The final book in the City of Victory trilogy, set in the Roman empire. Hadrian has journeyed to Britannia, inspecting the first installations of his great wall. But when war breaks out, he has deadly plans for Ferox.
Adrian Goldsworthy Books
Adrian Goldsworthy is the author of numerous acclaimed books, with a primary focus on the ancient world. His works are distinguished by deep historical research and a precise depiction of battles and political intrigue. Goldsworthy's style is direct and engaging, allowing readers to fully immerse themselves in the eras he explores. His expertise is recognized not only in academic circles but also in popular history media.







Augustus: First Emperor of Rome
- 640 pages
- 23 hours of reading
The dramatic story of Rome's first emperor, who plunged into Rome's violent power struggles at the age of nineteen, proceeded to destroy all rivals, and more than anyone else created the Roman Empire
Caesar
- 720 pages
- 26 hours of reading
The story of one of the most brilliant, flamboyant and historically important men who ever lived.
Philip and Alexander
- 624 pages
- 22 hours of reading
"Alexander the Great's conquests staggered the world. He led his army across thousands of miles, from northern Greece to modern Pakistan, overthrowing the greatest empires of his time and building a new one in their place. He led from the front and was often wounded. He claimed to be the son of a god, but he was actually the son of Philip II. In Philip and Alexander: Kings and Conquerors, classical historian Adrian Goldsworthy argues that without the work and influence of his father, it is very doubtful that Alexander would have achieved so much. Philip II of Macedon is often remembered as an old man, one-eyed and lame from wounds. But he was young and inexperienced when he came to power. Philip inherited a minor kingdom that was on the verge of being dismembered. He succeeded in making Macedonia dominant throughout Greece and preparing Alexander to lead his army into war against Persia. Philip, Goldsworthy shows, created the armies that won Alexander's victories. A bold new interpretation, Philip and Alexander will be the definitive dual biography of two men who together reshaped the ancient world."--
Whose Business is to Die
- 368 pages
- 13 hours of reading
In the Spring of 1811 the military situation in the Iberian Peninsula is looking grim for Britain and her allies. While Wellington has pushed the French out of Portugal, the price of victory has been high, and there is every chance that Napoleon's forces are gathering themselves for a fresh invasion. To make sure that doesn't happen, the British will have to go on the attack, but without the necessary resources, they will have to be bold - and lucky. For Lieutenant Hamish Williams of the 106th Foot, the prospect of action, however perilous, is a welcome one. His last meeting with Jane McAndrews, the daughter of one of the regiment's most senior officers, did not go well, and the chances of winning her hand are looking slim. Going into battle against the enemy might not only provide a welcome distraction from his romantic predicament, but could actually help his cause, if he distinguishes himself enough to advance in the ranks. What awaits him, however, is an engagement in which losses for some regiments will be so bad they are virtually destroyed, as British generals go in desperate pursuit of victory. For Williams and his comrades in the 106th, Albuera will prove the ultimate test of courage, skill - and good fortune - as the regiment is plunged into the heart of the bloodiest battle of the war.
Beat the drums slowly
- 336 pages
- 12 hours of reading
The second novel in a brilliant new Napoleonic series from acclaimed historian Adrian Goldsworthy. Second in the series begun by TRUE SOLDIER GENTLEMEN, the story takes our heroes through the winter snows as Sir John Moore is forced to retreat to Corunna. Faced with appalling weather, and pursued by an overwhelming French army led by Napoleon himself, the very survival of Britain's army is at stake. But while the 106th Foot fights a desperate rearguard action, for the newly promoted Hamish Williams, the retreat turns into an unexpectedly personal drama. Separated from the rest of the army in the initial chaos, he chances upon another fugitive, Jane MacAndrews, the daughter of his commanding officer, and the woman he is desperately and hopelessly in love with. As the pair battle the elements and the pursuing French, picking up a rag-tag band of fellow stragglers along the way - as well as an abandoned newborn - the strict boundaries of their social relationship are tested to the limit, with surprising results. But Williams soon finds he must do more than simply evade capture and deliver Jane safe and sound to her father. A specially tasked unit of French cavalry is threatening to turn the retreat into a massacre, and Williams and his little band are the only thing standing between them and their goal.
The Complete Roman Army
- 224 pages
- 8 hours of reading
The Roman army was one of the most successful fighting forces in history. Its organization and tactics were highly advanced and were unequaled until the modern era. Spectacular monuments to its perseverance and engineering skill are still visible today, most notably Hadrian’s Wall and the siegeworks around the fortress of Masada.This book is the first to examine in detail not just the early imperial army but also the citizens’ militia of the Republic and the army of the later Empire. The unprecedented scope and longevity of Roman military success is placed in the context of ordinary soldiers’ daily lives, whether spent in the quiet routine of a peaceful garrison or in arduous campaign and violent combat. Key battles and tactics are described, and there are brief biographies of the great commanders.Drawing on archaeology, ancient art, and original documentary sources, this book presents the most convincing history ever published of the Roman army.
'Jane Austen meets Bernard Cornwell' DAILY MAILThe third novel in this brilliant Napoleonic series from acclaimed historian, Adrian Goldsworthy.
Tells the story of the heir to the murdered Julius Caesar who, as Rome's first emperor, brought peace and stability to the empire and presided over a new system of government
The Roman Army at War 100 BC - Ad 200
- 326 pages
- 12 hours of reading
The book delves into the operational dynamics of the Roman army during campaigns and battles, highlighting its organizational structure and strategic approaches in comparison to rival forces. It provides an in-depth analysis of combat realities, including tactics, weaponry, and leadership, while emphasizing the crucial role of morale in the effectiveness of military engagements.