this time set in ancient Rome. This era has always intrigued me and I thoroughly enjoyed following these fascinating mcs as their relationship development grows showing moments of caring and intimacy as well as an action packed plot!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews