Dual timeline novel set around the world
Thrilling novel set in ROME 62CE
10th December 2025
Tyrant of Rome by Simon Scarrow, thrilling novel set in Rome 62BE
No. 24 in the Eagles of Empire Series.
The novel opens when Nero is Emperor. Macro and his wife are nearing the forum, where there is great clamour. Slaves in that period were incentivised to keep an eye on each other because, should one of their team turn against their master and kill him, all slaves in that household would be summarily executed. A mass killing is about to take place. The tension is palpable. The bloody scene is set.
Cato – not long returned from Britannia – is leading a quiet life, residing with his wife and son in the countryside. He has his reasons to keep a low profile, for if Nero found out what he has done, there would be no mercy. Given his incredible strategic skill-set in politics and combat, however, he is encouraged to return and serve the emperor, whom, we know from history, was a capriciously corrupt and at times sadistic leader, a despot. Nero appoints him as the Prefect of the Urban Cohorts, not a partiucalry high end group of men enforcing law and order, but a group that needs great management.
“There have been many men across the years who have served Rome loyally and in the end fallen victim to the whims of jealous rivals and anxious rulers..”
Cato and Macro come together once again, a partnership that has endured over twenty plus novels. Their recent exploits in Britannia are now behind them and the focus going forward will be on staying alive, maintaining their integrity and keeping their heads under the parapet. The pitfalls are plentiful, even the best of intentions can seem like malign exploits by some, so care is taken at every step and pronouncement. They have to understand the mood of the people, whilst Nero is stirring an explosive pot.
The feel of Rome at this time is vibrantly captured in this novel, small details such as the sounds and sights, the cooking smells and the interactions of the people. This series is such a good way to follow Roman expansionism and the pitfalls of dominance, and I particularly like these stories when they are set back in Rome.
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