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Eagles of the Empire #11
Pretoriano
En el año 51 d.C., Roma se ha convertido en una ciudad demasiado peligrosa, incluso para el emperador Claudio. La traición acecha en cada recodo, en cada callejuela, tras cada columna. Por si fuera esto poco, el poder de un movimiento republicano clandestino, “los Libertadores”, ha extendido sus tentáculos por todas partes y parece que ha conseguido infiltrarse incluso en la Guardia Pretoriana, y su propósito parece ser acabar con la vida de Claudio. Llegados a este punto, el emperador decide poner el asunto en manos del secretario imperial, Narciso. El enemigo íntimo de Macro y Cato sabe que puede contar con la lealtad absoluta de esos dos veteranos hacia Claudio, y que no pondrán reparos a una misión sumamente arriesgada: infiltrarse en el cuerpo de élite romano, que apesta a corrupción. Macro y Cato no pueden ni imaginar lo que allí encontrarán; pero si es la muerte, no será Narciso quien llore su pérdida. Probablemente, desde el gran clásico de Robert Graves no se escribía una novela tan absorbente y vigorosa acerca de los tiempos del emperador Claudio. in duda, Claudio y su tiempo es una etapa de la historia romana que nunca ha perdido el interés, y en cierto modo, la última novela de Scarrow es una actualización del gran clásico que le dedicara Graves, pues retrata la misma época y algunos de sus personajes, pero mediante una trama y con una prosa más moderna y propia de la mejor novela histórica de hoy.
452 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 10, 2011
249 people are currently reading
1753 people want to read
About the author
Simon Scarrow
171 books2,158 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 168 reviews
January 7, 2022
Read this book in 2011, and its the 11th volume of the superb "Eagle" series.
This tale is set in the year AD 50, in Rome, where Prefect Cato and Centurion Macro are confronted with conspiracies from within.
In the Praetorian Guard there's called a group "the Liberators", and this treasonous group want to restore Republican values.
The sly Imperial Secretary Narcissus calls on Cato and Macro to infiltrate within the Praetorian Guard and find the perpetrators of this treachery.
Also useful to mention is that Narcissus has a rival in Pallas, for Narcissus works for Emperor Claudius and try the keep the Emperor safe, while Pallas is working for Julia Agrippina, Claudius's Queen and wife.
While infiltrating and during Cato and Macro's investigations in an attempt to learn of the "Liberators devious scheme, they will unexpectantly encounter an old enemy, who can identify them and with possible consequences.
In a race against time they will need to find the mastermind behind the "Liberators" and there treasonous scheme against Emperor Claudius, and by finally unmasking this mastermind in the end they not only save their own lives but also the life and rule of Emperor Claudius.
Highly recommended, for this is another tremendous addition to this great series, and that's why I like to call this episode: A Magnificent Praetorian"!
This tale is set in the year AD 50, in Rome, where Prefect Cato and Centurion Macro are confronted with conspiracies from within.
In the Praetorian Guard there's called a group "the Liberators", and this treasonous group want to restore Republican values.
The sly Imperial Secretary Narcissus calls on Cato and Macro to infiltrate within the Praetorian Guard and find the perpetrators of this treachery.
Also useful to mention is that Narcissus has a rival in Pallas, for Narcissus works for Emperor Claudius and try the keep the Emperor safe, while Pallas is working for Julia Agrippina, Claudius's Queen and wife.
While infiltrating and during Cato and Macro's investigations in an attempt to learn of the "Liberators devious scheme, they will unexpectantly encounter an old enemy, who can identify them and with possible consequences.
In a race against time they will need to find the mastermind behind the "Liberators" and there treasonous scheme against Emperor Claudius, and by finally unmasking this mastermind in the end they not only save their own lives but also the life and rule of Emperor Claudius.
Highly recommended, for this is another tremendous addition to this great series, and that's why I like to call this episode: A Magnificent Praetorian"!
January 18, 2022
I almost gave up on this early on but then there was this bar brawl. Not that I am a bar-brawler, but that scene seemed to be a turning point and the start of improvement to the story.
This takes place at about 51 AD under Emperor Claudius, and the setting is in Rome. (I think that was a big drawback for me. I much prefer the military aspect of the Legion as opposed to the political climate in that cesspool. But it is what it is.) So we have the MCs trying to oppose assassination plots against the Emperor. Along the way we meet truly repulsive characters, not the least of which is Claudius himself and his disgusting family. I loathed each and every one of them equally ;)
There were some genuinely good scenes in this book! Aside from the entertaining bar brawl, the dam, food riot, "gladiator" spectacle and sewer sections were great. And Cato and Macro are a very likeable pair to read about. I think what I need to do, as my GR friend Andy wisely pointed out, is read the earlier books in the series when these two characters were in the Legion.
All in all I'm glad that I finished this.
This takes place at about 51 AD under Emperor Claudius, and the setting is in Rome. (I think that was a big drawback for me. I much prefer the military aspect of the Legion as opposed to the political climate in that cesspool. But it is what it is.) So we have the MCs trying to oppose assassination plots against the Emperor. Along the way we meet truly repulsive characters, not the least of which is Claudius himself and his disgusting family. I loathed each and every one of them equally ;)
There were some genuinely good scenes in this book! Aside from the entertaining bar brawl, the dam, food riot, "gladiator" spectacle and sewer sections were great. And Cato and Macro are a very likeable pair to read about. I think what I need to do, as my GR friend Andy wisely pointed out, is read the earlier books in the series when these two characters were in the Legion.
All in all I'm glad that I finished this.
October 19, 2012
Mr. Scarrow's books of Macro and Cato have been a love of mine for a while now; currently my favorite historical fiction series overall (I'm sorry Mr. Sharpe). The character development and stories have been interesting. I've also enjoyed seeing young Cato mature (though slightly disappointed that Mr. Scarrow hasn't paid the same attention to Macro).
Praetorian has Cato and Macro now in the Praetorian Guard, working for Narcissus to expose a plot against the Emperor. Rather than being a nice simple affair, Mr. Scarrow has our heroes learn the underside of Roman politics and why it's sometimes safer to be on the frontier than in Rome. Mr. Scarrow does give us our fight scenes but there's more description of Cato and Macro uncovering plots and surviving adventures than the military maneuvers of earlier books (yes, I miss the simple days when Cato was an Optio, Macro was the Centurion, and we were interested in how their century would survive the fight. While this is a departure from the normal for Cato and Macro, it really just rolls them back from the big scheme to a smaller unit view. An enjoyable read, solid 4 stars for me!
Praetorian has Cato and Macro now in the Praetorian Guard, working for Narcissus to expose a plot against the Emperor. Rather than being a nice simple affair, Mr. Scarrow has our heroes learn the underside of Roman politics and why it's sometimes safer to be on the frontier than in Rome. Mr. Scarrow does give us our fight scenes but there's more description of Cato and Macro uncovering plots and surviving adventures than the military maneuvers of earlier books (yes, I miss the simple days when Cato was an Optio, Macro was the Centurion, and we were interested in how their century would survive the fight. While this is a departure from the normal for Cato and Macro, it really just rolls them back from the big scheme to a smaller unit view. An enjoyable read, solid 4 stars for me!
May 5, 2012
Praetorian: Book 11 of the Macro & Cato series, always a winner, i think the only time i have struggled with one of these books was gladiator and that was just the one character in the book.
Legion saw a return to old school Macro and Cato and Simons best work, so would Praetorian keep up that momentum?
Yes and No: No because the book is different, the style not what you normally expect from Macro and Cato, more mature almost (the characters), with more intrigue and danger around every corner, never knowing who they can trust.
Yes because the book is excellent, the usual fast paced exciting writing with characters we know so well and can honestly care about. This is one of the best in this series.
The Intrigue in this book gives it more depth without losing the great camaraderie which grows and grows with every book, the intricacies of a relationship that has to change and evolve as changes in rank and relationship occur, as the young Cato matures and grows.
As usual with my reviews i wont touch on the story too much as i feel reviews should not contain plot and spoilers. But if you have not read Simon Scarrow before, yes you could read this as stand alone, (but i also encourage you to buy them from the start) if you enjoy historical fiction with pace, passion, great research and also reality in your characters then look no further, this tale unlike some of the others just has an extra dimension (the politics)
And at the end...well for those readers who follow the series...the boys are coming home...Whoo Hoo!! Im really looking forward to book 12.
Highly recommended book and series.
(Parm)
Legion saw a return to old school Macro and Cato and Simons best work, so would Praetorian keep up that momentum?
Yes and No: No because the book is different, the style not what you normally expect from Macro and Cato, more mature almost (the characters), with more intrigue and danger around every corner, never knowing who they can trust.
Yes because the book is excellent, the usual fast paced exciting writing with characters we know so well and can honestly care about. This is one of the best in this series.
The Intrigue in this book gives it more depth without losing the great camaraderie which grows and grows with every book, the intricacies of a relationship that has to change and evolve as changes in rank and relationship occur, as the young Cato matures and grows.
As usual with my reviews i wont touch on the story too much as i feel reviews should not contain plot and spoilers. But if you have not read Simon Scarrow before, yes you could read this as stand alone, (but i also encourage you to buy them from the start) if you enjoy historical fiction with pace, passion, great research and also reality in your characters then look no further, this tale unlike some of the others just has an extra dimension (the politics)
And at the end...well for those readers who follow the series...the boys are coming home...Whoo Hoo!! Im really looking forward to book 12.
Highly recommended book and series.
(Parm)
January 10, 2021
11th novela de la serie de Quinto Licinio Cato, de Simon Scarrow.
Novela diferente las 10 primeras, ambientada en Roma, Cato y Macro buscan obligadamente por la serpiente manipuladora Narciso, un complot contra el emperador Claudio, los libertadores. Se infiltrarán con astucia pero con dificultad cambiando sus nombres en la guardia pretoriana.
Buena novela en su estilo, siempre divierte, entretiene y te hace aprender si eres de los que te fijas en pequeños detalles.
Novela histórica con mucha ficción, como le gusta a Simon Scarrow.
Novela diferente las 10 primeras, ambientada en Roma, Cato y Macro buscan obligadamente por la serpiente manipuladora Narciso, un complot contra el emperador Claudio, los libertadores. Se infiltrarán con astucia pero con dificultad cambiando sus nombres en la guardia pretoriana.
Buena novela en su estilo, siempre divierte, entretiene y te hace aprender si eres de los que te fijas en pequeños detalles.
Novela histórica con mucha ficción, como le gusta a Simon Scarrow.
September 15, 2014
One to add to the endless list of Roman "mystery" novels.
Relatively little time is spent on familiarising readers with the two main characters. It's arguable that that was because this is over a dozen books into the series so the author didn't feel it necessary. To me however it feels a little lazy as it could have easily been worked into being a book that stood out on its own instead of being just a link in the chain.
As far as the storyline goes, there isn't much in the way of suspense, intrigue or menace. The conspiracy is there but it feels very much like it's on the back burner and doesn't particularly get your brain ticking over.
There's far too much pondering, wistful thinking into the distance and ruminating. Far too little action or menace for my liking.
The only thing that saves this book is that mercifully, in the last quarter of the book, the pace and intrigue actually kicks in at last and makes up for lost time. If you don't see the second conspiracy coming, then you should be registered a literary blind person.
Overall not the most riveting, darkest or compelling novel surrounding a conspiracy but an alright addition to the canon.
Relatively little time is spent on familiarising readers with the two main characters. It's arguable that that was because this is over a dozen books into the series so the author didn't feel it necessary. To me however it feels a little lazy as it could have easily been worked into being a book that stood out on its own instead of being just a link in the chain.
As far as the storyline goes, there isn't much in the way of suspense, intrigue or menace. The conspiracy is there but it feels very much like it's on the back burner and doesn't particularly get your brain ticking over.
There's far too much pondering, wistful thinking into the distance and ruminating. Far too little action or menace for my liking.
The only thing that saves this book is that mercifully, in the last quarter of the book, the pace and intrigue actually kicks in at last and makes up for lost time. If you don't see the second conspiracy coming, then you should be registered a literary blind person.
Overall not the most riveting, darkest or compelling novel surrounding a conspiracy but an alright addition to the canon.
October 31, 2014
I enjoyed the foray into the political arena of Rome for this installment in the Cato/Macro adventures.
December 4, 2021
Soldados haciendo de espías. De lo mejor que he leído este año. Cato y Macro son casa.
August 25, 2016
Just finished the 11th book in Simon Scarrow’s Eagle series detailing the lives of two Roman soldiers, Macro and Cato. In the first book, Under the Eagle, Marco was a Centurion and Cato a new Optio (similar to a second lieutenant in today’s Army) that was to be his second-in-command. Now, in The Praetorian, after a series of adventures in Gaul, Britain, Israel, and Egypt in the preceding novels, Cato has advanced in rank to outrank his former boss. They have become useful to Narcissus, a freed slave who has become a trusted advisor to Emperor Claudius, who, in this historical fiction novel, brings them to Rome to act as spies by transferring them to the Praetorian Guard—the emperor’s own guard. Members of the guard are apparently conspiring to murder Claudius and elevate his adopted son, Nero, to the throne.
Although not thrilled at having to be spies rather than soldiers, they accept the duty. The novel is a departure from the usual military campaigns that Scarrow details so well, but is equally entertaining with insights into life in Rome. When grain deliveries to Rome fail, the emperor must throw more and more elaborate circuses to placate the mob—conditions that the plotters hope will help them seize power. Sound like an American political campaign today? Anyway, a great read and fitting new story about Macro and Cato. Five Stars easily.
Although not thrilled at having to be spies rather than soldiers, they accept the duty. The novel is a departure from the usual military campaigns that Scarrow details so well, but is equally entertaining with insights into life in Rome. When grain deliveries to Rome fail, the emperor must throw more and more elaborate circuses to placate the mob—conditions that the plotters hope will help them seize power. Sound like an American political campaign today? Anyway, a great read and fitting new story about Macro and Cato. Five Stars easily.
March 8, 2015
You might think that by the time you reach the 11th book of a series that features the same two protagonists that one might get tired of those two protagonists. Not so with Cato and Macro. They continue to entertain, this time from Rome itself as they go undercover in the Praetorian Guard. The story is full of the normal give and take between them as they sniff out a plot to assassinate Claudius. Twists and turns in the plot keep the story moving. Indeed, the author has done a magnificent job as he leads the reader from the opulence of the palace to the stews of slum ridden streets and even into the great sewer system itself. If you are a follower of this series then you will be pleased with number 11; it is a page turning delight.
February 16, 2016
4 Stars
Does exactly what it says on the tin! A good continuation in the series for all fans of Macro & Cato out there.
I must admit to prefer the duo when they are soldiering rather than acting as Imperial agents for Narcissus but with the yarn set in Rome it revolved around the Praetorian guard, the Imperial family, the plebs & was a decent enough mystery & adventure story with enough about it to be learning about the machinations of the Guard & the politicking of the court of the period.
Does exactly what it says on the tin! A good continuation in the series for all fans of Macro & Cato out there.
I must admit to prefer the duo when they are soldiering rather than acting as Imperial agents for Narcissus but with the yarn set in Rome it revolved around the Praetorian guard, the Imperial family, the plebs & was a decent enough mystery & adventure story with enough about it to be learning about the machinations of the Guard & the politicking of the court of the period.
March 21, 2022
The plot & setting was pretty decent. Unfortunately, Scarrow is an extremely poor writer. His dialogue writing is specially criminal. At this point I wouldn't be surprised if Roman soldiers from the time of Claudius end up saying "lol", "ROFL" or "yolo" in a future Scarrow novel.
December 26, 2023
«Pretoriano» es el volumen 11 de la saga de “Águilas del Imperio” del gran Simon Scarrow.
Como el resto de la saga, se trata de una novela de ficción histórica cargada de acción y aventuras.
A diferencia del resto, en esta ocasión, nuestros protagonistas Macro y Cato no estarán al servicio de las legiones en una provincia guerreando, sino en una misión encubierta en la propia capital del Imperio Romano.
Al servicio del secretario imperial Narciso, tendrán que descubrir no solo el robo de una cantidad insana de monedas de plata del tesoro público, sino una conspiración de los Libertadores, los cuales atentan contra la vida del emperador y su familia.
Pese al corte de intrigas, el autor nos sigue deleitando con escenas de acción ya que Macro y Cato pasarán a formar parte de la guardia pretoriana como soldados rasos en su tarea de infiltración.
Me ha sorprendido que lo que parecía una trama lineal se ha convertido en una muñeca rusa de intriga sobre intriga, formando un todo perfecto en la teoría conspiratoria que comenta Cato al final de la novela. Yo he llegado a contar cuatro conspiraciones… ¡algunas de ellas contradictorias!
Pese a ser una novela diferente del resto, me ha encantado y creo que le ha aportado un toque fresco a la franquicia. Es un gusto, año tras año, volver a disfrutar del Imperio Romano con estas novelas.
RECOMENDADO.
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Como el resto de la saga, se trata de una novela de ficción histórica cargada de acción y aventuras.
A diferencia del resto, en esta ocasión, nuestros protagonistas Macro y Cato no estarán al servicio de las legiones en una provincia guerreando, sino en una misión encubierta en la propia capital del Imperio Romano.
Al servicio del secretario imperial Narciso, tendrán que descubrir no solo el robo de una cantidad insana de monedas de plata del tesoro público, sino una conspiración de los Libertadores, los cuales atentan contra la vida del emperador y su familia.
Pese al corte de intrigas, el autor nos sigue deleitando con escenas de acción ya que Macro y Cato pasarán a formar parte de la guardia pretoriana como soldados rasos en su tarea de infiltración.
Me ha sorprendido que lo que parecía una trama lineal se ha convertido en una muñeca rusa de intriga sobre intriga, formando un todo perfecto en la teoría conspiratoria que comenta Cato al final de la novela. Yo he llegado a contar cuatro conspiraciones… ¡algunas de ellas contradictorias!
Pese a ser una novela diferente del resto, me ha encantado y creo que le ha aportado un toque fresco a la franquicia. Es un gusto, año tras año, volver a disfrutar del Imperio Romano con estas novelas.
RECOMENDADO.
⭐⭐⭐⭐
January 14, 2024
Da es sich inzwischen um Band 11 der Reihe handelt, stellt man sich inzwischen etwas die Frage, wie viel Glück (oder Pech) Cato und Marco haben, dass sie immer mitten drin stecken ...
Jedenfalls ... Ich habe die Buchreihe über viele Jahre verteilt gelesen, sodass ich mich nicht mehr an vieles erinnere, was aber tatsächlich nicht wirklich stört. Dinge, die für die aktuelle Geschichte wichtig sind, werden grob genug noch einmal umrissen, um klar zu kommen und bis auf die beiden Protagonisten und ein Nebencharakter, der ebenfalls in mehreren Büchern auftaucht, sind alle Charaktere nicht wirklich ausgearbeitet.
Die Geschichte ist kurzweilig und interessant und das Setting in Rom mal etwas neues für die Reihe.
Einzig habe ich bei diesem Buch das Gefühl gehabt, dass auch Cato und Macro sehr auf bestimmte Rollen/Charakterzüge reduziert wurden. Catos Job scheint es zu sein, dass er schlau ist und alle Dinge als erster durchschaut und dabei eine gewisse Arroganz entwickelt hat, während Macro tatsächlich ziemlich dümmlich wirkt und defintiv die Muskeln in dem Team ist. Das ist mir dann und wann mal übel aufgestoßen, während ich die anderen Male einigermaßen drüber hinweg lesen konnte.
Jedenfalls ... Ich habe die Buchreihe über viele Jahre verteilt gelesen, sodass ich mich nicht mehr an vieles erinnere, was aber tatsächlich nicht wirklich stört. Dinge, die für die aktuelle Geschichte wichtig sind, werden grob genug noch einmal umrissen, um klar zu kommen und bis auf die beiden Protagonisten und ein Nebencharakter, der ebenfalls in mehreren Büchern auftaucht, sind alle Charaktere nicht wirklich ausgearbeitet.
Die Geschichte ist kurzweilig und interessant und das Setting in Rom mal etwas neues für die Reihe.
Einzig habe ich bei diesem Buch das Gefühl gehabt, dass auch Cato und Macro sehr auf bestimmte Rollen/Charakterzüge reduziert wurden. Catos Job scheint es zu sein, dass er schlau ist und alle Dinge als erster durchschaut und dabei eine gewisse Arroganz entwickelt hat, während Macro tatsächlich ziemlich dümmlich wirkt und defintiv die Muskeln in dem Team ist. Das ist mir dann und wann mal übel aufgestoßen, während ich die anderen Male einigermaßen drüber hinweg lesen konnte.
January 24, 2021
Nach den letzten drei Büchern, die zum Teil wirklich schlecht und lieblos erzählt waren, knüpft "Praetorian" von der Qualität her endlich wieder an die ersten Bücher an.
Es braucht nicht immer ein riesiges Blutbad oder grossangelegte Belagerungen und Schlachten um die Spannung hochzuhalten. "Praetorian" unterscheidet sich in diesem Punkt von den vorangegangenen Bücher, was in meinen Augen dem Roman nur zugute kommt.
Ich habe das Buch verschlungen und war von den Intrigen und Verschwörungen rund um den Kaiserpalast gefesselt. Ich hoffe inständig, dass diese zurückgewonnen Souveränität des Autors auch in den weiten Büchern erhalten bleibt und "Praetorian" nicht nur eine Ausnahme gewesen war.
Es braucht nicht immer ein riesiges Blutbad oder grossangelegte Belagerungen und Schlachten um die Spannung hochzuhalten. "Praetorian" unterscheidet sich in diesem Punkt von den vorangegangenen Bücher, was in meinen Augen dem Roman nur zugute kommt.
Ich habe das Buch verschlungen und war von den Intrigen und Verschwörungen rund um den Kaiserpalast gefesselt. Ich hoffe inständig, dass diese zurückgewonnen Souveränität des Autors auch in den weiten Büchern erhalten bleibt und "Praetorian" nicht nur eine Ausnahme gewesen war.
May 29, 2018
It been ages since I read one of the Author’s book. No idea why I waited so long to carry on with this series. I forgot how good they are. Got to love the Roman/Soldier humor, had me laughing out loud a few times. I liked how twisty this one was compared to the others. Showed a different side of the main characters. Also showed an interesting side of the Roman culture.
Another thing I have always liked about this series is that the main characters aren’t invincible. They have their limits, they can and do get injured or nearly lose fights. They aren’t some superhero team. They are simply just two soldiers trying to do their duty by protecting Rome and each other. It nice to see their interactions with each other. Both so comfortable with each other and their own way of doing things. It was also nice to see Cato grow more into his new role.
Another thing I have always liked about this series is that the main characters aren’t invincible. They have their limits, they can and do get injured or nearly lose fights. They aren’t some superhero team. They are simply just two soldiers trying to do their duty by protecting Rome and each other. It nice to see their interactions with each other. Both so comfortable with each other and their own way of doing things. It was also nice to see Cato grow more into his new role.
October 20, 2020
This series are just getting better and better, really invested in the story now!
May 17, 2025
This was a gamble pick up in a charity shop and did it pay off!
I am now a fan of the adventures of Macro and Cato. I have already been online to get a second hand version of the next in the series
Had the vibes of Sharpe and Harper from Bernard Cornwells novels but set in Rome
I am now a fan of the adventures of Macro and Cato. I have already been online to get a second hand version of the next in the series
Had the vibes of Sharpe and Harper from Bernard Cornwells novels but set in Rome
July 6, 2022
Absolutely love this book. My personal favourite so far.
May 6, 2023
Deze serie ooit begonnen omdat Dan ze leuk vindt en 't lekker makkelijk wegleest. Wel lekker als je even iets simpels wil. De setting (steeds weer een ander deel van het Romeinse rijk) is vaak interessant, in de betere delen is het plot inderdaad spannend, dus zo was ik ineens alweer bij deel 11. Maar na deel 10 (in 2020) was ik er ook wel een beetje klaar mee: vooral veel actie en totaal geen karakterontwikkeling en een weinig origineel plot. Dus dik twee jaar laten liggen, nu toch weer een keer geprobeerd, maar ook deel 11 vond ik weinig aan. Ben ik - surprise, surprise - toch niet helemaal het beoogde publiek ;)
April 5, 2012
Fantástico. Intriga, conspiração.. o 11º volume da saga da Águia não desilude. Depois das grandes batalhas em Creta, Síria e Egipto, foi bom ter agora um capítulo num ambiente mais urbano, no coração de Roma. É um livro que "desromantiza" a Guarda Pretoriana, revelando um mundo onde apenas os interesses pessoais imperam e não o bem comum. É um livro onde a acção fervilha em cada página, revelando-se difícil de largar. Apesar de ser o 11º livro da saga, não existe grande necessidade de ler os restantes 10 para se perceber todo o plot, pois o autor enquadra tudo muito bem. É fácil relacionarmos-nos com os dois personagens centrais. São carismáticos e criam empatia, sem serem "super-homens"
July 22, 2012
Another brilliant instalment and I thoroughly enjoyed every page (screen really as I read it on my kindle and phone). A different setting to the other books but there is still the recurring theme in that they end up to their necks in sewage at some point. Can't wait for the next book.
January 27, 2013
This was a bit of a departure from Scarrow's usual writing since it revolved around Roman politics and the role of the Praetorian guard. Overall I enjoyed reading this book. Although, the series does seem to be dragging out a little.
December 19, 2015
Recensione pubblicata su www.talentonellastoria.com
In una precedente recensione ho passato in rassegna l'intera saga storica "The Eagles Series" di Simon Scarrow. Ben tredici romanzi di ambientazione storica incentrati sulle avventure di due soldati romani, Catone e Macrone. Vorrei parlarvi nello specifico dell'undicesimo libro, quello intitolato “Il pretoriano”, edito dalla Newton e Compton nel 2012. Tengo a precisare che non considero questo romanzo il migliore della serie ma è quello che si discosta dall'andamento complessivo dei precedenti. Dunque merita un approfondimento a parte. Scarrow dal 2000 a oggi ha sfornato, quasi ogni anno, un nuovo capitolo di questa serie. In Italia i vari romanzi sono stati pubblicati non in ordine cronologico, dunque almeno io ho fatto una certa fatica a ricollegare nel giusto andamento temporale tutte le vicende e gli avanzamenti di grado dei protagonisti. Alla fine mi sono rassegnato ad affrontare ogni romanzo come una unità a se stante, evitando di interrogarmi su quanto del passato e del futuro già conoscessi. In questo senso "Il pretoriano" è un capitolo squisitamente autoconclusivo. Si legge e si fa apprezzare senza necessità di conoscere quanto successo in precedenza.
Basti sapere che Catone e Macrone sono due legionari di valore. Il primo è un prefetto, il secondo ha il grado di centurione. Provengono da teatri di guerra difficili e di frontiera. Sono uomini coraggiosi e temprati da mille battaglie. Macrone è il classico soldato nato e cresciuto nell'esercito. Combattere è ciò che gli riesce meglio. Catone è un ex schiavo di corte, arruolato quasi per sbaglio nelle legioni. Ha cultura e intelligenza. Nel corso degli anni si è guadagnato onori e avanzamenti di carriera grazie a un ineccepibile stato di servizio condito di atti eroici e azioni spericolate. Insomma, l'eroe che non ti aspetti. Siamo sotto l'impero di Claudio, (41-54 d.C.), e Narciso, uno dei liberti segretari del vecchio sovrano, ha bisogno dei due valorosi per sventare l'ennesima congiura ai danni dell'imperatore. Richiamati a Roma, Catone e Macrone sono arruolati come soldati semplici nella Guardia Pretoriana. Qui iniziano un percorso di indagini che li porterà a contatto con gli aspetti più marci della politica romana, tra mal'affari e intrighi di corte.
Perché “Il pretoriano” è diverso dai suoi dieci predecessori? Scarrow per la prima volta allontana i suoi protagonisti dai campi di battaglia e li catapulta in una realtà cittadina. Non ci sono barbari da uccidere o frontiere da difendere ma esiste un presunto complotto da sventare tra gli ambigui ambienti di corte. Questo è un romanzo di indagine, condito di alcune scene di combattimento “urbano”. A prevalere sono gli elementi d'intelletto. Lo scrittore britannico abbraccia dunque un filone che ultimamente va per la maggiore nei romanzi di ambientazione storica. Lo fa con perizia con una narrazione appassionante nella quale il “caso” prende forma lentamente grazie a particolari all'apparenza irrilevanti che concatenati formano le tessere mancanti del puzzle. Salta all'occhio come in un contesto simile, il ruolo di Macrone vada gradualmente scemando, seppur l'autore cerchi di dargli visibilità con scene ritagliate ad hoc per il suo personaggio. Il disagio del legionario di mestiere tra gli ambienti di corte si avverte fin da subito, simile a quello di un elefante all'interno di una cristalleria. Scarrow sopperisce alla perdita di consistenza di uno dei protagonisti di fantasia con la riuscita caratterizzazione dei personaggi realmente esistiti. Il ritratto dell'imperatore Claudio, negli ultimi anni del suo governo, è notevole così come lo è quello del segretario Narciso, del tribuno Burro o dell'ambiguo Tigellino, degli adolescenti Nerone e Britannico, rispettivamente figlio adottivo e figlio naturale dell’imperatore. Tutti individui che storicamente assumeranno importanza negli anni successivi alla morte di Claudio.
Sesto Afranio Burro fu prefetto del pretorio sotto Nerone per volontà dell'imperatrice Agrippina Minore. Con Seneca, tentò di contenere gli eccessi del giovane regnante indirizzandone la politica fin quando, nel 62, morì per probabile avvelenamento. Tigellino divenne a sua volta prefetto del pretorio. Amico intimo di Nerone, divise con questo perversioni e nefandezze. Narciso, insieme all'altro liberto Pallante, fu capo indiscusso della corte di Claudio. Grazie alla sua abilità politica e ai tanti agenti segreti infiltrati in tutti gli ambienti capitolini, riuscì per anni a controllare la politica imperiale, sventando diversi tentativi di congiura tra cui quello della prima moglie di Claudio, la bella Messalina. Il figlio di costei, Britannico, fu spodestato dalla successione imperiale da Nerone e avvelenato dal fratellastro durante un banchetto. Aveva quattordici anni.
Quali sono i punti forte di questo romanzo? In primis la ricostruzione storica. Oltremodo interessante è l'excursus all'interno della Guardia Pretoriana, questo particolare reparto militare d'elite, istituito da Augusto, che provvedeva alla difesa di Roma e della famiglia imperiale. Claudio fu reso imperatore proprio dai pretoriani che si presero la briga di eliminarne il predecessore, ovvero Gaio Caligola. La Guardia divenne un mezzo per affermare nuovi regnanti e garantire il potere di chi riusciva a guadagnarne la fedeltà con denari e donativi. Il ruolo storico di questo corpo militare fu determinante per l'intera storia imperiale dell'Urbe, almeno fino a quando Costantino I non lo sciolse nei primi anni del suo governo. La Guardia Pretoriana venne sostituita dalle formazioni delle Schole Palatine, non più legate alla città di Roma ma alla figura stessa dell'imperatore che seguivano in tutti i suoi spostamenti. Scarrow ha il dono di non indugiare troppo negli aspetti descrittivi. Favorisce l’azione, incalzante e repentina. Ovvio che ogni narrazione ha bisogno di qualche pausa. Lo scrittore ricorre a situazioni ironiche di scambio verbale tra i due protagonisti. In antitesi a quanto “va di moda”, Scarrow evita di “impreziosire” il suo romanzo di scene di sesso spinte e piccanti che si spingono avanti per pagine e pagine. Questo aspetto mi è davvero piaciuto. Qui non si parla di essere scandalizzati dalle scene di amore, di trovarle peccaminose o quanto altro. Il romanzo storico o di ambientazione storica non deve per forza contenere la “sezione erotica”, se i personaggi non lo richiedono. Troppo spesso l’eros diviene l’escamotage per allungare il brodo. Il grande scrittore non ne ha bisogno.
Per concludere. Scarrow è una garanzia. “Il pretoriano” è un romanzo che gode di un’accurata ricostruzione storica con un impianto narrativo collaudato e forte di anni e anni di perfezionamenti. Si legge con facilità . In libreria si trova a un prezzo irrisorio di 5 € per un romanzo di 390 pagine. Su Amazon è disponibile il formato digitale Kindle a 3,99 €. Purtroppo ho constatato che online, (sui maggiori siti di distribuzione), non è più possibile reperire la versione cartacea. Peccato. Valutazione: quattro stelle su cinque
In una precedente recensione ho passato in rassegna l'intera saga storica "The Eagles Series" di Simon Scarrow. Ben tredici romanzi di ambientazione storica incentrati sulle avventure di due soldati romani, Catone e Macrone. Vorrei parlarvi nello specifico dell'undicesimo libro, quello intitolato “Il pretoriano”, edito dalla Newton e Compton nel 2012. Tengo a precisare che non considero questo romanzo il migliore della serie ma è quello che si discosta dall'andamento complessivo dei precedenti. Dunque merita un approfondimento a parte. Scarrow dal 2000 a oggi ha sfornato, quasi ogni anno, un nuovo capitolo di questa serie. In Italia i vari romanzi sono stati pubblicati non in ordine cronologico, dunque almeno io ho fatto una certa fatica a ricollegare nel giusto andamento temporale tutte le vicende e gli avanzamenti di grado dei protagonisti. Alla fine mi sono rassegnato ad affrontare ogni romanzo come una unità a se stante, evitando di interrogarmi su quanto del passato e del futuro già conoscessi. In questo senso "Il pretoriano" è un capitolo squisitamente autoconclusivo. Si legge e si fa apprezzare senza necessità di conoscere quanto successo in precedenza.
Basti sapere che Catone e Macrone sono due legionari di valore. Il primo è un prefetto, il secondo ha il grado di centurione. Provengono da teatri di guerra difficili e di frontiera. Sono uomini coraggiosi e temprati da mille battaglie. Macrone è il classico soldato nato e cresciuto nell'esercito. Combattere è ciò che gli riesce meglio. Catone è un ex schiavo di corte, arruolato quasi per sbaglio nelle legioni. Ha cultura e intelligenza. Nel corso degli anni si è guadagnato onori e avanzamenti di carriera grazie a un ineccepibile stato di servizio condito di atti eroici e azioni spericolate. Insomma, l'eroe che non ti aspetti. Siamo sotto l'impero di Claudio, (41-54 d.C.), e Narciso, uno dei liberti segretari del vecchio sovrano, ha bisogno dei due valorosi per sventare l'ennesima congiura ai danni dell'imperatore. Richiamati a Roma, Catone e Macrone sono arruolati come soldati semplici nella Guardia Pretoriana. Qui iniziano un percorso di indagini che li porterà a contatto con gli aspetti più marci della politica romana, tra mal'affari e intrighi di corte.
Perché “Il pretoriano” è diverso dai suoi dieci predecessori? Scarrow per la prima volta allontana i suoi protagonisti dai campi di battaglia e li catapulta in una realtà cittadina. Non ci sono barbari da uccidere o frontiere da difendere ma esiste un presunto complotto da sventare tra gli ambigui ambienti di corte. Questo è un romanzo di indagine, condito di alcune scene di combattimento “urbano”. A prevalere sono gli elementi d'intelletto. Lo scrittore britannico abbraccia dunque un filone che ultimamente va per la maggiore nei romanzi di ambientazione storica. Lo fa con perizia con una narrazione appassionante nella quale il “caso” prende forma lentamente grazie a particolari all'apparenza irrilevanti che concatenati formano le tessere mancanti del puzzle. Salta all'occhio come in un contesto simile, il ruolo di Macrone vada gradualmente scemando, seppur l'autore cerchi di dargli visibilità con scene ritagliate ad hoc per il suo personaggio. Il disagio del legionario di mestiere tra gli ambienti di corte si avverte fin da subito, simile a quello di un elefante all'interno di una cristalleria. Scarrow sopperisce alla perdita di consistenza di uno dei protagonisti di fantasia con la riuscita caratterizzazione dei personaggi realmente esistiti. Il ritratto dell'imperatore Claudio, negli ultimi anni del suo governo, è notevole così come lo è quello del segretario Narciso, del tribuno Burro o dell'ambiguo Tigellino, degli adolescenti Nerone e Britannico, rispettivamente figlio adottivo e figlio naturale dell’imperatore. Tutti individui che storicamente assumeranno importanza negli anni successivi alla morte di Claudio.
Sesto Afranio Burro fu prefetto del pretorio sotto Nerone per volontà dell'imperatrice Agrippina Minore. Con Seneca, tentò di contenere gli eccessi del giovane regnante indirizzandone la politica fin quando, nel 62, morì per probabile avvelenamento. Tigellino divenne a sua volta prefetto del pretorio. Amico intimo di Nerone, divise con questo perversioni e nefandezze. Narciso, insieme all'altro liberto Pallante, fu capo indiscusso della corte di Claudio. Grazie alla sua abilità politica e ai tanti agenti segreti infiltrati in tutti gli ambienti capitolini, riuscì per anni a controllare la politica imperiale, sventando diversi tentativi di congiura tra cui quello della prima moglie di Claudio, la bella Messalina. Il figlio di costei, Britannico, fu spodestato dalla successione imperiale da Nerone e avvelenato dal fratellastro durante un banchetto. Aveva quattordici anni.
Quali sono i punti forte di questo romanzo? In primis la ricostruzione storica. Oltremodo interessante è l'excursus all'interno della Guardia Pretoriana, questo particolare reparto militare d'elite, istituito da Augusto, che provvedeva alla difesa di Roma e della famiglia imperiale. Claudio fu reso imperatore proprio dai pretoriani che si presero la briga di eliminarne il predecessore, ovvero Gaio Caligola. La Guardia divenne un mezzo per affermare nuovi regnanti e garantire il potere di chi riusciva a guadagnarne la fedeltà con denari e donativi. Il ruolo storico di questo corpo militare fu determinante per l'intera storia imperiale dell'Urbe, almeno fino a quando Costantino I non lo sciolse nei primi anni del suo governo. La Guardia Pretoriana venne sostituita dalle formazioni delle Schole Palatine, non più legate alla città di Roma ma alla figura stessa dell'imperatore che seguivano in tutti i suoi spostamenti. Scarrow ha il dono di non indugiare troppo negli aspetti descrittivi. Favorisce l’azione, incalzante e repentina. Ovvio che ogni narrazione ha bisogno di qualche pausa. Lo scrittore ricorre a situazioni ironiche di scambio verbale tra i due protagonisti. In antitesi a quanto “va di moda”, Scarrow evita di “impreziosire” il suo romanzo di scene di sesso spinte e piccanti che si spingono avanti per pagine e pagine. Questo aspetto mi è davvero piaciuto. Qui non si parla di essere scandalizzati dalle scene di amore, di trovarle peccaminose o quanto altro. Il romanzo storico o di ambientazione storica non deve per forza contenere la “sezione erotica”, se i personaggi non lo richiedono. Troppo spesso l’eros diviene l’escamotage per allungare il brodo. Il grande scrittore non ne ha bisogno.
Per concludere. Scarrow è una garanzia. “Il pretoriano” è un romanzo che gode di un’accurata ricostruzione storica con un impianto narrativo collaudato e forte di anni e anni di perfezionamenti. Si legge con facilità . In libreria si trova a un prezzo irrisorio di 5 € per un romanzo di 390 pagine. Su Amazon è disponibile il formato digitale Kindle a 3,99 €. Purtroppo ho constatato che online, (sui maggiori siti di distribuzione), non è più possibile reperire la versione cartacea. Peccato. Valutazione: quattro stelle su cinque
January 18, 2021
In the latest installment of the series, Cato and Macro are once again pulled by Narcissus into something way over their head. Sent undercover to Rome to join the Praetorian Guard that protects Emperor Claudius himself, they are tasked to unearth a conspiracy that threatens to upset the delicate balance of power.
I have found the last couple of books to really have built upon the foundation that the earlier books have formed and as a result, they have been quite enjoyable. Some good plot twists and action helped build suspense and made the books a great read.
One of the strengths of the series is the authenticity that Scarrow lends to the subject. In his notes, the reader learns that he actually walked most of the ground, which becomes quite clear in the descriptive detail that he provides in the background and scenery. He does a lot of research and it shows.
I won't spoil anything, but will say that the webs are quiet tangled and you never know who is working for who until the end.
Overall, a great read that I really enjoyed and I look forward to the next book in the series.
I have found the last couple of books to really have built upon the foundation that the earlier books have formed and as a result, they have been quite enjoyable. Some good plot twists and action helped build suspense and made the books a great read.
One of the strengths of the series is the authenticity that Scarrow lends to the subject. In his notes, the reader learns that he actually walked most of the ground, which becomes quite clear in the descriptive detail that he provides in the background and scenery. He does a lot of research and it shows.
I won't spoil anything, but will say that the webs are quiet tangled and you never know who is working for who until the end.
Overall, a great read that I really enjoyed and I look forward to the next book in the series.
September 23, 2025
4.5 stars for me.
What a refreshing shift in the Eagles of the Empire series, which for me was sorely needed directly after the previous book where I had found it a little tedious and unbelievable.
We moved from the familiar battlefields to the shadowy corridors of imperial politics. Set within the heart of Rome, for the most part the imperial palace itself, this installment trades open warfare and daring missions for for high-stakes intrigue.
Scarrow handles the transition very well and left me newly revitalised to continue into the next 10 books or so that are left so far.
Macro and Cato adapt to their new roles in this political labyrinth, very well, Cato as always being the smartest person around which yes is a little unbelievable and tedious but also fun and Macro as usual being the grumpy reliable veteran ready to jump into any fight.
The increases screentime or Narcissus and Claudius was interesting and the new characters introduced, mainly being the antagonist and his cronies left a fresh new enemy to hinder Macro and Cato in the future I'm sure.
Now I hope we get Vespasian back soon and I hope Cato and Julia haven't parted, I really enjoyed Julia's character.
What a refreshing shift in the Eagles of the Empire series, which for me was sorely needed directly after the previous book where I had found it a little tedious and unbelievable.
We moved from the familiar battlefields to the shadowy corridors of imperial politics. Set within the heart of Rome, for the most part the imperial palace itself, this installment trades open warfare and daring missions for for high-stakes intrigue.
Scarrow handles the transition very well and left me newly revitalised to continue into the next 10 books or so that are left so far.
Macro and Cato adapt to their new roles in this political labyrinth, very well, Cato as always being the smartest person around which yes is a little unbelievable and tedious but also fun and Macro as usual being the grumpy reliable veteran ready to jump into any fight.
The increases screentime or Narcissus and Claudius was interesting and the new characters introduced, mainly being the antagonist and his cronies left a fresh new enemy to hinder Macro and Cato in the future I'm sure.
Now I hope we get Vespasian back soon and I hope Cato and Julia haven't parted, I really enjoyed Julia's character.
October 24, 2021
“The namesh Cato, Quintush Lishiniush Cato”… here, in book xi of the series, our hero takes on the role of James Bond with Macro as his …. Cato? Wait, that’s Clousseau I’m thinking of. To be fair, there’s a scene beneath the streets of Rome that would grace any episode of Scooby Doo. But I digress
This instalment finds our two friends thrust into the treacherous world of Rome itself where a plot wrestles for dominance with a conspiracy interwoven with plenty of intrigue that keeps you guessing to the end… and beyond
Decriers of the series will be pleased to know there are no sieges in this tale and no real battles, although we still get some sword fights to satiate our blood lust. This story is more character driven as Cato and Macros relationship is fully confirmed as being reversed from its inception. The pupil has become the master
I thoroughly love these books and the way the characters evolve and adapt. Cleverly written stuff cunningly disguised as mere blood-and-thunder adventure
This instalment finds our two friends thrust into the treacherous world of Rome itself where a plot wrestles for dominance with a conspiracy interwoven with plenty of intrigue that keeps you guessing to the end… and beyond
Decriers of the series will be pleased to know there are no sieges in this tale and no real battles, although we still get some sword fights to satiate our blood lust. This story is more character driven as Cato and Macros relationship is fully confirmed as being reversed from its inception. The pupil has become the master
I thoroughly love these books and the way the characters evolve and adapt. Cleverly written stuff cunningly disguised as mere blood-and-thunder adventure
May 29, 2018
It been ages since I read one of the Author’s book. No idea why I waited so long to carry on with this series. I forgot how good they are. Got to love the Roman/Soldier humor, had me laughing out loud a few times. I liked how twisty this one was compared to the others. Showed a different side of the main characters. Also showed an interesting side of the Roman culture.
Another thing I have always liked about this series is that the main characters aren’t invincible. They have their limits, they can and do get injured or nearly lose fights. They aren’t some superhero team. They are simply just two soldiers trying to do their duty by protecting Rome and each other. It nice to see their interactions with each other. Both so comfortable with each other and their own way of doing things. It was also nice to see Cato grow more into his new role.
Another thing I have always liked about this series is that the main characters aren’t invincible. They have their limits, they can and do get injured or nearly lose fights. They aren’t some superhero team. They are simply just two soldiers trying to do their duty by protecting Rome and each other. It nice to see their interactions with each other. Both so comfortable with each other and their own way of doing things. It was also nice to see Cato grow more into his new role.
December 5, 2021
The prose is poor, distractingly poor. I won't be revisiting this series.
A common flaw is phrase redundancy, as in stating the obvious, which comes across as repetition, because repetition is repetitious and boring, and it's almost as if the sentences are deliberately being padded out, as if someone was doing it deliberately, by saying things that don't need to said.
The author knows how to use a comma, unlike someone like Ken Follett. But, man, the whole thing is so leaden, I realised I was skimming most of it.
The story is interesting and the twist ending is surprisingly satisfying. But, really, there are other better books out there that do this kind of thing without feeling like reading a high school assignment. There certainly isn't anything inherently interesting about the two characters; I'm not sure why they deserve this many books about them.
A common flaw is phrase redundancy, as in stating the obvious, which comes across as repetition, because repetition is repetitious and boring, and it's almost as if the sentences are deliberately being padded out, as if someone was doing it deliberately, by saying things that don't need to said.
The author knows how to use a comma, unlike someone like Ken Follett. But, man, the whole thing is so leaden, I realised I was skimming most of it.
The story is interesting and the twist ending is surprisingly satisfying. But, really, there are other better books out there that do this kind of thing without feeling like reading a high school assignment. There certainly isn't anything inherently interesting about the two characters; I'm not sure why they deserve this many books about them.
February 16, 2021
Cato & Macro return to Rome to investigate a plot against the Emperor and the lack of grain for bread, and are embroiled in the life of the Praetorian Guard as they do so.
This book is a slight departure for Cato, Macro and Scarrow as it doesn't involve any large set-piece battles, or adventures over entire countries... limited as they are to one city - but despite this change to the usual dynamic it works as a fun pallet cleanser in the series.
My only slight gripe is that when Cato & Macro go under cover they are both given names starting with a 'C' ... to defend Claudius... made it a little difficult to remember which alias belonged to which character. However it didn't detract from the novel.
This book is a slight departure for Cato, Macro and Scarrow as it doesn't involve any large set-piece battles, or adventures over entire countries... limited as they are to one city - but despite this change to the usual dynamic it works as a fun pallet cleanser in the series.
My only slight gripe is that when Cato & Macro go under cover they are both given names starting with a 'C' ... to defend Claudius... made it a little difficult to remember which alias belonged to which character. However it didn't detract from the novel.
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