Gripping, authentic novel set in Roman Britain from bestselling historian, Adrian Goldsworthy. AD 98: VINDOLANDA. A FORT ON THE EDGE OF THE ROMAN WORLD. The bustling army base at Vindolanda lies on the northern frontier of Britannia and the entire Roman world. In just over twenty years time, the Emperor Hadrian will build his famous wall. But for now defences are weak as tribes rebel against … defences are weak as tribes rebel against Rome, and local druids preach the fiery destruction of the invaders.
It falls to Flavius Ferox, Briton and Roman centurion, to keep the peace. But it will take more than just a soldier’s courage to survive life in Roman Britain.
This is a hugely authentic historical novel, written by one of Britain’s leading historians.
‘A thrilling and engrossing novel’ HARRY SIDEBOTTOM.
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This is the first book of Adrian Goldsworthy that I have read, and I am encouraged to read some of his nonfiction works as well. I would compare Goldsworthy very favorably with Bernard Cornwell: their attention to historical detail is incredible; their action sequences are breathtaking.
An excellent bang bang shoot’em up but swords. Has a feel of historic realism. I particularly like that the introduction to the protagonist is delayed because he’s laid up from an extended dunken bender. The next books in the series are just as good. I’m looking forward to the next release in 2019.
Great historical story and unlike most early Briton / Roman stories.
roman procedural soldier/sleuth
I’m a total fan of the Vikings TV series and also love the “other series” (CAN’T REMEMBER THE NAME), presenting the same period but from the view of the British. This is set much earlier than the time of Ragnar Lothbok and his gang, but is no less lively. It’s about 100 AD and the Romans are actively occupying Great Britain, though their interest/enthusiasm/ability to maintain the aisles is waining. The protagonist is an over the hill, alcohol addled centurion who manages to rise to the task facing him: saving his corner of the Empire. Great read. Reminds me of Bernard Cornwell in historical accuracy and writing skill. Highly recommended.
Excellent characterizations accompanied by a strong plot.
What’s not to like?
truly enjoyed this book. Am waiting with bated breath for the next in the series
Great Roman army novel set in Roman England. About the best I have seen published in the last ten years.
The story is good with multiple plot threads. The battle scenes may be a bit over the top for some readers. The writing moves the story along beautifully, a good mix of description and action/dialog.
What struck me about this story, which takes place in 98 CE (i.e. 98 AD) at the northern extremity of the Roman Empire in Britain, is how it could be so modern in many ways.
An example of that modernity is that there was Amazon.com-like access to all that the Roman Empire had to offer. It would take months to arrive, but the Roman Army could order whatever needed for the frontier’s defense. Wealthy people could build expansive villas, with products imported from the greater empire.
I like Templar stories.
A solid historical novel in the later days of the Roman occupation of Britain. A solid protagonist, good writing, a good plot. I’ll stay with this guy.
It is one of the very best of this genre. the Protagonist is sharply drawn and engaging, the action is believable, and the period detail seems very authentic. Much more character driven than most of this kind and better written.
Much akin to Bernard Cornwell style – as promoted.
I liked the story line. And that it is not a now days “Politically Correct” reading. It was Romans and British Isles killing each other for their ideals of their lifestyles.
Very good novel written by a well known historian of ancient Rome, about a garrison in England and its dealings with the “conquered” Britons.
Gives you a great feeling for life in Roman northern Britain.
I enjoyed this book very much. The author tried to keep the book as realistic as possible while still remaining fiction. The characters were realistic as were the descriptions of the countryside, weapons, military tactics, etc. I also appreciated that there wasn’t a whole lot of swearing (especially 4-letter words) but one stil got the idea a character was upset, mad, etc. I am looking forward to the 2nd in the series.