The city of Rome in AD 50 is a dangerous place. Treachery lurks on every corner, and a shadowy Republican movement, 'the Liberators', has spread its tentacles wide. It is feared that the heart of the latest plot lies in the ranks of the Praetorian Guard. Uncertain of whom he can trust, the Imperial Secretary Narcissus summons to Rome two courageous men guaranteed to be loyal to the grave: army veterans Prefect Cato and Centurion Macro.
Tasked with infiltrating the Guard, Cato and Macro face a daunting test to win the trust of their fellow soldiers. No sooner have they begun to unearth the details of the Liberators' devious plan than disaster strikes: an old enemy who could identify them, with deadly consequences, makes an unexpected appearance. Now they face a race against time to save their own lives before they can unmask the mastermind behind the Liberators...
Rating: 4 Stars
Positives: Okay so when I first picked up Praetorian I was unaware that it's actually the eleventh book in the series. However this is one of those joyous moments when you don't need to have read the previous books in order to understand exactly what is going on.
Praetorian has it's own storyline, and I found myself quickly enjoying the life of a ranker within the Praetorian Guard. Scarrow brings to life everything about Ancient Rome with his amazing description. We learn not only the layout of the city but have the sights and the smells given to us as well. This was definitely a book with some powerful imagery, something that I highly enjoyed.
Another thing which I must commend Scarrow on is his ability to tie up loose ends. In the final chapters everything comes together and we aren't left wondering what happens. I especially liked that while I had drawn my own conclusions about aspects of the plot (something which for the most part I was fairly accurate on), there were still a few surprises waiting for me. I was just happy to have worked out the truth of Septimus' identity before Scarrow reveals it.
The plot is highly detailed but has plenty of action and mystery to keep the reader guessing as to what will happen next. There are so many important players in this book though that you can't overlook a single little detail. Everything that happens is crucial in one way or another.
Negatives: Firstly I don't understand Roman currency, so when money was discussed I have to admit to being a little lost. However as I've picked up the eleventh book in the series this may have been explained in an earlier book.
My only other gripe is the amount of swearing. Okay I know soldiers are supposed to use coarse language, especially if we're going to play the stereotypes game, but some of the language felt a little modern. I highly doubt Roman soldiers would call each other mate. Friend maybe, but I think mate was pushing it a bit far. Then again I could be totally wrong. I wouldn't know. I haven't been to Ancient Rome as unfortunately I don't possess a Tardis. If I ever acquire one I'll test my theory on language.
Would I recommend this book? Yes I definitely would. This was a brilliant read, not too many fighting scenes and plenty of plot twists to keep the reader entertained.
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