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Twilight of Empire #5
Imperial Vengeance
Aurelius Castus is one of the leading military commanders of an empire riven by civil war. As the Emperor Constantine grows ever more ruthless in his pursuit of power, Castus fears that the world he knows is slipping away. On the eve of the war's final campaign, Castus discovers that the emperor's son Crispus aims to depose his father and restore the old ways of Rome. Castus must choose between honour and survival, and face a final confrontation with the most powerful man in the Roman world, the ruler he has sworn loyally to serve : the Emperor Constantine himself.
396 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 1, 2017
27 people are currently reading
151 people want to read
About the author
Ian James Ross
27 books98 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 - 22 of 22 reviews
January 30, 2018
Aurelius Castus' story, set against the background of Emperor Constantine's Empire, keeps getting better and drawing me in more and more. I was completely engrossed in the pages; in fact I read it two times running. This novel dealt with Constantine's civil war with Licinius for eventual control of the empire and Constantine's eventual victory; Castus, as one of the main commanders, had a big part to play. Also, there was [unknowing, not intentional] treachery and betrayal on the part of the Caesar Crispus, Constantine's illegitimate son. I might even dare to call his attitude naïve. This impulsive and ambitious young man draws Castus into a web of intrigue. As a result, Castus' loyalties are divided between Crispus and his father. Fausta, the Empress, seduces Crispus for her own machinations. The two latter figures are given plausible deaths, following primary material written years later. The author's creativity supplied motivations and details.
I was most impressed how Castus has developed through the course of the novels from a simple legionary to a very high-ranking military figure of authority. He has exhibited a more nuanced and sophisticated personality, without abandoning his basic decency and steadfastness. Also, I liked the interactions between him and his wife, Marcellina; he is shown to be a loving husband and father, having learned from his own stunted boyhood and disastrous first marriage. At one point he does visit his hometown he had left decades earlier, to quell any demons about his past still confronting him. The exciting battles on both sea and land displayed his military prowess and quick-thinking. At 50, he is sickened of war and bloodshed and wants only to live a quiet life with family at his Dalmatian villa. I had my heart in my mouth at the final confrontation between him and the evil agens in rebus and torturer, Innocentius--ironic name, wasn't it? Even the minor characters were well-drawn. I regret there's only one more novel in this saga, but perhaps the author feels he will have completed Castus' journey.
Most highly recommended.
I was most impressed how Castus has developed through the course of the novels from a simple legionary to a very high-ranking military figure of authority. He has exhibited a more nuanced and sophisticated personality, without abandoning his basic decency and steadfastness. Also, I liked the interactions between him and his wife, Marcellina; he is shown to be a loving husband and father, having learned from his own stunted boyhood and disastrous first marriage. At one point he does visit his hometown he had left decades earlier, to quell any demons about his past still confronting him. The exciting battles on both sea and land displayed his military prowess and quick-thinking. At 50, he is sickened of war and bloodshed and wants only to live a quiet life with family at his Dalmatian villa. I had my heart in my mouth at the final confrontation between him and the evil agens in rebus and torturer, Innocentius--ironic name, wasn't it? Even the minor characters were well-drawn. I regret there's only one more novel in this saga, but perhaps the author feels he will have completed Castus' journey.
Most highly recommended.
January 3, 2018
This series is set at such an interesting time, during the reign of Constantine. Action, battles and emotional conflict compete for your attention.
January 24, 2018
Book 5 of the twilight of empire series and it might just be the best of the lot! Aurelius Castus is such a great character, loveable and endearing, you can’t help but root for him in every book!
Constantine himself is depicted brilliantly. A ruthless leader, who will stop at nothing for complete power of the Roman world. The plot is thick and steams along at a frantic pace, the only disappointment is when it ends!
I listened to this on audible, as I have with the rest of the series, and the narrator Jonathon Keeble is fantastic, he really adds an extra dimension to the authors masterful prose.
Loved it! Gutted there’s only going to be one more
Constantine himself is depicted brilliantly. A ruthless leader, who will stop at nothing for complete power of the Roman world. The plot is thick and steams along at a frantic pace, the only disappointment is when it ends!
I listened to this on audible, as I have with the rest of the series, and the narrator Jonathon Keeble is fantastic, he really adds an extra dimension to the authors masterful prose.
Loved it! Gutted there’s only going to be one more
December 29, 2018
This very entertaining book is the 5th volume of the fabulous "'Twilight of the Empire" series by the author Ian Ross.
The historical details concerning this story are splendidly researched and explained, from what is known or suggested by historians, within the author's note at the end of the book.
At the beginning of the book you'll find a wonderful drawn-map of the Central Provinces of the Roman Empire AD 323-326, and a text from Emperor Constantine by Codex Theodosianus.
Story-telling is once again of a top-notch quality, because the author lets his tale flow with wonderful interaction between all the characters, and in doing so all the characters, whether they are real or fictional, come vividly to life within this tremendous Roman tale to grip the reader from start to finish.
The story sets off in the year AD 323 and will end in the year AD 326, with Emperor Constantine in power over Rome and the Western Provinces and still in mortal conflict with Emperor Licinius who holds Thrace, the East and Egypt, while this same Emperor Constantine is looking for a way to accomplish sole total control of the whole Roman Empire.
Other obstacles for Emperor Constantine will become his son Crispus Caesar, who's very popular in the Provinces, and Constantine's wife the Empress Fausta, and not to forget Constantine's manipulative mother Helena, for they will also play a major part in this book of power, ruthlessness, betrayal, loyalty and control of the whole Roman Empire, and it is in this background situation where our main leading fictional character Aurelius Castus, who has sworn loyalty to Emperor Constantine but who's from the old ways himself, just like Crispus Caesar, has to find a way to choose between honour or survival in the final deadly confrontation that is to come in the end.
Highly recommended, for this is another superb Roman story come alive and one that is for me: "A Magnificent Imperial Act Of Vengeance"!
The historical details concerning this story are splendidly researched and explained, from what is known or suggested by historians, within the author's note at the end of the book.
At the beginning of the book you'll find a wonderful drawn-map of the Central Provinces of the Roman Empire AD 323-326, and a text from Emperor Constantine by Codex Theodosianus.
Story-telling is once again of a top-notch quality, because the author lets his tale flow with wonderful interaction between all the characters, and in doing so all the characters, whether they are real or fictional, come vividly to life within this tremendous Roman tale to grip the reader from start to finish.
The story sets off in the year AD 323 and will end in the year AD 326, with Emperor Constantine in power over Rome and the Western Provinces and still in mortal conflict with Emperor Licinius who holds Thrace, the East and Egypt, while this same Emperor Constantine is looking for a way to accomplish sole total control of the whole Roman Empire.
Other obstacles for Emperor Constantine will become his son Crispus Caesar, who's very popular in the Provinces, and Constantine's wife the Empress Fausta, and not to forget Constantine's manipulative mother Helena, for they will also play a major part in this book of power, ruthlessness, betrayal, loyalty and control of the whole Roman Empire, and it is in this background situation where our main leading fictional character Aurelius Castus, who has sworn loyalty to Emperor Constantine but who's from the old ways himself, just like Crispus Caesar, has to find a way to choose between honour or survival in the final deadly confrontation that is to come in the end.
Highly recommended, for this is another superb Roman story come alive and one that is for me: "A Magnificent Imperial Act Of Vengeance"!
August 19, 2023
The fifth instalment in the series by Ian James Ross with his character Aurelias Castus, now an army commander fighting the Barbarian hordes on the Northern borders of the Empire, whilst back in Rome discontent begins to erupt between the two factions, that of Constantine (in the West) & Licinius (In the East). The year is 323AD
We join our story proper as Castus is trying to stop the emperor’s son Crispus from leading a direct assault onto an enemy fort, putting himself in harm’s way, not an easy task with an impetus yoof, we are straight into battle in this Roman series. With the battle won, a skirmish really, we’re acquainted with the Castus family back in Rome, where marriage of his eldest step-daughter, Christianity & the development of his near teenage son are conveyed to us. It’s though only a brief stop in Rome as war has come again between the two Roman factions which sees Castus heading East as the military commander of Crispus’s army in support of the emperor Constantine.
Roman politicking raises its head within court where even the emperor’s family have ambition among themselves, a dangerous commodity should it reach the ears of Constantine himself. Its not an element that Castus enjoys but he does seem to navigate his way through such experiences, if not with aplomb, then with a convincingly lie when called upon. His association/dalliance with the emperor’s wife along the way being of note. Its not long before Crispus is in mortal danger again but from whence is the real question & part of our ongoing story. Another theme that runs through the story is that of Constantine & his conversion to Christianity which he forces upon his army, there is no other word for it, which sees many at odds with this new religion forsaking the old gods that have founded Rome & kept her through the ages. Discord is never far away as a result.
The battle scenes are well written, detailed in their bloodletting & stratagems. Battles occur both on land & at sea where at times the action is frantic, despite his rank, Castus is in the thick of it, along with Crispus who bids to make a name for himself, recklessly at times, much to Castus’ annoyance but their bond is strong.
Very readable, Castus being the main pull throughout with Crispus Caesar never far behind, a solid army man who despite his high rank wishes at time to be back amongst the ranks & away from all the politicking.
Jus under the 4 stars rounded up.
We join our story proper as Castus is trying to stop the emperor’s son Crispus from leading a direct assault onto an enemy fort, putting himself in harm’s way, not an easy task with an impetus yoof, we are straight into battle in this Roman series. With the battle won, a skirmish really, we’re acquainted with the Castus family back in Rome, where marriage of his eldest step-daughter, Christianity & the development of his near teenage son are conveyed to us. It’s though only a brief stop in Rome as war has come again between the two Roman factions which sees Castus heading East as the military commander of Crispus’s army in support of the emperor Constantine.
Roman politicking raises its head within court where even the emperor’s family have ambition among themselves, a dangerous commodity should it reach the ears of Constantine himself. Its not an element that Castus enjoys but he does seem to navigate his way through such experiences, if not with aplomb, then with a convincingly lie when called upon. His association/dalliance with the emperor’s wife along the way being of note. Its not long before Crispus is in mortal danger again but from whence is the real question & part of our ongoing story. Another theme that runs through the story is that of Constantine & his conversion to Christianity which he forces upon his army, there is no other word for it, which sees many at odds with this new religion forsaking the old gods that have founded Rome & kept her through the ages. Discord is never far away as a result.
The battle scenes are well written, detailed in their bloodletting & stratagems. Battles occur both on land & at sea where at times the action is frantic, despite his rank, Castus is in the thick of it, along with Crispus who bids to make a name for himself, recklessly at times, much to Castus’ annoyance but their bond is strong.
Very readable, Castus being the main pull throughout with Crispus Caesar never far behind, a solid army man who despite his high rank wishes at time to be back amongst the ranks & away from all the politicking.
Jus under the 4 stars rounded up.
March 5, 2018
I love this series! A great story with inspired writing that will keep you up until the wee hours.
March 9, 2018
c2017 (1) FWFTB: Constantine, Crispus, torture, honour, survival. Another superb outing for Castus but a very tangled web indeed. I knew what was going to happen but that didn't ruin the enjoyment of the book because the characters and world are so well drawn. Constantine has a few years left in him so what is Castus going to get up to now. Although, his faithful band of cohorts are diminished. Definitely recommended to the normal crew.
July 4, 2018
Great series Ross - and a very good ending. I'll read anything else you feel so inclined to publish.
February 9, 2018
This is the fifth and presumably final installment (there's nowhere left to take the characters,so it has to be) in the Twilight of Empire series and it's a shame to see it end.
Ian Ross is another in a line of outstanding writers from the UK who have chosen to tackle the days of the Roman Empire, a subject which American writers seem to steer clear of for some reason, but that's OK since it would be hard for them to top the efforts from such outstanding writers as Ben Kane and Ross.
It's difficult to put this one down, and the last chapter is most definitely one you won't see coming. (Whatever you do, don't peek at the last chapter!)
Instead of focusing on the common, ordinary member of the Roman Legions, we follow the adventures of Aurelius Castus, a commander in the Roman military and his decisions to follow his heart and honor, or the survival of himself, his family and friends. Does he continue to support the Emperor Constantine or throw in his lot with Constantine's son, Crispus who is determined to overthrow his father and return Rome to it's past glory? The only way to find out is to read this book because I'm not telling!
As painted by Ross, Constantine wasn't the virtuous Christian leader historians have made him out to be and in today's world would no doubt be considered somewhat mentally unstable with many of his decisions not exactly being what would be termed "Christian" by today's standards.
This is a great finale to the series and I wish it were possible to give it more than 5 stars, but that's the maximum. After finishing this series, one has to wonder what the author will tackle next - whatever it is, it will be difficult to top this one!
Ian Ross is another in a line of outstanding writers from the UK who have chosen to tackle the days of the Roman Empire, a subject which American writers seem to steer clear of for some reason, but that's OK since it would be hard for them to top the efforts from such outstanding writers as Ben Kane and Ross.
It's difficult to put this one down, and the last chapter is most definitely one you won't see coming. (Whatever you do, don't peek at the last chapter!)
Instead of focusing on the common, ordinary member of the Roman Legions, we follow the adventures of Aurelius Castus, a commander in the Roman military and his decisions to follow his heart and honor, or the survival of himself, his family and friends. Does he continue to support the Emperor Constantine or throw in his lot with Constantine's son, Crispus who is determined to overthrow his father and return Rome to it's past glory? The only way to find out is to read this book because I'm not telling!
As painted by Ross, Constantine wasn't the virtuous Christian leader historians have made him out to be and in today's world would no doubt be considered somewhat mentally unstable with many of his decisions not exactly being what would be termed "Christian" by today's standards.
This is a great finale to the series and I wish it were possible to give it more than 5 stars, but that's the maximum. After finishing this series, one has to wonder what the author will tackle next - whatever it is, it will be difficult to top this one!
November 4, 2018
In this latest episode in the life of Aurelius Castus, Ian Ross explores the events surrounding the mysterious deaths of Crispus, son of the Emperor Constantine, and the Empress Fausta.
Ross again succeeds in creating a powerful narrative as he follows the central character through the significant historical events in the life of Constantine. We follow Castus as he is involved in the preparations for the war against Licinius, the sea battle in the Hellespont and the final defeat of Licinius in battle. He then shows how Castus is involved in the deaths of Crispus and Fausta.
Ross combines the historical with the personal and we see Castus as a husband and father and friend while also performing his military and political duties.
A new book is promised for 2019 and I look forward to the next episode in the life of Aurelius Castus.
Ross again succeeds in creating a powerful narrative as he follows the central character through the significant historical events in the life of Constantine. We follow Castus as he is involved in the preparations for the war against Licinius, the sea battle in the Hellespont and the final defeat of Licinius in battle. He then shows how Castus is involved in the deaths of Crispus and Fausta.
Ross combines the historical with the personal and we see Castus as a husband and father and friend while also performing his military and political duties.
A new book is promised for 2019 and I look forward to the next episode in the life of Aurelius Castus.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 23, 2023
Another really good novel in this series. I am enjoying how Castus matures through these books and is now becoming more reflective and thoughtful as he ages. He is beginning to question the meaning of life and the concept of ‘duty’ and ‘honour’ - and wonders what all this fighting and death is really for.
It is also very interesting to see how Christianity is the ‘other’ religion in this book. We’re so used to Christians being the main characters in books, it’s a novelty to see how Christianity would have been viewed by people who grew up immersed in the pantheon of Roman gods. It really seems bizarre and the Christians often aren’t very nice people!
It is also very interesting to see how Christianity is the ‘other’ religion in this book. We’re so used to Christians being the main characters in books, it’s a novelty to see how Christianity would have been viewed by people who grew up immersed in the pantheon of Roman gods. It really seems bizarre and the Christians often aren’t very nice people!
January 5, 2019
Maybe the best opus of the Twilight of Empire series. Ian Ross has a total mastery of the art of story-telling and reviving ancient Rome. A real page-turner.
I cannot wait to read the ultimate opus.
I cannot wait to read the ultimate opus.
March 25, 2019
This was a brilliant book, especially in the way that we see Castus’ loyalties torn between two legitimate emperors, both of whom he has sworn an oath to serve. Brilliant book in the series, seems like a natural end to the story of Aurelius Castus.
September 20, 2019
Phew, this series just gets better and better!
I think that this book is the best, so far, of the Castus series. He is now retired and living quietly with his family. Will this equilibrium last? I think not and eagerly await the next book in the series. Just brilliant!
I think that this book is the best, so far, of the Castus series. He is now retired and living quietly with his family. Will this equilibrium last? I think not and eagerly await the next book in the series. Just brilliant!
May 17, 2022
i listened to the whole series one after the other and just couldn't get enough! extremely well written and Narration by Jonathan was as always on point and very easy to listen to.
out of all the books...this one will rip your heart out so be warned!
out of all the books...this one will rip your heart out so be warned!
October 23, 2018
Fast pace story with twists and turns. Such an interesting time period in history
December 12, 2018
This is #5 in the series and I can just reading more of Ross's Aurelius Castus' adventures...for the hours that I am reading being transported back to the days of Rome is an easy thing to do.
February 22, 2019
Another great book in the series, one more to get but I do hope that Mr Ross writes some more :-)
March 24, 2019
Loved it, I didn't realize it was book 5 in a series but that didn't stop me from connecting with the characters and wanting to keep reading when exciting things were happening!!
September 28, 2019
Interesting and well written.
May 1, 2023
It is a good 4.5 stars for me. It’s is a pretty solid book. For me, Ian has done really well to describe the battles in the book, both on water and on land. There are enough plot twists as well to keep a reader busy.
And it is really hard to dislike Castus. Such a strong character. And it being a historic fiction makes it even better. A lot of the times, I was compelled to search about characters and what really happened. Ian has done his research. Have read two from this series now, looking forward to the other ones.
https://kevbookreviews.blogspot.com/2...
And it is really hard to dislike Castus. Such a strong character. And it being a historic fiction makes it even better. A lot of the times, I was compelled to search about characters and what really happened. Ian has done his research. Have read two from this series now, looking forward to the other ones.
https://kevbookreviews.blogspot.com/2...
November 6, 2020
This book is the final one in the eventful journey of Aurelius Castus, once Dux Germanie under Constantine. Now Magister Militium per Orientis, supreme commander of military forces in the East, he faces the ultimate challenges in his life. Mr. Ross once again brilliantly outlines the histories, cultures, the very way of life in this colorful period in history. I personally feel this is the author's best work in the series. A fitting end to the series and a definite recommend!
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews