William Altimari delves into the captivating natural world, bringing it to life through his writing. His work, informed by a deep understanding of anthropology and archaeology, explores humanity's fascination with the natural world. Altimari's unique style blends scientific accuracy with engaging storytelling, offering readers a compelling perspective on our place in nature. His extensive fieldwork lends an air of authenticity and reverence to his prose.
Set against the backdrop of the Gallic frontier in the late First Century B.C., the story follows Centurion Quintus Flavius Rufio as he returns to Gaul to lead the Twenty-fifth Legion. With a German invasion looming, Rufio faces the challenge of training inexperienced recruits while preparing for battle. The narrative vividly captures the life and struggles of Roman soldiers, highlighting themes of duty, leadership, and the harsh realities of warfare.
Set against the backdrop of the Judaean Desert, the story follows Tribune Ulpius Crus and Centurion Quintus Flavius Rufio as they confront an imagined bandit threat to Herod the Great's kingdom. Rufio, a seasoned veteran, realizes the real danger lies in facing a formidable enemy commander with elite cavalry. As he prepares his cohort for an impending battle, the stakes rise for both Judaea's survival and Rome's dominance in the region, highlighting themes of military strategy and the complexities of power dynamics.