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Eagles of the Empire #18
Traitors of Rome
AD 56. Battle-hardened veterans of the Roman army Tribune Cato and Centurion Macro are garrisoned at the eastern border, aware that their movements are constantly monitored by spies from dangerous, mysterious Parthia. But the enemy within could be the deadliest threat to the Legion ... and the Empire.There's a traitor in the ranks. Rome shows no mercy to those who betray their comrades, and the Empire. But first the guilty man must be discovered. Cato and Macro are in a race against time to expose the truth, while the powerful enemy over the border waits to exploit any weaknesses in the Legion. The traitor must die ...Narrated Jonathan Keeble
464 pages, Paperback
First published November 14, 2019
369 people are currently reading
1057 people want to read
About the author
Simon Scarrow
171 books2,161 followersSimon Scarrow is a UK-based author, born in Nigeria, and now living in Norfolk. He completed a master's degree at the University of East Anglia, and, after working at the Inland Revenue, went into teaching as a lecturer at City College, Norwich.
He is best known for his "Eagle" series. This is Roman empire military fiction, starting with the second invasion of Britain, and continuing with subsequent adventures in every corner of the empire. The stories are told through the eyes of two centurions, Macro and Cato. To date there are eighteen books in the series.
Scarrow has also written a series of four novels on the Napoleonic wars, focusing on the lives of Wellington and Napoleon.
He is best known for his "Eagle" series. This is Roman empire military fiction, starting with the second invasion of Britain, and continuing with subsequent adventures in every corner of the empire. The stories are told through the eyes of two centurions, Macro and Cato. To date there are eighteen books in the series.
Scarrow has also written a series of four novels on the Napoleonic wars, focusing on the lives of Wellington and Napoleon.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 118 reviews
April 2, 2020
This eventful historical Roman adventure is the 18th episode of the fantastic "Eagles of the Empire" (Cato & Macro) series from the author, Simon Scarrow.
At the beginning of the book you'll find a well-drawn map of the Frontier between the Roman Empire and Parthia in the 1st Century, while there's also a great cast list of great historical and superb fictional figures who're featuring in this thrilling Roman historical tale.
It's another fast-paced and action-packed addition to this series, accompanied with great story-telling by the author, as well as very believable characters who come all vividly to life within this marvellous Roman adventure.
This story is set as from the year, AD 56, and our main protagonists, Prefect Cato and Senior Centurion Macro, find themselves in Tarsus under the leadership of General, Gnaeus Domitius Corbulo, who's also a great Commander, shrewd tactician and hard taskmaster.
The story evolves quickly after the marriage celebration of Macro and Petronella, when Cato is summoned by General Corbulo and is sent on a secret diplomatic mission to Parthia to parley for a peace treaty with King Vologases of Parthia, in which he's accompanied with Corbulo's envoy spy, Apollonius of Perga, as well as Cato's new slave, Flaminius, who manages to escape when in Parthia, and several others as escort, while Macro will assume his role as acting Prefect of the garrison of Tarsus.
With Macro on a military mission to recapture Thapsis from the rebels with General Corbulo, and Cato underway to Ctesiphon to parley for peace with King Vologases of Parthia, both mission and embassy will encounter treacherous situations, tough battles, and many deaths for Cato and Macro and their men to absorb.
What will follow is a tremendous Roman historical tale, where on the one hand General Corbulo with his army and Macro in their midst is trying to turn raw recruits into hardened veterans for when they are needed when war against Parthia will begin, but instead of support he has to endure rebellion and treason that will be dealt with in the only possible way, the Roman way, while on the other hand Cato and Apollonius are facing treachery within their own ranks as well as treason within the court of King Vologases, and this last treachery with enable them to escape from Seleucia and to arrive at Thapsis to quell the mutiny, that's come from within and the rebels, with the remaining loyal Roman troops.
Very much recommended, for this book is simply a wonderful addition to this terrific series. and that's I like to call it: "A Superb Cato & Macro Roman Sequel"!
At the beginning of the book you'll find a well-drawn map of the Frontier between the Roman Empire and Parthia in the 1st Century, while there's also a great cast list of great historical and superb fictional figures who're featuring in this thrilling Roman historical tale.
It's another fast-paced and action-packed addition to this series, accompanied with great story-telling by the author, as well as very believable characters who come all vividly to life within this marvellous Roman adventure.
This story is set as from the year, AD 56, and our main protagonists, Prefect Cato and Senior Centurion Macro, find themselves in Tarsus under the leadership of General, Gnaeus Domitius Corbulo, who's also a great Commander, shrewd tactician and hard taskmaster.
The story evolves quickly after the marriage celebration of Macro and Petronella, when Cato is summoned by General Corbulo and is sent on a secret diplomatic mission to Parthia to parley for a peace treaty with King Vologases of Parthia, in which he's accompanied with Corbulo's envoy spy, Apollonius of Perga, as well as Cato's new slave, Flaminius, who manages to escape when in Parthia, and several others as escort, while Macro will assume his role as acting Prefect of the garrison of Tarsus.
With Macro on a military mission to recapture Thapsis from the rebels with General Corbulo, and Cato underway to Ctesiphon to parley for peace with King Vologases of Parthia, both mission and embassy will encounter treacherous situations, tough battles, and many deaths for Cato and Macro and their men to absorb.
What will follow is a tremendous Roman historical tale, where on the one hand General Corbulo with his army and Macro in their midst is trying to turn raw recruits into hardened veterans for when they are needed when war against Parthia will begin, but instead of support he has to endure rebellion and treason that will be dealt with in the only possible way, the Roman way, while on the other hand Cato and Apollonius are facing treachery within their own ranks as well as treason within the court of King Vologases, and this last treachery with enable them to escape from Seleucia and to arrive at Thapsis to quell the mutiny, that's come from within and the rebels, with the remaining loyal Roman troops.
Very much recommended, for this book is simply a wonderful addition to this terrific series. and that's I like to call it: "A Superb Cato & Macro Roman Sequel"!
February 5, 2021
A estas alturas de la saga de Scarrow lo normal sería hablar de rutina, de repetición o de que la historia de Cato y Macro ya daba signos de agotamiento. Y lo cierto es que, al menos para mi, no sucede nada de eso. Obviamente ya no tenemos la frescura de los primeros libros y a estas alturas ya no nos sorprende nada (ni el autor intenta sorprendernos, por supuesto), pero sigue siendo una lectura amena y refrescante. Resulta de mucha ayuda que Scarrow tire de veteranía y siga exprimiendo ese estilo sencillo y eficaz que le caracteriza.
En esta entrega, dieciocho libros después , la idea es la misma que en el primero. Dos amigos, legionarios romanos que viven múltiples aventuras en el ejercicio de su arriesgada profesión. Además el autor introduce un elemento más, la edad de los protagonistas y la evolución de sus circunstancias personales, con Macro asomándose a su merecida licencia de la Legión y el ascenso de ambos por el escalafón militar. Ello, unido al uso de un par de trucos clásicos pero siempre efectivos permite que la lectura de esta nueva entrega sea tan entretenida como las anteriores.
No va a revolucionar la literatura ni saldrá en muchos medios, pero si te apetece algo de novela histórica de aventuras, sencilla pero eficaz, esta saga sigue siendo muy recomendable.
En esta entrega, dieciocho libros después , la idea es la misma que en el primero. Dos amigos, legionarios romanos que viven múltiples aventuras en el ejercicio de su arriesgada profesión. Además el autor introduce un elemento más, la edad de los protagonistas y la evolución de sus circunstancias personales, con Macro asomándose a su merecida licencia de la Legión y el ascenso de ambos por el escalafón militar. Ello, unido al uso de un par de trucos clásicos pero siempre efectivos permite que la lectura de esta nueva entrega sea tan entretenida como las anteriores.
No va a revolucionar la literatura ni saldrá en muchos medios, pero si te apetece algo de novela histórica de aventuras, sencilla pero eficaz, esta saga sigue siendo muy recomendable.
December 2, 2019
I'm a big fan of this series. Obviously some books in such a long running series are better than others and this, the 18th, is my favourite. It's packed full of adventure and that makes it exciting but it's also completely engrossing. It's always good to spend time with Macro and Cato, even more so than normal in this brilliant adventure. Review to follow shortly on For Winter Nights.
March 30, 2020
As a lover of Ancient History, and in particular Roman History, and indeed having studied this period for many years, it surprises me that I have never managed to read any of the numerous books now being published by a proliferation of authors. Simon Scarrow must surely be at the forefront of this revolution.
Traitors of Rome is No 18 in the Eagles of the Empire series and follows once again 2 protagonists; Tribune Cato and Centurion Macro. Macro is a wily old soldier with some 30 years allegiance to the Empire, and the much younger Cato, moulded, reared and protected by Macro resulting in a leader of supreme confidence in his own ability. Under the watchful eye of General Gorbulo, the second Praetorian cohort commanded by Cato has been instructed to lead an embassy into neighbouring Parthia an area of strategic and vital importance to Roman eastern expansion. He is to make contact with the wonderfully named King Vologases persuading him that resistance to the mighty Roman empire is futile. Such a dangerous almost suicidal mission will very much rely on the oratorical and charismatic skills of Cato as he and his deputation know that failure is an option and a painful death more than possible.
In the meantime Macro is fighting rebel insurgents on the western side of the Euphrates and in particular the overthrow of rebel held Thapsus is a priority. He takes his orders direct from General Gorbulo who demands 100% obedience from his soldiers, and to achieve this he can be brutal in the execution of his command. Two other characters are worthy of mention: Appollonius an agent accompanying Cato, acting as a guide and advisor, is he to be trusted? And what is the purpose of the flute he carries with him? Flaminius, an old soldier falling on hard times, sold into slavery, and rescued by Cato, an action he may come to regret.
This is a wonderful boys own action adventure, a superlative mixture of historical fact woven around a fast paced narrative. The purpose of good fiction is to immerse you the reader in the storyline, to bring the action alive with the smells, sounds and taste of the battlefield. This is expertly achieved by a very accomplished author and by his penmanship he paints a believable picture not only of the battlefields but the world as it existed at that time…..”Gilded pillars lined the walls and ran down the centre of the chamber. The high ceiling was painted deep blue and decorated with stars and a large crescent moon so that it looked like the night sky. The walls between the pillars were painted with depictions of lavish gardens and parks, as if the chamber was an open-sided pavilion set in the heart of some idyllic landscape”…….Highly Recommended!!
Traitors of Rome is No 18 in the Eagles of the Empire series and follows once again 2 protagonists; Tribune Cato and Centurion Macro. Macro is a wily old soldier with some 30 years allegiance to the Empire, and the much younger Cato, moulded, reared and protected by Macro resulting in a leader of supreme confidence in his own ability. Under the watchful eye of General Gorbulo, the second Praetorian cohort commanded by Cato has been instructed to lead an embassy into neighbouring Parthia an area of strategic and vital importance to Roman eastern expansion. He is to make contact with the wonderfully named King Vologases persuading him that resistance to the mighty Roman empire is futile. Such a dangerous almost suicidal mission will very much rely on the oratorical and charismatic skills of Cato as he and his deputation know that failure is an option and a painful death more than possible.
In the meantime Macro is fighting rebel insurgents on the western side of the Euphrates and in particular the overthrow of rebel held Thapsus is a priority. He takes his orders direct from General Gorbulo who demands 100% obedience from his soldiers, and to achieve this he can be brutal in the execution of his command. Two other characters are worthy of mention: Appollonius an agent accompanying Cato, acting as a guide and advisor, is he to be trusted? And what is the purpose of the flute he carries with him? Flaminius, an old soldier falling on hard times, sold into slavery, and rescued by Cato, an action he may come to regret.
This is a wonderful boys own action adventure, a superlative mixture of historical fact woven around a fast paced narrative. The purpose of good fiction is to immerse you the reader in the storyline, to bring the action alive with the smells, sounds and taste of the battlefield. This is expertly achieved by a very accomplished author and by his penmanship he paints a believable picture not only of the battlefields but the world as it existed at that time…..”Gilded pillars lined the walls and ran down the centre of the chamber. The high ceiling was painted deep blue and decorated with stars and a large crescent moon so that it looked like the night sky. The walls between the pillars were painted with depictions of lavish gardens and parks, as if the chamber was an open-sided pavilion set in the heart of some idyllic landscape”…….Highly Recommended!!
January 19, 2020
A new Macro and Cato book means I need to get it as soon as possible, love the two of them together. Have to say there’s no disappointment here, steady action with a simmering plot. The thing that was interesting was how Mr. Scarrow gave Macro and Cato separate commands (no, I won’t tell more) and both excelled in their roles. Cato’s independent command is largely full of non-descript praetorians though a new character makes an appearance (Apollonius) and he makes a good foil for Cato to play with and against. He’s rich and full of surprises, I’d say as many as Cato has and I’d estimate he could be a new character for the boys to play with.
Macro is Macro! That’s the simple of it. Macro shows what all senior centurions possess or need to, the ability to lead and to recognize what their men need. While he claims to not like being Camp Prefect (minor spoiler) he’s a natural! He recognizes what the men need in leadership, discipline, and to make them a force to be reckoned with. While this isn’t his strongest role to date he’s more confident and better able to handle things than before. The most interesting thing is Macro is beginning to confront age a little (he’s about 45, when things slow down a little) but I don’t see him stopping soon.
A fun read, a quick one, and an enjoyable one. An excellent mix of everything and while it might not be my favorite of the series it’s worthy of 5 stars because it hits everything solidly!
Macro is Macro! That’s the simple of it. Macro shows what all senior centurions possess or need to, the ability to lead and to recognize what their men need. While he claims to not like being Camp Prefect (minor spoiler) he’s a natural! He recognizes what the men need in leadership, discipline, and to make them a force to be reckoned with. While this isn’t his strongest role to date he’s more confident and better able to handle things than before. The most interesting thing is Macro is beginning to confront age a little (he’s about 45, when things slow down a little) but I don’t see him stopping soon.
A fun read, a quick one, and an enjoyable one. An excellent mix of everything and while it might not be my favorite of the series it’s worthy of 5 stars because it hits everything solidly!
April 14, 2020
A solid escapist read. Classic suspense technique of splitting the heroes up, then alternating cliff-hanging chapters between them. A nice balance of predictability and surprise in the plotting. I’ll be back for more (seems to be part of a massive series).
December 21, 2019
Another action-packed, very readable addition to the Eagles of the Empire series! The adventures of Cato and Macro continue to be a delight to read: 18 books and counting and the plot is still fresh, dynamic and full of fascinating historical detail and a plethora of interesting characters. Scarrow manages to get a perfect balance of a captivating plot, military action, intrigue, character development and historical context: a true leader in the historical fiction field.
June 12, 2021
I'd not read one of these in a little while. The trouble when you read quite a few Roman series is that while the protagonists are well defined, I can start to mix up the supporting cast. So I was about 100 pages in and wondering what happened to the Optio Qadir before I realised he was in another series all together. Well, it amused me anyway.
This is a really good one in the series. It puts Macro and Cato into the action again, but finds a fairly plausible way to get Cato a diplomatic mission into the court of the enemy Empire, and allow a split narrative with Macro in a siege situation. That works well, giving space for Scarrow paces the action very well. There's also a new character added - the spy Apollonius - who is interesting, and may stick around for a bit. It would also allow a change in some way to be consistent with the rank that Cato has away from the front line of the legion and more into politics and strategic command than the front-rank combat epics the series began with. Scarrow can certainly write it.
As ever, the pace is fast, the action scenes well written, and characters of Cato and Macro fun to be around. The challenge Scarrow is facing is they are getting older - and he's lining Macro up for retirement, and potentially a happily married ending. While I've enjoyed the series for 20 odd years, it's hard not to feel the elder character at least has earned the right to walk into the sunset, and the evolution of writing to a slightly different style of book would be fine by me.
This is a really good one in the series. It puts Macro and Cato into the action again, but finds a fairly plausible way to get Cato a diplomatic mission into the court of the enemy Empire, and allow a split narrative with Macro in a siege situation. That works well, giving space for Scarrow paces the action very well. There's also a new character added - the spy Apollonius - who is interesting, and may stick around for a bit. It would also allow a change in some way to be consistent with the rank that Cato has away from the front line of the legion and more into politics and strategic command than the front-rank combat epics the series began with. Scarrow can certainly write it.
As ever, the pace is fast, the action scenes well written, and characters of Cato and Macro fun to be around. The challenge Scarrow is facing is they are getting older - and he's lining Macro up for retirement, and potentially a happily married ending. While I've enjoyed the series for 20 odd years, it's hard not to feel the elder character at least has earned the right to walk into the sunset, and the evolution of writing to a slightly different style of book would be fine by me.
May 15, 2022
Proseguo il cammino nel tardo Impero Romano, a fianco di Catone e Macrone. Questa volta la storia ci porta alle propaggini orientali dell'impero, sul confne con l'Impero dei Parti. Solida struttura della trama, con interessanti personaggi aggiuntivi, all'interno della quale, l'autore fa agire i due protagonisti separatamente, andando a perdere un po' delle caratteristiche della serie, ma riuscendo perfettamente a creare due storie parallele avvincenti e di ottima fattura. Anche per Scarrow è difficile trovare nuove parole: semplicemente un ottimo libro per gli amanti della letteratura di avventura di ambientazione storica.
October 19, 2021
Trots samma tema som tidigare böcker i samma serie tycker jag den är lika bra och spännande. De följer Cato och Macro som är romerska krigare och handlar mycket om deras personligheter. Det är hemska krig. Döda eller dödas utan undantag. Enligt författaren kommer fortsättning av denna serie som jag inte vill missa.
December 25, 2025
A good fun read as usual but I miss the earlier campaigning days of the duo.
I struggled reading how stupid Cato is at a few points in this. He just walks straight into Apollonius playing him when he sets Flaminius to spy on him and he can’t see that he has been told a fake story. Cato is being such a noob at tailing Apollonius you can see he’s going to pop up behind him as well. If Cato’s so sharp witted and intelligent why can’t he see this? I’m not, yet I can see it from a mile off. Nothing major but you’re just like, come on, really??
Anyway overall a Macro and Cato book goes down easy and is quick and fun to get through. This one’s just not top tier but still decent.
I struggled reading how stupid Cato is at a few points in this. He just walks straight into Apollonius playing him when he sets Flaminius to spy on him and he can’t see that he has been told a fake story. Cato is being such a noob at tailing Apollonius you can see he’s going to pop up behind him as well. If Cato’s so sharp witted and intelligent why can’t he see this? I’m not, yet I can see it from a mile off. Nothing major but you’re just like, come on, really??
Anyway overall a Macro and Cato book goes down easy and is quick and fun to get through. This one’s just not top tier but still decent.
December 16, 2020
Mais uma grande aventura, pelos anais da História. Uma aventura épica, uma história bem contada, tal como estamos habituados. A saga continua, aguardemos com ansiedade por novidades de Roma...
Obrigado, Simon. Fazes-nos sonhar.
Obrigado, Simon. Fazes-nos sonhar.
August 26, 2022
Sempre molto appassionante e curato nella descrizione dei luoghi ed avvenimenti, bella e fluida l idea di separare le storie dei due protagonisti anche se il loro "ritrovarsi lo trovo un po' strano e "veloce" rispetto la minuziosa descrizione dei fatti a cui l autore ci ha abituato
March 11, 2021
After eighteen books Scarrow still manages to deliver a very solid and overall entertaining novel with this one.
He normally alternates between the solid campaigns and political plots & espionage but as this particular book had both, splitting up the main protagonists I didn’t enjoy it as much as previous works in the series.
That being said I’m interested in seeing where the story goes from here as Macro, pushing fifty, is more and more indulging the thought of retirement. Where that will leave Cato, still in his prime will be intriguing to see.
He normally alternates between the solid campaigns and political plots & espionage but as this particular book had both, splitting up the main protagonists I didn’t enjoy it as much as previous works in the series.
That being said I’m interested in seeing where the story goes from here as Macro, pushing fifty, is more and more indulging the thought of retirement. Where that will leave Cato, still in his prime will be intriguing to see.
April 2, 2022
Habrá quien diga que todos los libros de esta serie son más de lo mismo y no le faltará razón. A un y así me encanta
August 17, 2022
Definitely one of the best in the series so far
June 16, 2023
Another amazing instalment in the Cato and macro series. Running out of superlatives to describe there relationship and development. Can’t wait to start the next!
December 12, 2024
Got to page 190 so far a great book to read and can’t wait to read the other ones of Simon Scarrow books
January 29, 2020
This latest Simon Scarrow novel in the Eagle Series was a great addition to the previous book bringing
Cato and Macro to the Parthian empire and building on that situation. The book has three stories that interweave throughout it and keeps your attention. Even the disciplined Roman army can meet it
match when freezing cold and snow and near starvation conditions challenges it's siege efforts. This book includes a wedding and more time with Cato and his son. A good read and it matches the usual blend of action and excitement of a Scarrow novel. The book can stand alone, but I think by reading Eagle volume 17 and 18, if gives you a better picture of the war Rome was facing in the Middle East!
Cato and Macro to the Parthian empire and building on that situation. The book has three stories that interweave throughout it and keeps your attention. Even the disciplined Roman army can meet it
match when freezing cold and snow and near starvation conditions challenges it's siege efforts. This book includes a wedding and more time with Cato and his son. A good read and it matches the usual blend of action and excitement of a Scarrow novel. The book can stand alone, but I think by reading Eagle volume 17 and 18, if gives you a better picture of the war Rome was facing in the Middle East!
December 4, 2019
It started slow and I was getting a bit bored but it gradually got better and better. I got rather worried towards the end as much was going on with few pages left, but it didn’t disappoint and ended perfectly. Now I wonder will there be a 19th edition with/without Macro. I wait hopefully.
Andy Pointon
Andy Pointon
February 13, 2021
Buena historia pero creo qe ya se está alargando mucho.
December 31, 2019
I have been enjoying the Macro and Cato series for such a long time now. This is another amazing entry into the novel. The narrator does such a fine job with narrating Apollonius, Cato and Macro. I love Macro’s voice acting. It’s exactly how I would imagine the tough old grizzled veteran.
This novel has a lot of good things in it. The descriptions of the Parthian Empire. Macro and his marriage with Petronella, and Cato’s little son. The capital of Ctesphion. The Parthian King. There is so much detail that it can’t be summarised in all good detail. Simon does a terrific job of illustrating why the Parthians were so dangerous in the Eastern Borders of Rome. There’s mutiny, sieges, the descriptions of the cities, the battle scenes are really engaging when the narrator is really doing a fantastic job of making this book come alive. Apollonius is one of the best characters in the book. Cato embarks on an expedition to Parthia to negotiate a peace treaty with the Parthians. Anyone that knows Roman history knows that is impossible. The Parthians are a cunning bunch. They will seek to destroy Rome, and their successors, the Sassanids ensured the Romans got a bloody nose.
Here you’ll go through towns, cities, the Silk Road, merchants, conniving Greek pirate captains, heroic soldiers, epic sword fights, mutiny and starvation, and sieges. That’s what I can call this novel. There is so much attention to detail, so much stuff that I can’t summarise it in all but one go. It’s really that good. Get the audiobook. It’s a fantastic voice acting. I felt immersed. Though I wished they had a female voice narrator for Petronella. Honestly, an amazing effort. When will Simon Scarrow turn this into an alternate history series or something like that? I’d love to see Cato explore new lands or go to America. That’s just me. Otherwise, a solid 5.5.
This novel has a lot of good things in it. The descriptions of the Parthian Empire. Macro and his marriage with Petronella, and Cato’s little son. The capital of Ctesphion. The Parthian King. There is so much detail that it can’t be summarised in all good detail. Simon does a terrific job of illustrating why the Parthians were so dangerous in the Eastern Borders of Rome. There’s mutiny, sieges, the descriptions of the cities, the battle scenes are really engaging when the narrator is really doing a fantastic job of making this book come alive. Apollonius is one of the best characters in the book. Cato embarks on an expedition to Parthia to negotiate a peace treaty with the Parthians. Anyone that knows Roman history knows that is impossible. The Parthians are a cunning bunch. They will seek to destroy Rome, and their successors, the Sassanids ensured the Romans got a bloody nose.
Here you’ll go through towns, cities, the Silk Road, merchants, conniving Greek pirate captains, heroic soldiers, epic sword fights, mutiny and starvation, and sieges. That’s what I can call this novel. There is so much attention to detail, so much stuff that I can’t summarise it in all but one go. It’s really that good. Get the audiobook. It’s a fantastic voice acting. I felt immersed. Though I wished they had a female voice narrator for Petronella. Honestly, an amazing effort. When will Simon Scarrow turn this into an alternate history series or something like that? I’d love to see Cato explore new lands or go to America. That’s just me. Otherwise, a solid 5.5.
December 25, 2019
Once again, Scarrow's heroes Cato and Macro are off to make things right in the Roman Empire. This time around it's in Parthia (look it up) and Cato is off on a diplomatic mission which of course doesn't go exactly according to plan. Macro, meanwhile, is off helping to put down a rebellion which of course doesn't go according to plan either. And, to make things more interesting, the reader is invited to a wedding. Yes, Macro, now pushing 50, gets married, plans on retiring and taking his bride to Brittania to settle down. At least that's the plan. We'll have to wait until the 19th installment in the series to find out.
There's a certain sameness to Scarrow's books, much like those of Clive Cussler. There's more than enough adventure to keep the action junkie happy for a few days, lots of battle scenes and a lot of blood is spilled. The only real difference between the two is that Scarrow's books are in ancient Rome while Cussler's are contemporary. Any way you choose to look at it though, you do have an enjoyable read which is a page-turner and it's hard to put down.
If you're a reader of the series and a follower of Cato and Macro, this is a must-have and there's always the possibility that if Macro moves on, the series might be coming to an end. But, you have to figure that somehow, no matter what he might be doing, Macro will be in the thick of the action and the series will continue.
Enjoyable. Fun. Not for the person who doesn't care all that much for historical fiction, but if historical fiction - especially that set in the Roman Empire - is your thing, this has to be on your must-read list.
There's a certain sameness to Scarrow's books, much like those of Clive Cussler. There's more than enough adventure to keep the action junkie happy for a few days, lots of battle scenes and a lot of blood is spilled. The only real difference between the two is that Scarrow's books are in ancient Rome while Cussler's are contemporary. Any way you choose to look at it though, you do have an enjoyable read which is a page-turner and it's hard to put down.
If you're a reader of the series and a follower of Cato and Macro, this is a must-have and there's always the possibility that if Macro moves on, the series might be coming to an end. But, you have to figure that somehow, no matter what he might be doing, Macro will be in the thick of the action and the series will continue.
Enjoyable. Fun. Not for the person who doesn't care all that much for historical fiction, but if historical fiction - especially that set in the Roman Empire - is your thing, this has to be on your must-read list.
March 29, 2021
This 18th installment of the Cato and Macro series takes them to the borders of Parthia, with Cato going his own on a rare individual mission.
This scenario is a bit different than others, as Cato is sent on an embassy to meet the King of Parthia. Like many things he is forced to do, Cato finds that all does not go according to plan and that he is again caught in the web of power politics.
Macro has his own adventure when the mission to put down a minor insurrection that gets difficult in a hurry.
I don't want to spoil anything, but our heroes do prevail. With this series, it is just a matter of how and the daring involved.
One thing I have to say is that Scarrow is falling into the trap of many other great authors, in that he is starting to repeat himself. If I hear Cato tell a bucina trumpeter to spit because he can't make the required sound in the cold, I'm going to scream out loud. Also, Cato and Macro calling each other brother and taking about Jupiter, the Best and Greatest (or was it Greatest and Best?) are something that I believe just started appearing in the last 3-4 books. But it adds a bit of flavour, so it's fine. But given then relationship, I'm surprised the brother thing didn't start earlier.
Overall, I enjoyed this addition to the series. I was able to predict what was going to happen well before it did, but the story still worked for me. I think it was well worth my leisure time spent reading it.
This scenario is a bit different than others, as Cato is sent on an embassy to meet the King of Parthia. Like many things he is forced to do, Cato finds that all does not go according to plan and that he is again caught in the web of power politics.
Macro has his own adventure when the mission to put down a minor insurrection that gets difficult in a hurry.
I don't want to spoil anything, but our heroes do prevail. With this series, it is just a matter of how and the daring involved.
One thing I have to say is that Scarrow is falling into the trap of many other great authors, in that he is starting to repeat himself. If I hear Cato tell a bucina trumpeter to spit because he can't make the required sound in the cold, I'm going to scream out loud. Also, Cato and Macro calling each other brother and taking about Jupiter, the Best and Greatest (or was it Greatest and Best?) are something that I believe just started appearing in the last 3-4 books. But it adds a bit of flavour, so it's fine. But given then relationship, I'm surprised the brother thing didn't start earlier.
Overall, I enjoyed this addition to the series. I was able to predict what was going to happen well before it did, but the story still worked for me. I think it was well worth my leisure time spent reading it.
March 29, 2020
Book number 18 in Simon Scarrow's long-running Macro and Cato series, which means he's catching up on Bernard Cornwell Sharpe for sheer proliferation of books with the same central character(s) (and that's a good thing).
Following on from the previous novel (The Blood of Rome), Macro and Cato are still in charge of the Praetorians, and still on the eastern fringes of the Roman Empire (Syria), with Cato then tasked with making a dangerous journey into Parthia to deliver Rome's demands to the ruler of that nation while the recently-married (at the start of the novel) Macro, under General Corbulo, lays siege to the small kingdom of Thapsis in the mountains which has risen in revolt against Rome.
I have to say, with a title like 'Traitors of Rome' and with the extremely mercenary (historical) nature of the Praetorian Guard, I first thought - when I saw the title - that the Traitors of Rome would themselves prove to be the Praetorians themselves!
That's not the case, however, read the novel to finds out what is ...
Following on from the previous novel (The Blood of Rome), Macro and Cato are still in charge of the Praetorians, and still on the eastern fringes of the Roman Empire (Syria), with Cato then tasked with making a dangerous journey into Parthia to deliver Rome's demands to the ruler of that nation while the recently-married (at the start of the novel) Macro, under General Corbulo, lays siege to the small kingdom of Thapsis in the mountains which has risen in revolt against Rome.
I have to say, with a title like 'Traitors of Rome' and with the extremely mercenary (historical) nature of the Praetorian Guard, I first thought - when I saw the title - that the Traitors of Rome would themselves prove to be the Praetorians themselves!
That's not the case, however, read the novel to finds out what is ...
September 27, 2020
Another classic Roman historical novel from the pen of Simon Scarrow, as Tribune Cato and Centurion Macro are involved in the preparations for the invasion of Parthia.
In this, the 18th novel in the series, we have two stories for the price of one as Cato and Macro are separated for a major part of the novel as they take different paths; Cato on an embassy to the Parthian capital Ctesiphon and Macro on an expedition to put down a rebellion in the city of Thapsis.
Scarrow is a brilliant writer of the Roman period and he is comfortable in the relationship he has built up between Macro and Cato, whose friendship is a key element of the novels. Scarrow is a master of creating believable dangerous situations and then creating solutions to save the situation, but he is always keen to show the reality of battle and its impact on the men involved.
At the end of the novel, Macro confirms his plan to retire from the army but in the notes in my copy Scarrow reassures his readers by making it clear this is not the last Marco/Cato novel and promises at least two more adventures for the pair. Whew!
In this, the 18th novel in the series, we have two stories for the price of one as Cato and Macro are separated for a major part of the novel as they take different paths; Cato on an embassy to the Parthian capital Ctesiphon and Macro on an expedition to put down a rebellion in the city of Thapsis.
Scarrow is a brilliant writer of the Roman period and he is comfortable in the relationship he has built up between Macro and Cato, whose friendship is a key element of the novels. Scarrow is a master of creating believable dangerous situations and then creating solutions to save the situation, but he is always keen to show the reality of battle and its impact on the men involved.
At the end of the novel, Macro confirms his plan to retire from the army but in the notes in my copy Scarrow reassures his readers by making it clear this is not the last Marco/Cato novel and promises at least two more adventures for the pair. Whew!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 29, 2021
This latest, eighteenth, instalment of the ‘Eagles of Rome’ series finds Tribune Cato and Centurion Macro both involved in Rome’s Eastern Campaign against the Parthian Empire.
Sent by the Commander of the eastern Empire, Cato enters enemy territory with a small unit of men, and is tasked with trying to avert the forthcoming war by an assembly to King Vologases. His party is joined by Apollonius, an agent of the Commander. Not all is at it seems, with much deceit and double crossings peppering the story as they journey deep into Parthian lands. Just who can be trusted?
Macro and his Praetorian Guards, meanwhile, are accompanying the Commander’s Roman cohorts as they attempt to quell a rebellion in the town of Thapsis, purportedly showing allegiance to Rome but now, with Parthian involvement, resisting Roman rule. Whilst maintaining a siege at Thapsis, and facing supply problems and yet more deceit and subterfuge, Macro is challenged to push himself to the very limit.
More exciting Roman historical fiction from a great writer, bringing life to the Roman army and Empire. Another page turner of action, plots and treachery. Really enjoyable.
Rob D
Sent by the Commander of the eastern Empire, Cato enters enemy territory with a small unit of men, and is tasked with trying to avert the forthcoming war by an assembly to King Vologases. His party is joined by Apollonius, an agent of the Commander. Not all is at it seems, with much deceit and double crossings peppering the story as they journey deep into Parthian lands. Just who can be trusted?
Macro and his Praetorian Guards, meanwhile, are accompanying the Commander’s Roman cohorts as they attempt to quell a rebellion in the town of Thapsis, purportedly showing allegiance to Rome but now, with Parthian involvement, resisting Roman rule. Whilst maintaining a siege at Thapsis, and facing supply problems and yet more deceit and subterfuge, Macro is challenged to push himself to the very limit.
More exciting Roman historical fiction from a great writer, bringing life to the Roman army and Empire. Another page turner of action, plots and treachery. Really enjoyable.
Rob D
January 4, 2021
Ritornano le avventure di Catone e Macrone, ed ogni volta è un attacco di adrenalina, un percorso storico ed un inno alla grande Roma.
Simon Scarrow riesce a portare Roma su carta, osannando la sua grandezza e portando il lettore a vivere le battaglie sul campo.
Ritroviamo Petronilla e assistemeremo al suo matrimonio con Macrone, la vita da neo-sposi sarà breve e lo sposo si unirà ben presto all’ambasciata nella Partia per proporre la pace.
Ua manciata di uomoni in un’impresa disperata, un suicidio dell’epoca ma… “Roma non contempla la sconfitta.”
Chi sarà il traditore?
La sua condanna non sarà di certo la morte, ma una lunga vita affinchè ricordi i compagni che ha tradito e fatto giustiziare.
I dialoghi sono semplici, e a parte qualche battuta molto attuale (spero sia dovuta alla traduzione), il resto è consono all’epoca, dai protagonisti alla descrizione del vestiario, dagli appellativi alle azioni sul campo di guerra.
“Un brindisi a Roma!”
A quando il prossimo romanzo?
- Cara Z
Simon Scarrow riesce a portare Roma su carta, osannando la sua grandezza e portando il lettore a vivere le battaglie sul campo.
Ritroviamo Petronilla e assistemeremo al suo matrimonio con Macrone, la vita da neo-sposi sarà breve e lo sposo si unirà ben presto all’ambasciata nella Partia per proporre la pace.
Ua manciata di uomoni in un’impresa disperata, un suicidio dell’epoca ma… “Roma non contempla la sconfitta.”
Chi sarà il traditore?
La sua condanna non sarà di certo la morte, ma una lunga vita affinchè ricordi i compagni che ha tradito e fatto giustiziare.
I dialoghi sono semplici, e a parte qualche battuta molto attuale (spero sia dovuta alla traduzione), il resto è consono all’epoca, dai protagonisti alla descrizione del vestiario, dagli appellativi alle azioni sul campo di guerra.
“Un brindisi a Roma!”
A quando il prossimo romanzo?
- Cara Z
August 15, 2023
Me gusta la forma de introducir nuevos personajes ahora que vemos inminente el retiro de nuestro centurión favorito Macro. Claro que no se qué pensar de Apolino ya que estamos acostumbrados a la fuerza y honestidad de Macro en comparación de la astucia y vida en las sombras de Apolonio.
Este libro es para hacernos la separación de ambos personajes de una forma menos abrupta, el interino entre ambos puntos. Ya que cada uno tuvo que vivir su experiencia rodeados de peligro y enemigos al acecho, sin contar con las habilidades de cada uno de las cuales habían acostumbrado a depender durante todos estos años en las legiones.
El texto nos pone en un la acción de un sitio nuevamente desde la perspectiva romana pero ahora con una moral baja por las grandes dificultades que viven, siempre en territorio oriental. Fue bastante agradable tener un recorrido por los ríos circundantes de la tierra y una que otra pelea/escaramuza con luchadores más no guerreros.
Es un texto donde te mantendrán con las emociones en su pico alto, ya que uno se adentra bastante en cada párrafo.
Este libro es para hacernos la separación de ambos personajes de una forma menos abrupta, el interino entre ambos puntos. Ya que cada uno tuvo que vivir su experiencia rodeados de peligro y enemigos al acecho, sin contar con las habilidades de cada uno de las cuales habían acostumbrado a depender durante todos estos años en las legiones.
El texto nos pone en un la acción de un sitio nuevamente desde la perspectiva romana pero ahora con una moral baja por las grandes dificultades que viven, siempre en territorio oriental. Fue bastante agradable tener un recorrido por los ríos circundantes de la tierra y una que otra pelea/escaramuza con luchadores más no guerreros.
Es un texto donde te mantendrán con las emociones en su pico alto, ya que uno se adentra bastante en cada párrafo.
September 8, 2024
Como seguidor de la serie de "Águilas de Roma", tenía grandes expectativas para "Traidores de Roma", y aunque en general me ha gustado, debo admitir que este volumen se me ha hecho algo más largo en comparación con los anteriores.
La narrativa sigue el estilo característico de Scarrow, con una atención al detalle y una recreación histórica muy cuidada. No obstante, me pareció que la trama tardó más en arrancar en esta entrega. A lo largo de los primeros capítulos, el ritmo es más pausado, y se nota una menor dosis de acción en comparación con otros libros de la saga. Esto, en algunos momentos, le resta dinamismo a la lectura, lo que hizo que el avance de la historia se sintiera más lento de lo que esperaba.
Dicho esto, una vez que la trama despega, vuelve la familiar tensión y emoción que han convertido esta serie en una de mis favoritas. Scarrow, como siempre, logra capturar el espíritu de la época romana y el dilema moral de sus protagonistas con gran maestría. Macro y Cato, siguen siendo personajes complejos y bien desarrollados, y la relación entre ellos continúa evolucionando de manera interesante.
En resumen, "Traidores de Roma" es una lectura sólida para los fans de la serie, aunque quizá no tan vibrante o llena de acción como otros títulos anteriores. A pesar de su ritmo más lento, sigue siendo un capítulo importante en la historia de nuestros queridos legionarios.
La narrativa sigue el estilo característico de Scarrow, con una atención al detalle y una recreación histórica muy cuidada. No obstante, me pareció que la trama tardó más en arrancar en esta entrega. A lo largo de los primeros capítulos, el ritmo es más pausado, y se nota una menor dosis de acción en comparación con otros libros de la saga. Esto, en algunos momentos, le resta dinamismo a la lectura, lo que hizo que el avance de la historia se sintiera más lento de lo que esperaba.
Dicho esto, una vez que la trama despega, vuelve la familiar tensión y emoción que han convertido esta serie en una de mis favoritas. Scarrow, como siempre, logra capturar el espíritu de la época romana y el dilema moral de sus protagonistas con gran maestría. Macro y Cato, siguen siendo personajes complejos y bien desarrollados, y la relación entre ellos continúa evolucionando de manera interesante.
En resumen, "Traidores de Roma" es una lectura sólida para los fans de la serie, aunque quizá no tan vibrante o llena de acción como otros títulos anteriores. A pesar de su ritmo más lento, sigue siendo un capítulo importante en la historia de nuestros queridos legionarios.
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