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Clash of Eagles #2
Eagle in Exile
Perfect for fans of Bernard Cornwell, Steve Berry, Naomi Novik, and Harry Turtledove, Alan Smale’s gripping alternate history series imagines a world in which the Roman Empire has survived long enough to invade North America in 1218. Now the stunning story carries hero Gaius Marcellinus deeper into the culture of an extraordinary people—whose humanity, bravery, love, and ingenuity forever change his life and destiny.
In A.D. 1218, Praetor Gaius Marcellinus is ordered to conquer North America and turning it into a Roman province. But outside the walls of the great city of Cahokia, his legion is destroyed outright; Marcellinus is the only one spared. In the months and years that follow, Marcellinus comes to see North America as his home and the Cahokians as his kin. He vows to defend these proud people from any threat, Roman or native.
After successfully repelling an invasion by the fearsome Iroqua tribes, Marcellinus realizes that a weak and fractured North America won’t stand a chance against the returning Roman army. Worse, rival factions from within threaten to tear Cahokia apart just when it needs to be most united and strong. Marcellinus is determined to save the civilization that has come to mean more to him than the empire he once served. But to survive the swords of Roma, he first must avert another Iroqua attack and bring Cahokia together. Only with the hearts and souls of a nation at his back can Marcellinus hope to know triumph.
Praise for Alan Smale and Eagle in Exile
“In Alan Smale, speculative fiction has been dealt a winning hand. Part historian, part anthropologist, part scientist, Smale is a Renaissance man with a storyteller’s gift for letting tireless research inform the narrative without overwhelming it. Smale entertains, educates, and enraptures.” —Myke Cole, author of Javelin Rain
“[ Eagle in Exile ] has the pace and scope of a Michener or Uris epic. . . . Smale’s action scenes slash across page after page, intense and bloody. . . . Grab your dagger and sword, for the battle continues.” — Kirkus Reviews (starred review)
“Warfare, political conflict, family strife—these are all presented in an epic scope where any decision or wrong move can forever change society.” —Tech Times
“Thoroughly believable . . . Marcellinus is a complicated man, a hero we can all get behind.” —Historical Novels Review
In A.D. 1218, Praetor Gaius Marcellinus is ordered to conquer North America and turning it into a Roman province. But outside the walls of the great city of Cahokia, his legion is destroyed outright; Marcellinus is the only one spared. In the months and years that follow, Marcellinus comes to see North America as his home and the Cahokians as his kin. He vows to defend these proud people from any threat, Roman or native.
After successfully repelling an invasion by the fearsome Iroqua tribes, Marcellinus realizes that a weak and fractured North America won’t stand a chance against the returning Roman army. Worse, rival factions from within threaten to tear Cahokia apart just when it needs to be most united and strong. Marcellinus is determined to save the civilization that has come to mean more to him than the empire he once served. But to survive the swords of Roma, he first must avert another Iroqua attack and bring Cahokia together. Only with the hearts and souls of a nation at his back can Marcellinus hope to know triumph.
Praise for Alan Smale and Eagle in Exile
“In Alan Smale, speculative fiction has been dealt a winning hand. Part historian, part anthropologist, part scientist, Smale is a Renaissance man with a storyteller’s gift for letting tireless research inform the narrative without overwhelming it. Smale entertains, educates, and enraptures.” —Myke Cole, author of Javelin Rain
“[ Eagle in Exile ] has the pace and scope of a Michener or Uris epic. . . . Smale’s action scenes slash across page after page, intense and bloody. . . . Grab your dagger and sword, for the battle continues.” — Kirkus Reviews (starred review)
“Warfare, political conflict, family strife—these are all presented in an epic scope where any decision or wrong move can forever change society.” —Tech Times
“Thoroughly believable . . . Marcellinus is a complicated man, a hero we can all get behind.” —Historical Novels Review
556 pages, Hardcover
First published March 22, 2016
89 people are currently reading
876 people want to read
About the author
Alan Smale
40 books157 followersAlan Smale is a professional astronomer, but his writing tastes have always veered more towards alternate and twisted history, fantasy, and horror. His novella of Romans in ancient America, "A Clash of Eagles" in Panverse Two, won the Sidewise Award for Alternate History, and the first book in a trilogy set in the same universe, CLASH OF EAGLES, appeared in 2015 from Del Rey in the US and Titan Books in the UK and Europe. The series continues with EAGLE IN EXILE (March 2016) and will conclude with EAGLE AND EMPIRE (2017). Alan has sold 40 short stories to magazines including Asimov's, Realms of Fantasy, Abyss & Apex, Paradox, and Scape, and original anthologies Panverse One and Two, Apollo's Daughters, Book of Dead Things, and Writers of the Future #13.
Alan grew up in England, and has degrees in Physics and Astrophysics from Oxford University. He serves as director of an astrophysical archive, and performs research on black hole binaries at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center. Alan also sings bass with well-known vocal band The Chromatics, and is co-creator of their educational AstroCappella project.
Alan grew up in England, and has degrees in Physics and Astrophysics from Oxford University. He serves as director of an astrophysical archive, and performs research on black hole binaries at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center. Alan also sings bass with well-known vocal band The Chromatics, and is co-creator of their educational AstroCappella project.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 112 reviews
April 13, 2016
Originally reviewed at Bookwraiths.
Alternate history is a delicious dish when prepared correctly. Mixing both real world facts with fantastical what-ifs, the stories fuse the two into an amazing concoction, which satisfies a reader’s need to be entertained as well their desire to be provoked to thought. That is if the author is up to the challenge of juggling seemingly paradoxical themes. A tricky task for the most gifted writers. But have no fear, Mr. Smale is one of those gifted with the innate ability to write great alternate history.
Picking up immediately after the cataclysmic clash of the Cahokia and Iroguia, Eagle in Exile finds Praetor Gaius Marcellius once again shattered emotionally and desperately dealing with guilty over the consequences of his decisions. For while his intervention into the life of his adopted city has helped them cast back the invaders, it is also a leading cause of the horrible destruction and the lives lost or ruined. Roman weapons and warfare having turned the tribal squabbles of the two peoples into a total war, something which was without precedent in Nova Hesperia (the Roman name for North America) before the arrival of his Legion.
As the dust settles, the fires go out, and the cries of the dying subside, Gaius finds himself back to square one with the Cahokia. No longer an honored adviser to the chief, he is once again a mistrusted outsider, one who is barred from any meaningful contribution to the people he has come to admire and love. All his dreams of preparing them and their neighboring tribes for the inevitable arrival of more Roman Legions slipping away, even as his suspicion that the Cahokia and their neighboring tribes are not prepared to face down Imperial Roman become manifest.
Tirelessly working to regain the trust he has lost in Cahokia, our lone Roman soon hears rumors of Roma’s presence on the continent. The possibility spurring him to leave his adopted home for a dangerous journey down the mighty river to the sea. His goal to spread the word of the coming of Rome and to forge an alliance between these strange but amazing people. For only by uniting can they ever hope to have a chance (no matter how slight) to resist the conquering armies which are even now coming for them.
As with Clash of Eagles , Eagle in Exile is an outstanding example of alternate history done right; the worldbuilding by Mr. Samle believable and detailed, realistic yet fantastical, and always entertaining. Each Native American tribe bursting off the pages, revealing their distinct greatness before stepping aside to allow another the spotlight. The native cultures and that of Gaius’ Rome presented in a respectful way, which highlights the differences between them yet never cast any aspersions of backwardness on either.
As for the characters and their personal growth, they do not take a back seat to the alternate history goodies. Instead, Gaius’ culture shock and journey of self discovery in a strange, exotic land continues; his understandable desire to find a peaceful resolution to the tribes conflicts and build a fragile alliance against Rome always in conflict with his deep loyalty to the empire he served for so long and so faithfully.
Helping Gaius along his path are a colorful cast of characters. Enopay, Tahtay, and Kimmimela developing into strong comrades, whose personalities, strengths and weaknesses are exposed and explored in the ongoing narrative. Each of them playing important roles in the tale as the group travels up and down the Mississippi River, encountering groups as diverse as the trading tribes of the swamps of present day Louisiana and the fierce, buffalo hunting Sioux of the Great Plains.
Where the novel shines, however, is the ending. Mr. Smale weaving all the loose plot lines into a surprising conclusion, one which changes the story from an epic clash of cultures into an even more powerful and emotional tale of a culture caught between two world powers. This surprise ending leaving any fan of alternate history salivating for the next installment of this series.
If there is any criticism to be leveled at Eagle in Exile, it would be Gaius’s near instantaneous respect and love for the Cahokia people and the other Nova Hesperian inhabitants. Nothing inherently unrealistic about him coming to appreciate their obvious strengths and to desire to fit in among his jailers, but his continued transformation from dedicated Roman soldier to would be forger of an anti-Roman alliance seemed difficult to digest considering Gauis’s age and his length of service to Rome. When you add in the fact he is a stranger who arrived in Cahokia determined to crush and enslave the inhabitants, it seems hard to believe he would be accepted and trusted by these different tribes, especially trusted enough to convince them to face Roman legions. Perhaps that is a small quibble on my part, and it might be nothing more than me forcing my modern sensibilities of mistrust onto a past culture.
Eagle in Exile is an alternate history lover’s dream. Inventive, thought-provoking, respectful, and historically accurate (within reason), it crafts a story which carries a cast of character across the heartland of a middle America which never was, surveying a land which could have been. All the while, Gauis, Enopay, Tahtay, and the other stars become fully formed individuals whose lives matter to you the reader. And when the epic conclusion and its unexpected twist is unveiled, you most certainly will be glad you gave this novel a try.
Del Rey Publishing and Netgalley provided this book to me for free in return for an honest review. The review above was not paid for or influenced in any way by any person, entity or organization, but is my own personal opinions.
Alternate history is a delicious dish when prepared correctly. Mixing both real world facts with fantastical what-ifs, the stories fuse the two into an amazing concoction, which satisfies a reader’s need to be entertained as well their desire to be provoked to thought. That is if the author is up to the challenge of juggling seemingly paradoxical themes. A tricky task for the most gifted writers. But have no fear, Mr. Smale is one of those gifted with the innate ability to write great alternate history.
Picking up immediately after the cataclysmic clash of the Cahokia and Iroguia, Eagle in Exile finds Praetor Gaius Marcellius once again shattered emotionally and desperately dealing with guilty over the consequences of his decisions. For while his intervention into the life of his adopted city has helped them cast back the invaders, it is also a leading cause of the horrible destruction and the lives lost or ruined. Roman weapons and warfare having turned the tribal squabbles of the two peoples into a total war, something which was without precedent in Nova Hesperia (the Roman name for North America) before the arrival of his Legion.
As the dust settles, the fires go out, and the cries of the dying subside, Gaius finds himself back to square one with the Cahokia. No longer an honored adviser to the chief, he is once again a mistrusted outsider, one who is barred from any meaningful contribution to the people he has come to admire and love. All his dreams of preparing them and their neighboring tribes for the inevitable arrival of more Roman Legions slipping away, even as his suspicion that the Cahokia and their neighboring tribes are not prepared to face down Imperial Roman become manifest.
Tirelessly working to regain the trust he has lost in Cahokia, our lone Roman soon hears rumors of Roma’s presence on the continent. The possibility spurring him to leave his adopted home for a dangerous journey down the mighty river to the sea. His goal to spread the word of the coming of Rome and to forge an alliance between these strange but amazing people. For only by uniting can they ever hope to have a chance (no matter how slight) to resist the conquering armies which are even now coming for them.
As with Clash of Eagles , Eagle in Exile is an outstanding example of alternate history done right; the worldbuilding by Mr. Samle believable and detailed, realistic yet fantastical, and always entertaining. Each Native American tribe bursting off the pages, revealing their distinct greatness before stepping aside to allow another the spotlight. The native cultures and that of Gaius’ Rome presented in a respectful way, which highlights the differences between them yet never cast any aspersions of backwardness on either.
As for the characters and their personal growth, they do not take a back seat to the alternate history goodies. Instead, Gaius’ culture shock and journey of self discovery in a strange, exotic land continues; his understandable desire to find a peaceful resolution to the tribes conflicts and build a fragile alliance against Rome always in conflict with his deep loyalty to the empire he served for so long and so faithfully.
Helping Gaius along his path are a colorful cast of characters. Enopay, Tahtay, and Kimmimela developing into strong comrades, whose personalities, strengths and weaknesses are exposed and explored in the ongoing narrative. Each of them playing important roles in the tale as the group travels up and down the Mississippi River, encountering groups as diverse as the trading tribes of the swamps of present day Louisiana and the fierce, buffalo hunting Sioux of the Great Plains.
Where the novel shines, however, is the ending. Mr. Smale weaving all the loose plot lines into a surprising conclusion, one which changes the story from an epic clash of cultures into an even more powerful and emotional tale of a culture caught between two world powers. This surprise ending leaving any fan of alternate history salivating for the next installment of this series.
If there is any criticism to be leveled at Eagle in Exile, it would be Gaius’s near instantaneous respect and love for the Cahokia people and the other Nova Hesperian inhabitants. Nothing inherently unrealistic about him coming to appreciate their obvious strengths and to desire to fit in among his jailers, but his continued transformation from dedicated Roman soldier to would be forger of an anti-Roman alliance seemed difficult to digest considering Gauis’s age and his length of service to Rome. When you add in the fact he is a stranger who arrived in Cahokia determined to crush and enslave the inhabitants, it seems hard to believe he would be accepted and trusted by these different tribes, especially trusted enough to convince them to face Roman legions. Perhaps that is a small quibble on my part, and it might be nothing more than me forcing my modern sensibilities of mistrust onto a past culture.
Eagle in Exile is an alternate history lover’s dream. Inventive, thought-provoking, respectful, and historically accurate (within reason), it crafts a story which carries a cast of character across the heartland of a middle America which never was, surveying a land which could have been. All the while, Gauis, Enopay, Tahtay, and the other stars become fully formed individuals whose lives matter to you the reader. And when the epic conclusion and its unexpected twist is unveiled, you most certainly will be glad you gave this novel a try.
Del Rey Publishing and Netgalley provided this book to me for free in return for an honest review. The review above was not paid for or influenced in any way by any person, entity or organization, but is my own personal opinions.
March 2, 2016
In the aftermath of the attack on Cahokia by the Iroqua, Gaius Marcellinus finds himself once again grieving over lives lost because of his decisions. While he grieves he realizes every Hesperian life lost weakens their chances of survival when Roman armies return. Gaius is committed to do whatever he physically can to protect Cahokia from all threats, especially Roma.
Eagle in Exile is in many ways the typical middle book in a series. There is a lot of setup, the pacing is slow, and many of the events don't feel all that meaningful. In many ways this book has made Gaius the Wanageeska into a Paul Revere of sorts going from place to place exclaiming, The Romans are coming, The Romans are coming. That's to be expected because that's undoubtedly one of the major points of the book, but that took the forefront for far too much of the book.
While I enjoy the concept of the book and some of the execution, there were some things that just bothered me. The primary point that bugged me is how Gaius could learn to love the people who slaughtered his friends and soldiers. I just don't understand how he could so deeply appreciate them after what they did to his legion.
The other point that bothered me is Sintikala and Gaius's budding relationship. I didn't think Gaius's interest was established well in the prior book and no additional time was spent in explaining why they clearly have feelings for one another.
The last quarter or so of Eagle in Exile was spilling over with excitement for me. The events at the ending really kept me engaged and interested. Despite significant tension and uncertainty, the events played out in a believable and enjoyable way. I really appreciated that because the author could have easily chosen quick unbelievable ways for the story to continue, but he faced the events of the book head on rather than slinking away.
Eagle in Exile was a solid sequel and I imagine fans of Clash of Eagles will enjoy it.
2.5 out of 5 stars
I received this ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Eagle in Exile is in many ways the typical middle book in a series. There is a lot of setup, the pacing is slow, and many of the events don't feel all that meaningful. In many ways this book has made Gaius the Wanageeska into a Paul Revere of sorts going from place to place exclaiming, The Romans are coming, The Romans are coming. That's to be expected because that's undoubtedly one of the major points of the book, but that took the forefront for far too much of the book.
While I enjoy the concept of the book and some of the execution, there were some things that just bothered me. The primary point that bugged me is how Gaius could learn to love the people who slaughtered his friends and soldiers. I just don't understand how he could so deeply appreciate them after what they did to his legion.
The other point that bothered me is Sintikala and Gaius's budding relationship. I didn't think Gaius's interest was established well in the prior book and no additional time was spent in explaining why they clearly have feelings for one another.
The last quarter or so of Eagle in Exile was spilling over with excitement for me. The events at the ending really kept me engaged and interested. Despite significant tension and uncertainty, the events played out in a believable and enjoyable way. I really appreciated that because the author could have easily chosen quick unbelievable ways for the story to continue, but he faced the events of the book head on rather than slinking away.
Eagle in Exile was a solid sequel and I imagine fans of Clash of Eagles will enjoy it.
2.5 out of 5 stars
I received this ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
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March 7, 2016Copy received courtesy of NetGalley
This second book following Clash of Eagles is set in an alternate North America—Nova Hesperia—AD 1218. This second installment in the story of Roman ex-Praetor Gaius Marcellinus, legate of Hadrianus III, Emperor of Rome, begins after the losses of the previous book. He has come to understand and appreciate the Cahokian people, who are readying for war with the Iroqua.
But Marcellinus has a different mission: he wants to bring the tribes together and negotiate with high level Romans determined to conquer a continent. Either the tribes unite and trade with the Romans from a position of power, or tear each other apart.
Marcellinus is far seeing, but he can still be caught by surprise, by treachery, greed, and by the Romans themselves, appearing in force with Hadrian. Who speaks of an even greater threat, coming from the west: Chenggis Khan . . .
These books read like a multi-level, intelligently written and impeccably researched war game turned into a novel. Smale’s grasp of the various cultures of North America is detailed and insightful, and his changes (the flying ‘Sky Lanterns’ of the Mound People, and their liquid fire, etc) believable.
There is a huge cast, but Smale works hard to make them distinguishable, and the Cahakoians around Marcellinus slowly grip the heart, enemies though they were in the first book.
But the overarching story is relentlessly about war—between various human groups, and humans against nature, such as a vividly described buffalo hunt.
The book starts slowly as the characters are established, and as Macellinus begins his travels picks up speed to a runaway train climax, a gripping resolution, and hints of the next book to come.
This second book following Clash of Eagles is set in an alternate North America—Nova Hesperia—AD 1218. This second installment in the story of Roman ex-Praetor Gaius Marcellinus, legate of Hadrianus III, Emperor of Rome, begins after the losses of the previous book. He has come to understand and appreciate the Cahokian people, who are readying for war with the Iroqua.
But Marcellinus has a different mission: he wants to bring the tribes together and negotiate with high level Romans determined to conquer a continent. Either the tribes unite and trade with the Romans from a position of power, or tear each other apart.
Marcellinus is far seeing, but he can still be caught by surprise, by treachery, greed, and by the Romans themselves, appearing in force with Hadrian. Who speaks of an even greater threat, coming from the west: Chenggis Khan . . .
These books read like a multi-level, intelligently written and impeccably researched war game turned into a novel. Smale’s grasp of the various cultures of North America is detailed and insightful, and his changes (the flying ‘Sky Lanterns’ of the Mound People, and their liquid fire, etc) believable.
There is a huge cast, but Smale works hard to make them distinguishable, and the Cahakoians around Marcellinus slowly grip the heart, enemies though they were in the first book.
But the overarching story is relentlessly about war—between various human groups, and humans against nature, such as a vividly described buffalo hunt.
The book starts slowly as the characters are established, and as Macellinus begins his travels picks up speed to a runaway train climax, a gripping resolution, and hints of the next book to come.
March 22, 2016
Eagle in Exile picks up right where Clash of Eagles left off. This is not the type of series where each book can be read as a standalone. Eagle in Exile builds upon the fantastic characters and inventive world from the first book in the series.
I always look forward to the next book in a great series. The anticipation of getting back into the lives of the incredible characters who became my cohorts in only a few hundred pages; the excitement of traveling away to the captivating world created by an author, such as Alan Smale. I was thrilled to grab a copy of Eagle in Exile once it became available.
The Roman Empire of this series is the one that was at the height of its glory. One, according to Alan Smale, that lasted a thousand years plus. This is the Rome that did not pay off barbarian hordes to leave Rome, but one that made them pay in blood for the audacity to even look upon Rome. We all know that this Rome would not sit quietly after the loss of an entire legion. Rome would come en masse.
Alan Smale has done a fantastic job of taking me on a tour of pre-European colonization America. The time and effort put into his research is evident. Alan Smale paints a vivid picture of many peoples with complex societies that should not be taken lightly by the mighty Roman Legions.
What I really enjoyed was the great depths of detail that Alan Smale has brought to his world. All of the holes get filled in reference to what is going on back in the old world. Alan Smale’s creativity really comes to the forefront in Eagle in Exile.
This is a fantastic series for any fan of history.
*4.5 Stars
*I received a copy of the book from the publisher (via NetGalley) in exchange for an honest review.
I always look forward to the next book in a great series. The anticipation of getting back into the lives of the incredible characters who became my cohorts in only a few hundred pages; the excitement of traveling away to the captivating world created by an author, such as Alan Smale. I was thrilled to grab a copy of Eagle in Exile once it became available.
The Roman Empire of this series is the one that was at the height of its glory. One, according to Alan Smale, that lasted a thousand years plus. This is the Rome that did not pay off barbarian hordes to leave Rome, but one that made them pay in blood for the audacity to even look upon Rome. We all know that this Rome would not sit quietly after the loss of an entire legion. Rome would come en masse.
Alan Smale has done a fantastic job of taking me on a tour of pre-European colonization America. The time and effort put into his research is evident. Alan Smale paints a vivid picture of many peoples with complex societies that should not be taken lightly by the mighty Roman Legions.
What I really enjoyed was the great depths of detail that Alan Smale has brought to his world. All of the holes get filled in reference to what is going on back in the old world. Alan Smale’s creativity really comes to the forefront in Eagle in Exile.
This is a fantastic series for any fan of history.
*4.5 Stars
*I received a copy of the book from the publisher (via NetGalley) in exchange for an honest review.
November 7, 2021
A bit slow to get back up to speed, but you are unlikely to be disappointed if you liked the opening book, CLASH OF EAGLES. Which I liked a LOT, 5 stars worth. And which you definitely should read first! It is a middle book, and suffers a bit for that. But not much: Smale offers some really delicious character-sketches of his large & varied cast of characters. The Natives steal the show -- well, there is a Briton who returns to the fold and is another delight. And Gaius *almost* gets it on with his warrior princess....
So I recommend the book for those who like this sort of thing done well. The pace picks up towards the end of this one, as the point of view opens wider, both back to Roma and East (well, West from Hesperia) to Asia -- and as the Cahokia Air Force gives an impressive airpower demonstration to the Imperator! All well thought-out and intelligently written. I love the wonderful cover art, by Larry Rostant for the hc first ed. I will definitely be reading on. Sadly, no copy of #3 in our library.
So I recommend the book for those who like this sort of thing done well. The pace picks up towards the end of this one, as the point of view opens wider, both back to Roma and East (well, West from Hesperia) to Asia -- and as the Cahokia Air Force gives an impressive airpower demonstration to the Imperator! All well thought-out and intelligently written. I love the wonderful cover art, by Larry Rostant for the hc first ed. I will definitely be reading on. Sadly, no copy of #3 in our library.
March 29, 2016
Though Praetor Gaius Marcellinus, the sole survivor of his legion, has helped lead the nation of Cahokia to victory against the warlike Iroqua, he knows the price has been high--perhaps too high. He has not only witnessed now, over the course of years, the annihilation of his legion, but now the loss and devastation of his new adopted people. Nova Hesperia, as Roma has dubbed this new content, now stands fractured and weakened. He knows its people will fall to the Imperial legions that are no doubt heading this way. Even through his exile, he--and those who have chosen to accompany him--seeks a way to peace, not through submission, but through a united Nova Hesperia. But as word reaches him of Roma’s presence on the continent, all his plans may have been for naught.
This is Smale’s second installment in his Clash of Eagles trilogy. I thoroughly enjoyed the first one, and this one exceeded it. Marcellinus is a complicated man, a hero we can all get behind. The Cahokians who travel with him are full-fledged characters, each with her or his own temperament and hopes. This work of alternate history is so thoroughly believable and well-thought out that I could almost wish it had come to pass. Smale does a wonderful job of keeping Rome feeling like Rome and Cahokia like Cahokia. I can’t recommend this series enough. Highly recommended.
This is Smale’s second installment in his Clash of Eagles trilogy. I thoroughly enjoyed the first one, and this one exceeded it. Marcellinus is a complicated man, a hero we can all get behind. The Cahokians who travel with him are full-fledged characters, each with her or his own temperament and hopes. This work of alternate history is so thoroughly believable and well-thought out that I could almost wish it had come to pass. Smale does a wonderful job of keeping Rome feeling like Rome and Cahokia like Cahokia. I can’t recommend this series enough. Highly recommended.
November 12, 2015
Received ARC for review.
I really enjoyed this second helping of Marcellinus as Roman Praetor trying to come to terms with life outside of his Roma.
We are transported back to early America and the onslaught of a Roman invasion.
Marcellinus is again at the forefront of the tale with help from Kimi;Siski;Tatay and Enopay as he begins to find life better in Cahokia than he thought.He now has to try and make sure that peace is more important than war.
He also begins to instill in his new home a need for updating a few ideas and helping out where he can.
A thoroughly engaging second book which delved more into Marcellinus and I hope it is not too long until the final installment.
I really enjoyed this second helping of Marcellinus as Roman Praetor trying to come to terms with life outside of his Roma.
We are transported back to early America and the onslaught of a Roman invasion.
Marcellinus is again at the forefront of the tale with help from Kimi;Siski;Tatay and Enopay as he begins to find life better in Cahokia than he thought.He now has to try and make sure that peace is more important than war.
He also begins to instill in his new home a need for updating a few ideas and helping out where he can.
A thoroughly engaging second book which delved more into Marcellinus and I hope it is not too long until the final installment.
December 13, 2020
I won this book in a goodreads drawing.
This is the second book in "The Clash of Eagles" trilogy. I have to say it is a step down from the first novel.
After the events of the first novel, Marcellinus decides he must stop the war between the Iroquois and the Cahokians, and so travels to Iroquois pow wow to try to negotiate one.
This does not go well with some of the Cahokians. There is a completely predictable coup, and our heroes are banished, going on a voyage down the Mississippi river. This whole section is fairly repetitive and a bit boring, until they get to the market of mud, where Marcellinus finds signs the Romans are invading, and clues of the conflict in the next novel. We also see the Aztec empire for the first time.
Then they have to travel up the Missouri River, to find the true chief of the Cahokian tribe, who has joined the Blackfeet.
Then the Romans show up.
Not bad, but not a lot of action, nor a lot of real interest.
This is the second book in "The Clash of Eagles" trilogy. I have to say it is a step down from the first novel.
After the events of the first novel, Marcellinus decides he must stop the war between the Iroquois and the Cahokians, and so travels to Iroquois pow wow to try to negotiate one.
This does not go well with some of the Cahokians. There is a completely predictable coup, and our heroes are banished, going on a voyage down the Mississippi river. This whole section is fairly repetitive and a bit boring, until they get to the market of mud, where Marcellinus finds signs the Romans are invading, and clues of the conflict in the next novel. We also see the Aztec empire for the first time.
Then they have to travel up the Missouri River, to find the true chief of the Cahokian tribe, who has joined the Blackfeet.
Then the Romans show up.
Not bad, but not a lot of action, nor a lot of real interest.
May 5, 2020
It’s been more than 5 years since I began the story of Gaius Marcellinus in book one, Clash of Eagles. Then, I was a new teenager and though I absolutely loved the story, it was pretty inappropriate (in my standards at the time–now, I’d consider it only a PG-13 rating) for my age and I dropped the book only giving it 2 stars. But even now, 5 years later, the story of Gaius has been one of my favorites and I have found myself talking about this book on more than one occasion, so last year, I picked up Clash of Eagles where I left off and started Eagle in Exile shortly after.
Eagle in Exile is the sequel to Clash of Eagles, but it’s not a stand alone. So you definitely do NOT want to pick this one up before Clash of Eagles, you will be lost, I promise! There is just as much action and politics in this alternative, historical North American story as the first book had had. I would say Eagle in Exile is actually better than the first book in a few ways. For one, the characters seemed more easily distinguishable to me in this book. Bringing in tribal North American culture and Roman culture together produces names that were hard enough to pronounce, much less remember, but I had a much easier time in Eagle in Exile in telling which characters were who. I think it’s because the key characters actually started to act differently in book two and they were far more distinct and individual in their personalities, instead of being just mass characters in a tribe, as they had been in the first book.
The storyline is still pretty incredible and there were some twists that I didn’t see coming, and some that I waited for in anticipation. There is a LOT to the story, so don’t try to read it in one night. This is a trilogy that you pace yourself reading, almost like watching a TV show. Each book covers, in detail, a year at least, if not more, so you can think of each book as a season of a TV show, and each chapter is it’s very own episode (seriously, there is something totally different going on in every chapter!).
There are a couple of reasons that I’m only giving Eagle in Exile 3 stars instead of 5 though. One, there is definitely some high TV-14, if not low TV-MA, rated content. Sexual content consists of some semi-detailed mentions of women’s nakedness and a royal, tribal sex scene (they are all high on some sort of weed as well, and lots of drinking), HOWEVER, these are very mild descriptions to set the scene, not actions that the main character indulges in (Gaius is a great guy folks, admirable even!) so, it settled a bit different with me. That’s just what happened during this time period and it made the book more historically accurate. The blood and gore is pretty detailed as well, so it’s not a book for the squeamish.
So, overall, the story of Gaius Marcellinus is one I recommend to lovers of alternative historical timelines, because this one is an excellent one. But definitely beware of the content that comes with these types of stories. In my opinion, this series is pretty mild compared to other shows I’ve watched, but it might be a lot to someone else.
I received this book from the author for the purpose of this review. All comments and opinions are entirely my own.
This is a LiteratureApproved(.com) Review.
Eagle in Exile is the sequel to Clash of Eagles, but it’s not a stand alone. So you definitely do NOT want to pick this one up before Clash of Eagles, you will be lost, I promise! There is just as much action and politics in this alternative, historical North American story as the first book had had. I would say Eagle in Exile is actually better than the first book in a few ways. For one, the characters seemed more easily distinguishable to me in this book. Bringing in tribal North American culture and Roman culture together produces names that were hard enough to pronounce, much less remember, but I had a much easier time in Eagle in Exile in telling which characters were who. I think it’s because the key characters actually started to act differently in book two and they were far more distinct and individual in their personalities, instead of being just mass characters in a tribe, as they had been in the first book.
The storyline is still pretty incredible and there were some twists that I didn’t see coming, and some that I waited for in anticipation. There is a LOT to the story, so don’t try to read it in one night. This is a trilogy that you pace yourself reading, almost like watching a TV show. Each book covers, in detail, a year at least, if not more, so you can think of each book as a season of a TV show, and each chapter is it’s very own episode (seriously, there is something totally different going on in every chapter!).
There are a couple of reasons that I’m only giving Eagle in Exile 3 stars instead of 5 though. One, there is definitely some high TV-14, if not low TV-MA, rated content. Sexual content consists of some semi-detailed mentions of women’s nakedness and a royal, tribal sex scene (they are all high on some sort of weed as well, and lots of drinking), HOWEVER, these are very mild descriptions to set the scene, not actions that the main character indulges in (Gaius is a great guy folks, admirable even!) so, it settled a bit different with me. That’s just what happened during this time period and it made the book more historically accurate. The blood and gore is pretty detailed as well, so it’s not a book for the squeamish.
So, overall, the story of Gaius Marcellinus is one I recommend to lovers of alternative historical timelines, because this one is an excellent one. But definitely beware of the content that comes with these types of stories. In my opinion, this series is pretty mild compared to other shows I’ve watched, but it might be a lot to someone else.
I received this book from the author for the purpose of this review. All comments and opinions are entirely my own.
This is a LiteratureApproved(.com) Review.
February 6, 2021
I enjoyed this one more than the first book. Faster paced and a better storyline. Caesars Rome invades America. Unique concept, to me anyway. I normally don’t care for alternate history but this one hooked me. I may even put the third offering in the series on my “to read” list.
December 31, 2017
You might assume a ‘what if?’ tale about Romans and Natives would be boring? Mr. Smale would prove that assumption wrong! Really digging this engaging series. A whole lot more than I assumed I would!
Read
January 3, 2022It will be interesting to see how this plays out in the next book.
April 21, 2016
It is extremely rare I give a review on a book, but I felt compelled for this series so far. This review is about the context of this series not the composition or on the prose. I am an archaeologist, and I worked in the Eastern Woodlands and the Northern Plains, as well as with various First Nations/Native Americans, and that includes the Blackfoot, therefore, I have some familiarity with Cahokia and native North America. This is the second series I encountered depicting culture contact between Rome and native North America; the first being the Germanicus Trilogy (1984 - 1989) by Kirk Mitchell. I find Alan Smale research and depiction (though in a fantasy setting) of native North American spot on. I was concerned this story would degenerate into the white saviour complex, but it did not. It was refreshing to read a story about native North Americans that are not stereotypes, depicted as primitives, or as caricatures, but as people who have personality, are very knowledgeable, technologically savvy, and are not naive. In fact, the protagonist Gaius Marcellinus is the naive one in the story. With my knowledge and active imagination, the Cahokia he described was thrilling from the cultures of the Mizipi from Ocatan to the Market of the Mud. Most notably I was excited about the Buffalo Jumps of the Northern Plains. The details he given, the uniqueness of these people in comparison to Roma....I can write more, but my thoughts are quicker than my fingers. Yes, I am giving this book high praise, because of his relatively accurate and respectful depiction of native America and native Americans which is rare, exceedingly rare among writers who are not First Nations or Native Americans themselves. Thank you Alan Smale.
October 22, 2016
This book continues the story of Gaius Marcellinus, a Roman soldier having to re-adapt to life among the native civilizations of 13th C. AD America (Nova Hesperia, in this book). He's a compelling figure, so the book is strengthened by the fact that the story follows him, albeit in 3rd person; the people around him seem real and believable.
This is the second book of a trilogy, and although it's helpful to have read the first one, this installment stands on its own -- indeed, it fleshes out Gaius in more depth, and tells much more about this alt-history America. Gaius journeys across much of this world and we see much more of its peoples and topography, the forests of the Iroqua and the mighty Mizipi River. There's plenty of action: Gaius' attempts to bring peace and unity to this new world seem to bring more danger and complications.
The book provides appendices -- no spoiler -- that tell us more about the Cahokian (Mound Builder) civilization of this time, as well as more background on the point of departure from our history. It seems that the reign of Geta as emperor, rather than Caracalla, 10 centuries before this, strengthened Rome so that the Empire is still growing in the 13th Century, and, as Gaius well knows, will one day return across the Mare Atlanticus to confront the Iroqua, Cahokian and other peoples. Fans of alt-history novels will find this kind of man-out-of-his-time (or place, here) to be similar to work by H. Beam Piper or Harry Turtledove. It's a violent, epic novel, one that readers of the first book will find will pick up the pace and scope of this saga. The third volume should be worth looking forward to.
This is the second book of a trilogy, and although it's helpful to have read the first one, this installment stands on its own -- indeed, it fleshes out Gaius in more depth, and tells much more about this alt-history America. Gaius journeys across much of this world and we see much more of its peoples and topography, the forests of the Iroqua and the mighty Mizipi River. There's plenty of action: Gaius' attempts to bring peace and unity to this new world seem to bring more danger and complications.
The book provides appendices -- no spoiler -- that tell us more about the Cahokian (Mound Builder) civilization of this time, as well as more background on the point of departure from our history. It seems that the reign of Geta as emperor, rather than Caracalla, 10 centuries before this, strengthened Rome so that the Empire is still growing in the 13th Century, and, as Gaius well knows, will one day return across the Mare Atlanticus to confront the Iroqua, Cahokian and other peoples. Fans of alt-history novels will find this kind of man-out-of-his-time (or place, here) to be similar to work by H. Beam Piper or Harry Turtledove. It's a violent, epic novel, one that readers of the first book will find will pick up the pace and scope of this saga. The third volume should be worth looking forward to.
March 28, 2016
Picking right up where Clash of Eagles left off, Eagle in Exile chronicles Praetor Gaius Marcellinus desperate need to keep his two allegiances -- one to Rome, one to Cahokia -- from clashing together in a conflict guaranteed to spill the blood of tens of thousands. And spilling blood is something Gaius has had more than he can stand.
In Eagle in Exile, Gaius struggles desperately to first keep Cahokia together, then to somehow forge an alliance amongst all of the tribes of New Hesperia -- or just Hesperia, which as Sintakala points out, is only new to the Romans -- in order to be strong enough to resist being conquered by the Romans.
As with Clash of Eagles, the world building is outstanding and the characters shine. Enopay, Tahtay and Kimmimela all play more prominent roles as Gaius travels up and down the Mississippi in a desperate quest to keep the peace. When Gaius pursues Tahtay across the Great Plains to where the Sioux live and hunt buffalo, I truly felt transported to that cold, barren land.
I think what I liked best about Eagle in Exile was the scope that Smale uses. Because just when you think the story is going to be an epic clash between two cultures, we're hit with a curveball that shows Smale is playing on an even grander scale than you thought. This is a series you should definitely read if you're a fan of alternative historical fiction.
In Eagle in Exile, Gaius struggles desperately to first keep Cahokia together, then to somehow forge an alliance amongst all of the tribes of New Hesperia -- or just Hesperia, which as Sintakala points out, is only new to the Romans -- in order to be strong enough to resist being conquered by the Romans.
As with Clash of Eagles, the world building is outstanding and the characters shine. Enopay, Tahtay and Kimmimela all play more prominent roles as Gaius travels up and down the Mississippi in a desperate quest to keep the peace. When Gaius pursues Tahtay across the Great Plains to where the Sioux live and hunt buffalo, I truly felt transported to that cold, barren land.
I think what I liked best about Eagle in Exile was the scope that Smale uses. Because just when you think the story is going to be an epic clash between two cultures, we're hit with a curveball that shows Smale is playing on an even grander scale than you thought. This is a series you should definitely read if you're a fan of alternative historical fiction.
June 26, 2016
Thoroughly enjoyed the second entry in the Hesperian trilogy, can't wait for the third one!
When I started Clash of Eagles, I thought this was going to be a Dances with Wolves meets Gladiator. I'm so happy it did not turn out to be the case.
I strongly recommend this series to any fan of military fiction, historical fiction, alternate history, First Nations history.
When I started Clash of Eagles, I thought this was going to be a Dances with Wolves meets Gladiator. I'm so happy it did not turn out to be the case.
I strongly recommend this series to any fan of military fiction, historical fiction, alternate history, First Nations history.
August 25, 2020
We continue to follow the epic odyssey of Gaius Marcellinus across the landscape of pre-Columbian North America. As tends to be the case with well-composed and well-researched alternate history, one thing leads inexorably to another, the flow of what we know as real history nudged further and further off course. I continue to enjoy the exploration of the "American Dark Ages" through the eyes of this outlander. The author included some fascinating historical notes on both the Mississippian mound-builders and the relevant sliver of Roman history.
January 28, 2019
The four stars is based on the strength of the exciting ending. I won't spoil it here. Marcellinus and his small band are exiled from Cahokia once Chief Sun Man is overthrow and killed. The group heads south to a large Indian city in the Mississippi delta, presumably where New Orleans is currently. It's a long journey to and from. They are betrayed once again at this location just after they come across a group of more Romans so the main thread of the novel makes itself known. Rome has indeed sent additional legions North Hesperia but the specific reason more legions are in North America is not revealed until the end of the book and is somewhat surprising. I'm sure Book 3 will sore with this new revelation. After escaping the Delta region the group heads north, then up the Wemissori river in search of the slain chief's son. More adventures in the northern plains ensue and it is in this portion that the storyline starts to drag a little for me. However the last 30% of the book more than makes up for it. Suffice to say it's Rome vs Indian at the end with descriptive storylines that do not disappoint and in the center of it all is the main character of Marcellinus. I have book three and will start it after a short break with something a little different in my hoard of "to read" books.
September 6, 2022
Eagle in Exile continues the story of Roman Praetor Gaius Marcellinus, the shamed Roman general who presided over the destruction of his entire legion at the hands of the Cahokians, a real-life American Indian city we now call the Mound Builders. In this book, the Cahokians are fighting a generations-long war with their blood enemies, the Iroquois tribe. After a horrific dawn raid that kills hundreds of Cahokians and destroys much of their food stock, Gaius vows to travel to the center of Iroquois territory to search for a way to make peace between the two tribes.
Gaius has already introduced the ideas of creating steel and training the Cahokians in Roman war tactics. But he knows this is not enough.
His motive is not only to save his new friends among the Cahokians. He also wants to create a confederacy of Native American tribes, who together will be able to withstand another attack by another Roman legion. An attack that is sure to come.
Through bravery, skill, some luck and sheer diplomacy, Gaius is able to create a delicate truce in the war between the Cahokians and the Iroquois. He also has a great ally: a female warrior and skilled single-pilot flier he calls Sisika. Together, they manage to stop the war with the Iroquois, and also to calm rising divisions within Cahokia that threaten the civilization from within.
Gaius has already introduced the ideas of creating steel and training the Cahokians in Roman war tactics. But he knows this is not enough.
His motive is not only to save his new friends among the Cahokians. He also wants to create a confederacy of Native American tribes, who together will be able to withstand another attack by another Roman legion. An attack that is sure to come.
Through bravery, skill, some luck and sheer diplomacy, Gaius is able to create a delicate truce in the war between the Cahokians and the Iroquois. He also has a great ally: a female warrior and skilled single-pilot flier he calls Sisika. Together, they manage to stop the war with the Iroquois, and also to calm rising divisions within Cahokia that threaten the civilization from within.
May 28, 2025
In this second book by Alan Smale, Eagle In Exile, we find the remaining Roman Pracetor, Gaius adapting to living with the Native tribe that destroyed his legion. He has adapted very well and has
shared with the tribe things he has learned as a Roman solider. The book has many plot twists and changes as the tribe is attacked by another Native Indian tribe and survives that attack. Gaius knows the Roman Army will be coming again, so he feels one of the ways to help his tribe is to try to ally with other tribes. He is accepted by the tribe, until a coup occurs and the old Native American tribal leader is killed by another tribal member, who doesn't want to be an ally, especially to the tribe that had attacked them. Gaius is forced into banishment, but a number of the tribe come with him as they sail down the Misizi river. Lots of new adventures and intrigue comes with this move and eventually because of the threat to the Roman Army coming to destroy his Native American tribe they return home. Another coup happens, but the Roman Army does arrive and it looks like war! If you have read the first book, he will see how this alternate history continues and develops. It is a good read and has lot of action, adventure, a little romance and plot twists. I think you would enjoy it.
shared with the tribe things he has learned as a Roman solider. The book has many plot twists and changes as the tribe is attacked by another Native Indian tribe and survives that attack. Gaius knows the Roman Army will be coming again, so he feels one of the ways to help his tribe is to try to ally with other tribes. He is accepted by the tribe, until a coup occurs and the old Native American tribal leader is killed by another tribal member, who doesn't want to be an ally, especially to the tribe that had attacked them. Gaius is forced into banishment, but a number of the tribe come with him as they sail down the Misizi river. Lots of new adventures and intrigue comes with this move and eventually because of the threat to the Roman Army coming to destroy his Native American tribe they return home. Another coup happens, but the Roman Army does arrive and it looks like war! If you have read the first book, he will see how this alternate history continues and develops. It is a good read and has lot of action, adventure, a little romance and plot twists. I think you would enjoy it.
May 7, 2024
Did Not Finish-40 percent.
I started reading this series because a friend recommended it to me. But he kind of lost interest in it and so did I. I just think that there were way too many things going on in this book for it to really hit the same way as book #1. We have Gaius trying to help the Cahokians after they lose in a battle that leaves their numbers decimated and many of the survivors devastated. He's blamed for the loss so goes from being someone who many saw as leading the Cahokians to something better, to something worse. I just got really bored by this one because it just has Gaius going on and on again about how he will keep everyone safe no matter what. It just started to read as repetitive. The flow was pretty bad too. I think the first book really sets things up nicely and you can see why Gaius comes to respect and depend on the people who killed his soldiers and took him captive. This really reads as a filler book.
I may come back to re-visit this in the future, but for now, this is a DNF.
I started reading this series because a friend recommended it to me. But he kind of lost interest in it and so did I. I just think that there were way too many things going on in this book for it to really hit the same way as book #1. We have Gaius trying to help the Cahokians after they lose in a battle that leaves their numbers decimated and many of the survivors devastated. He's blamed for the loss so goes from being someone who many saw as leading the Cahokians to something better, to something worse. I just got really bored by this one because it just has Gaius going on and on again about how he will keep everyone safe no matter what. It just started to read as repetitive. The flow was pretty bad too. I think the first book really sets things up nicely and you can see why Gaius comes to respect and depend on the people who killed his soldiers and took him captive. This really reads as a filler book.
I may come back to re-visit this in the future, but for now, this is a DNF.
May 9, 2017
“Eagles in Exile” (Del Rey, $28, 560 pages) is the second in The Clash of Eagles trilogy, and it covers the further adventures of Marcellinus in an alternate history in which one of the worst early emperors of Rome, Caracalla, was dethroned, and as a result, the Roman Empire survived and thrived into the 13th century.
At that point, Marcellinus was sent to the New World, or Nova Hesperia as it is called in the book, with a legion to explore the new lands. “Clash of Eagles” was the first book, and any discussion of “Eagles in Exile” would reveal too much, so let’s settle for this: Those who read and liked “Clash of Eagles” should keep going with “Eagles in Exile.” Those who haven’t read “Clash of Eagles” but are intrigued by the potential clash between powerful Native American cultures in the Northeast and along the Mississippi with the might of Rome should find Alan Smale’s well-written and meticulously researched book a fun read.
At that point, Marcellinus was sent to the New World, or Nova Hesperia as it is called in the book, with a legion to explore the new lands. “Clash of Eagles” was the first book, and any discussion of “Eagles in Exile” would reveal too much, so let’s settle for this: Those who read and liked “Clash of Eagles” should keep going with “Eagles in Exile.” Those who haven’t read “Clash of Eagles” but are intrigued by the potential clash between powerful Native American cultures in the Northeast and along the Mississippi with the might of Rome should find Alan Smale’s well-written and meticulously researched book a fun read.
June 26, 2017
Yet another great read. Really enjoying the series. I really like the way the author writes the plot - ie its not all about the characters. Sometimes events just happen and you have to watch event play out before reacting. Books where change is only ever POV character created bother me.
Again I have a slight quibble over the idea that Rome did not make any significant adjustments to its legions over a 1000 year period. And that quibble gets worse when I try to imagine a Roman Legion (c. 200AD), whose tactics evolved primarily to combat massed spears (Greece) and light infantry (Gaul), trying to use those tactics against the Mongols. They'd be fu*king massacred (the battle of Carrhae all over again) is my personal opinion, and that's my degree in Medieval History and a lifetime of reading military history talking.
Again I have a slight quibble over the idea that Rome did not make any significant adjustments to its legions over a 1000 year period. And that quibble gets worse when I try to imagine a Roman Legion (c. 200AD), whose tactics evolved primarily to combat massed spears (Greece) and light infantry (Gaul), trying to use those tactics against the Mongols. They'd be fu*king massacred (the battle of Carrhae all over again) is my personal opinion, and that's my degree in Medieval History and a lifetime of reading military history talking.
April 21, 2019
2nd in a trilogy; having read the first, I hunted this down (thank you Forbidden Planet for having it at a reasonable price!) and read this soon after. There's not as much world-building as the first, obviously/no need to, and it moves the tale on interestingly enough. It's not quite as immediate as some other books I've read recently (orc biker gangs, I'm looking at you) but it is fascinating. I've never been a fan of the Roman Empire (they've done things that religions would get castrated over, and yet many rave about what they achieved (which was mostly stolen from other societies)) but it is fascinating to see the pull on the main character of Roma and Cahokia. I'm quite looking forward to the third, hope there's some interesting battle scenes. And those last few pages, "she is her father's daughter", yeah, there's feels as well.
July 23, 2023
A high three, just a bit lower than the first in the series.
Despite these books taking forever for me to read, I do genuinely enjoy them.
The pace was a bit slower than the first, but it never felt dull. More focus on the politics and interactions between different tribes.
It feels like the main character has become less sure of themselves as time has progressed in the books. Starting off they're very confident and assured, but after being humbled they continue to lose confident, which is interesting.
As far as characters go, it was great to get to know some of the supporting characters in more depth, though it was sad to see some of the kids growing up. Still so many characters that it can be difficult to keep track of who's who for the minor characters.
Despite these books taking forever for me to read, I do genuinely enjoy them.
The pace was a bit slower than the first, but it never felt dull. More focus on the politics and interactions between different tribes.
It feels like the main character has become less sure of themselves as time has progressed in the books. Starting off they're very confident and assured, but after being humbled they continue to lose confident, which is interesting.
As far as characters go, it was great to get to know some of the supporting characters in more depth, though it was sad to see some of the kids growing up. Still so many characters that it can be difficult to keep track of who's who for the minor characters.
May 16, 2016
Imagine a world where the Roman Empire never fell, but instead continued to expand. . .
Thus began the back cover blurb of the advance reading copy of Alan Smale's Clash of Eagles. I've never been necessarily too keen on alternate history novels, but this one totally intrigued me. I found the premise quite interesting and full of potential. Mixing an ever-expanding Roman Empire that never crumbled with native American lore and traditions made for a promising debut, one of the very best of 2015.
It remained to be seen whether or not the author could imbue subsequent volumes with the same kind of originality and inventiveness. And now that I've read Eagle in Exile, I can vouch for the fact that it's everything Clash of Eagles was and then some! Smale managed to raise the bar even higher, with a finale that sets the stage for what should be a memorable final installment!
Here's the blurb:
Perfect for fans of Bernard Cornwell, Steve Berry, Naomi Novik, and Harry Turtledove, Alan Smale’s gripping alternate history series imagines a world in which the Roman Empire has survived long enough to invade North America in 1218. Now the stunning story carries hero Gaius Marcellinus deeper into the culture of an extraordinary people—whose humanity, bravery, love, and ingenuity forever change his life and destiny.
In A.D. 1218, Praetor Gaius Marcellinus is ordered to conquer North America and turning it into a Roman province. But outside the walls of the great city of Cahokia, his legion is destroyed outright; Marcellinus is the only one spared. In the months and years that follow, Marcellinus comes to see North America as his home and the Cahokians as his kin. He vows to defend these proud people from any threat, Roman or native.
After successfully repelling an invasion by the fearsome Iroqua tribes, Marcellinus realizes that a weak and fractured North America won’t stand a chance against the returning Roman army. Worse, rival factions from within threaten to tear Cahokia apart just when it needs to be most united and strong. Marcellinus is determined to save the civilization that has come to mean more to him than the empire he once served. But to survive the swords of Roma, he first must avert another Iroqua attack and bring Cahokia together. Only with the hearts and souls of a nation at his back can Marcellinus hope to know triumph.
Once again in this sequel, the backdrop of this tale revolves around the Mississippian native American civilization which once dominated the lands surrounding the Mississippi and the Ohio rivers. In his debut, Smale did a great job bringing the city of Cahokia to life. Info-dumps were used on occasions and were a necessary evil, as the Roman was the only POV character and the sole purpose of some scenes/discussions was to relay information to the reader. But that didn't take anything away from my reading experience. By and large, the author's depiction of the native Americans' way of life continues to be my favorite aspect of this series. Once more, the worldbuilding was original and compelling.
In Eagle in Exile, we see Marcellinus journey deep into Iroqua territory, in an attempt to make peace with the Haudenosaunee and bring an end to the long-lasting Mourning War that afflicts the tribes. Only by setting this conflict aside can the native Americans hope to stand up to the Roman legions. Another journey will take Marcellinus and his party down the Mizipian river all the way to the Market of the Mud, where a shocking discovery may put all of his plans into jeopardy. Decidedly, this second installment is all about journeys and another expedition takes them beyond the Wemissori river, in the distant lands of the Buffalo hunters. In Clash of Eagles, Alan Smale set the bar rather high as far as worldbuilding is concerned, and I was wondering if he could maintain that level of quality and creativity in his portrayal of other civilizations. Well, it's safe to say that it's mission accomplished for the author!
Although I was hoping for additional points of view in the upcoming books, as I believed it would be interesting to get the perspectives of other people and not just that of Marcellinus, yet Eagle in Exile features the Roman's first-person narrative and nothing else. Tahtay, Enopay, Sintikala, and Kimimela helped shape the sort of man Marcellinus had to become in order to earn the trust of the Cahokians, and they play an important role in the events chronicled within the page of this second volume. As a matter of course, as the sole POV character, Marcellinus takes center stage. But it's the supporting cast that, with their interactions with the Roman, which makes this an enjoyable read.
Weighing in at 556 pages and given the amount of treks to remote locales, one would think that the pace would suffer from time to time. And yet, never does the rhythm drag at any point in this story and Eagle in Exile makes for some compulsive reading.
We have known from the very beginning that the Romans would one day return to Nova Hesperia and that Marcellinus means to prepare his new allies for their coming and hopefully prevent a bloodbath. Alan Smale brings everything together in the last part of the book, offering readers a spectacular and unexpected ending that sets the stage for what should be a remarkable finale.
The author definitely managed to avoid the pitfalls associated with the second book syndrome. Building on the storylines from Clash of Eagles, Smale upped his game and came up with what should be one of the best speculative fiction titles of 2016.
Highly recommended.
For more reviews, check out www.fantasyhotlist.blogspot.com
Thus began the back cover blurb of the advance reading copy of Alan Smale's Clash of Eagles. I've never been necessarily too keen on alternate history novels, but this one totally intrigued me. I found the premise quite interesting and full of potential. Mixing an ever-expanding Roman Empire that never crumbled with native American lore and traditions made for a promising debut, one of the very best of 2015.
It remained to be seen whether or not the author could imbue subsequent volumes with the same kind of originality and inventiveness. And now that I've read Eagle in Exile, I can vouch for the fact that it's everything Clash of Eagles was and then some! Smale managed to raise the bar even higher, with a finale that sets the stage for what should be a memorable final installment!
Here's the blurb:
Perfect for fans of Bernard Cornwell, Steve Berry, Naomi Novik, and Harry Turtledove, Alan Smale’s gripping alternate history series imagines a world in which the Roman Empire has survived long enough to invade North America in 1218. Now the stunning story carries hero Gaius Marcellinus deeper into the culture of an extraordinary people—whose humanity, bravery, love, and ingenuity forever change his life and destiny.
In A.D. 1218, Praetor Gaius Marcellinus is ordered to conquer North America and turning it into a Roman province. But outside the walls of the great city of Cahokia, his legion is destroyed outright; Marcellinus is the only one spared. In the months and years that follow, Marcellinus comes to see North America as his home and the Cahokians as his kin. He vows to defend these proud people from any threat, Roman or native.
After successfully repelling an invasion by the fearsome Iroqua tribes, Marcellinus realizes that a weak and fractured North America won’t stand a chance against the returning Roman army. Worse, rival factions from within threaten to tear Cahokia apart just when it needs to be most united and strong. Marcellinus is determined to save the civilization that has come to mean more to him than the empire he once served. But to survive the swords of Roma, he first must avert another Iroqua attack and bring Cahokia together. Only with the hearts and souls of a nation at his back can Marcellinus hope to know triumph.
Once again in this sequel, the backdrop of this tale revolves around the Mississippian native American civilization which once dominated the lands surrounding the Mississippi and the Ohio rivers. In his debut, Smale did a great job bringing the city of Cahokia to life. Info-dumps were used on occasions and were a necessary evil, as the Roman was the only POV character and the sole purpose of some scenes/discussions was to relay information to the reader. But that didn't take anything away from my reading experience. By and large, the author's depiction of the native Americans' way of life continues to be my favorite aspect of this series. Once more, the worldbuilding was original and compelling.
In Eagle in Exile, we see Marcellinus journey deep into Iroqua territory, in an attempt to make peace with the Haudenosaunee and bring an end to the long-lasting Mourning War that afflicts the tribes. Only by setting this conflict aside can the native Americans hope to stand up to the Roman legions. Another journey will take Marcellinus and his party down the Mizipian river all the way to the Market of the Mud, where a shocking discovery may put all of his plans into jeopardy. Decidedly, this second installment is all about journeys and another expedition takes them beyond the Wemissori river, in the distant lands of the Buffalo hunters. In Clash of Eagles, Alan Smale set the bar rather high as far as worldbuilding is concerned, and I was wondering if he could maintain that level of quality and creativity in his portrayal of other civilizations. Well, it's safe to say that it's mission accomplished for the author!
Although I was hoping for additional points of view in the upcoming books, as I believed it would be interesting to get the perspectives of other people and not just that of Marcellinus, yet Eagle in Exile features the Roman's first-person narrative and nothing else. Tahtay, Enopay, Sintikala, and Kimimela helped shape the sort of man Marcellinus had to become in order to earn the trust of the Cahokians, and they play an important role in the events chronicled within the page of this second volume. As a matter of course, as the sole POV character, Marcellinus takes center stage. But it's the supporting cast that, with their interactions with the Roman, which makes this an enjoyable read.
Weighing in at 556 pages and given the amount of treks to remote locales, one would think that the pace would suffer from time to time. And yet, never does the rhythm drag at any point in this story and Eagle in Exile makes for some compulsive reading.
We have known from the very beginning that the Romans would one day return to Nova Hesperia and that Marcellinus means to prepare his new allies for their coming and hopefully prevent a bloodbath. Alan Smale brings everything together in the last part of the book, offering readers a spectacular and unexpected ending that sets the stage for what should be a remarkable finale.
The author definitely managed to avoid the pitfalls associated with the second book syndrome. Building on the storylines from Clash of Eagles, Smale upped his game and came up with what should be one of the best speculative fiction titles of 2016.
Highly recommended.
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January 9, 2019
The action continues in the next book in the trilogy. A lot of things have changed and now the face of Nova Hesperia is going to face a Roman invasion. I love that in the first book the Romans learned not to take the Native Americans lightly. The main antagonist in the story helps drive the book. He has lived among the people of Cahokia a city that has been only recently in history been given the respect it deserves. Now he finds himself torn between his homeland of Rome and the people who have adopted him. When I was reading the book one question came to my mind " Can this man torn between worlds find a way to unite them?"
October 18, 2023
Oh we're having fun now. We've got to deal with the Iroquois and figure out how to handle the Romans when they return.
A bit of fun exploring new directions out of Cahokia. North, West, South. We'll finally get some answers (and they're actually satisfying!).
A great setup that both told a complete story and left me eager to keep reading.
Great character development. Look at the journey that's been made, not just by our MC, but by so many of his companions.
A foil that manages to be understandable and sinister at the same time. He's not evil, he just has an agenda.
A great ride from a great author. I very much look forward to the finale.
A bit of fun exploring new directions out of Cahokia. North, West, South. We'll finally get some answers (and they're actually satisfying!).
A great setup that both told a complete story and left me eager to keep reading.
Great character development. Look at the journey that's been made, not just by our MC, but by so many of his companions.
A foil that manages to be understandable and sinister at the same time. He's not evil, he just has an agenda.
A great ride from a great author. I very much look forward to the finale.
July 22, 2017
The ending of this book was so much better than the first in the series. They stand together and, although the story obviously has room to continue, it's ok to stop and wait a few years for the next installment.
Like the first book, this one suffered a bit from the gaps between activities. This book spans a few years, and of course not every day is notable, but the gaps between events worth noting felt very empty. Maybe it's the character's angst, the story's underlying foundation that he never really has any good days.
Like the first book, this one suffered a bit from the gaps between activities. This book spans a few years, and of course not every day is notable, but the gaps between events worth noting felt very empty. Maybe it's the character's angst, the story's underlying foundation that he never really has any good days.
June 30, 2023
This was picked up on a whim as I'm not real big on Roman "stuff." However, I'm glad that I did because it's turned out to be quite engaging. This is the first I've read of this trilogy, so I'm missing the backstory that's in the first book. It didn't make any difference. I was able to dig right in and read without any hiccups. It's quite the fascinating 'alternate-history' of North America. Marcellinus is an intriguing character, as are Tahtay and the other Cahokians. It's a captivating story.
Excellent.
Excellent.
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