Videssos Cycle, Volume Two

More about the book

The classic fantasy series from “one of alternative-history’s stalwarts” continues in an adventure of a lifetime. Harry Turtledove’s re-imaginings of major world events have captivated fans for decades, beginning with the Videssos Cycle, a unique blend of fantasy and speculative history. In this two-book volume, a Roman legion, transported to another world, battles through sorcery, intrigue, and epic conflict. In the first part, since the legion was mysteriously sent to this magical realm, Roman military tribune Marcus Aemilius Scaurus has served the rulers of the war-torn city of Videssos. However, after returning in triumph from defeating a rebel army, he is betrayed by a friend, accused of treason, and brought before the Emperor. His only hope for salvation lies with the Emperor’s niece, but associating with her could lead to exile—or worse. In the second part, as a prisoner of the Emperor, Marcus faces dire consequences for treason unless he can reclaim a rebel province from a fanatic usurper, all without the aid of his fellow Romans. With just one centurion by his side, he embarks on a seemingly impossible mission. As fate conspires against them, they are driven toward the torture chambers of a malevolent, deathless wizard-prince. Yet, a daring last hope emerges—the soldiers of the legion are on the march.