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Eagles of the Empire #13
Irmãos de armas
O autor bestseller do Sunday Times regressa com um poderoso romance de ação e aventura no seio da legião romana.
A conquista da Britânia pelo Império Romano vive a mais perigosa das ameaças: a traição interna. Quando um mensageiro nas ruas de Roma é intercetado e torturado, revela um plano para sabotar a campanha romana contra Carátaco, comandante das tribos nativas da Britânia. Uma das missões dos traidores é abrir uma segunda frente de ataque e eliminar os dois soldados romanos que se poderiam colocar no caminho para o impedir.
Esses dois soldados romanos são o Prefeito Cato e o Centurião Macro. Desconhecedores da ameaça, encontram-se na legião romana que persegue o exército de Carátaco pelas montanhas da Britânia. Derrotar Carátaco parece estar dentro do seu alcance, mas o plano vil contra os dois heróis ameaça muito mais do que os seus objetivos militares: garante-lhes uma morte violenta e ignominiosa..
A conquista da Britânia pelo Império Romano vive a mais perigosa das ameaças: a traição interna. Quando um mensageiro nas ruas de Roma é intercetado e torturado, revela um plano para sabotar a campanha romana contra Carátaco, comandante das tribos nativas da Britânia. Uma das missões dos traidores é abrir uma segunda frente de ataque e eliminar os dois soldados romanos que se poderiam colocar no caminho para o impedir.
Esses dois soldados romanos são o Prefeito Cato e o Centurião Macro. Desconhecedores da ameaça, encontram-se na legião romana que persegue o exército de Carátaco pelas montanhas da Britânia. Derrotar Carátaco parece estar dentro do seu alcance, mas o plano vil contra os dois heróis ameaça muito mais do que os seus objetivos militares: garante-lhes uma morte violenta e ignominiosa..
432 pages, Paperback
First published October 9, 2014
201 people are currently reading
1395 people want to read
About the author
Simon Scarrow
171 books2,161 followersSimon Scarrow is a UK-based author, born in Nigeria, and now living in Norfolk. He completed a master's degree at the University of East Anglia, and, after working at the Inland Revenue, went into teaching as a lecturer at City College, Norwich.
He is best known for his "Eagle" series. This is Roman empire military fiction, starting with the second invasion of Britain, and continuing with subsequent adventures in every corner of the empire. The stories are told through the eyes of two centurions, Macro and Cato. To date there are eighteen books in the series.
Scarrow has also written a series of four novels on the Napoleonic wars, focusing on the lives of Wellington and Napoleon.
He is best known for his "Eagle" series. This is Roman empire military fiction, starting with the second invasion of Britain, and continuing with subsequent adventures in every corner of the empire. The stories are told through the eyes of two centurions, Macro and Cato. To date there are eighteen books in the series.
Scarrow has also written a series of four novels on the Napoleonic wars, focusing on the lives of Wellington and Napoleon.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 128 reviews
October 7, 2015
Britain remains at the center of Roman Imperial intrigue. With the doddering Emperor Claudius aging and ill, the two masters of Machiavellian scheming, Narcissus and Pallas are locked in a shadowy death struggle with one another. Pallas and Narcissus are backing rival candidates to follow Claudius. If Pallas can arrange for the Roman legions to struggle and perhaps even fail in Britannia, than it will undermine his longtime rival, Narcisssus. Narcissus, meanwhile, needs the simmering province to remain quiet. the two Greek freedmen will stop at nothing to prevail.
As long time (sometimes unwilling) allies of Narcissus, Macro and Cato, Centurion and Prefect, are unfortunately wrapped up in all of this intrigue. They are tasked with tracking down Pallas' spy - a mysterious unknown figure who has infiltrated the Legions with the sole purpose of undermining the Roman cause. And this is pretty much the story. The two Romans need to stave off crisis after crisis while hunting down their target(s). Through all of it the Britons - led by the savage Druids - fight like Banshees to liberate themselves from the Roman yoke.
And it is all pretty good fun. As with all Macro and Cato books, the fighting is engaging - not drowning you in tactics or glossing things over. Instead it provides a good - almost visceral sense of what a Roman shield wall was all about and why the Romans constantly defeated far more numerous foes. (Hint: training, equipment and discipline). As always, when reading about Macro and Cato, I kind of chuckle to myself. The Romans are clearly the good guys, yet what they are doing is reprehensible by today's standards. They truly are an Imperial power - literally conquering less powerful peoples, killing them by the scores and selling survivors into slavery, and at the end they transplant Roman civilization onto foreign soil. That's OK, I guess. It is 2000 years ago after all. They had different standards back in the day.
In terms of the story, my only knock is that I felt the mystery itself was a bit transparent. It was telegraphed well in advance. I knew who the culprit was before the main characters did. That's a problem. Of course, there was a twist, which was nice.
III stars out of V. Good fun if you like your Romans civilizing the barbarians.
As long time (sometimes unwilling) allies of Narcissus, Macro and Cato, Centurion and Prefect, are unfortunately wrapped up in all of this intrigue. They are tasked with tracking down Pallas' spy - a mysterious unknown figure who has infiltrated the Legions with the sole purpose of undermining the Roman cause. And this is pretty much the story. The two Romans need to stave off crisis after crisis while hunting down their target(s). Through all of it the Britons - led by the savage Druids - fight like Banshees to liberate themselves from the Roman yoke.
And it is all pretty good fun. As with all Macro and Cato books, the fighting is engaging - not drowning you in tactics or glossing things over. Instead it provides a good - almost visceral sense of what a Roman shield wall was all about and why the Romans constantly defeated far more numerous foes. (Hint: training, equipment and discipline). As always, when reading about Macro and Cato, I kind of chuckle to myself. The Romans are clearly the good guys, yet what they are doing is reprehensible by today's standards. They truly are an Imperial power - literally conquering less powerful peoples, killing them by the scores and selling survivors into slavery, and at the end they transplant Roman civilization onto foreign soil. That's OK, I guess. It is 2000 years ago after all. They had different standards back in the day.
In terms of the story, my only knock is that I felt the mystery itself was a bit transparent. It was telegraphed well in advance. I knew who the culprit was before the main characters did. That's a problem. Of course, there was a twist, which was nice.
III stars out of V. Good fun if you like your Romans civilizing the barbarians.
January 7, 2022
Read this book in 2014, and its the 13th volume of the amazing "Exile" series.
After their latest encounter against the tribal leader Caratacus, in which this same Caratacus managed to escape the slaughter against the Roman forces lead by Prefect Cato and Centurion Macro, a new reckoning will come in this tale.
Rome conquest of Britannia is under threat from within, because when a messenger is intercepted and tortured by Caratacus, commander of the native tribes, and thus revealing secrets about Rome's campaign against this Caratacus.
A treacherous agent's mission is open to a second attack on Rome and especially against two soldiers who Caratacus wants eliminated, namely Cato and Macro.
And so not knowing that they are hunted from within, Cato and Macro are with the Roman army in pursuit of Caratacus in the mountains of Britannia.
With victory against Caratacus in their grasp, but still unknown to Cato and Macro is this plot against their own lives, and so during this lethal battle they will encounter not only a military threat but also a personal one, and together as Brothers in Blood they will overcome Caratacus and his army of natives, but most importantly they will deal with the threat from within in their own decisive deadly way.
Highly recommended, for this is another excellent addition to this amazing series, and that's why I like to call this episode: "A Brilliant Brothers In Blood"!
After their latest encounter against the tribal leader Caratacus, in which this same Caratacus managed to escape the slaughter against the Roman forces lead by Prefect Cato and Centurion Macro, a new reckoning will come in this tale.
Rome conquest of Britannia is under threat from within, because when a messenger is intercepted and tortured by Caratacus, commander of the native tribes, and thus revealing secrets about Rome's campaign against this Caratacus.
A treacherous agent's mission is open to a second attack on Rome and especially against two soldiers who Caratacus wants eliminated, namely Cato and Macro.
And so not knowing that they are hunted from within, Cato and Macro are with the Roman army in pursuit of Caratacus in the mountains of Britannia.
With victory against Caratacus in their grasp, but still unknown to Cato and Macro is this plot against their own lives, and so during this lethal battle they will encounter not only a military threat but also a personal one, and together as Brothers in Blood they will overcome Caratacus and his army of natives, but most importantly they will deal with the threat from within in their own decisive deadly way.
Highly recommended, for this is another excellent addition to this amazing series, and that's why I like to call this episode: "A Brilliant Brothers In Blood"!
June 14, 2020
Its been 3 ½ years!!! since I last read about Macro & Cato & im intending to read both of the remaining books in the Britannia revisited trilogy back-2-back.
Its now AD 51 & the story starts in the streets of Rome……
As with most of their later stories Narcissus is involved in some ways either front and centre or on the periphery of their lives….. it would appear he has centre stage on this one as he makes an early appearance with the scene starting in Rome….
Before we jump to the land of the Silures (that’s South Wales in modern day) with the legions on the hunt for Caratacus, who is ever the elusive fellah! Here we pick up the enduring duo along with some new faces and one old.
Lively enough tale with the usual smattering of humour, battle, villain, heroes, adventure & some political intrigue which always hits the spot for me.
A solid four stars.
Its now AD 51 & the story starts in the streets of Rome……
As with most of their later stories Narcissus is involved in some ways either front and centre or on the periphery of their lives….. it would appear he has centre stage on this one as he makes an early appearance with the scene starting in Rome….
Before we jump to the land of the Silures (that’s South Wales in modern day) with the legions on the hunt for Caratacus, who is ever the elusive fellah! Here we pick up the enduring duo along with some new faces and one old.
Lively enough tale with the usual smattering of humour, battle, villain, heroes, adventure & some political intrigue which always hits the spot for me.
A solid four stars.
August 6, 2015
Another great read featuring Cato and Macro. I am a huge fan of this author and this series so pleased to find this is as good as all his others in the series. More plotting and exciting action scenes. I was cheering for the Brits a bit to beat the Romans but sadly the author doesn't try to rewrite history! I could read these books all day everyday and not get bored.
August 14, 2018
A must for the original fans, Scarrow goes back to the British roots of the series with his usual panache.
May 25, 2025
Simon Scarrow drinking game:
Cato gets embarassed by superiors at briefing, Macro and Cato don't get rewarded for their heroism, a barbarian barely misses our heroes and merks the legionary standing nearby, bad leadership by posh Romans, slaps thigh in frustration, Macro growls at Narcissus or Septimus, Macro whips the boys into shape, Cato talks to a real historical character, Cato introspection, barbarians lose the fighting (obviously!).
Cato gets embarassed by superiors at briefing, Macro and Cato don't get rewarded for their heroism, a barbarian barely misses our heroes and merks the legionary standing nearby, bad leadership by posh Romans, slaps thigh in frustration, Macro growls at Narcissus or Septimus, Macro whips the boys into shape, Cato talks to a real historical character, Cato introspection, barbarians lose the fighting (obviously!).
March 23, 2024
4.75 stars
May 1, 2021
XXIII libro de la saga Quinto Licinio Cato de Simon Scarrow.
Conquista de Britania por parte del Imperio Romano. Cato y Macro deberán desenmascarar el complot liderado por Palas para derrocar mediante traiciones al emperador Claudio y colocar a Nerón. También deben derrotar de una vez a Carataco.
Otro libro que se disfruta como todos o casi todos de la saga, especialmente los de la conquista de Britania me encantan.
No son 5 estrellas ya que el final se fuerza y no brilla.
Conquista de Britania por parte del Imperio Romano. Cato y Macro deberán desenmascarar el complot liderado por Palas para derrocar mediante traiciones al emperador Claudio y colocar a Nerón. También deben derrotar de una vez a Carataco.
Otro libro que se disfruta como todos o casi todos de la saga, especialmente los de la conquista de Britania me encantan.
No son 5 estrellas ya que el final se fuerza y no brilla.
April 30, 2022
Includes an insightful short story. 5⭐️
April 5, 2020
BLURB
The Roman Empire's conquest of Britannia is under threat from within.
A messenger on the streets of Rome has been intercepted and tortured, revealing a plot to sabotage the Roman army's campaign against Caratacus, commander of Britannia's native tribes. A treacherous agent's mission is to open a second front of attack against them and eliminate the two Roman soldiers who could stand in the way.
Unwarned, Prefect Cato and Centurion Macro are with the Roman army pursuing Caratacus and his men through the mountains of Britannia. Defeating Caratacus seems within their grasp. But the plot against the two heroes threatens not only their military goals but also their lives.
Includes 2 maps and Roman army organisation chart.
REVIEW
Another rousing adventure for Cato and Macro. Another excellent addition to the series. On the trail of Rome's worst nightmare in Britannia, the redoubtable and seemingly invincible Caratacus, our dynamic duo are once again the playthings of palace intrigue. A well conceived plot full of action and surprises...I thought for sure I knew who the traitor in their midst was...I was wrong...😊... So my fellow readers, if you've gotten this far in this series, you know what to expect, and yet it still seems fresh, and there's more to come. 4⭐⭐⭐⭐
The Roman Empire's conquest of Britannia is under threat from within.
A messenger on the streets of Rome has been intercepted and tortured, revealing a plot to sabotage the Roman army's campaign against Caratacus, commander of Britannia's native tribes. A treacherous agent's mission is to open a second front of attack against them and eliminate the two Roman soldiers who could stand in the way.
Unwarned, Prefect Cato and Centurion Macro are with the Roman army pursuing Caratacus and his men through the mountains of Britannia. Defeating Caratacus seems within their grasp. But the plot against the two heroes threatens not only their military goals but also their lives.
Includes 2 maps and Roman army organisation chart.
REVIEW
Another rousing adventure for Cato and Macro. Another excellent addition to the series. On the trail of Rome's worst nightmare in Britannia, the redoubtable and seemingly invincible Caratacus, our dynamic duo are once again the playthings of palace intrigue. A well conceived plot full of action and surprises...I thought for sure I knew who the traitor in their midst was...I was wrong...😊... So my fellow readers, if you've gotten this far in this series, you know what to expect, and yet it still seems fresh, and there's more to come. 4⭐⭐⭐⭐
January 14, 2022
Once again the dynamic duo Macro and Cato lead us on an hilarious and dangerous skirmish through ancient Briton . As it was an audiable book it was once again brought to life by Jonathan Keeble , who makes the books an absolute pleasure to listen to.
April 23, 2018
Como sempre, e mais uma vez, soberbo. Excelente engenho. Mais uma complicada aventura dos dois amigos. Obrigado, Simon.
February 3, 2023
Another excellent Cato and Marco novel. Lots of laugh out loud moments. My favourite duo from any novel. Bring on Brittania!
July 18, 2022
Fantastic read all round
March 18, 2015
Review
I always like my reviews to be upfront and honest, so just for sake of clarity: I have been a fan of Simon Scarrow’s books since his first book 14 years ago. I have been lucky enough to consider Simon a friend and have (Centurion) Parmenion appear as a character in two of the Cato series (Eagle in the Sand and Centurion), that however should no way colour my review, each book on its merit. As a fan of the series i had started to experience some concern with the Cato series around book 9 (Gladiator), I wasn’t a fan of the introduction of Julia as a character, she works well as a device in the background, a way to improve Cato’s position in Roman Society, but as a participant i always felt she diluted the plot, as such i have enjoyed her not being in the book. (sorry Simon)
I very much enjoyed book 12 and the introduction of the Blood Crows, a return to Britannia and a return to Macro and Cato being soldiers, working with their men within the twisted politics of the Roman world and army. Brothers in Blood is another continuation of that return to classic Macro and Cato. Our dynamic duo set to capture Caratacus, dangerous battles to be fought, The spies of Pallas to contend with and the ever present political shenanigans of the Roman army, the petty politics of the cursus honorum driving the behavior of so many of their peers. As ever Simon manages to weave a splendid web of intrigue, making us guess at every turn who the Pallas may have put in their path, i like to think that knowing Simon and his books so well is why i guessed right, i think the reveal will come as a surprise to most. All in all the plot for this book is very well constructed, throwing plenty in the path of Macro and Cato, but always something the average good solider could deal with, there is no “Super Hero” here. Simons skill with this series is the down to earth soldier.
I do feel though that there is a lacking still in the books, we know Macro and Cato cannot die, they never really even suffer an injury to severe. This is to be expected, many authors protect their Heroes, But there are no characters surrounding them that grow with them, that you come to invest in and hope for survival, I have come to call all the supporting cast “Red Shirts” because like on a star trek mission you know they are going to get it, they are the cannon fodder, and to be honest, who really cares about them, we know nothing about them and have not grown with them or experienced their pain. I feel with the introduction of the Blood Crows there is room to develop some supporting cast, some friends for both of the men. Macro and Cato are now set slightly apart in rank, so we could see the development of friendships in their own peer groups. A man who excels at this is Anthony Riches, there is a rich cast of many, and with every book he delights in keeping the reader on tenterhooks as to whom out of the cohort of friends he might kill. Its this that adds an extra depth and element of suspense and drama that is missing at the moment (at least for me) in the Cato books.
That aside this is a splendid 4/5 for me, i enjoyed it and look forward to the next book, Britannia gives Simon a very rich tapestry for Macro and Cato to explore with minimal interjection from the devious politics of Rome. There are so many more fights to come before they need to get back embroiled with Rome…and what will eventually be the Year of the four Emperors.
(Parm)
Series
Cato
1. Under the Eagle (2000)
2. The Eagle’s Conquest (2001)
3. When the Eagle Hunts (2002)
4. The Eagle and the Wolves (2003)
5. The Eagle’s Prey (2004)
6. The Eagle’s Prophecy (2005)
7. The Eagle in the Sand (2006)
aka The Zealot
8. Centurion (2007)
9. The Gladiator (2009)
10. The Legion (2010)
11. Praetorian (2011)
12. The Blood Crows (2013)
13. Brothers in Blood (2014)
Revolution
1. Young Bloods (2006)
2. The Generals (2007)
3. Fire and Sword (2007)
4. The Fields of Death (2010)
Gladiator
1. Fight for Freedom (2011)
2. Street Fighter (2012)
3. Son of Spartacus (2013)
4. Vengeance (2014)
Roman Arena
1. Barbarian (2012)
2. Challenger (2012)
3. First Sword (2013)
4. Revenge (2013)
5. Champion (2013)
Arena (omnibus) (2013)
Invader
1. Death Beach (2014)
2. Blood Enemy (2014)
3. Dark Blade (2014)
4. Imperial Agent (2015)
5. Sacrifice (2015)
Novels
The Sword and the Scimitar (2012)
I always like my reviews to be upfront and honest, so just for sake of clarity: I have been a fan of Simon Scarrow’s books since his first book 14 years ago. I have been lucky enough to consider Simon a friend and have (Centurion) Parmenion appear as a character in two of the Cato series (Eagle in the Sand and Centurion), that however should no way colour my review, each book on its merit. As a fan of the series i had started to experience some concern with the Cato series around book 9 (Gladiator), I wasn’t a fan of the introduction of Julia as a character, she works well as a device in the background, a way to improve Cato’s position in Roman Society, but as a participant i always felt she diluted the plot, as such i have enjoyed her not being in the book. (sorry Simon)
I very much enjoyed book 12 and the introduction of the Blood Crows, a return to Britannia and a return to Macro and Cato being soldiers, working with their men within the twisted politics of the Roman world and army. Brothers in Blood is another continuation of that return to classic Macro and Cato. Our dynamic duo set to capture Caratacus, dangerous battles to be fought, The spies of Pallas to contend with and the ever present political shenanigans of the Roman army, the petty politics of the cursus honorum driving the behavior of so many of their peers. As ever Simon manages to weave a splendid web of intrigue, making us guess at every turn who the Pallas may have put in their path, i like to think that knowing Simon and his books so well is why i guessed right, i think the reveal will come as a surprise to most. All in all the plot for this book is very well constructed, throwing plenty in the path of Macro and Cato, but always something the average good solider could deal with, there is no “Super Hero” here. Simons skill with this series is the down to earth soldier.
I do feel though that there is a lacking still in the books, we know Macro and Cato cannot die, they never really even suffer an injury to severe. This is to be expected, many authors protect their Heroes, But there are no characters surrounding them that grow with them, that you come to invest in and hope for survival, I have come to call all the supporting cast “Red Shirts” because like on a star trek mission you know they are going to get it, they are the cannon fodder, and to be honest, who really cares about them, we know nothing about them and have not grown with them or experienced their pain. I feel with the introduction of the Blood Crows there is room to develop some supporting cast, some friends for both of the men. Macro and Cato are now set slightly apart in rank, so we could see the development of friendships in their own peer groups. A man who excels at this is Anthony Riches, there is a rich cast of many, and with every book he delights in keeping the reader on tenterhooks as to whom out of the cohort of friends he might kill. Its this that adds an extra depth and element of suspense and drama that is missing at the moment (at least for me) in the Cato books.
That aside this is a splendid 4/5 for me, i enjoyed it and look forward to the next book, Britannia gives Simon a very rich tapestry for Macro and Cato to explore with minimal interjection from the devious politics of Rome. There are so many more fights to come before they need to get back embroiled with Rome…and what will eventually be the Year of the four Emperors.
(Parm)
Series
Cato
1. Under the Eagle (2000)
2. The Eagle’s Conquest (2001)
3. When the Eagle Hunts (2002)
4. The Eagle and the Wolves (2003)
5. The Eagle’s Prey (2004)
6. The Eagle’s Prophecy (2005)
7. The Eagle in the Sand (2006)
aka The Zealot
8. Centurion (2007)
9. The Gladiator (2009)
10. The Legion (2010)
11. Praetorian (2011)
12. The Blood Crows (2013)
13. Brothers in Blood (2014)
Revolution
1. Young Bloods (2006)
2. The Generals (2007)
3. Fire and Sword (2007)
4. The Fields of Death (2010)
Gladiator
1. Fight for Freedom (2011)
2. Street Fighter (2012)
3. Son of Spartacus (2013)
4. Vengeance (2014)
Roman Arena
1. Barbarian (2012)
2. Challenger (2012)
3. First Sword (2013)
4. Revenge (2013)
5. Champion (2013)
Arena (omnibus) (2013)
Invader
1. Death Beach (2014)
2. Blood Enemy (2014)
3. Dark Blade (2014)
4. Imperial Agent (2015)
5. Sacrifice (2015)
Novels
The Sword and the Scimitar (2012)
March 13, 2015
Well, after 12 books we should know what to expect. Our two heroes are back at Britannia (well, still there, seeing how this one takes place shortly after Blood Crows). And as I've said in previous reviews, books alternate between Cato and Macro being soldiers and playing spy games. This one combines the two.
And that's where the problems of this book lie. Cato and Macro find themselves entagled in yet another plot played by Claudius' freedmen, Narcisss and Pallas. However these plots are becoming increasingly fantastical and losing any connection to reality they used to have. This one involves
Now, don't get me wrong, I like Roman plots and intrigue as much as next guy but I prefer them to have some at least some semblance to reality and are at least plausible.
In addition Scarrow still plays fast and loose with historical facts. And this isn't "well, we don't know exactlly what happened so as far as this book is concerned it could have happened the way I wrote it", it's simply inventing things we know didn't happen for the story and to drive plot forward.
Speaking of which, Scarrow's writting style seems to be taking a turn for the worse lately. While anachronisms in speech were pretty common since start of the series this book takes it to the next level, with modern British slang quite frequent, sometimes even trying to pass as Scotish accent.
And in addition to Vitellius, who made earleir appearance, we meet Otho, another emperor from Year of for Emperors. We only need to meet glaba and quartet will be completed.
Overall, I think this series is played out. Scarrow writes his battles better than he does his intrigue but sadly he insists on writting latter. He should find a good way to wrap it up and give our heroes a good, solid ending. Macro retires, cato stays. They separate and years later they meet again. Or anything that would be better than driving this series on for only reason that there already are so many books and they keep selling.
And that's where the problems of this book lie. Cato and Macro find themselves entagled in yet another plot played by Claudius' freedmen, Narcisss and Pallas. However these plots are becoming increasingly fantastical and losing any connection to reality they used to have. This one involves
Now, don't get me wrong, I like Roman plots and intrigue as much as next guy but I prefer them to have some at least some semblance to reality and are at least plausible.
In addition Scarrow still plays fast and loose with historical facts. And this isn't "well, we don't know exactlly what happened so as far as this book is concerned it could have happened the way I wrote it", it's simply inventing things we know didn't happen for the story and to drive plot forward.
Speaking of which, Scarrow's writting style seems to be taking a turn for the worse lately. While anachronisms in speech were pretty common since start of the series this book takes it to the next level, with modern British slang quite frequent, sometimes even trying to pass as Scotish accent.
And in addition to Vitellius, who made earleir appearance, we meet Otho, another emperor from Year of for Emperors. We only need to meet glaba and quartet will be completed.
Overall, I think this series is played out. Scarrow writes his battles better than he does his intrigue but sadly he insists on writting latter. He should find a good way to wrap it up and give our heroes a good, solid ending. Macro retires, cato stays. They separate and years later they meet again. Or anything that would be better than driving this series on for only reason that there already are so many books and they keep selling.
October 23, 2014
There is a good joke in one of Steven Saylor's Roman novels - I think it is Catilina's Riddle. The story goes that the politician Cicero only ever had sex twice: the first time to see what all the fuss was about, the second ten years later to check if it really had been as underwhelming as he remembered it.
I read the first two in the Cato and Macro series about ten years ago and gave them up as run-of-the-mill adventure stories; when offered the opportunity to read this one, I decided to give it another go. There will not be a third attempt.
In fairness to Simon Scarrow, he writes for a particular audience and I do not belong to that constituency. He writes clearly, simply and well. The series is very popular. But I do note that despite many four and five star reviews on these pages, there is some disquiet among his fans.
This is formula writing par excellence. You do not need to have read any of the others in the series to follow this.
The central plot follows the line: Caratacus leads the Roman army a merry dance; Caratacus is cornered on a hill fort; there is a big battle with the day saved by the hero and his mates; Caratacus is captured; Caratacus escapes; Caratacus leads the Roman army a merry dance; Caratacus is cornered on a hill fort.....
There is a rather silly sub-plot involving the `Imperial Agents' of rival freedmen, one of whom takes the practice of hiding in plain sight to ludicrous extremes. Nor is it difficult to work out the identity of the `bad' one.
There are running themes of class struggle (twittish and arrogant upper-class officers versus solid, dependable lower class soldiers), male bonding (Cato and Macro, Cato and Caratacus, Cato and the Blood Crows, hmmm...), resistance to female temptation (Cato and Poppaea, Cato and Cartimandua), all leavened with laddish humour, `Better out than in. And a word to the wise, always go downwind.' He gestured to the mess on his tunic.' (Sage advice from Macro to Cato).
If this is the sort of thing you like, then you will like this sort of thing.
I read the first two in the Cato and Macro series about ten years ago and gave them up as run-of-the-mill adventure stories; when offered the opportunity to read this one, I decided to give it another go. There will not be a third attempt.
In fairness to Simon Scarrow, he writes for a particular audience and I do not belong to that constituency. He writes clearly, simply and well. The series is very popular. But I do note that despite many four and five star reviews on these pages, there is some disquiet among his fans.
This is formula writing par excellence. You do not need to have read any of the others in the series to follow this.
The central plot follows the line: Caratacus leads the Roman army a merry dance; Caratacus is cornered on a hill fort; there is a big battle with the day saved by the hero and his mates; Caratacus is captured; Caratacus escapes; Caratacus leads the Roman army a merry dance; Caratacus is cornered on a hill fort.....
There is a rather silly sub-plot involving the `Imperial Agents' of rival freedmen, one of whom takes the practice of hiding in plain sight to ludicrous extremes. Nor is it difficult to work out the identity of the `bad' one.
There are running themes of class struggle (twittish and arrogant upper-class officers versus solid, dependable lower class soldiers), male bonding (Cato and Macro, Cato and Caratacus, Cato and the Blood Crows, hmmm...), resistance to female temptation (Cato and Poppaea, Cato and Cartimandua), all leavened with laddish humour, `Better out than in. And a word to the wise, always go downwind.' He gestured to the mess on his tunic.' (Sage advice from Macro to Cato).
If this is the sort of thing you like, then you will like this sort of thing.
June 16, 2024
The entire Eagle series by Simon Scarrow is superb for anyone who enjoys historical fiction set in Roman times. With the friends, Cato and Macro, back in the army in Britannia, this has to rate high in a favourite. The visual impression of the misery of constant cold rain and mud underfoot stays with me together with the steadfast courage of men facing impossible odds.
The ongoing pleasure of these stories is the relationship between the two unlikely friends as well as the adventures they face together. The historical details of life in the Roman army and the country in which they are based at the time have been well researched and are vividly depicted. Jonathan Keeble's excellent narration breathes extra life into the characters and his pacing exactly matches the story's tempo.
I thoroughly recommend Brothers in Blood to anyone
Second reading, June 2024, just as good - in fact, even better as i.am reading in sequence and fairly close together. Best way to do it, though I didn't do so first time round. Great to see the growing closeness and progress of the two friends as the series continues. Next up, book 14,Britannia.
The ongoing pleasure of these stories is the relationship between the two unlikely friends as well as the adventures they face together. The historical details of life in the Roman army and the country in which they are based at the time have been well researched and are vividly depicted. Jonathan Keeble's excellent narration breathes extra life into the characters and his pacing exactly matches the story's tempo.
I thoroughly recommend Brothers in Blood to anyone
Second reading, June 2024, just as good - in fact, even better as i.am reading in sequence and fairly close together. Best way to do it, though I didn't do so first time round. Great to see the growing closeness and progress of the two friends as the series continues. Next up, book 14,Britannia.
April 17, 2018
Brothers in adversity.
Our Roman Army heroes continue in Britannia tracking down Caratacus who was captured and escaped in the previous story. They are also having to cope with the unknown traitor who is still meddling and trying to get them killed...as if the locals were not trying to do the same. We have two sexy ladies, both cougars, one Roman, one British. Unhappily neither of our boys get up close and personal. Cato does have some good news for a change. He is going to be a daddy. Trouble is with the way the war is going junior will be hitting puberty before he sees him/her. But that is the ancient Roman way. A well written tale about a non sexual bromance. Very entertaining. You either get the boys or you don''t. I get them. Although I worry about when we reach the Boudicca Rebellion and I am sure we will. She was Macro' s British squeeze when he first got to Britannia. And now his mamma is running a bar there. How many bets amongst fans he eventually retires there?
Our Roman Army heroes continue in Britannia tracking down Caratacus who was captured and escaped in the previous story. They are also having to cope with the unknown traitor who is still meddling and trying to get them killed...as if the locals were not trying to do the same. We have two sexy ladies, both cougars, one Roman, one British. Unhappily neither of our boys get up close and personal. Cato does have some good news for a change. He is going to be a daddy. Trouble is with the way the war is going junior will be hitting puberty before he sees him/her. But that is the ancient Roman way. A well written tale about a non sexual bromance. Very entertaining. You either get the boys or you don''t. I get them. Although I worry about when we reach the Boudicca Rebellion and I am sure we will. She was Macro' s British squeeze when he first got to Britannia. And now his mamma is running a bar there. How many bets amongst fans he eventually retires there?
April 10, 2020
I would have rated this book with four stars like the rest if the series, apart from the first book, however, I felt that Brothers in Blood was a bit far fetched. I highly doubt that any Officer worth his salt would guard Caratacus with just two soldiers, let alone Prefect Cato, who has achieved a lot thanks to his sharp ideas and cunningness.
Hopefully this is not a sign that the series will begin its decline!
Hopefully this is not a sign that the series will begin its decline!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 21, 2016
Das war mein erstes Buch von Simon Scarrow und somit auch der erste Band der Rom Serie. Ich bin relativ gut ins Buch gekommen obwohl ich nicht wusste was vorher geschehen ist oder wer wer ist. Es war als wäre ich mittendrin und würde an Cato's und Macro's Seite kämpfen. Blutig, fies und hier und da auch witzig. Super!
October 20, 2019
I find it difficult to take Simon Scarrow's books seriously as historical fiction, largely because the voices he gives his Roman legionaries all sound like modern-day British squaddies, but that said, he does write entertaining yarns.
January 3, 2018
Entertaining and action-packed Roman military adventure. The final third is excellent, pushing my star rating from 3 to 4.
August 23, 2023
Following the dark and gritty installment of The Blood Crows, Macro and Cato join up with the main force of the Roman army in pursuit of the now cornered Caratacus and his army.
This was a book in two parts which finished with mix of great action and a satisfying conclusion to a mystery. It opened with some cold and bloody clandestine manuevreing showing the growing conflict between the two Imperial freedmen, Narcissus and Palas, vying for control of the Empire.
What followed was a well delivered mix of hard-hitting military historical fiction, lined with a some tense mystery. The characters, I must note, are greatly improved in quality, having them brought to life by a wonderful narrator like Keeble probably has something to do with it. Switching to audiobooks for the last three books has elevated my appreciation of the series.
The main draw of this series has always been the military side of things, and here again Scarrow delivered two banging set-piece battles.
This first at the mid way point was remenicent of that in book #2 where the army had to cross a river, secure the banks, ascend an incline, and try to surmount the defences to get at the enemy. It was vividly described, with the terrain brought to life in crisp clear language, the atmosphere energized by rain, the movement of the army choreographed so that it painted a cinematic picture in the mind. The battle was savage, it ebbed and flowed from one amazing sequence of weathering heavy bombardment, to vicious contact with the enemy. And Cato once again, surveying the battle field, doing the unthinkable and saving the day.
While I enjoyed the story up to that point. I was almost upset because I thought Caratacus' rebellion was going to be extended for another book, how many lives can one man have! But his temporary escaped was cleverly merged with the political battles going on in the background and the end justified his continued survival.
The second half in Brigantia was quite thrilling, spies and double agents, Cato having to show his wits again both as an unwilling politician and commander in battle. And what a battle it was to close things! While the first battle had half of it observed away from the main characters pov, they were in the thick of it here. Employing courage and skill in storming of the fort at Isurium. I quite enjoyed this a little more than the first, the tactics employed here had to be something special, as the tiered defences were almost impregnable. And seeing the battle through the eyes of Macro and Cato transports one into the mix, you almost feel the slamming of swords against shields, at the same time observe like a bird the moving pieces on the battle field, everything like a movie in the minds eye.
So, silky writing, perfectly paced, sturdy characters and an exciting plot, all wrapped up in a master work of narration.
This was a book in two parts which finished with mix of great action and a satisfying conclusion to a mystery. It opened with some cold and bloody clandestine manuevreing showing the growing conflict between the two Imperial freedmen, Narcissus and Palas, vying for control of the Empire.
What followed was a well delivered mix of hard-hitting military historical fiction, lined with a some tense mystery. The characters, I must note, are greatly improved in quality, having them brought to life by a wonderful narrator like Keeble probably has something to do with it. Switching to audiobooks for the last three books has elevated my appreciation of the series.
The main draw of this series has always been the military side of things, and here again Scarrow delivered two banging set-piece battles.
This first at the mid way point was remenicent of that in book #2 where the army had to cross a river, secure the banks, ascend an incline, and try to surmount the defences to get at the enemy. It was vividly described, with the terrain brought to life in crisp clear language, the atmosphere energized by rain, the movement of the army choreographed so that it painted a cinematic picture in the mind. The battle was savage, it ebbed and flowed from one amazing sequence of weathering heavy bombardment, to vicious contact with the enemy. And Cato once again, surveying the battle field, doing the unthinkable and saving the day.
While I enjoyed the story up to that point. I was almost upset because I thought Caratacus' rebellion was going to be extended for another book, how many lives can one man have! But his temporary escaped was cleverly merged with the political battles going on in the background and the end justified his continued survival.
The second half in Brigantia was quite thrilling, spies and double agents, Cato having to show his wits again both as an unwilling politician and commander in battle. And what a battle it was to close things! While the first battle had half of it observed away from the main characters pov, they were in the thick of it here. Employing courage and skill in storming of the fort at Isurium. I quite enjoyed this a little more than the first, the tactics employed here had to be something special, as the tiered defences were almost impregnable. And seeing the battle through the eyes of Macro and Cato transports one into the mix, you almost feel the slamming of swords against shields, at the same time observe like a bird the moving pieces on the battle field, everything like a movie in the minds eye.
So, silky writing, perfectly paced, sturdy characters and an exciting plot, all wrapped up in a master work of narration.
February 7, 2017
Simon Scarrow's latest instalment following the exploits of Roman Army stalwarts Cato and Macro finds the pair still in Britannia and still dealing with the Celtic tribes resisting the Roman invasion. King Caratacus has taken flight and has now sought allegiance with a faction of the Brigantes, led by Venutius, to resist the Roman army.
The pair find themselves heavily involved with events; trying to maintain the peace with the tribe's Queen, Cartimandua whilst also trying to capture Caratacus to ensure that rebellion is prevented and that peace with Rome is achieved. They also have to deal with a new and rather incompetent young Prefect Otho and his wife Poppaea, just arrived from Rome and a rather intriguing wine merchant and camp follower called Hipparchus.
However, power struggles back home have a profound affect on events even at the edge of the Empire. Cato and Macro are approached and warned by a spy amongst the camp followers that someone has been sent from Rome to prevent peace with Britannia and that they also have orders to get rid of them both at the same time. And there are a whole load of potential suspects!!
Another great novel for fans of historical fiction. Lots of fighting, intrigue and double crossing. An excellent insight into what Roman life and life in the Roman army must have been like. This novel does stand alone but it is far better to have read the series in sequence to get behind the main protagonists.
Rob D
The pair find themselves heavily involved with events; trying to maintain the peace with the tribe's Queen, Cartimandua whilst also trying to capture Caratacus to ensure that rebellion is prevented and that peace with Rome is achieved. They also have to deal with a new and rather incompetent young Prefect Otho and his wife Poppaea, just arrived from Rome and a rather intriguing wine merchant and camp follower called Hipparchus.
However, power struggles back home have a profound affect on events even at the edge of the Empire. Cato and Macro are approached and warned by a spy amongst the camp followers that someone has been sent from Rome to prevent peace with Britannia and that they also have orders to get rid of them both at the same time. And there are a whole load of potential suspects!!
Another great novel for fans of historical fiction. Lots of fighting, intrigue and double crossing. An excellent insight into what Roman life and life in the Roman army must have been like. This novel does stand alone but it is far better to have read the series in sequence to get behind the main protagonists.
Rob D
November 23, 2021
Cato and Macro are still in wild Britannia, still chasing the indomitable Caratatacus and still deeply entrenched in the murky swamp of Roman intrigue, despite their best efforts to avoid it
Book xiii of the series is a book of two halves, first seeing our heroes taking part in a climactic battle against their Celtic nemesis and then following them 'oop north' to lend their expertise to the support of a crucial ally of the empire, where failure could see Britannia torn from the grasp of the Emperor
The growth of Cato continues as he proves himself an inspired, fair yet ruthless leader of men... when he's allowed to lead without having one arm tied behind his back by the ambitions of those around him. Macro, on the other hand has no intention of growing!
I'm still loving this series and can't wait for the next instalment
Book xiii of the series is a book of two halves, first seeing our heroes taking part in a climactic battle against their Celtic nemesis and then following them 'oop north' to lend their expertise to the support of a crucial ally of the empire, where failure could see Britannia torn from the grasp of the Emperor
The growth of Cato continues as he proves himself an inspired, fair yet ruthless leader of men... when he's allowed to lead without having one arm tied behind his back by the ambitions of those around him. Macro, on the other hand has no intention of growing!
I'm still loving this series and can't wait for the next instalment
March 27, 2020
Una entrega más de las aventuras de Cato y Macro, estos dos romanos incombustibles. O por lo menos eso intenta Simon Scarrow. Esta entrega, una vez más, no aporta nada nuevo. Sigue siendo aventura, acción y giros más o menos inesperados. Como única nota positiva el desarrollo histórico de los últimos días de Carataco frente a Roma y las descripciones de las batallas o escaramuzas que se dan en el libro. Seguiré leyendo las restantes entregas de la saga para saber en qué o cómo terminan los protagonistas.
Hermanos de Sangre. Solo para los que siguen la saga y quieren seguir la historia de los dos protagonistas.
Nota: 5
February 8, 2021
IN the 13th book of the series, Scarrow our heroes are in the throes of mopping up the last resistance in Brittania. Or are they? There is a traitor in the midst who is determined to undermine the Emperor and aid the tribal leader, Caratacus, even if means the invasion of Britannia will fail.
The action is intense, particularly in the last quarter of the book, as things come to a head. Cato saves the day once more, but it isn't easy.
Overall, I enjoyed the book, though it seemed to drag a little bit in some spots. I guess the traitor early on, but didn't get the full answer until near the end. I thought that the book was worth reading and a good addition to the series. Worth the time spent reading.
The action is intense, particularly in the last quarter of the book, as things come to a head. Cato saves the day once more, but it isn't easy.
Overall, I enjoyed the book, though it seemed to drag a little bit in some spots. I guess the traitor early on, but didn't get the full answer until near the end. I thought that the book was worth reading and a good addition to the series. Worth the time spent reading.
February 11, 2019
Book 13 of the Eagle Saga by Simon Scarrow brings nothing new: Cato and Macro are in Britannia fighting the natives while at the same time political intrigues undermine the Roman Campaign.
I'd give this 2.5 but it's not possible, so went with 2. Like I said, this book presents the same formula as the previous books without any new element being added with the aggravation that the fights aren't that much interesting and end quite fast. The political intrigue which in other books had more relevant part, here it's mentioned at some points and unraveled at the end in a very bland and unsurprising way.
A good book to kill some time but not much more than that.
I'd give this 2.5 but it's not possible, so went with 2. Like I said, this book presents the same formula as the previous books without any new element being added with the aggravation that the fights aren't that much interesting and end quite fast. The political intrigue which in other books had more relevant part, here it's mentioned at some points and unraveled at the end in a very bland and unsurprising way.
A good book to kill some time but not much more than that.
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