Legionary Books, LLC

Book Reviews

On these Review pages I list some of my favorite books and films for those who enjoy entertainment based around Roman and other ancient history. I'm not going to bother trashing on those that I find less than desirable. If you think a book or film is missing from my lists (which are by no means complete), shoot me a line and tell me why you think something should be added.

Reviews on this page: (Links to Amazon.com provided)

Imperial Governor - George Shipway

Legion - William Altimari

Pontius Pilate - Paul Maier

Title: Imperial Governor
Author: George Shipway
Format: Novel

Robert Graves' highly popular "I, Claudius" was first introduced to me by my father many years ago, and was in fact the book that first got me interested in Roman history. I found Imperial Governor almost by accident a couple of years ago. Unable to put it down until complete, I then loaned it to my father, who came to the same conclusion that I did: While I, Claudius set the standard for historical novels on Rome, Imperial Governor surpasses it. In fact, if any one work inspired me to start writing historical novels, it was this one. And I am not ashamed to admit that Shipway's writing style is superior to my own. Anyone who is a fan of my own series, "Soldier of Rome," needs to read Imperial Governor.

I agree with one reviewer that pointed out that this book is full of military jargin, though as a military man myself I found it an easy read. However, for those not familiar with the machinations of the Imperial Roman Army, I can understand the inherant confussion. Also, anyone looking to read a novel about Boudicca herself is going to be disappointed, as she only has a small cameo and no speaking lines. But then, the story is told as an autobiography of Governor Paulinus, who would not have had any real interaction with her to write about.

Of even more interest to me was Paulinus himself, a character you cannot help but be drawn to. I researched as much as I could to find what happened to him after his recall to Rome. He was elected Consul in 66, and in the Year of the Four Emperors fought on the side of Otho. He was pardoned by Vitellius, though nothing else is known about him, and it is assumed that he retured to private life after the rise of Vespasian.

Imperial Governor is not to be missed by anyone with an interested in Roman / British history. I find it regretable that it does not share the same popularity as the works of Robert Graves.