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Twilight of Empire #2
Swords Around the Throne
Rome is in peril. The old order is changing – and Centurion Aurelius Castus has been summoned back from Britain, to find himself caught up in a treasonous conspiracy threatening to bring down the Emperor Conatantine. Rewarded for saving the emperor's life in battle, Castus is promoted to the Corps of Protectores, the elite imperial bodyguard. The swords around the throne.
But he soon discovers the court to be as dangerous as the battlefield; behind the gilded facade of empire, there are spiralling plots, betrayals and seductions. A nest of traitors. And one relentless enemy.
'SWORDS AROUND THE THRONE' continues the brilliant Twilight of Empire series, which began with THE WAR AT THE EDGE OF THE WORLD.
But he soon discovers the court to be as dangerous as the battlefield; behind the gilded facade of empire, there are spiralling plots, betrayals and seductions. A nest of traitors. And one relentless enemy.
'SWORDS AROUND THE THRONE' continues the brilliant Twilight of Empire series, which began with THE WAR AT THE EDGE OF THE WORLD.
432 pages, Paperback
First published July 2, 2015
55 people are currently reading
296 people want to read
About the author
Ian James Ross
27 books97 followersIan Ross was born in England and studied painting before turning to writing fiction. He has travelled widely and worked as a bookseller, tutor and university lecturer while developing his writing abilities. A year in Italy teaching English and exploring the ruins of empire reawakened his early love for ancient history, and he returned to the UK with growing fascination for the period known as late antiquity. He has been researching and writing about the later Roman world and its army for over a decade, and his interests combine an obsessive regard for accuracy and detail with a devotion to the craft of storytelling.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
March 9, 2016
Some rewards just aren’t worth getting. Castus is once again rewarded for his heroism on the battlefield, and whilst this may have the appearance of a hero getting what he deserves the reality is somewhat different. He saved the Emperor Constantine’s life in an enemy charge and is granted the esteemed rank of Protector. But, it is a side of army life he hates; it is a side of human nature and the Empire he hates. All in all, it’s a crap promotion.
For duty, for honour and for Rome!
Castus was made to be a Centurion; he trains and commands men with a natural ease: he is like Mars on the battlefield. It’s where he thrives and where he is comfortable. He wasn’t meant to be a glorified bodyguard who is privy to the court intrigue he despises. It’s a wasted opportunity on him. But, again, his duty to mother Rome demands that he takes the unwanted promotion even if he finds the very idea repulsive. Castus in an excellent Centurion, but when he is asked to be anything beyond that he, naturally, struggles; thus, throughout the novel he is way out of his depth.
Initially, he takes to his position with reluctance ease. It seems quite an easy and unglorified role to play. Slowly, the schemers begin to sniff around, and Castus finds himself in one big mess that he is unequipped to deal with. He finds himself in a situation where Constantine’s fate once again rests in the strength of his sword arm, and his feeble wits. Castus had no idea how to play people like he is being played; he cannot perceive much beyond the surface level of peoples intentions. It’s unfortunate because it almost leads to his demise, but, again, his brute strength carries him through.
An uncomfortable place for a man like this
I think Castus is a poor protagonist. He just cannot adapt and comes across as almost awkward. He doesn’t have the tools needed to deal with schemers, liars and usurpers. He does try to do his best, and he has learnt a little about Roman politics in the process, but it’s not enough. He needs to develop more. Indeed, he may not have developed the cunning he so desperately needs to survive, but after this experience he is more aware of his own faults. I’d like to see the character act upon them and become stronger in the process in the rest of the series. If he is the same again I will, no doubt, find the next novel a challenge.
Admittedly, he has come a long way in this book. Most Centurions wouldn’t have made it this far. He suggests he has been misjudged, and that he isn’t as bull headed as he appears. But, I’ve seen little to demonstrate his own justification. He just isn’t a well-rounded character. Any success he has feels like luck and happenchance. I don’t think he could realistically pull off another situation like this. He needs to return to the battlefield or become a different man. Overall, though, I did enjoy this. In terms of the plot, structure and writing this is very good. My only criticism resides with Castus and his limitations. I can only hope that he improves as a character in the next book.
Twilight of Empire
1. War at the Edge of the World-A fair 3 stars.
2. Swords Around the Throne - A limited three stars
For duty, for honour and for Rome!
Castus was made to be a Centurion; he trains and commands men with a natural ease: he is like Mars on the battlefield. It’s where he thrives and where he is comfortable. He wasn’t meant to be a glorified bodyguard who is privy to the court intrigue he despises. It’s a wasted opportunity on him. But, again, his duty to mother Rome demands that he takes the unwanted promotion even if he finds the very idea repulsive. Castus in an excellent Centurion, but when he is asked to be anything beyond that he, naturally, struggles; thus, throughout the novel he is way out of his depth.
Initially, he takes to his position with reluctance ease. It seems quite an easy and unglorified role to play. Slowly, the schemers begin to sniff around, and Castus finds himself in one big mess that he is unequipped to deal with. He finds himself in a situation where Constantine’s fate once again rests in the strength of his sword arm, and his feeble wits. Castus had no idea how to play people like he is being played; he cannot perceive much beyond the surface level of peoples intentions. It’s unfortunate because it almost leads to his demise, but, again, his brute strength carries him through.
An uncomfortable place for a man like this
I think Castus is a poor protagonist. He just cannot adapt and comes across as almost awkward. He doesn’t have the tools needed to deal with schemers, liars and usurpers. He does try to do his best, and he has learnt a little about Roman politics in the process, but it’s not enough. He needs to develop more. Indeed, he may not have developed the cunning he so desperately needs to survive, but after this experience he is more aware of his own faults. I’d like to see the character act upon them and become stronger in the process in the rest of the series. If he is the same again I will, no doubt, find the next novel a challenge.
Admittedly, he has come a long way in this book. Most Centurions wouldn’t have made it this far. He suggests he has been misjudged, and that he isn’t as bull headed as he appears. But, I’ve seen little to demonstrate his own justification. He just isn’t a well-rounded character. Any success he has feels like luck and happenchance. I don’t think he could realistically pull off another situation like this. He needs to return to the battlefield or become a different man. Overall, though, I did enjoy this. In terms of the plot, structure and writing this is very good. My only criticism resides with Castus and his limitations. I can only hope that he improves as a character in the next book.
Twilight of Empire
1. War at the Edge of the World-A fair 3 stars.
2. Swords Around the Throne - A limited three stars
October 24, 2019
Back in Roman Britain C 308AD in the reign of Emperor Constantine with the second book in the series featuring Centurion Aurelius Castus of the 6th Legion……. Well briefly that is as the story is set two years hence from the prior with Castus on the move, leaving Britannia behind for the shores of Belgica marching towards the border to subjugate the tribes of the Franks which have yet to fall under Roman rule.
Life in the legion is the main thrust of the early story that of comradeship, hardship, loss & of battle….. This story jumps around a bit before we settle in Rome where Castus has a role change after an “event” on the frontier which gives us a chance to explore the Roman court & it’s politics under Constantine. New characters appear who are all connected to the inner sanctum of the seat of Power whom our hero Castus, now a member of the Corps of Protectores, interacts with…. To varying degrees, after all, he is merely a plain soldier where the intrigues & schemes of court are often above his pay scale or cognitive ability. A new love interest comes his way as does an old enemy & some new ones too as court is a very dangerous place, moreso for the likes of Castus than the battlefield, an arena he is more used too where he can know his enemy & look him in the face.
The life in the protectorate’s switches between that of Guard/Bodyguard to that of a special forces soldier, I mention special forces as our hero is in a section of four soldiers whose actions/missions I’ll liken to. There is also a touch of secret agent to our hero’s story, he has certainly changed from his days in the legion & as I read onwards it strikes me that this series is more about Castus role as an agent of Rome than that of a centurion in her Legions, certainly different that I originally expected. It had the same pattern in the first book.
The story is based on real events & the author has done his research well turning his narrative into a plausible outcome of the events with it's storyline & characters.
Does the hero win the day…….? Well there’s more books in the series to read so I think it’s fair to say we have a decent outcome for our hero but there are plenny of twists along the way to keep this reader hooked as not all is as it seems at the heart of the plot….. and well Roman politics was never that simple.
4 stars for me
Life in the legion is the main thrust of the early story that of comradeship, hardship, loss & of battle….. This story jumps around a bit before we settle in Rome where Castus has a role change after an “event” on the frontier which gives us a chance to explore the Roman court & it’s politics under Constantine. New characters appear who are all connected to the inner sanctum of the seat of Power whom our hero Castus, now a member of the Corps of Protectores, interacts with…. To varying degrees, after all, he is merely a plain soldier where the intrigues & schemes of court are often above his pay scale or cognitive ability. A new love interest comes his way as does an old enemy & some new ones too as court is a very dangerous place, moreso for the likes of Castus than the battlefield, an arena he is more used too where he can know his enemy & look him in the face.
The life in the protectorate’s switches between that of Guard/Bodyguard to that of a special forces soldier, I mention special forces as our hero is in a section of four soldiers whose actions/missions I’ll liken to. There is also a touch of secret agent to our hero’s story, he has certainly changed from his days in the legion & as I read onwards it strikes me that this series is more about Castus role as an agent of Rome than that of a centurion in her Legions, certainly different that I originally expected. It had the same pattern in the first book.
The story is based on real events & the author has done his research well turning his narrative into a plausible outcome of the events with it's storyline & characters.
Does the hero win the day…….? Well there’s more books in the series to read so I think it’s fair to say we have a decent outcome for our hero but there are plenny of twists along the way to keep this reader hooked as not all is as it seems at the heart of the plot….. and well Roman politics was never that simple.
4 stars for me
April 21, 2023
‘𝙄 𝙨𝙬𝙚𝙖𝙧 𝙩𝙤 𝙅𝙪𝙥𝙞𝙩𝙚𝙧 𝙊𝙥𝙩𝙞𝙢𝙪𝙨 𝙈𝙖𝙭𝙞𝙢𝙪𝙨, 𝙩𝙤 𝙎𝙤𝙡 𝙄𝙣𝙫𝙞𝙘𝙩𝙪𝙨, 𝙩𝙤 𝙖𝙡𝙡 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙞𝙢𝙢𝙤𝙧𝙩𝙖𝙡 𝙜𝙤𝙙𝙨 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙜𝙤𝙙𝙙𝙚𝙨𝙨𝙚𝙨 𝙤𝙛 𝙍𝙤𝙢𝙚, 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙩𝙤 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙚𝙢𝙥𝙚𝙧𝙤𝙧 𝙝𝙞𝙢𝙨𝙚𝙡𝙛, 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙄 𝙨𝙝𝙖𝙡𝙡 𝙗𝙚 𝙡𝙤𝙮𝙖𝙡 𝙩𝙤 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙀𝙢𝙥𝙚𝙧𝙤𝙧 𝙁𝙡𝙖𝙫𝙞𝙪𝙨 𝙑𝙖𝙡𝙚𝙧𝙞𝙪𝙨 𝘼𝙪𝙧𝙚𝙡𝙞𝙪𝙨 𝘾𝙤𝙣𝙨𝙩𝙖𝙣𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙪𝙨 𝘼𝙪𝙜𝙪𝙨𝙩𝙪𝙨, 𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙘𝙝𝙞𝙡𝙙𝙧𝙚𝙣, 𝙝𝙤𝙪𝙨𝙚𝙝𝙤𝙡𝙙, 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙙𝙚𝙨𝙘𝙚𝙣𝙙𝙖𝙣𝙩𝙨 𝙩𝙝𝙧𝙤𝙪𝙜𝙝𝙤𝙪𝙩 𝙢𝙮 𝙡𝙞𝙛𝙚, 𝙗𝙤𝙩𝙝 𝙞𝙣 𝙬𝙤𝙧𝙙, 𝙙𝙚𝙚𝙙, 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙩𝙝𝙤𝙪𝙜𝙝𝙩, 𝙝𝙤𝙡𝙙𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙖𝙨 𝙛𝙧𝙞𝙚𝙣𝙙𝙨 𝙩𝙝𝙤𝙨𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙮 𝙝𝙤𝙡𝙙 𝙖𝙨 𝙛𝙧𝙞𝙚𝙣𝙙𝙨 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙘𝙤𝙣𝙨𝙞𝙙𝙚𝙧𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙩𝙝𝙤𝙨𝙚 𝙖𝙨 𝙚𝙣𝙚𝙢𝙞𝙚𝙨 𝙬𝙝𝙤𝙢 𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙮 𝙟𝙪𝙙𝙜𝙚 𝙩𝙤 𝙗𝙚 𝙚𝙣𝙚𝙢𝙞𝙚𝙨.'
🗡️The book - 2nd in the Twilight of Empire series - set in the little-known era of the Roman Empire - during the Tetrarchy period of rule - follow the story of Castus as he witnesses the power struggle within Emperor Constantine's court, between him and his father-in-law, the former emperor Maximanian.
308 AD. For saving the emperor's life Centurion Aurelius Castus is promoted to the Corps of Protectores, the elite imperial bodyguard, and traveled to Emperor Constantine's court at Treveris to be his sword around the throne. There he will soon discover that Constantine's court, rife with plots, betrayals, and seduction is a nest of the traitor, and his own father-in-law Maximanian, behind his cordial facade, is relentlessly working to snatch the power from his son-in-law and enthrone himself as the supreme Augustus of the entire Roman Empire.
🗡️Yet again Ian had amazed me with his master storytelling skills. He had meticulously waved the plot against the backdrop of court politics, deceptions, and betrayals to deliver an enthralling tale. The constant backstabbing, changing sides, the deadly harem intrigue make me constantly turn on the pages, while the fast-spacing narratives, vivid descriptions of the era, and nerve-wrenching action scenes enhance my reading experience.
🗡️Castus's characterization is so perfectly done that I was invested from the beginning; with the title of protectore his life is changed forever; he'll find the game of politics is more dangerous than battlefields and to win this game he'll be forced to play on both sides. Among other characters - the enigmatic empress Fastus, the seductress Sabina, the sly notary Nigrinus, and the deadly Maximanian - are captivating, and equally contribute to moving the plot.
🗡️The ending of the book was satisfactory; it ends with the events of Massilia, making the upcoming Roman civil war now inevitable and its climax contains a hint of the premonition of Constantine's alleged greatness that set the stage for the next book.
Overall, Swords Around the Throne was a wonderful sequel to War at the Edge of the World that I thoroughly enjoyed. Fans of Gordon Doherty, Simon Turney, Simon Scarrow, and Ben Kane will surely gonna love it. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.
𝙈𝙮 𝙍𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐(5/5)
🗡️The book - 2nd in the Twilight of Empire series - set in the little-known era of the Roman Empire - during the Tetrarchy period of rule - follow the story of Castus as he witnesses the power struggle within Emperor Constantine's court, between him and his father-in-law, the former emperor Maximanian.
308 AD. For saving the emperor's life Centurion Aurelius Castus is promoted to the Corps of Protectores, the elite imperial bodyguard, and traveled to Emperor Constantine's court at Treveris to be his sword around the throne. There he will soon discover that Constantine's court, rife with plots, betrayals, and seduction is a nest of the traitor, and his own father-in-law Maximanian, behind his cordial facade, is relentlessly working to snatch the power from his son-in-law and enthrone himself as the supreme Augustus of the entire Roman Empire.
🗡️Yet again Ian had amazed me with his master storytelling skills. He had meticulously waved the plot against the backdrop of court politics, deceptions, and betrayals to deliver an enthralling tale. The constant backstabbing, changing sides, the deadly harem intrigue make me constantly turn on the pages, while the fast-spacing narratives, vivid descriptions of the era, and nerve-wrenching action scenes enhance my reading experience.
🗡️Castus's characterization is so perfectly done that I was invested from the beginning; with the title of protectore his life is changed forever; he'll find the game of politics is more dangerous than battlefields and to win this game he'll be forced to play on both sides. Among other characters - the enigmatic empress Fastus, the seductress Sabina, the sly notary Nigrinus, and the deadly Maximanian - are captivating, and equally contribute to moving the plot.
🗡️The ending of the book was satisfactory; it ends with the events of Massilia, making the upcoming Roman civil war now inevitable and its climax contains a hint of the premonition of Constantine's alleged greatness that set the stage for the next book.
Overall, Swords Around the Throne was a wonderful sequel to War at the Edge of the World that I thoroughly enjoyed. Fans of Gordon Doherty, Simon Turney, Simon Scarrow, and Ben Kane will surely gonna love it. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.
𝙈𝙮 𝙍𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐(5/5)
November 12, 2017
I'm sure this will become a favorite Roman series and Castus a favorite character. Well written with nonstop action, this one finds Centurion Castus, after his saving the life of Emperor Constantine, now promoted to a Protector [one of the elite bodyguard of the emperor]--a "sword around the throne". Although this promotion means higher status [and his meeting his lady-love, Sabina], it is at best a mixed blessing; the gauche, naïve Castus is thrown headlong into the murky palace politics. Although he states on several occasions he hates them and envies his former colleagues in the VI Legion and other legionaries he comes into contact with, we find still he copes very well, in spite of lies, betrayals, treachery and assassination attempts. He still remains honest, stalwart, loyal and kind, although his low self-esteem will still show itself in his thoughts on occasion.
The climax comes at the Siege of Massilia [present-day Marseilles] before which the empress tasks him to find a way to surrender the city to Constantine, and to thwart the imperial ambition of her own father who is leading a rebellion. "Find men not afraid of dying," she commands. And so he does and devises a dangerous plan for relief of the city. Outstanding to me were this siege and also the attempted escape over the aqueduct by him and several of his Protector comrades. I felt characterization was deep, even those of secondary figures. My estimation of Sabina went down several notches with her calling attention to Castus's ugliness at one point--to his face! I still don't quite trust her. I hope that eventually Castus and Marcellina, the envoy's daughter from Book 1 will get together; I like her much better than Sabina. I'm eager to see how Castus develops and to follow Constantine's march to hold onto power.
Very highly recommended.
The climax comes at the Siege of Massilia [present-day Marseilles] before which the empress tasks him to find a way to surrender the city to Constantine, and to thwart the imperial ambition of her own father who is leading a rebellion. "Find men not afraid of dying," she commands. And so he does and devises a dangerous plan for relief of the city. Outstanding to me were this siege and also the attempted escape over the aqueduct by him and several of his Protector comrades. I felt characterization was deep, even those of secondary figures. My estimation of Sabina went down several notches with her calling attention to Castus's ugliness at one point--to his face! I still don't quite trust her. I hope that eventually Castus and Marcellina, the envoy's daughter from Book 1 will get together; I like her much better than Sabina. I'm eager to see how Castus develops and to follow Constantine's march to hold onto power.
Very highly recommended.
January 3, 2018
Such an enjoyable, exciting Roman military adventure, which places our centurion hero Aurelius Castus slap bang in the heart of a conspiracy to overthrow the Emperor Constantine. The action scenes are especially well done. I did not want to put it down.
July 13, 2020
Much better than the last book, following Castus’ promotion a different storyline takes place
May 22, 2018
‘By this sign…you will conquer’
In a genre of fiction – the Roman army novel – which is overcrowded and of variable quality, this Twilight of Empire series by Ian Ross really stands out. This is the second to feature the hard, incorruptible centurion, Aurelius Castus, and his development from unimaginative and obedient soldier to a greater and more subtle participation in political events continues to gather pace.
Castus has been appointed to the bodyguard of emperor Constantine because of a conspicuous act of courage, but soon discovers that the intrigues of court can be more complex and murderous than the battlefield. Most of this volume is set in Roman Gaul and the author draws a fascinating picture of the cities and the province just on the cusp of irreversible decline. Germanic invaders, an unsettled and dispossessed populace, new religions, such as Christianity, all compete for imperial attention; but that attention is forever diverted by revolt, betrayal and treason from within. Well written, superb plotting, this really is excellent stuff.
In a genre of fiction – the Roman army novel – which is overcrowded and of variable quality, this Twilight of Empire series by Ian Ross really stands out. This is the second to feature the hard, incorruptible centurion, Aurelius Castus, and his development from unimaginative and obedient soldier to a greater and more subtle participation in political events continues to gather pace.
Castus has been appointed to the bodyguard of emperor Constantine because of a conspicuous act of courage, but soon discovers that the intrigues of court can be more complex and murderous than the battlefield. Most of this volume is set in Roman Gaul and the author draws a fascinating picture of the cities and the province just on the cusp of irreversible decline. Germanic invaders, an unsettled and dispossessed populace, new religions, such as Christianity, all compete for imperial attention; but that attention is forever diverted by revolt, betrayal and treason from within. Well written, superb plotting, this really is excellent stuff.
December 5, 2024
Really enjoyed this book. Not super heavy but some interesting intrigue and politics in a great setting within the Roman Empire. Looking forward to reading the next one.
July 30, 2015
I want to start off this review by saying that I haven't read book one of this series, so obviously I can't talk about book one or the transition of the series. This review is solely about book two of the Twilight of Empire series.
Swords around the Throne takes place in the Roman Empire era, which is why I was so excited to read it. I enjoy everything Roman or Greek and love the perspective historical fiction can give me of the era. But historical fiction always begs for one very important question: how realistic is it? In this case, it is very realistic, mostly because of the elaborate descriptions in the book. As a reader, you find out what people are wearing, what they were doing, where they were living,.. It's incredibly easy to imagine yourself wandering around the Roman Empire with Castus.
But obviously setting isn't everything, even for historical fiction and Swords around the Throne delivers so much more than just a great world. The plot revolves around Castus and his navigation of the Roman political field. He starts off the book in the army and slowly works his way up until he's one of the main protectors of the emperor - only problem there is that "emperor" keeps switching between different people. Castus has to figure out his loyalties and he struggles with this, taking the reader along for the ride. There are constantly schemes that turn out different than you expected and you never really know who Castus can trust and who he can't. This got me involved with the story and the main character - I felt bad for Castus that he had to navigate this difficult world and I just wanted him to be happy.
Happiness at some point seems to come clearly from a woman, but hold your collective sigh, the love storyline doesn't play out as you expect it to. Even with the love interest, Castus can never be sure what is happening and at some point she's sorta, kinda, maybe (I don't want to spoil it!) involved in the biggest scheme of all. It involves betrayal, love, sex and fighting - basically like any good Roman scheme.
The only downside of the book for me were all the fighting scenes. Now I know the title is a dead giveaway of that, but fighting scenes just really aren't my thing. Especially in part one there seemed to be a whole lot of fighting and not a lot of story. Luckily, the political intrigues become more prominent as the story goes on, but the elaborate fighting scenes still ruined my reading flow. I just wasn't interested and didn't need so many details about how one man kills another.
So overall I give this book a 3.5 out of 5 stars. I really grew to enjoy the book the more I read of it. Probably because I didn't read book 1, I just wasn't that invested in the characters in the beginning and all the fighting they had to do. However, the plot really picks up about 25% in and towards the end I couldn't put it down. Swords around the Throne is a great read for anyone who loves historical fiction combined with action.
Swords around the Throne takes place in the Roman Empire era, which is why I was so excited to read it. I enjoy everything Roman or Greek and love the perspective historical fiction can give me of the era. But historical fiction always begs for one very important question: how realistic is it? In this case, it is very realistic, mostly because of the elaborate descriptions in the book. As a reader, you find out what people are wearing, what they were doing, where they were living,.. It's incredibly easy to imagine yourself wandering around the Roman Empire with Castus.
But obviously setting isn't everything, even for historical fiction and Swords around the Throne delivers so much more than just a great world. The plot revolves around Castus and his navigation of the Roman political field. He starts off the book in the army and slowly works his way up until he's one of the main protectors of the emperor - only problem there is that "emperor" keeps switching between different people. Castus has to figure out his loyalties and he struggles with this, taking the reader along for the ride. There are constantly schemes that turn out different than you expected and you never really know who Castus can trust and who he can't. This got me involved with the story and the main character - I felt bad for Castus that he had to navigate this difficult world and I just wanted him to be happy.
Happiness at some point seems to come clearly from a woman, but hold your collective sigh, the love storyline doesn't play out as you expect it to. Even with the love interest, Castus can never be sure what is happening and at some point she's sorta, kinda, maybe (I don't want to spoil it!) involved in the biggest scheme of all. It involves betrayal, love, sex and fighting - basically like any good Roman scheme.
The only downside of the book for me were all the fighting scenes. Now I know the title is a dead giveaway of that, but fighting scenes just really aren't my thing. Especially in part one there seemed to be a whole lot of fighting and not a lot of story. Luckily, the political intrigues become more prominent as the story goes on, but the elaborate fighting scenes still ruined my reading flow. I just wasn't interested and didn't need so many details about how one man kills another.
So overall I give this book a 3.5 out of 5 stars. I really grew to enjoy the book the more I read of it. Probably because I didn't read book 1, I just wasn't that invested in the characters in the beginning and all the fighting they had to do. However, the plot really picks up about 25% in and towards the end I couldn't put it down. Swords around the Throne is a great read for anyone who loves historical fiction combined with action.
July 27, 2015
Swords Around The Throne is the second book in the 'Twilight of Empire' series by Ian Ross. A sequence of novels set in the early 4th century, a dramatic and violent era which saw the rise of the Emperor Constantine and the transformation of the Roman empire. Set around 307 AD, mostly in Gaul, we are gifted dramatic and beautifully believable scenes of Roman warfare and combat with our hero Aurelius Castus at the centre of the action. A fascinating read that also delves into the devious politics and intrigue of those supposedly close to the emperor.
Reading this I was delighted and surprised how quickly I was drawn into the story. A book that can happily and enjoyably be read as a stand-alone novel. Centurian Aurelius Castus saves the life of the emperor in battle and is rewarded by being made a Protector. Now an elite guardian of the emperor himself, he becomes one of the swords around the throne...
His new position changes his life and brings him close to the emperors closest confidants, servants and his women. Castus soon finds himself embroiled in a plot to overthrow the Emperor Constantine and has to choose his allegiances carefully while always wishing to remain true to his vows. Fighting to stop the conspirators he is constantly thrown by other peoples duplicity and under-hand dealings. He makes friends, enemies and lovers as Ian Ross superbly brings this book to an exciting and thrilling finale with the siege at Massilia (Marseille, France). Hugely enjoyable well written historical fiction that transports you back in time and is based on true accounts of events. Well worth a read and recommended even if this isn't normally your kind of book. (Received an ARC)
December 29, 2018
This wonderful and thrilling 2nd volume of the Twilight of Empire series is absolutely a book that I thoroughly enjoyed again, for it's certainly as exciting or maybe even more so than it's predecessor, War at the Edge of the World (feel free and see my review on that book as well, if you like).
The historical details which are used in this book are very well researched and described and the real events that took place are wonderfully pictured within this tale.
Storytelling is of an absolute top-quality, and really so much so that it makes this book a joy to read from start to finish, simply because the story has pace as well as great interaction between the characters.
This book is set, after a short prologue in AD 307, between the years AD 308-309, and our main character of the series Centurion Aurelius Castus, who has been summoned back from Britain, finds himself now promoted to the Corps of Protectores, "The Swords Around The Throne", after saving the Emperor Constantine's life in battle.
Soon enough Castus finds himself caught up in a conspiracy to bring down the Emperor, and he discovers that the court is just as dangerous as a battlefield, because behind the scenes at the court of the Empire there are plots in the making, while betrayals and seductions are going on to make this same court a treacherous nest of vipers.
What follows is an exciting book which is filled with greatly pictured battle scenes, which are mostly taking place in Gaul, and with very thrilling and murderous events that are also taking place at the heart of the Roman Empire.
Fully recommended, because this is a very enjoyable read and thus it is for certain "A Fascinating Sequel"!
The historical details which are used in this book are very well researched and described and the real events that took place are wonderfully pictured within this tale.
Storytelling is of an absolute top-quality, and really so much so that it makes this book a joy to read from start to finish, simply because the story has pace as well as great interaction between the characters.
This book is set, after a short prologue in AD 307, between the years AD 308-309, and our main character of the series Centurion Aurelius Castus, who has been summoned back from Britain, finds himself now promoted to the Corps of Protectores, "The Swords Around The Throne", after saving the Emperor Constantine's life in battle.
Soon enough Castus finds himself caught up in a conspiracy to bring down the Emperor, and he discovers that the court is just as dangerous as a battlefield, because behind the scenes at the court of the Empire there are plots in the making, while betrayals and seductions are going on to make this same court a treacherous nest of vipers.
What follows is an exciting book which is filled with greatly pictured battle scenes, which are mostly taking place in Gaul, and with very thrilling and murderous events that are also taking place at the heart of the Roman Empire.
Fully recommended, because this is a very enjoyable read and thus it is for certain "A Fascinating Sequel"!
August 30, 2019
Highly enjoyable!
The second book in the series did not disappoint. Our hero, a brute of a man, uneducated but highly skilled in the art of war, just goes from strength to strength as he scales the greasy pole of advancement. The irony being that he doesn't seek out glory and promotion they just find him. Is he a believable hero? I would say yes, he has his many flaws but manages to overcome all obstacles.
This was a very good read, with a well researched and crafted plot. The characters, both major and minor, we're skilfully brought to life and held the reader's attention throughout the book. Well recommended!
The second book in the series did not disappoint. Our hero, a brute of a man, uneducated but highly skilled in the art of war, just goes from strength to strength as he scales the greasy pole of advancement. The irony being that he doesn't seek out glory and promotion they just find him. Is he a believable hero? I would say yes, he has his many flaws but manages to overcome all obstacles.
This was a very good read, with a well researched and crafted plot. The characters, both major and minor, we're skilfully brought to life and held the reader's attention throughout the book. Well recommended!
September 6, 2015
enjoyed this latest in the series based in 4th century roman empire as the empire splits into factions and the hero finds himself split in loyalty and the cloak and dagger atmosphere of the imperial court. as events follow from franks lands to southern part of the empire close to italy. the novel made you feel as though you were part of the action.
July 14, 2016
Castus is promoted to Constantine's private guard. The plot twists and power plays mixed with all-out action make this an awesome read!
June 24, 2018
Aurelius Castus finds himself caught in the complex web of politics around the new emperor, Constantine, proclaimed at York at the end of the first novel in the series. Promoted to the elite troops protecting Constantine, Castus is drawn unwillingly into the plotting of those who want to restore the previous Emperor, Maximian. In danger at several points in the novel, Castus remains constant in his loyalty to Constantine and is central to the victory of the Emperor at Marseilles.
Ian Ross writes about an interesting time in the Roman Empire with great uncertainty about the government and direction of the imperial plan. Constantine is only one possible ruler and the next novels will follow him and Castus as he moves to take control of the whole empire.
Ian Ross writes about an interesting time in the Roman Empire with great uncertainty about the government and direction of the imperial plan. Constantine is only one possible ruler and the next novels will follow him and Castus as he moves to take control of the whole empire.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 13, 2019
Treasonous thriller in the Late Roman Empire
Aurelius Castus was the centurion of one of the cohorts in the Sixth Legion. Constantine August recalled his troop from Britannia to be deployed to defend their frontier in Germania against the Franks.
A Notary, Nigrinus and one of his agents, Flaccianus warned Castus that there was a mole in the vicinity of Constantine with the plot to assassinate him. Castus and his brother-in-arm, Brinno, were betrayed by some soldiers whom they knew. These soldiers were working for the other Caesar who usurped Constantine to be the August Emperor.
I like the story how Constantine famously saw the light from the sky.
Caesar XIII
Breakaway Reviewers used Kindle Unlimited to review this book
Aurelius Castus was the centurion of one of the cohorts in the Sixth Legion. Constantine August recalled his troop from Britannia to be deployed to defend their frontier in Germania against the Franks.
A Notary, Nigrinus and one of his agents, Flaccianus warned Castus that there was a mole in the vicinity of Constantine with the plot to assassinate him. Castus and his brother-in-arm, Brinno, were betrayed by some soldiers whom they knew. These soldiers were working for the other Caesar who usurped Constantine to be the August Emperor.
I like the story how Constantine famously saw the light from the sky.
Caesar XIII
Breakaway Reviewers used Kindle Unlimited to review this book
August 24, 2018
I really enjoyed this book, focusing on a period that has not been examined too much.
Caught between the 1st Century of Scarrow and Fabbri and the 5th Century of Whyte, I found it interesting to see the split developing of the two parts of Rome. Very much in the mould of Macro, Castus is more likeable because he isn't the greatest fighter, or the most intelligent officer. His failings are strengths to his credibility. The story never labours nor does it skip over events.
An excellent read and addition to an ever increasing genre.
Caught between the 1st Century of Scarrow and Fabbri and the 5th Century of Whyte, I found it interesting to see the split developing of the two parts of Rome. Very much in the mould of Macro, Castus is more likeable because he isn't the greatest fighter, or the most intelligent officer. His failings are strengths to his credibility. The story never labours nor does it skip over events.
An excellent read and addition to an ever increasing genre.
November 19, 2020
2nd book of the series. Just one to go.
Castus who is a loyal foot soldier to the crown continues to show his victorious triumphs over many wars and winning the good faith of the emperor to become his royal guard.
Then comes the conspiracies, which are more complicated than fighting among the fields. The fate of ordinary soldiers when the leaders started to conspire.
Greatly written, the combats and the plot. Keeping the enthusiasm among the readers!
Castus who is a loyal foot soldier to the crown continues to show his victorious triumphs over many wars and winning the good faith of the emperor to become his royal guard.
Then comes the conspiracies, which are more complicated than fighting among the fields. The fate of ordinary soldiers when the leaders started to conspire.
Greatly written, the combats and the plot. Keeping the enthusiasm among the readers!
February 4, 2019
I just enjoy getting lost in this world: # 3 in the series is next.
March 6, 2020
This is starting to be a good series during Constantine the Great's time.
May 14, 2020
Good roman novel...
Up there with the likes of Scarrow and Kane..
Up there with the likes of Scarrow and Kane..
Read
July 3, 2020Very good book.
March 4, 2021
Competent writing, interesting historic background, action filled storyline.
All can work but this just doesn't work for me - So many others have done similar tales with more verve.
All can work but this just doesn't work for me - So many others have done similar tales with more verve.
August 6, 2021
In a way I am getting a roman history lesson.
November 16, 2021
Though I don’t think this is quite as strong as the first book, it’s still a good read. Its complexity perhaps mirrors the complexity of the imperial court at this stage of the empire.
October 29, 2022
Didn't read the first book but was still able to enjoy and follow the plot of this book. An exciting read about Roman history, treason and war that will get your heart palpitating.
January 7, 2025
Enjoyable read regarding the cementing of the power of Emperor Constantine.
March 12, 2025
The second book following Castus’s progress across the empire, this time moving with the Emperor, and another cracking good read.
sff-ok-r
June 13, 2025Rokp
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