War at the Edge of the World by Ian Ross
Centurion Aurelius Castus has recently been promoted and transferred to
Eboracum. Called before the governor, Arpagius, he is informed that
there will soon be changes amongst the Caesars. He is shocked and
doesn’t know what to think. Later, he and his small century are ordered
to serve as an honour guard for a dignitary attending a meeting of
Picts north of Hadrian’s Wall.
The envoy they are to guard is Aelius Marcellinus, a former officer who
had dealt with the Picts in the past. Along with them is a secretary by
the name of Strabo. Just before they are to cross the wall, Castus and
Marcellinus discover that Strabo is an agent of the emperor, and also a
member of the secret cult of Christians.
They arrive at their destination just as the Picts are about to vote for
their new leader. Things go awry shortly after their arrival and
Castus’ troops are surrounded. After a couple of brief battles, Castus
submits to giving himself up so that his remaining troops can go free.
Strabo is killed by the Picts and Marcellinus takes his own life using
poison, however before doing that he asks Castus to take a message back
to his wife and daughter. Castus is fortunate to escape and on the way
to Eboracum Dave Marcellina, daughter of Marcellinus from a band of
roving brigands. His troubles don’t end when they get to Eboracum,
though.
Author Ian Ross has lots of action awaiting Castus as the Romans set out
to wreak vengeance on the Picts. This was a thoroughly enjoyable and
exciting read, leaving me wanting to get my hands on the sequels.
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