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The Cimbrian War #1
The Cimbri Appear
In the second century BC nature’s fury and the instinct for survival sparked the beginning of an unprecedented tribal migration that would last centuries, eventually bringing about the dark ages and threatening the destruction of Rome itself. As other barbarian tribes join their cause, the Germanic Cimbri embark on an epic journey lasting two decades wandering throughout Europe, seeking a new homeland, finding only a desperate fight for their very existence. Rebuffed by hostile tribes and betrayed by a treacherous Roman consul, the Cimbri are forced into a fight they tried to avoid, and inflict a terrible price for Roman arrogance.
- GenresFiction
364 pages, Paperback
Published October 16, 2021
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
January 12, 2022
"Out of the Northern Mists, The Cimbri Appear," is the debut novel of retired US army veteran Jeff Hein and the first book in his series “The Cimbri War.” “The Cimbri Appear” follows the late 2nd century BC journey of the Cimbri tribe from the Jutland Peninsula to the Danube, over the Alps and to the frontiers of the Roman Republic.
Having myself written extensively about the historical Cimbri, I was delighted to see their world come alive in a fictional account. I was impressed by the level of research Hein has carried out to provide the historical context. What sets “The Cimbri Appear” a notch above the rest are Hein’s depictions of the landscape and his portrayal of the people and main characters. The wanderings of the Cimbri through the woodlands and mountains of central Europe reminded me of Tolkien’s Hobbits making their way through Middle-Earth. Hein atmospherically describes the natural beauty of the land and of the changing seasons. So too, the Cimbri are brought to life; through descriptions of every day activities, from the collections of herbs to the fishing of eels. Neither does Hein shy away from the darker realities of the age- the blood and guts of battle and of animal and human sacrifices. More than anything though, the strength of the book lies with its charismatic main character, Borr, the son of the Cimbri chief. I got the impression that Borr’s feelings and inner thoughts must have been inspired by Hein’s real life experiences.
I would recommend “The Cimbri Appear” to anyone interested in a great fictional drama of one of the epic stories in history. I look forward to reading the next book in Hein’s “The Cimbri Wars.”
Having myself written extensively about the historical Cimbri, I was delighted to see their world come alive in a fictional account. I was impressed by the level of research Hein has carried out to provide the historical context. What sets “The Cimbri Appear” a notch above the rest are Hein’s depictions of the landscape and his portrayal of the people and main characters. The wanderings of the Cimbri through the woodlands and mountains of central Europe reminded me of Tolkien’s Hobbits making their way through Middle-Earth. Hein atmospherically describes the natural beauty of the land and of the changing seasons. So too, the Cimbri are brought to life; through descriptions of every day activities, from the collections of herbs to the fishing of eels. Neither does Hein shy away from the darker realities of the age- the blood and guts of battle and of animal and human sacrifices. More than anything though, the strength of the book lies with its charismatic main character, Borr, the son of the Cimbri chief. I got the impression that Borr’s feelings and inner thoughts must have been inspired by Hein’s real life experiences.
I would recommend “The Cimbri Appear” to anyone interested in a great fictional drama of one of the epic stories in history. I look forward to reading the next book in Hein’s “The Cimbri Wars.”
December 28, 2021
A well-researched historical fiction from the perspective of Borr, a young boy of the Germanic Cimbrian tribe who grows into the chieftain or tribal king. The Cimbrian war which occured between the Roman republic & Germania is the highlight of the story. If you enjoy Roman history & unsung stories of tribes, which I do, then this one is a very informative as well as an engaging read. I was unaware of the Cimbrian tribe itself which made it a unique experience.
At the same time, too many characters, events & names can get confusing. The charts in the beginning of the book are of great help but still the occurences can become hard to keep a track of. The inclusion of maps and illustrations is also commendable which helped in better visualization of the otherwise complex story.
Starting from the Flood, each emotion and description of disaster & helplessness has been encapsuled beautifully. The narration is quite different which transports you to the ancient era and keeps the authenticity alive. The language is rich & gives out the old vibes.
To know about their culture, festivals, Gods & goddesses, prophecies & curses is an immersive experience. Reading the ancient letters tucked in between the story were also adding value to the setting.
A parallel story runs along of the Roman general Gaius Marius who had his own ambitions & doubts and his characterization is also well developed.
The plot line is full of battleground action, violence & brutality and thus, isn't for the fainthearted.
The author has tried to provide timelines at the beginning of each chapter & the cross between fact and fiction is smooth. Definitely not an easy read & will be time taking but worth a shot for lovers of war time history.
At the same time, too many characters, events & names can get confusing. The charts in the beginning of the book are of great help but still the occurences can become hard to keep a track of. The inclusion of maps and illustrations is also commendable which helped in better visualization of the otherwise complex story.
Starting from the Flood, each emotion and description of disaster & helplessness has been encapsuled beautifully. The narration is quite different which transports you to the ancient era and keeps the authenticity alive. The language is rich & gives out the old vibes.
To know about their culture, festivals, Gods & goddesses, prophecies & curses is an immersive experience. Reading the ancient letters tucked in between the story were also adding value to the setting.
A parallel story runs along of the Roman general Gaius Marius who had his own ambitions & doubts and his characterization is also well developed.
The plot line is full of battleground action, violence & brutality and thus, isn't for the fainthearted.
The author has tried to provide timelines at the beginning of each chapter & the cross between fact and fiction is smooth. Definitely not an easy read & will be time taking but worth a shot for lovers of war time history.
February 28, 2022
Another first in a series with a slow start, however by the end of the book I was left wanting more!
I'm not familiar with the myths associated with this novel so can't say for certainty that they're accurate however this does not hinder the plot or the story as a whole.
There is violence in the novel so for those readers who don't like that I wouldn't recommend this book. For everyone else I say run to your nearest bookstore, log on to amazo... whatever it takes to get your hands on a copy!
I'm not familiar with the myths associated with this novel so can't say for certainty that they're accurate however this does not hinder the plot or the story as a whole.
There is violence in the novel so for those readers who don't like that I wouldn't recommend this book. For everyone else I say run to your nearest bookstore, log on to amazo... whatever it takes to get your hands on a copy!
February 16, 2022
The Cimbri Appear – Jeff Hein
⚠️ Violence, Murder, Death
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/5
I was gifted this by the lovely people at @lovebookstours in exchange for an honest review.
📝 This is a non spoiler review
Things I liked;
✨ Well-researched book
✨ The world building is top tier 🙌 I love a book that builds a world that I can be engrossed in and the author did this beautifully
✨ Borr is great. His coming of age, fragile-boy-turned-hero story is perfection!
✨ This book is violent and uncivilised but that's the whole point and I loved it
✨ I LOVE the fact there's going to be more books. This book is an AMAZING debut and its top class. 10/10
✨ True, perfect, historical fiction. Historical fiction is fast becoming one of my absolute favourite genres and this book is absolutely 2/3rds of the reason 😍
Things I disliked:
✨ The only thing I disliked about this book was the formatting but that was only an error cause it's an early format, it won't be an issue in the main book 🥰
Overall, this book is absolutely amazing. There's lots of characters which can get a little confusing but the author provides a family tree/ chart at the beginning of the book to help you remember who's who!
This is an absolute world builder of a book and I know that's not everyone's cup of tea ☕ but it's absolutely mine.
I would highly recommend this book and CANNOT WAIT for the next few books in the series 😍🙌
⚠️ Violence, Murder, Death
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/5
I was gifted this by the lovely people at @lovebookstours in exchange for an honest review.
📝 This is a non spoiler review
Things I liked;
✨ Well-researched book
✨ The world building is top tier 🙌 I love a book that builds a world that I can be engrossed in and the author did this beautifully
✨ Borr is great. His coming of age, fragile-boy-turned-hero story is perfection!
✨ This book is violent and uncivilised but that's the whole point and I loved it
✨ I LOVE the fact there's going to be more books. This book is an AMAZING debut and its top class. 10/10
✨ True, perfect, historical fiction. Historical fiction is fast becoming one of my absolute favourite genres and this book is absolutely 2/3rds of the reason 😍
Things I disliked:
✨ The only thing I disliked about this book was the formatting but that was only an error cause it's an early format, it won't be an issue in the main book 🥰
Overall, this book is absolutely amazing. There's lots of characters which can get a little confusing but the author provides a family tree/ chart at the beginning of the book to help you remember who's who!
This is an absolute world builder of a book and I know that's not everyone's cup of tea ☕ but it's absolutely mine.
I would highly recommend this book and CANNOT WAIT for the next few books in the series 😍🙌
February 8, 2022
Part antiquity, part fictional adventure, part legacy
I’ve always enjoyed reading history books and historical fiction. And I really appreciate when a writer can put me into his book through the realism he portrays in his settings, his facts, the prevailing issues at hand, natural disasters, yesteryear's geography, and the natural world as it would have appeared in his story.
Author Jeff Hein did this so well that I became an invisible companion following several of the characters of the book as they played their part in this story. They didn’t see me, but I saw them, felt their emotions, and understood their objectives and motivations.
Another thing that makes a book a great read for me is when the writer depicts the mundane events of everyday life that complete the world of the characters he creates. I especially enjoy this in a historical fiction novel because it lends authenticity and I feel as though I’m a student of this culture.
In this story of exodus and migration into the territories occupied and ruled by powerful civilizations, we would naturally expect the political intrigue, bloody warfare, and personal loss depicted. But it’s the motivations and perspective of each of these factions that draw a reader into this story. Being a work of fiction, it’s the deep characterization and the premise of the ‘Heroe’s Journey that kept me reading.
I would expect that anyone who enjoys history, historical fiction, a coming of age story, a weakling to hero, and the portrayal of those who wield power both for good and evil will appreciate this book by author Jeff Hein.
I’ve always enjoyed reading history books and historical fiction. And I really appreciate when a writer can put me into his book through the realism he portrays in his settings, his facts, the prevailing issues at hand, natural disasters, yesteryear's geography, and the natural world as it would have appeared in his story.
Author Jeff Hein did this so well that I became an invisible companion following several of the characters of the book as they played their part in this story. They didn’t see me, but I saw them, felt their emotions, and understood their objectives and motivations.
Another thing that makes a book a great read for me is when the writer depicts the mundane events of everyday life that complete the world of the characters he creates. I especially enjoy this in a historical fiction novel because it lends authenticity and I feel as though I’m a student of this culture.
In this story of exodus and migration into the territories occupied and ruled by powerful civilizations, we would naturally expect the political intrigue, bloody warfare, and personal loss depicted. But it’s the motivations and perspective of each of these factions that draw a reader into this story. Being a work of fiction, it’s the deep characterization and the premise of the ‘Heroe’s Journey that kept me reading.
I would expect that anyone who enjoys history, historical fiction, a coming of age story, a weakling to hero, and the portrayal of those who wield power both for good and evil will appreciate this book by author Jeff Hein.
November 5, 2021
A tidal wave hits a village and sends its inhabitants scrambling to escape. The surge washes away homes, ruins provisions set aside for winter, and the seasons quickly turn colder. This disaster strikes 120 years before the common era, and The Cimbri Appear is off to a very engaging beginning.
In this context, we meet our hero, Borr, the 15-year-old son of Haistulf and Ishild. Since almost drowning at the age of three, he has been sickly. His family also includes an aunt, a 3-year-old sister, and 13-year-old twins that are adopted when their parents are killed. As the nation that once flourished in a homeland becomes a nomadic society on the march, Borr’s transformation from a frail boy to a rugged warrior begins with another tragic water scene. Traveling with the Cimbri while a leader ascends is my favorite part of this book.
As the Cimbri head south, conflict with the world’s superpower, Rome, becomes increasingly inevitable. Along the way, the perspective shifts from Cimbri to Roman. I had difficulty staying with the action when in the Roman parts. The book builds toward an impending battle which becomes the engaging climax of the book.
I enjoyed reading about a world that includes: a high priestess, prophetic dreams, a sacred silver cauldron, blacksmiths, forges, stone circles, granite markers, monoliths, tombs, mounds, and mysterious places. Dull war councils and political maneuvering contrast with the brutality of battles and human sacrifices. This book is not recommended for readers who prefer not to read violent books.
The maps, character details, and battle diagrams are beneficial inclusions. With a large cast of characters, locations, and ancient deities, the glossary at the end is also greatly appreciated. I wish I’d referred to it more while reading the book.
The Cimbri Appear is a worthy debut and dramatic series opener. The characters, plot, and battle scenes are well planned and executed. I recommend The Cimbri Appear. Skal!!!
In this context, we meet our hero, Borr, the 15-year-old son of Haistulf and Ishild. Since almost drowning at the age of three, he has been sickly. His family also includes an aunt, a 3-year-old sister, and 13-year-old twins that are adopted when their parents are killed. As the nation that once flourished in a homeland becomes a nomadic society on the march, Borr’s transformation from a frail boy to a rugged warrior begins with another tragic water scene. Traveling with the Cimbri while a leader ascends is my favorite part of this book.
As the Cimbri head south, conflict with the world’s superpower, Rome, becomes increasingly inevitable. Along the way, the perspective shifts from Cimbri to Roman. I had difficulty staying with the action when in the Roman parts. The book builds toward an impending battle which becomes the engaging climax of the book.
I enjoyed reading about a world that includes: a high priestess, prophetic dreams, a sacred silver cauldron, blacksmiths, forges, stone circles, granite markers, monoliths, tombs, mounds, and mysterious places. Dull war councils and political maneuvering contrast with the brutality of battles and human sacrifices. This book is not recommended for readers who prefer not to read violent books.
The maps, character details, and battle diagrams are beneficial inclusions. With a large cast of characters, locations, and ancient deities, the glossary at the end is also greatly appreciated. I wish I’d referred to it more while reading the book.
The Cimbri Appear is a worthy debut and dramatic series opener. The characters, plot, and battle scenes are well planned and executed. I recommend The Cimbri Appear. Skal!!!
December 4, 2021
This is a really great read. While not at all a”swords and sorcery” book, it addresses mysticism as it existed in day to day living in 120 b.c. The characters are very real. The action is believable to any student of Roman era warfare or primitive living skills. Overall The Cimbri Appear has much to offer readers over a broad range of interest. The worst part will be waiting for the next installment.
November 17, 2021
A Good Read
I have always been a history buff. When my friend told me he was writing a book I waited with anticipation. This book started out slow but by the end of was filled with intrigue and action. Great job Jeff looking forward to the next iteration.
I have always been a history buff. When my friend told me he was writing a book I waited with anticipation. This book started out slow but by the end of was filled with intrigue and action. Great job Jeff looking forward to the next iteration.
April 3, 2022
Out of the Northern Mists the Cimbri Appear is a fascinating tale of a Germanic tribe who's homeland is decimated, forcing them to embark on an onerous journey in search of a new home. Jeff Hein delves deep into what it was to live as one of these proud people, and the sheer will and perseverance it took to survive all that the Cimbri encountered. Hein's thorough research is evident his accurate descriptions of the weapons and tactics employed by both the "Barbarians" and the Romans. Anyone who is a fan of history, battles and well developed characters will love this book. Jeff Hein is a talented new author, and I for one look forward to his next book.
June 24, 2023
Interesting historical fiction of Germanic tribes fighting the Roman Empire
Well-written story of the Cimbri, a Germanic tribe forced to abandon their Jutland homeland after a natural disaster. As they travel south, they encounter Celtic tribes and ultimately the Roman Empire. The story displays the hardships of tribal survival set against the backdrop of powerful Roman rule. You meet fascinating characters, both of the Cimbri as well as the Roman elite and foot soldier. The historical period is well-researched, with historical anecdotes and characters woven into the plot. An easy read but very entertaining.
Well-written story of the Cimbri, a Germanic tribe forced to abandon their Jutland homeland after a natural disaster. As they travel south, they encounter Celtic tribes and ultimately the Roman Empire. The story displays the hardships of tribal survival set against the backdrop of powerful Roman rule. You meet fascinating characters, both of the Cimbri as well as the Roman elite and foot soldier. The historical period is well-researched, with historical anecdotes and characters woven into the plot. An easy read but very entertaining.
October 12, 2022
Hail the Cimbri!
A great story well told. Full of the mystery and fierceness of the ancient world. Smooth character development and just the right amount of background.
Fun to watch the Roman bullies put in their place by this scruffy group of migrants.
I also love that the story is based on true events. just my mind of tale, historical fiction at its best. Looking forward to the next episode.
A great story well told. Full of the mystery and fierceness of the ancient world. Smooth character development and just the right amount of background.
Fun to watch the Roman bullies put in their place by this scruffy group of migrants.
I also love that the story is based on true events. just my mind of tale, historical fiction at its best. Looking forward to the next episode.
November 6, 2021
I had the pleasure of reading an advanced copy of Jeff’s debut novel. It has everything a fan of historical fiction would want. The incredibly accurate setting, action-packed battle scenes, and strong, believable characters. It was refreshing to see the “barbarian” side of history, as so much is written from the Roman point of view.
I think you should check it out!
I think you should check it out!
April 3, 2022
A must read book This author has captured the tone and nuances of a period of time in a way that few authors have managed. He brings to life the characters involved in a way that draws you into their life
There is a depth into the research that is missing from many similar books which not only entertains the reader but adds to their education
To put it simply I cannot wait for the next book
There is a depth into the research that is missing from many similar books which not only entertains the reader but adds to their education
To put it simply I cannot wait for the next book
October 6, 2022
I enjoy historical fiction. Because this story took place in 120BC, it had a Clan of the Cave Bear vibe. I was pretty amazed at the level of research involved to find out all of the details that made the story both interesting and real. I'm looking forward to the sequel.
January 17, 2024
Very good
I really enjoyed this read from start to finish. The journey they took after that disastrous storm was amazing. Everything started off good than bad things started happening. Betrayal and incompetence helped them prevail.
I really enjoyed this read from start to finish. The journey they took after that disastrous storm was amazing. Everything started off good than bad things started happening. Betrayal and incompetence helped them prevail.
August 18, 2024
An excellent book
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. Mr. Hein writes a great story with excellent character development. Also, very few books have been written about this incredible time in history. This is an excellent book and I can't wait to read the next one!
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. Mr. Hein writes a great story with excellent character development. Also, very few books have been written about this incredible time in history. This is an excellent book and I can't wait to read the next one!
September 9, 2024
Well written novel incorporating historical events to bring a relatively little known period of history to life. Believable characters that pull you in.
Might have given a better score if not for some annoying editing mistakes.
Might have given a better score if not for some annoying editing mistakes.
April 1, 2025
Cimbrian
This book is very hard to put down. It has people who are strong and others that you are glad to see punished. The action moves at a good pace and the people and situations are believable. I strongly recommend this book
This book is very hard to put down. It has people who are strong and others that you are glad to see punished. The action moves at a good pace and the people and situations are believable. I strongly recommend this book
February 28, 2022
Couldn't finish, the writing is boring.
March 24, 2023
A most excellent read.
December 13, 2023
history!
Very very good..this is my type of book….good characters…great story line…many battles…many slaughters…bloood guts and gore …my type of book.
Book two coming soon…..
Very very good..this is my type of book….good characters…great story line…many battles…many slaughters…bloood guts and gore …my type of book.
Book two coming soon…..
December 25, 2023
Great going to read book two shortly
This book is easy to read and I could relate to the main characters. I recommend this book. On to book two.
This book is easy to read and I could relate to the main characters. I recommend this book. On to book two.
March 3, 2024
It started well enough but none of the characters were more than basic 2D cutouts. The Roman chapters were mostly tedious and confusing.
Read
October 26, 2024Reviews note that it is a slow start.
Retry?
Well researched.
Retry?
Well researched.
January 20, 2025
Pacey
Good description of characters, locations, weapons etc. The main character development is insightful and the battles brutal but believable. On to book 2!
Good description of characters, locations, weapons etc. The main character development is insightful and the battles brutal but believable. On to book 2!
February 12, 2022
🗡I cannot even begin to imagine how much research went into this book. Hein has written an epic historical fiction story bringing the reign of the Cimbri into the forefront of our minds. The world building and character development are astounding. While some of the names of the characters are developed from actual people, the remaining names of characters and places are cohesive to the story and it’s setting.
🗡Borr is our main character, and we get to see his growth throughout the years. After his second near-drowning, Borr grows from a sickly child into a strong, vibrant leader who does all he can to continue his tribe’s legacy.
🗡The lives of the Cimbri and the other tribes are shown in their true uncivilized nature. It never ceases to amaze me that gory battles to the death were very common in the early years of humans.
🗡I am anxiously awaiting the next book in the series!
Thank you to @LoveBooksTours and @JeffHeinAuthor for the #Gifted copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
🗡Borr is our main character, and we get to see his growth throughout the years. After his second near-drowning, Borr grows from a sickly child into a strong, vibrant leader who does all he can to continue his tribe’s legacy.
🗡The lives of the Cimbri and the other tribes are shown in their true uncivilized nature. It never ceases to amaze me that gory battles to the death were very common in the early years of humans.
🗡I am anxiously awaiting the next book in the series!
Thank you to @LoveBooksTours and @JeffHeinAuthor for the #Gifted copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
February 7, 2022
What a well written, researched historical fiction! While not my usual type of characters I’d be drawn to, I did enjoy learning about Borr and his growth from sickly boy to smart young man and the life he lived on the move, learning from his father to be wise, from a travelling gossiper how to speak Roman which I believe will be good for his clan
I think one thing, for me, that let down the story wasn’t the actual story but how it was formatted when I received it. This just made it a bit harder to follow the story where I had to go back and figure it out but that just could have been me and should be fixed up anyway.
Also having a physical copy may make it easier to use the references provided by the writer.
I received this book in exchange for an honest review.
I think one thing, for me, that let down the story wasn’t the actual story but how it was formatted when I received it. This just made it a bit harder to follow the story where I had to go back and figure it out but that just could have been me and should be fixed up anyway.
Also having a physical copy may make it easier to use the references provided by the writer.
I received this book in exchange for an honest review.
Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews