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Rivers Ran Red: The Last of the Romans Trilogy
In a whirlwind of fire and carnage, Attila the Hun wheels half a million horsemen towards Roman territory. In his path, corruption and greed have undermined the ancient empire and the vacillating emperor, Valentinian III, has cut her legions to a sliver. But out of this smoke a wily, battle-scarred general, Avitus, rises in her defence. Making allies of his enemies, Avitus rallies barbarian warlords to fight for the Eagle and crosses the Alps to face Rome's nemesis. But when Attila offers to split the Empire's corpse with the Goths his march becomes a suicide mission.One war will decide the fate of civilization.The Battle of the Catalaunian Plains rages through the night. Individual acts of bravery and cowardice tip the final balance. Rivers run red and burst their banks with blood. Dawn draws a portrait of unimaginable carnage.In a tale of epic deeds, heroes confront insurmountable odds, with honour and courage. Avitus faces a myriad of enemies, both Roman and barbarian but can one man save civilisation?
328 pages, ebook
Published November 1, 2019
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23 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
June 15, 2020
4 stars
You can read all of my reviews at https://www.NerdGirlLovesBooks.com.
This is a well written and well researched historical fiction about the Battle of the Catalaunian Plains, one of Attila the Huns last battle against the Roman army.
The Empire is weakened due to an inept emperor, Valentinian III. Atilla has laid waste to huge swaths of the Roman Empire. The Empire must make one final stand to defend itself. Avitus, one of the Empire's greatest generals, convinces the Empire's enemies to align with them to defeat Atilla. The battle lasts an entire day and as the smoke clears the next day, Atilla's army is defeated and retreating.
The story is told from several different characters' perspectives and provides a small glimpse into life in the Roman Empire between 410-454 AD. I liked the book, but at times I found the story a bit disjointed. The transitions between story lines and chapters was occasionally clunky. Some characters were introduced for one single purpose and then never heard from again. Other characters had short story lines that faded out and weren't resolved. I also struggled to keep track of some of the characters because either their names were similar, or were difficult to decipher how to pronounce, but it was a minor distraction. Plus, there's nothing that can be done about the names of real characters.
I like historical fiction books, but haven't read any from this time period before. I found it very interesting and look forward to reading other books in this era.
I received a free copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
You can read all of my reviews at https://www.NerdGirlLovesBooks.com.
This is a well written and well researched historical fiction about the Battle of the Catalaunian Plains, one of Attila the Huns last battle against the Roman army.
The Empire is weakened due to an inept emperor, Valentinian III. Atilla has laid waste to huge swaths of the Roman Empire. The Empire must make one final stand to defend itself. Avitus, one of the Empire's greatest generals, convinces the Empire's enemies to align with them to defeat Atilla. The battle lasts an entire day and as the smoke clears the next day, Atilla's army is defeated and retreating.
The story is told from several different characters' perspectives and provides a small glimpse into life in the Roman Empire between 410-454 AD. I liked the book, but at times I found the story a bit disjointed. The transitions between story lines and chapters was occasionally clunky. Some characters were introduced for one single purpose and then never heard from again. Other characters had short story lines that faded out and weren't resolved. I also struggled to keep track of some of the characters because either their names were similar, or were difficult to decipher how to pronounce, but it was a minor distraction. Plus, there's nothing that can be done about the names of real characters.
I like historical fiction books, but haven't read any from this time period before. I found it very interesting and look forward to reading other books in this era.
I received a free copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
May 10, 2020
4.5/5 stars
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review
Can J. A. Grierson write all the History books from now on please?
The Story
An extremely well written and well researched historical fiction based on the events surrounding the Battle of the Catalaunian Plains and the Roman's defeat of Attila the Hun.
What I liked
Wow!
Just, wow. I could NOT put this book down. I am by all accounts a fantasy reader only. Sometimes when I am in a reading slump, I will pick up other genres ... but typically it's all fantasy, all the time. This reads like an epic fantasy. Extremely enjoyable, extremely bloody and entirely real. I was connected to all of the characters, their lives, their history and their events. I cried when they died, I cheered when they were victorious. This book did more than just chronicle the history of these individuals ... this book immersed me in the world of military power, political intrigue, love and life and death. This book is everything books should be.
The historical accounts were well researched and didn't feel like History class ... and the fictional elements were believable and complimentary to the history of that day and the characters who would have existed.
What I did not like
The beginning of this book was plagued by pretty purple prose ... but this daunting adjective stuffing fell out of Greirson's writing around the second chapter (once the dialog started) and the book became much more enjoyable to read.
In Conclusion
I would recommend this book for anyone who enjoys a good Roman history, and for fans of fantasy with epic battle scenes and political intrigue.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review
Can J. A. Grierson write all the History books from now on please?
The Story
An extremely well written and well researched historical fiction based on the events surrounding the Battle of the Catalaunian Plains and the Roman's defeat of Attila the Hun.
What I liked
Wow!
Just, wow. I could NOT put this book down. I am by all accounts a fantasy reader only. Sometimes when I am in a reading slump, I will pick up other genres ... but typically it's all fantasy, all the time. This reads like an epic fantasy. Extremely enjoyable, extremely bloody and entirely real. I was connected to all of the characters, their lives, their history and their events. I cried when they died, I cheered when they were victorious. This book did more than just chronicle the history of these individuals ... this book immersed me in the world of military power, political intrigue, love and life and death. This book is everything books should be.
The historical accounts were well researched and didn't feel like History class ... and the fictional elements were believable and complimentary to the history of that day and the characters who would have existed.
What I did not like
The beginning of this book was plagued by pretty purple prose ... but this daunting adjective stuffing fell out of Greirson's writing around the second chapter (once the dialog started) and the book became much more enjoyable to read.
In Conclusion
I would recommend this book for anyone who enjoys a good Roman history, and for fans of fantasy with epic battle scenes and political intrigue.
December 15, 2019
This is a very well written (and researched) novel. Can't wait to read the prequel and sequel. Highly recommended.
March 28, 2020
Rivers Ran Red is a prolific, deeply moving and inspiring epic tale that paints a vivid and fascinating image of what life was like in Ancient Roman times. The plot follows a series of contrasting personalities that at times endear and at others repulse, each with their own trials and tribulations. It is a genius work that seamlessly traverses between the minute details of the raw human condition and sweeping panoramic scenes of a pivotal period in history that is little known nor understood, making the work all the more remarkable. The author’s mastery of story-telling - in a style that is something between poetry and riveting historical account - makes the novel a sheer joy to read, to put it simply, a true page-turner. The story is indeed one that needs telling and should see the attention it deserves. The gravitas of the predicament, the dread of certain doom, and the courage and sheer grit with which the Romans face it has honestly left this particular reader feeling determined to live each day with a more stoic demeanour. Rivers Ran Red is a gift, it leaves a feeling in the gut long after you’ve turned the last page. Brilliant debut novel. Can’t wait for the remainder of the trilogy.
April 17, 2020
Historical fiction is a far cry from my usual choice for reading, but I thoroughly enjoyed this book and am so looking forward to the next part of the trilogy. The author has tackled an immensely complicated period (that often overwhelms due to the sheer number of details and stories), and has put forward an extremely engaging narrative. Reading through the authors notes and understanding where the extended details for each character come from, and the justification of the fictionalised aspects of the story indicate how thorough her research was. With these gaps she was able to illustrate her skills by adding details that fit seamlessly in to the incredible world of the Romans, and give the reader more reasons to keep reading and develop a sincere attachment to the characters. I was disappointed to have finished it and found myself wanting to know more about the characters and stories that I had immersed myself in. Can't wait for the next one! Would recommend to anyone and everyone.
October 18, 2020
I really enjoyed this. I love stories about the time of the Romans so when I saw this I snagged it. My main issue with Roman times is that EVERYONE has names that are so close that I like to get characters confused. Which can make for an interesting read. I.E. Aetius and Avitus. Then I just tend to mix the two lines together until someone dies. Does this ever deter me from picking up another. NO...no it doesn't because I am fascinated by the era. This was a well written and from what I can tell a well researched read. I'd definitely recommend this book to a friend who likes historical fiction. For the most part it wasn't sexually graphic until it got to one scene about 3/4 through with Avitus' son, it wasn't long, but it was there, which didn't bother me but may bother others.
*I received this for free in exchange for an honest and unbiased review from NetGalley**
*I received this for free in exchange for an honest and unbiased review from NetGalley**
November 15, 2019
This novel is well researched and interesting to read. Vivid imagery conveys the story of Attila the Hun intent on destroying all before him in bloodlust, and how the Romans' retaliated and saved the last remaining vestiges of civilisation which they had established. Characters, many of which are based on real people, are well-drawn and believable, the settings evocative and the battle scenes are riveting. The author brings this era of history alive. Looking forward to the next novel in this trilogy.
June 10, 2020
Rivers Ran Red is an enthralling novel that I couldn't stop reading. The character development was intricate and emotional - I found myself getting drawn in each further with each chapter as the story took on such highs and lows. The novel cleverly navigates the complicated time in history where there is momentus change and characters are woven in and thrown into life-changing moments to showcase their humanity or complete cruelty. It is this precise aspect that makes the novel so enjoyable and exciting, and I personally can't wait for the next installments.
March 29, 2020
Heard this book reviewed on The Book Show and thought I’d give it a whirl. Historical fiction is not usually my thing (prefer fantasy) but the world-building in this novel is convincing and the plot keeps moving. There are interesting characters, both male and female, and I think both men and women will enjoy reading it. Brilliant battle scenes! Can’t wait for the next in The Last of the Romans Trilogy.
April 6, 2020
Rivers Ran Red by J. A. Grierson felt like a privilege to read. An epic historical story, it was very well researched and expertly written. The story focuses on various characters, some modeled after actual historical figures and drags the reader into the turmoil and devastation of the time and events. This is historical fiction at its finest and I would gladly read anything else this amazing writer can conjure.
May 20, 2020
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Well written historical fiction; characters are well rounded and well developed, just enough action and romance to keep your interest. The Roman troops and generals encountering Atilla the Hun are hard pressed to outfight the barbarian horde, but with the knowledge and skills of General Avitus, the Battle of the Catalaunian Plains may turn the tide.
Well written historical fiction; characters are well rounded and well developed, just enough action and romance to keep your interest. The Roman troops and generals encountering Atilla the Hun are hard pressed to outfight the barbarian horde, but with the knowledge and skills of General Avitus, the Battle of the Catalaunian Plains may turn the tide.
February 15, 2020
A well-written novel about the dying years of the Roman Empire. This first book covers the threat of Atilla the Hun and the incredible battle which was fought between his army and the Roman army. Wonderful descriptions of the battle. The author has obviously done extensive research and has brought to life a little-known slice of history.
Read
June 24, 2020An epic journey into a part of history that doesn't figure large in the modern imagination. The end of the last great empire of the ancient world. The Roman Empire in its death throes. Battles so bloody ancient writers described the aftermath "The Rivers Ran Red". The story of one of the last Roman Emperors and his tragedy as a good man caught in treacherous times. Vivid and haunting.
April 4, 2020
I Enjoyed everything about this book there was nothing I didn't like about the book. I Like the setting,the writing style,the plot,the plot twists and the characters in the book were amazing.I would gladly reread it again.
Read
March 31, 2020Enthralling page turner that kept me riveted from beginning to end. Bring on the next in the series!
April 19, 2020
A fascinating and insightful read. Very well researched and this is evident throughout. Not my normal genre, but I eagerly await the next novel.
October 5, 2021
Full Review Here
Set in Roman times and promising large-scale battles, Rivers Ran Red sounded a perfect read. I enjoyed it: a good premise with some interesting characters, and a solid chunk of action. But it was hard to connect with the characters, the pacing was off and the ending left me disappointed.
A lot of characters are introduced in quick succession, narrating different chapters. Normally, this works for me. But some of the storylines didn’t follow through. We get the backstory and character strengths and flaws, then that person is either killed off or never heard of again. You aren’t sure who you’re supposed to invest in.
I’m trying my best to avoid spoilers but… there’s no happy endings in this book. Or very few. So when you do invest in characters, when you get the chance to see their growth and development, you didn’t get the pay off. Once kept things interesting, but multiple times felt cheated.
The characters are well-crafted, though. You know who you’re supposed to root for. Brave generals fighting to defend the innocent against a maniac mad-man. Young poets looking for love and trying to protect their country from power-hungry politicians. You’re not left guessing who’s side you should be on.
Perhaps it was due to the changing narrators, but the pacing also felt off. At times, events happened very quickly: the betrayal of a favourite character and the consequences of that were over within a chapter, which felt an unjust end for someone you’d supported.
But other times, it felt slow. A large-scale battle takes up the middle section of the book. That’s normally my favourite part of this genre. While I did enjoy the tactics of seeing the troops move into position, there was a lot of posturing going on. It dragged for too long of getting people into place, switching to the opponent, switching back and making you feel the wait the soldiers had to endure.
The changing pace undermined the tension for me. It became a relief when the epic battle started – it had taken too long to get there.
However, the writing itself was good. The book was researched well and immersed you in that period of history. Characters were easy to like and uncertainty over their fate kept you engaged in what happens next.
How did I feel about this one? It’s good: it is a solid read for those with an interest in the time period. There were elements that didn’t work for me – personally – which makes it hard to rave about. But if you’re a roman-fiction fan and looking for something to pass the time, it’s a decent book.
Set in Roman times and promising large-scale battles, Rivers Ran Red sounded a perfect read. I enjoyed it: a good premise with some interesting characters, and a solid chunk of action. But it was hard to connect with the characters, the pacing was off and the ending left me disappointed.
A lot of characters are introduced in quick succession, narrating different chapters. Normally, this works for me. But some of the storylines didn’t follow through. We get the backstory and character strengths and flaws, then that person is either killed off or never heard of again. You aren’t sure who you’re supposed to invest in.
I’m trying my best to avoid spoilers but… there’s no happy endings in this book. Or very few. So when you do invest in characters, when you get the chance to see their growth and development, you didn’t get the pay off. Once kept things interesting, but multiple times felt cheated.
The characters are well-crafted, though. You know who you’re supposed to root for. Brave generals fighting to defend the innocent against a maniac mad-man. Young poets looking for love and trying to protect their country from power-hungry politicians. You’re not left guessing who’s side you should be on.
Perhaps it was due to the changing narrators, but the pacing also felt off. At times, events happened very quickly: the betrayal of a favourite character and the consequences of that were over within a chapter, which felt an unjust end for someone you’d supported.
But other times, it felt slow. A large-scale battle takes up the middle section of the book. That’s normally my favourite part of this genre. While I did enjoy the tactics of seeing the troops move into position, there was a lot of posturing going on. It dragged for too long of getting people into place, switching to the opponent, switching back and making you feel the wait the soldiers had to endure.
The changing pace undermined the tension for me. It became a relief when the epic battle started – it had taken too long to get there.
However, the writing itself was good. The book was researched well and immersed you in that period of history. Characters were easy to like and uncertainty over their fate kept you engaged in what happens next.
How did I feel about this one? It’s good: it is a solid read for those with an interest in the time period. There were elements that didn’t work for me – personally – which makes it hard to rave about. But if you’re a roman-fiction fan and looking for something to pass the time, it’s a decent book.
November 3, 2019
Are you as fascinated by Roman history as me? I love it, it's full of intrigue and villains and astonishing levels of material culture. To write this book Rivers Ran Red, apparently J A Grierson did an extraordinary amount of research - visiting old battle sites in Europe, visiting Roman ruins, and reading, reading, reading. It shows. This is history come alive. And it is very much alive. There's family intrigue, love stories, heroes and Brutus - the soldier who ran away and has to face his general, there's an orgy scene, the battle scenes are so realistic and there's a female gladiator (yes, a female gladiator).
It's a racy read, fast-moving and exciting. It's also an insight into the last days of the Roman Empire. This book is the first of a trilogy, I look forward to the other two.
It's a racy read, fast-moving and exciting. It's also an insight into the last days of the Roman Empire. This book is the first of a trilogy, I look forward to the other two.
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews