Wolf and the Crown: Discover an action-packed historical epic of power, intrigue and bloodshed

Shadow of Rome #2

by Adam Lofthouse

Pre-order the second in the action-acked Shadow of Rome series. An adrenaline-fuelled, immersive military adventure from author Adam Lofthouse. "Simply masterful" - Gordon Doherty Wall of Hadrian. Britannia, 382 AD. War is creeping back into the land. As silent as snowfall, as inevitable as winter. They’ve had sixteen years of peace, but all things must end.

Tribune Sixtus Victorinus has grown old, complacent. Blind to the truth that stares him in the face, he contents himself with what he has. He runs errands for the Dux Britanniarum Flavius Maximus and watches with joy as his boys grow to become men.

It is his friend, Prefect Gaius Felicius, who first spots the signs. Once more, the Caledonian tribes are rearing their heads in the north, but the greatest danger does not lie with them.

For there is a new pretender to the throne of the West. Another man who seeks to drape himself in purple. Caught up in a scheme they cannot comprehend, Victorinus and Felicius must navigate their way through both a war in the depths of winter, and a treasonous plot that will shake the Roman Empire to its core.

A new age dawns on the men of Britannia. For Victorinus, he must fight for the right to see the sun rise over it.

*Title previously published as Usurper

298 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 26, 2026

About the author

Adam has for many years held a passion for the ancient world. As a teenager he picked up Gates of Rome by Conn Iggulden, and has been obsessed with all things Rome ever since. After ten years of immersing himself in stories of the Roman world, he decided to have a go at writing one for himself. The Centurion’s Son is Adam’s first novel. He lives in Kent, UK

Reviews

[John Morris · Rating 5 out of 5]

An exhilarating read!

I love stories of ancient Rome and this was a really good example of the genre. The Roman empire is in decline and under serious threat. There are now two emperors, one in Rome and one in Constantinople. Both the eastern and western parts of the empire are creaking as civil war threatens and the generals seem more interested in scheming amongst themselves rather than fighting external threats. The legions of old no longer exist and the bulk of the army consists of 'barbarian' auxiliaries and foreign mercenaries. Into this cauldron Adam Lofthouse weaves an intricate tale of honour, treachery and political intrigue, plus loads of gory battle scenes. Highly recommended!

[M.J. · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've just been checking my review for book 1 in this series, and I see I also gave it five stars. Adam is a lucky author because I'm always told that I don't often hand out a 5-star review.

And he'll be pleased to know he's done it again with Wolf and the Crown.

Wolf and the Crown continues the story from Eagle and the Flame, but we move forward 16 years. Our two main characters remain Tribune Sixtus Victorinus and Felicius. Felicius is still a career Roman. Sixtus is not. They are both older, perhaps wiser, and contending with the results of their decisions as younger men.

Sixtus has finally given up the drink, but he is beset with heartache at the breakdown of his marriage and the long-ago death of his small son, which he missed because he was away fighting. Sixtus is a man trying to do his best in a world where the Roman influence of his younger days seems to have bled away. He's still a friend and ally of Theodosius, the younger emperor, and indeed, they remain in contact via letter - a fabulous device ensuring the reader knows what's happening beyond the shores of Britannia.

With all that said, this is an action-packed novel. There is barely a chapter that goes by without one fight or another. As we travel from Londinium to many locations on the Wall and even further north, Sixtus gets an absolute beating. Drost makes a welcome reappearance, and conspiracies abound. The set-up for book 3 in this trilogy is impeccably well-paced - I didn't know how the book would end - although I had some suspicions. It didn't do what I thought it would, and now I can't wait for the concluding volume in the trilogy.

It is a fabulous Roman-era action and adventure story that rings with conviction and conspiracy, which readers of the genre will devour.

[David Baird · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh it’s good to have another book from Adam Lofthouse! The author never fails to surprise me with his masterfully woven tales.

As a fan of the author I’m of course going to tell you to read all his other books if you can, especially Victorinus Book 1, but truthfully the plot is so wonderfully written you don’t need to, all the detail is right there to get you up to speed quickly but at the same time naturally. If you haven’t read the 1st book I can guarantee after reading this you’ll want to that’s for sure!

I’m not going to say I’m an expert but I love this period of time.. Maximus, Theodosius and Gratian.. well known names to me and the genre but Lofthouse manages to bring some fresh energy to the scene!

We follow Tribune Sixtus Victorinus and Felicius as they serve the empire to the best of their ability.. but little do they know what’s coming for them. They once saved the empire from the biggest threat possible… and they are going to have to do it again!

War is coming and there’s plenty of battles for the gore fans, and I really liked the details added to formations of the horse units for example to help the reader really understand their place in the battles.. it’s like a chess game and a bad strategy can cause you a defeat.. but at the same time.. don’t take things for granted.. they might just be playing games with you..

Both characters are thrown into the thick of danger at every turn of the page..it’s just a full on adrenaline rush of the tale.. each forced to fight to stay alive.. but who are the enemies really? If you know the period you’ll have a good idea, the political landscape at the time was complicated to say the least and the men of the time only wanted one thing… power!

If anything I feel Adam Lofthouse just keeps getting better and better with his plot and the subtle details that make the characters come alive. I particularly liked that the author showed how tough being in the army could be on the soldiers’ feet! I doubt many of us today could march like the roman legions!

What really shines through is the relationships between the men.. forged in the heat of battle…theirs friendship, family, love.. it’s so beautifully lovely and brutal at the same time..then throw in those twists! Christ.. my heart could barely take it! if the author makes me worry about Amor in the next book as much as in this one I think I’ll be writing a strongly worded letter for sure ha ha.

I’m going to be perfectly honest and say I reckon the author needs to give the character Drost his own series now! Oh how I loved that man and his humour! He’s got so much going for him and I really could see his own tale working.

The setup for the next book in the series couldn’t have been better.. what Lofthouse does is leaves you with the taste for more..that’s not any easy thing to do.. sometimes endings can leave things flat… oh hell no.. not this story…I really do need more.

Lofthouse isn’t one of the best… he IS the best!

There’s only thing to say about this book.. SNAILS! Who knew.. well done to the author for another cracking read.. and whoever designed the cover needs a pay rise 😊

[Lorraine Dias · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sixteen years after helping put down a rebellion, Tribune Sixtus Victorinus and Prefect Gaius Felicius find themselves back in the thick of events. After stopping a Saxon incursion, they learn that the Dux Britanniarum, Flavius Maximus, has obtained intelligence suggesting the Caledonians are preparing for war, and he intends to crush them once and for all.

But things do not add up. As Victorinus and Felicius begin asking questions, they are drawn into a web of intrigue and once again find themselves fighting for Rome, and for their lives.

Wolf and the Crown is the second book in the Shadow of Rome series, and it was a delight to be swept up in the escapades of Victorinus and Felicius again. I love how human these two characters are. While my life is very different from that of a Roman tribune, I can still relate to Victorinus as he bumbles through dangerous situations while muttering, “I’m too old for this shit.”

The relationships between the two main characters and their now-grown children add welcome depth. I especially enjoyed getting to know Felicius’s daughter, Marcelina, and the addition of Davos the pickpocket to the extended family.

The Historical Note at the end gives a real sense of how thoroughly author Adam Lofthouse researched the book, including walking Hadrian’s Wall from Newcastle to Carlisle.

The book is action-packed from the first page and filled with intrigue, humour, camaraderie, and fascinating insights into the decline of the Roman Empire. I thoroughly enjoyed Wolf and the Crown and am very much looking forward to the next book in the series. Highly recommended for readers who enjoy Roman history, military intrigue, and flawed heroes.

Thank you to Adam Lofthouse, Boldwood Books, and NetGalley for the ARC.

[Janalyn, the blind reviewer · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wolf And The Crown is the second book in the shadows of Rome series by Adam Lofthouse, I really enjoy Adam Lofthouse‘s books because there’s not only fighting there’s family lots of humor to break the tention and great storytelling. In this one it seems Rome is on the decline piece is gone and there’s a plot of foot. While their Duck maximus is getting secret deliveries and sending Victuss on errands Sixus alerts his friend to the fact the war they’re preparing for isn’t the one that should be focused on but who should they be focused on he doesn’t know. they fight unfamiliar tribes is the war Maximus has them preparing for where they should spend their energy or or Flavus and Victus conspiracy theorist? although this is the worst review in history just know the whole left side of my face hurts I have a sinus infection I don’t feel good and I feel so bad that this is the review I’ve given when this book deserves so much better. I really enjoy Adam Lofthouse’s books my favorite was The Scurge Of Rome but this one is absolutely a close second, but a book with Victinus and his snarky daughter Marcelina would be a great one I loved when she was in the book when they went to Londonia this is just a great book I think Adam could write about anything and I would love it. I’m sorry this is a horrible review and the names were so strange to me I couldn’t remember who was who all I knew was one of them had songs and was the father of Marcelina and the other came up with the conspiracy. I am so sorry I’m going to blame it on being in pain and feeling very ill my apologies to miss the loft house I sincerely sincerely apologize. Ultimately if you made it this far just know this this is an awesome read! #NetGalley, #TheBlindReviewer, #MyHonestReview,

[Ann-Marie · Rating 4 out of 5]

AD 382 After years of peace rumours of rebellion in the north have reached the ears of Dux Britanniarum Flavius Maximus. Veteran Sixtus Victorinus is surprised as he’s got several good contacts in the north and no reports of rebellion have reached him. His close friend, Felicius, is tasked with ensuring that the army Maximus intends to raise is fully equipped whilst Victorinus is tasked with meeting his contacts to find out if the rumours are true. At the meeting Victorinus and his friends are ambushed, but not by Caledonians. So, who has attacked them, why and more importantly, who knew about the meeting?

I really enjoy this author’s books. You’re pulled in from the start and immersed in Roman history so much you can almost feel you’re there in the action. Another plus point for me is the humour he brings to the story – poor Felicius trying to work out how much grain is required, how many mules & carts are needed etc and where they’re all going to come from.

This is the second book in the series and can be read as a standalone, but I do recommend reading book one, Eagle and the Flame, first.

Thanks to Net Galley and Boldwood Books for an ARC for my honest review.

[Stacy Townend · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another stunning well written work from author Adam Lofthouse.
I have read all of his works and he moves from strength to strength with his writing.

Brilliant central characters that grow on you more and more. The warrior bond is so strong between the leading men characters and there close family and warriors.
I loved the insight into the strategy and problems of not only feeding but supplying an army on the move. I confess i found it interesting and it adds to the depth of the story.

Intense blood and guts action scenes which provide information on strategies of the battle another great move form Adam.

The excellent overview of the politics, intrigues and back stabbing glory hunting also adds to overall plot.

Adam has written a gripping tale which is full of colourful characters and a well thought out plot.

all of this leads to a great book that i loved and found hard to put down.

[Lyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

From its humorous dedication to the author’s Mum, to the very end, this book kept me entertained. Double dealing, greed, ambition and loyalty all come to the fore. Victorinus is getting on, but his capacity to find trouble and survive is amazing. Now his sons are also fighting, which gives him added impetus to survive. I’m pleased that there is to be a sequel, as I find this series different to most things I read, and it transports me to a different time and different sort of values and priorities. The characters seem so real and fallible, and you can’t help hoping for good things for them. Thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for giving me the opportunity to read this series and freely share my thoughts.

[Christine Harman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another superb story of Roman Britain from Adam Lofthouse. 16 years after the events of the previous story Victorinus and Felicious are sent to carry out duties for the Dux amid rumours that the Caledonians are getting ready to attack. The humour in this book is fabulous sarting with the dedication. It also includes my favourite quote in a long time as Felicious muses on life as a soldier. Well drawn characters that really grab the attention, I worry that they won't make it to another book. Well recommended to lovers of good writing.
With thanks to the author , Boldwood Books and Netgalley for the opportunity to read this book

[John · Rating 5 out of 5]

Adam Lofthouse provides another gripping tale of the late Roman Empire. The book is primarily set in Britannia near Hadrian’s wall.

The prologue sets the scene and pace of the novel and follows the general Theodosius in Africa, where he is setting the province to rights following a rebellion.

The book sees character growth for both of the main protagonists and contains many action packed sequences.

A great read for fans of historical fiction.

I was pleased to hear the series is a trilogy as I look forward to reading more of Victorinus and Felicius exploits.

[Julie Friar · Rating 4 out of 5]

This novel is set mainly near Hadrian’s Wall in 382AD. Unrest and war are coming back after 16 years of peace. Tribune Sixtus Maximus has two sons and runs errands for Flavius Maximus. Cardinal tribes are gathering abetting ready to fight despite the snow and ice. Times will be hard and dangerous.

Very well written, well paced intriguing novel with excellent characters. They will fight many times and suffer much. Realisation dawns that there is more going on and someone wants to take over the rule of the Roman Empire. Very good read.

[Cody Marie Phoenix · Rating 5 out of 5]

So, Good! Most of the same characters from the first book, but I'm fairly certain this book could be read as a standalone. But, you'd be missing a great story by not reading Eagle and the Flame first. Gaius and Sixtus are up to their necks again in Wolf and the Crown, and they're as funny as ever too. The action is phenomenal and I love the fact Loftthouse combines historical characters with fiction. I'm so looking forward to the third installment!

[Ashley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Story set in Britannia during the reign of Ancient Rome. Characters from book 1 are back years later. Rumors of another rebellion are swirling again in Britannia and Victorinus and Felicius are back being in the middle of it. Victorinus finds himself targeted by the Saxons while Felicius is dealing with his own troubles that deal with supplies.

With all the twist and turns I never saw the final twist coming and my heart broke for the ending. I hope to read book 3 to see how everything ends with. I do recommend reading Book 1 as a lot of background comes with book 1 that can be missing if you start with book 2.

Thank you to Adam Lofthouse and Boldwood Books for the ARC Copy in exchange for my honest review.

[Colin Williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brilliant follow up from book one

I cannot recommend this sequel highly enough, Adam, the author transports you into the book and you experience the harsh conditions and feelings of the characters, it is also a good historic guide into the Times

[Douglas Evans · Rating 4 out of 5]

Interesting

A good background with interesting characters and a twiistiing
plot. Interesting characters that need to be noted and a good semi historical background. The stage is set for more action.

[Richard · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have really enjoyed the books in this series. Great characters and a period of history which is really interesting. This series has been the first of Adam's books that I have read. I am now looking out for his other writings while I wait for the next in the series.

[Harry Preston · Rating 5 out of 5]

The second instalment sees us once again follow two men, steadfast in their devotion to Rome, however this time with creakier bones and wearier soles. A great read with such a fast pace throughout that really bonds you to the story line and its characters. 5/5!

[patrick t. patterson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Second in thus series

Another great read with to me a surprising ending and a yearning to get to the 3rd in this well written story

[Paul Bennett · Rating 5 out of 5]

Heart-pounding storytelling, my peeps, and fellow readers. An attention grabber from the get-go that never relents. Characters are fleshed out and tested to their limits...an excellent sequel that will keep you guessing, but never bored, sleep deprived perhaps, but never bored. 5 Stars