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Path of Nemesis #2
War in the Wilderness
Germania, winter, AD 168.
Balomar, King of the Marcomanni and leader of the united army of the tribes, broods and drinks his way through the long winter as his alliance falls apart. He won great fame when he destroyed the Fourteenth legion and brought his army to Italian soil. Rome will not let his victory go unanswered; new legions have been formed, and their spear tips point north.
Elsewhere Albinus braves the harsh weather and tribal hordes as he searches desperately for Licina, his lost fiancé. Once more he must play dice with Fortuna as he launches himself into the iron storm.
For Rome, and his father’s shade…
War In The Wilderness: The epic sequel to The Centurion’s Son.
Adam Lofthouse has for many years held a passion for the ancient world. As a teenager he picked up Gates of Rome by Conn Iggulden, and has been obsessed with all things Rome ever since. After ten years of immersing himself in stories of the Roman world, he decided to have a go at writing one for himself. The Centurion’s Son is Adam’s first novel. He lives in Kent, with his wife and three sons.
Balomar, King of the Marcomanni and leader of the united army of the tribes, broods and drinks his way through the long winter as his alliance falls apart. He won great fame when he destroyed the Fourteenth legion and brought his army to Italian soil. Rome will not let his victory go unanswered; new legions have been formed, and their spear tips point north.
Elsewhere Albinus braves the harsh weather and tribal hordes as he searches desperately for Licina, his lost fiancé. Once more he must play dice with Fortuna as he launches himself into the iron storm.
For Rome, and his father’s shade…
War In The Wilderness: The epic sequel to The Centurion’s Son.
Adam Lofthouse has for many years held a passion for the ancient world. As a teenager he picked up Gates of Rome by Conn Iggulden, and has been obsessed with all things Rome ever since. After ten years of immersing himself in stories of the Roman world, he decided to have a go at writing one for himself. The Centurion’s Son is Adam’s first novel. He lives in Kent, with his wife and three sons.
- GenresHistorical Fiction
334 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 1, 2020
64 people are currently reading
53 people want to read
About the author
Adam Lofthouse
10 books56 followersAdam has for many years held a passion for the ancient world. As a teenager he picked up Gates of Rome by Conn Iggulden, and has been obsessed with all things Rome ever since. After ten years of immersing himself in stories of the Roman world, he decided to have a go at writing one for himself. The Centurion’s Son is Adam’s first novel. He lives in Kent, UK
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Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
May 24, 2019
This marvellous second outing of the "Centurion's Son", Albinus, from the author Adam Lofthouse, has been another fabulous tale to read and cherish.
The historical details concerning this story are once again superbly documented and explained by the author, which you can find in the Historical Note at the end of the book.
Storytelling is of a top-notch quality, the storyline is very well executed, believable characters, whether they are real great historical or wonderful fictional ones, come all vividly to life within this thrilling historical story, and the battles are superbly described and pictured in this great Roman adventure.
The book starts off with an intriguing prologue between the plotters Alexander of Abonoteichos and Senator Gaius Avidius Cassius, which is set in December, AD 168, in Rome, before the book continues with the main story which is divided into 3 parts.
Part 1 of the main story is set during the time, December, AD 168, until March, AD 169, under the reign of the Roman Emperor Marcus Aurelius, and it continues with the tale of Albinus, who after his father's, Silus, death, is looking hard for his kidnapped fiancee, Licina, with his fellow legionary comrades of the 14th Legion, Fullo, Bucco, Calvus, Longus, Rullus, Habitus and Libo, while at the same time they are harassed and have dangerous deadly encounters with barbarians of various tribes, especially from those under the leadership of King Balomar.
Part 2 is situated from July, AD 169, until, September, AD 171, and Albinus, along with his Familia of soldiers are still in the thick of it in many battles against many various German tribes, under the leadership of King Balomar, while treachery is rife within the higher echelons of the Imperial Army against the Emperor, all in an attempt to topple and remove this same Emperor, Marcus Aurelius.
Part 3, that's situated between, September until December, AD 171, is mainly about the Grain Men, or Frumentarii, a Roman spy-network, founded and first employed by Emperor Hadrian, to monitor and shadow individuals who the Emperor decides to see as an enemy and/or distrust as an ally, in an effort to gain and remain the upper-hand in a world full of plotting and scheming.
Very much recommended, because this is a great series to follow and enjoy, and besides that what this book is concerned I like to call it: "A Very Astounding Roman Sequel"!
* Thank you to the author for my ARC and in exchange I've given an unbiased and honest review!*
The historical details concerning this story are once again superbly documented and explained by the author, which you can find in the Historical Note at the end of the book.
Storytelling is of a top-notch quality, the storyline is very well executed, believable characters, whether they are real great historical or wonderful fictional ones, come all vividly to life within this thrilling historical story, and the battles are superbly described and pictured in this great Roman adventure.
The book starts off with an intriguing prologue between the plotters Alexander of Abonoteichos and Senator Gaius Avidius Cassius, which is set in December, AD 168, in Rome, before the book continues with the main story which is divided into 3 parts.
Part 1 of the main story is set during the time, December, AD 168, until March, AD 169, under the reign of the Roman Emperor Marcus Aurelius, and it continues with the tale of Albinus, who after his father's, Silus, death, is looking hard for his kidnapped fiancee, Licina, with his fellow legionary comrades of the 14th Legion, Fullo, Bucco, Calvus, Longus, Rullus, Habitus and Libo, while at the same time they are harassed and have dangerous deadly encounters with barbarians of various tribes, especially from those under the leadership of King Balomar.
Part 2 is situated from July, AD 169, until, September, AD 171, and Albinus, along with his Familia of soldiers are still in the thick of it in many battles against many various German tribes, under the leadership of King Balomar, while treachery is rife within the higher echelons of the Imperial Army against the Emperor, all in an attempt to topple and remove this same Emperor, Marcus Aurelius.
Part 3, that's situated between, September until December, AD 171, is mainly about the Grain Men, or Frumentarii, a Roman spy-network, founded and first employed by Emperor Hadrian, to monitor and shadow individuals who the Emperor decides to see as an enemy and/or distrust as an ally, in an effort to gain and remain the upper-hand in a world full of plotting and scheming.
Very much recommended, because this is a great series to follow and enjoy, and besides that what this book is concerned I like to call it: "A Very Astounding Roman Sequel"!
* Thank you to the author for my ARC and in exchange I've given an unbiased and honest review!*
April 28, 2019
BLURB
Germania, winter, AD 168.
Balomar, King of the Marcomanni and leader of the united army of the tribes, broods and drinks his way through the long winter as his alliance falls apart. He won great fame when he destroyed the Fourteenth legion and brought his army to Italian soil. Rome will not let his victory go unanswered; new legions have been formed, and their spear tips point north.
Elsewhere Albinus braves the harsh weather and tribal hordes as he searches desperately for Licina, his lost fiancé. Once more he must play dice with Fortuna as he launches himself into the iron storm.
For Rome, and his father’s shade…
REVIEW
A sequel well worth the wait. The tale takes up where Centurion's Son left off, so in no time the reader is propelled into an action packed drama pitting Albinus and his 14th Legion comrades against the elements and foe alike. As in the first book, we get a glimpse of life in a frontier/wilderness Roman legion; the camaraderie between Albinus and his mates, their absolute dedication to the Eagle despite the rigors, dangers, and discomforts. The characters are full of the life of the period, their flaws, their doubts, their abilities are all on display; a feast for the readers. The tale, as the title indicates, is a war story replete with not only gladius laden battles, and skirmishes, but it is also one with elements of mystery and espionage. In what is a very striking and unexpected turn of events, Albinus finds himself once again in search of Licinia, but I will say naught of that. You, my fellow readers, will have to discover why for yourselves. 😊 4 stars
Germania, winter, AD 168.
Balomar, King of the Marcomanni and leader of the united army of the tribes, broods and drinks his way through the long winter as his alliance falls apart. He won great fame when he destroyed the Fourteenth legion and brought his army to Italian soil. Rome will not let his victory go unanswered; new legions have been formed, and their spear tips point north.
Elsewhere Albinus braves the harsh weather and tribal hordes as he searches desperately for Licina, his lost fiancé. Once more he must play dice with Fortuna as he launches himself into the iron storm.
For Rome, and his father’s shade…
REVIEW
A sequel well worth the wait. The tale takes up where Centurion's Son left off, so in no time the reader is propelled into an action packed drama pitting Albinus and his 14th Legion comrades against the elements and foe alike. As in the first book, we get a glimpse of life in a frontier/wilderness Roman legion; the camaraderie between Albinus and his mates, their absolute dedication to the Eagle despite the rigors, dangers, and discomforts. The characters are full of the life of the period, their flaws, their doubts, their abilities are all on display; a feast for the readers. The tale, as the title indicates, is a war story replete with not only gladius laden battles, and skirmishes, but it is also one with elements of mystery and espionage. In what is a very striking and unexpected turn of events, Albinus finds himself once again in search of Licinia, but I will say naught of that. You, my fellow readers, will have to discover why for yourselves. 😊 4 stars
May 5, 2019
Starting where Centurion's Son left off, we see Albinus and his small group of hardened warriors pushing on Northwards in a desperate attempt to find and rescue the love of his life Licinia. Meanwhile Balomar king of the German tribes is forced to winter with the knowledge all that he had built has crumbled around him and that the success of the Summer will be answered by the Roman's on mass as they will not allow his insults and victories to stand!
War is coming to the heart of the Germani wilderness and with it intrigue, trickery and death. Once again what the author does very well, without ever bogging you down or sacrificing the pace of the story is give you an idea what it is like to be a legionnaire, from the mindless torture of endless marching to the throat drying, stomach churning bladder emptying madness of pitched battles. But as always it's the wonderfully realised characters that stand out In this great series, wether it's because you love them or loathe them! With lots of twists and turns Adam once again delivers a historical fiction novel with real punch!
War is coming to the heart of the Germani wilderness and with it intrigue, trickery and death. Once again what the author does very well, without ever bogging you down or sacrificing the pace of the story is give you an idea what it is like to be a legionnaire, from the mindless torture of endless marching to the throat drying, stomach churning bladder emptying madness of pitched battles. But as always it's the wonderfully realised characters that stand out In this great series, wether it's because you love them or loathe them! With lots of twists and turns Adam once again delivers a historical fiction novel with real punch!
January 31, 2021
More like 3.5 raised to 4. Such an suitable title!! Much of the book is taken up with war between Germanic tribes in both Pannonia and in Germania and the Romans during the 2nd century. Other strains follow Albinus, his maturing into a seasoned soldier, his relations with other soldiers, particularly his tent-mates, his finding then losing again Lucina, now his wife, mother to his son, but a traitor to Rome. Has she been coerced into her actions? We follow Calvus, the ex-legionary, now a frumentarius who has uncovered a plot against the emperor but is torn between defending Lucina's actions or wanting to denounce her. The story continues. It was exciting and a gripping read all the way, but a small quibble, too many okays to count. Unfortunately, they lowered my rating.
June 25, 2019
We are back with Albinus for book 2 in The Centurion’s Son Chronicles.. he’s grown up fast since the death of his farther in the previous instalment…he’s lost so much but things were looking up when he found love with Licina..only for his hopes and dreams to be dashed.
Time has passed but Albinus hasn’t given up on finding Licina...how can he find his love whilst also fulfilling his commitment to the legion though..it’s not going to be easy.
Albinus is pretty lucky as the legion aren’t just comrades..their brothers and he along with a trusted few set out to find Licina.. of course they end up in a bit of bother and the stakes are high.. the cost too much and the guilt will stay will Albinus forever.
Meanwhile we also learn of Licina’s fate.. she’s become rather resourceful and brave in her own right.. the perfect match for Albinus..if only she can get back to him… If anything her tale overshadowed that of Albinus and I would have loved to see her fight more…who doesn’t love a strong female character!
Both Albinus and Licina struggle at times being apart..does the other still care about them..is it worth fighting for? Neither are going to give up easily though.
War in the Wilderness is a great mix of legion comradery mixed with a personal plot you can get invested in, add in a couple of big twists along the way and you’ve got a smashing read.
I won’t lie.. these soldiers aren’t the hard-nosed warriors I’m used too.. they show their emotions..but that makes them more real at the same time.. what would you do for the one you loved? Would you lay your life on the line for a friend?
One bit that really had me hooked was the whole conspiracy angle..there’s a whole section when you are left wondering who are the good guys.. why are certain people associating with those with a not so clean profile? All this plays out with Albinus in the dark and the repercussions will rock his world.
I loved the book, the pace was pretty decent.. if anything I would just have liked the story strung-out a little longer.. More fighting.. less talking..ha.
The author did a great job a tying up the threads of the plot whilst also developing his characters.. Adam Lofthouse is finding his feet as an author and hit the right notes for me. One to watch? I’d say so!
A plot driven tale with fun and interesting characters to boot 4/5 Stars :)
Time has passed but Albinus hasn’t given up on finding Licina...how can he find his love whilst also fulfilling his commitment to the legion though..it’s not going to be easy.
Albinus is pretty lucky as the legion aren’t just comrades..their brothers and he along with a trusted few set out to find Licina.. of course they end up in a bit of bother and the stakes are high.. the cost too much and the guilt will stay will Albinus forever.
Meanwhile we also learn of Licina’s fate.. she’s become rather resourceful and brave in her own right.. the perfect match for Albinus..if only she can get back to him… If anything her tale overshadowed that of Albinus and I would have loved to see her fight more…who doesn’t love a strong female character!
Both Albinus and Licina struggle at times being apart..does the other still care about them..is it worth fighting for? Neither are going to give up easily though.
War in the Wilderness is a great mix of legion comradery mixed with a personal plot you can get invested in, add in a couple of big twists along the way and you’ve got a smashing read.
I won’t lie.. these soldiers aren’t the hard-nosed warriors I’m used too.. they show their emotions..but that makes them more real at the same time.. what would you do for the one you loved? Would you lay your life on the line for a friend?
One bit that really had me hooked was the whole conspiracy angle..there’s a whole section when you are left wondering who are the good guys.. why are certain people associating with those with a not so clean profile? All this plays out with Albinus in the dark and the repercussions will rock his world.
I loved the book, the pace was pretty decent.. if anything I would just have liked the story strung-out a little longer.. More fighting.. less talking..ha.
The author did a great job a tying up the threads of the plot whilst also developing his characters.. Adam Lofthouse is finding his feet as an author and hit the right notes for me. One to watch? I’d say so!
A plot driven tale with fun and interesting characters to boot 4/5 Stars :)
July 18, 2019
An exciting and absorbing tale!
Like its prequel this story was a real page turner. A fast moving historical thriller, encompassing brutal battle scenes, treachery at the highest echelons of the Roman State, the rise and fall of barbarian kings and one man's doomed love. I can definitely feel a sequel coming so, bring it on. Well recommended!
Like its prequel this story was a real page turner. A fast moving historical thriller, encompassing brutal battle scenes, treachery at the highest echelons of the Roman State, the rise and fall of barbarian kings and one man's doomed love. I can definitely feel a sequel coming so, bring it on. Well recommended!
June 18, 2019
this is brill , i had the privilege to preview this book. well written fantastic follow up to Centurions Son.
brilliant plot
strong characters
great descriptions and information.
fast paced , has you wanting more
couldnt put the book down
brilliant plot
strong characters
great descriptions and information.
fast paced , has you wanting more
couldnt put the book down
December 8, 2020
A snake on his arm? Seriously a venomous pet you carry about, that and being allowed to wander off from your unit make a good story a fantasy tale, shame I quite liked the characters but there's somethings you just can't swallow.
February 2, 2021
Deadly conspiracy.
There are more twists and intrigues plus more action than in the first book, hence an extra star. I still did not find the narrative an easy read, speeding through some passages. More suitable for a younger reader is my opinion.
There are more twists and intrigues plus more action than in the first book, hence an extra star. I still did not find the narrative an easy read, speeding through some passages. More suitable for a younger reader is my opinion.
October 19, 2021
Getting better
The main story runs well but the side line involving our young hero's wife is messy, at best unclear and at worst unbelievable. However plus one for our digit less grainman.
The main story runs well but the side line involving our young hero's wife is messy, at best unclear and at worst unbelievable. However plus one for our digit less grainman.
January 22, 2020
More twists and turns than spaghetti junction
A riveting read. Thoroughly entertaining and a little unbelievable at times,but stick with it. I can't wait for the next one.
A riveting read. Thoroughly entertaining and a little unbelievable at times,but stick with it. I can't wait for the next one.
January 5, 2022
Path of Nemesis book 2
Second book completed, sometimes there were perhaps too many plots to follow but they were all wrapped up in the end.
Second book completed, sometimes there were perhaps too many plots to follow but they were all wrapped up in the end.
February 2, 2021
Once again a brilliant combination of historical fact and an excellent storyline, very well written. All characters are now well established and have their own parts to play in this fast moving, involved book.
August 11, 2020
Great book
This book is filled with more new characters and more fighting for the Fourteenth. The main character rises through the ranks because of his abilities in all the battles fought by the Fourteenth. I can’t wait to see what happens to him in the next book. By the way you will be introduced to the grain quartermasters of each province of Rome.
This book is filled with more new characters and more fighting for the Fourteenth. The main character rises through the ranks because of his abilities in all the battles fought by the Fourteenth. I can’t wait to see what happens to him in the next book. By the way you will be introduced to the grain quartermasters of each province of Rome.
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December 9, 2020eBook publication day for WAR IN THE WILDERNESS.
Who's ready for more Albinus?
Who's ready for more Albinus?
Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews