What do you think?
Rate this book
Eagles of Rome #2
Hunting the Eagles
AN ARMY DEFEATED
AD 14: Five long years have passed since the annihilation of three legions in the wilds of Germania. Although the bones of 15,000 soldiers now moulder in the Teutoburg Forest, not all the Romans were slain in the bloody ambush.
A CENTURION OUT FOR VENGEANCE
Demoted, battle-scarred and hell-bent on revenge, Centurion Tullus and his legionaries begin their fightback. Ranged against them is the charismatic chieftan Arminius, who is gathering thousands of hostile tribesmen, and determined to crush the Romans for a second time.
AN EAGLE RECOVERED
The eagle belonging to Tullus' old legion is still in enemy hands, but as the Romans' reprisals take their army deep into German tribal lands, he remains convinced that it is within reach. But Arminius and his warriors are perilously close. As battle begins, Tullus and his comrades know they must fight as never before - just to stay alive...
AD 14: Five long years have passed since the annihilation of three legions in the wilds of Germania. Although the bones of 15,000 soldiers now moulder in the Teutoburg Forest, not all the Romans were slain in the bloody ambush.
A CENTURION OUT FOR VENGEANCE
Demoted, battle-scarred and hell-bent on revenge, Centurion Tullus and his legionaries begin their fightback. Ranged against them is the charismatic chieftan Arminius, who is gathering thousands of hostile tribesmen, and determined to crush the Romans for a second time.
AN EAGLE RECOVERED
The eagle belonging to Tullus' old legion is still in enemy hands, but as the Romans' reprisals take their army deep into German tribal lands, he remains convinced that it is within reach. But Arminius and his warriors are perilously close. As battle begins, Tullus and his comrades know they must fight as never before - just to stay alive...
400 pages, Paperback
First published March 24, 2016
About the author
Ben Kane
41 books1,043 followersBen Kane is a bestselling Roman author and former veterinarian. He was born in Kenya and grew up in Ireland (where his parents are from). He has traveled widely and is a lifelong student of military history in general, and Roman history in particular. He lives in North Somerset, England, with his family.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 154 reviews
May 8, 2017
I do enjoy a good military style book about ancient Rome, though this one didn’t quite carry the intensity of the first one in the series. It lacked the energy and bloodbath its predecessor drove to.
The best part of the writing is how the ignorance, and supposed superiority, of the Romans was channelled. Centurion Tulus considers his enemies, the German tribesman, savages because they slaughtered an army of Rome, but the actions of the mighty Romans- the slaughtering of women and children- is just an acceptable means of war. There’s something terribly dangerous about that mind-set, and although it was uncomfortable to read, it is one many Romans possessed. It’s the brutal reality of colonial rule, and the author portrayed it here very honestly.
Tullus stole the show this time round. His characterisation has been built upon; he is a typical legionary and has the mind of a solider, but unlike most Romans, he is aware of the flaws of his empire. He still follows his orders, and excuses them, but he sees the weaknesses: he sees the cracks. The main problem with the Roman army was its command structure. The lower level officers are all promoted on merit, but some of the higher officers are only there for one reason: their right of birth. Thus, juveniles and all sorts of incompetent people are in charge of thousands of men. Only bad things could happen.
Experienced centurions like Tullus see the blunders coming a mile away, but they are powerless to prevent them. No one listens to him, and when he tries to prevent disaster his station prevents his voice carrying any weight. Thus a mass mutiny takes hold of the camp, one very dramatic and entertaining to read about. But this is only the start of the action. The real threat is Arminus, one of the so called savage German tribesmen, and he is out to crush Rome once more. Tullus wants revenge for his men, as the rivalry between the two men is extended upon further.
So this was a good book but it is very much the middle of the series, a set up job for the final instalment. I do look forward to reading it, and I think it will be much stronger than this book here (hopefully.) History dictates the ending, of course, but I look forward to reading about it nevertheless.
The best part of the writing is how the ignorance, and supposed superiority, of the Romans was channelled. Centurion Tulus considers his enemies, the German tribesman, savages because they slaughtered an army of Rome, but the actions of the mighty Romans- the slaughtering of women and children- is just an acceptable means of war. There’s something terribly dangerous about that mind-set, and although it was uncomfortable to read, it is one many Romans possessed. It’s the brutal reality of colonial rule, and the author portrayed it here very honestly.
Tullus stole the show this time round. His characterisation has been built upon; he is a typical legionary and has the mind of a solider, but unlike most Romans, he is aware of the flaws of his empire. He still follows his orders, and excuses them, but he sees the weaknesses: he sees the cracks. The main problem with the Roman army was its command structure. The lower level officers are all promoted on merit, but some of the higher officers are only there for one reason: their right of birth. Thus, juveniles and all sorts of incompetent people are in charge of thousands of men. Only bad things could happen.
Experienced centurions like Tullus see the blunders coming a mile away, but they are powerless to prevent them. No one listens to him, and when he tries to prevent disaster his station prevents his voice carrying any weight. Thus a mass mutiny takes hold of the camp, one very dramatic and entertaining to read about. But this is only the start of the action. The real threat is Arminus, one of the so called savage German tribesmen, and he is out to crush Rome once more. Tullus wants revenge for his men, as the rivalry between the two men is extended upon further.
So this was a good book but it is very much the middle of the series, a set up job for the final instalment. I do look forward to reading it, and I think it will be much stronger than this book here (hopefully.) History dictates the ending, of course, but I look forward to reading about it nevertheless.
February 14, 2022
This was even better than Book One!
The story takes place in 14-15 AD in the German Frontier along the Rhine River. The obliteration of three Roman legions in the Teutoburg Forest by the coalition of tribes was five years past. The few survivors are now serving under Tullus in his new cohort. None of them have come away unscathed from that slaughter. As a matter of fact, Tullus shows symptoms of PTSD. These survivors have become close, and their trust and friendship with each other was a positive part of this tale.
There was quite a bit a major happenings throughout, as expected for anyone who has read up on the history about this time period/place/conflict(s). Germanicus is now governor and he wants revenge on Arminius and the coalition of Germanic Tribes.
What follows is everything from awful sacking of settlements, loss of comrades, conflicted legionaries, mutinies, traps and epic battles.
Regarding the last, the author is very good at depicting the fights. His descriptions range from the gladius movements and shield wall, to having an overpowering urge to urinate, to annoying grit getting in the sandal, just all-around detailed. But he didn't write in such a way that I was drowning in minutia, if that makes sense.
The intimidating barritus of the tribes was especially evocative. (They all make a deep drawn out "Hummmmmm" as they attack.) These scenes seemed so realistic.
As in the last book, the chapters switch viewpoints. The three views are from Tullus, Arminius and the legionary Piso. The characterization is terrific. I have grown to really care for them. Well, for everyone except the idiotic tribune. He needs a smack upside his head :). I keep hoping that he'll get his just desserts every time there is a conflict.
I will certainly be reading the next.
The story takes place in 14-15 AD in the German Frontier along the Rhine River. The obliteration of three Roman legions in the Teutoburg Forest by the coalition of tribes was five years past. The few survivors are now serving under Tullus in his new cohort. None of them have come away unscathed from that slaughter. As a matter of fact, Tullus shows symptoms of PTSD. These survivors have become close, and their trust and friendship with each other was a positive part of this tale.
There was quite a bit a major happenings throughout, as expected for anyone who has read up on the history about this time period/place/conflict(s). Germanicus is now governor and he wants revenge on Arminius and the coalition of Germanic Tribes.
What follows is everything from awful sacking of settlements, loss of comrades, conflicted legionaries, mutinies, traps and epic battles.
Regarding the last, the author is very good at depicting the fights. His descriptions range from the gladius movements and shield wall, to having an overpowering urge to urinate, to annoying grit getting in the sandal, just all-around detailed. But he didn't write in such a way that I was drowning in minutia, if that makes sense.
The intimidating barritus of the tribes was especially evocative. (They all make a deep drawn out "Hummmmmm" as they attack.) These scenes seemed so realistic.
As in the last book, the chapters switch viewpoints. The three views are from Tullus, Arminius and the legionary Piso. The characterization is terrific. I have grown to really care for them. Well, for everyone except the idiotic tribune. He needs a smack upside his head :). I keep hoping that he'll get his just desserts every time there is a conflict.
I will certainly be reading the next.
December 26, 2019
8/10
Continúo con mi empacho de romanos,3 libro que me leo en las últimas dos semanas. Puedo decir que este segundo libro de esta saga mantiene el nivel de su predecesor, que no es poco, y de nuevo nos pondrá en la piel de los mismos protagonistas de la trama, Arminio, Tulo y Piso.
Han pasado casi 6 años desde la gran emboscada en los bosques que hizo tambalear al Imperio Romano y ahora estos claman venganza. Dirigidos por Germánico y conociendo ya que que no deben subestimar a las tribus barbaras, las legiones romanas se embarcarán en una guerra para recuperar terreno y sobre todo su orgullo.
La narración como en el anterior es ágil, hay bastante acción y los personajes, sobre todo con Tulo, es fácil de empatizar. No le veo ningún pero que achacarle, por lo que seguiré con esta saga.
Continúo con mi empacho de romanos,3 libro que me leo en las últimas dos semanas. Puedo decir que este segundo libro de esta saga mantiene el nivel de su predecesor, que no es poco, y de nuevo nos pondrá en la piel de los mismos protagonistas de la trama, Arminio, Tulo y Piso.
Han pasado casi 6 años desde la gran emboscada en los bosques que hizo tambalear al Imperio Romano y ahora estos claman venganza. Dirigidos por Germánico y conociendo ya que que no deben subestimar a las tribus barbaras, las legiones romanas se embarcarán en una guerra para recuperar terreno y sobre todo su orgullo.
La narración como en el anterior es ágil, hay bastante acción y los personajes, sobre todo con Tulo, es fácil de empatizar. No le veo ningún pero que achacarle, por lo que seguiré con esta saga.
January 17, 2018
Continuation of the story of Centurion Tullus and the other survivors of the Teutoberg Disaster. He and some of the legionaries in his original legion--the 18th--which had nearly been wiped out-- are now in the 5th Legion. Germanicus, general, a member of the imperial family, comes to take charge of several legions on the Germania frontier. He and they are bent on revenge for the Teutoberg, several years earlier. A mutiny of some soldiers is put down and ringleaders executed. There is much character development and camp life. Battles against Arminius and allies occur and are brutal. Arminius' wife is abducted by the Romans, who destroy several villages along with their inhabitants. Arminius is still at large. After victory--for now--the men proceed towards their winter camp. One eagle is found, but not that of Tullus' old legion.
I thought the scene very moving where Tullus brings Germanicus to the site of the previous battle and its description, as well as soldiers dividing up the possessions of a fallen comrade, as remembrance of him and his friendship. That same poignant incident, adapted from a World War II memoir set in Burma, has also been used in one of M.C. Scott's novels as occurring among Greek and Roman soldiers; Ms. Scott [and here, Mr. Kane] had felt soldiers of all eras have the same feelings and emotions. Realistic battle scenes seem to been Kane's strength. The writing style is more mature than his earliest books; of course, he was "dipping his toes into the water", as it were.
Highly recommended.
I thought the scene very moving where Tullus brings Germanicus to the site of the previous battle and its description, as well as soldiers dividing up the possessions of a fallen comrade, as remembrance of him and his friendship. That same poignant incident, adapted from a World War II memoir set in Burma, has also been used in one of M.C. Scott's novels as occurring among Greek and Roman soldiers; Ms. Scott [and here, Mr. Kane] had felt soldiers of all eras have the same feelings and emotions. Realistic battle scenes seem to been Kane's strength. The writing style is more mature than his earliest books; of course, he was "dipping his toes into the water", as it were.
Highly recommended.
April 14, 2016
Hunting the Eagles was just as good — if not a little better — as the first book, Eagles at War. I literally loved every single page of it, never wanted to put my Kindle down or ever get bored. Ben Kane is fast turning into one of my favorite historical fiction authors!
The first book was one of my top favorites of 2015, so I'm really thrilled to say that Hunting the Eagles wasn't a disappointment at all. If anything, I think I enjoyed it even more because I was already familiar with the characters.
I don't want to say too much about the story itself because I don't want to spoil it for other people but it takes place over five years later. Tullus and Arminius are still important characters in the story. Tullus is out for revenge on Arminius and his tribesmen. Arminius wants to crush the Romans once again.
Like in the first book it was full of action, battles and bloodshed so there's never a boring moment, not even for a second. The different points of view were all great to read, in my opinion and the writing was obviously excellent. What more can I say? I loved this book.
The first book was one of my top favorites of 2015, so I'm really thrilled to say that Hunting the Eagles wasn't a disappointment at all. If anything, I think I enjoyed it even more because I was already familiar with the characters.
I don't want to say too much about the story itself because I don't want to spoil it for other people but it takes place over five years later. Tullus and Arminius are still important characters in the story. Tullus is out for revenge on Arminius and his tribesmen. Arminius wants to crush the Romans once again.
Like in the first book it was full of action, battles and bloodshed so there's never a boring moment, not even for a second. The different points of view were all great to read, in my opinion and the writing was obviously excellent. What more can I say? I loved this book.
January 3, 2018
Utterly outstanding! Not only a fantastic follow up to Eagles of War, one of the best books of 2015 in my opinion, but also superb in its own right. Bravo!
August 2, 2020
The second book in the Eagles of the Empire series (a poor choice of names, even if it is fitting, as it’s far too easy to confuse it with Scarrow’s Eagle series) this book continues on from where the last one left off. When last we saw them, Tullus and his band had barely escaped with their lives from the massacre in the Teutoburg Forest that took out three whole legions. Well after four years of waiting things are finally stirring into motion as the vast apparatus of the Roman state prepares itself for revenge. And Tullus is at the center of it. Determined to recover the Eighteenth’s eagle, he’s enthusiastically leading his men into combat.
That makes it sound rather like a revenge story, and that’s pretty much what I was expecting: Tullus having to choose between protecting his men and recovering his eagle. Well it’s not that. Rather, this is a pretty straightforward campaign narrative. There’s surprisingly little invented here. Rather the core of the campaign is developed into a complete story. We get to see the mutiny (treated in all its horror, even if Tullus is perhaps too close to the situation to offer great insight) and the following campaign of annihilation culminating in the battle of the bridges.
While I think this is great stuff and well overdue for novelization, tying everything to real events does come at a cost: the book lacks a conventional narrative structure. Whether that bothers you will depend on whether you’re keen on that structure. Some people will undoubtedly prefer a book that’s big on recurring action scenes and light on overarching plot. And still others will recognize the absence of any real character resolution or change in situation as a common problem of the middle book in trilogies. For myself, much as I enjoyed the battle of the bridges, I felt the plot seemed less consequential than the first book. An admittedly hard act to follow.
This is the sort of campaign narrative you might have gotten from a retired centurion penning his memoirs, if such a thing had existed. It feels real and authentic. The character drama is strictly secondary to events, but the characters are pretty well fleshed out nonetheless. Battle scenes are stupendously realistic and very intense. The fog of war is strong, but even if our scope is narrow we never feel as if the conflict makes no sense. It’s merely that our characters don’t see it.
I really enjoyed the book, although it’s no major criticism to say I thought the first one was better. Tullus is still an entertaining character, as are the others, and you care enough about them to keep on. The battle scenes are great, and the level of accuracy really makes you feel that you’re witnessing that world. I appreciated that Tullus didn’t pull a Forrest Gump and appear everywhere of importance. Although he was certainly in most of the places where interesting things happened. A strong sequel, paving a clear path to the sequel.
That makes it sound rather like a revenge story, and that’s pretty much what I was expecting: Tullus having to choose between protecting his men and recovering his eagle. Well it’s not that. Rather, this is a pretty straightforward campaign narrative. There’s surprisingly little invented here. Rather the core of the campaign is developed into a complete story. We get to see the mutiny (treated in all its horror, even if Tullus is perhaps too close to the situation to offer great insight) and the following campaign of annihilation culminating in the battle of the bridges.
While I think this is great stuff and well overdue for novelization, tying everything to real events does come at a cost: the book lacks a conventional narrative structure. Whether that bothers you will depend on whether you’re keen on that structure. Some people will undoubtedly prefer a book that’s big on recurring action scenes and light on overarching plot. And still others will recognize the absence of any real character resolution or change in situation as a common problem of the middle book in trilogies. For myself, much as I enjoyed the battle of the bridges, I felt the plot seemed less consequential than the first book. An admittedly hard act to follow.
This is the sort of campaign narrative you might have gotten from a retired centurion penning his memoirs, if such a thing had existed. It feels real and authentic. The character drama is strictly secondary to events, but the characters are pretty well fleshed out nonetheless. Battle scenes are stupendously realistic and very intense. The fog of war is strong, but even if our scope is narrow we never feel as if the conflict makes no sense. It’s merely that our characters don’t see it.
I really enjoyed the book, although it’s no major criticism to say I thought the first one was better. Tullus is still an entertaining character, as are the others, and you care enough about them to keep on. The battle scenes are great, and the level of accuracy really makes you feel that you’re witnessing that world. I appreciated that Tullus didn’t pull a Forrest Gump and appear everywhere of importance. Although he was certainly in most of the places where interesting things happened. A strong sequel, paving a clear path to the sequel.
April 22, 2018
The second book of the Eagles of Rome series is as good as the first.
Less outright fighting, but more interesting in some respects, as it deals with the Rhine mutinies.
Very much looking forward to reading the third book of the trilogy.
Less outright fighting, but more interesting in some respects, as it deals with the Rhine mutinies.
Very much looking forward to reading the third book of the trilogy.
February 17, 2016
https://parmenionbooks.wordpress.com/...
Click link for full review
Review
Reading a Ben Kane book is always a different experience from all the other Roman books i normally read. There seem to be so many types and styles since Rome became the bedrock of Historical Fiction, from the cut and thrust of the bloody swords and sandals to devious machinations of roman politics and criminal nefarious enterprise and rooting it out with only the tools and minds of the time. But with Ben i always feel you get something totally different. You get undiluted history, told in such an honest personal emotive way that you cannot help but be pulled into the legion, to share the toil and travails of his characters, and hope that you survive to the end.
Click link for full review
Review
Reading a Ben Kane book is always a different experience from all the other Roman books i normally read. There seem to be so many types and styles since Rome became the bedrock of Historical Fiction, from the cut and thrust of the bloody swords and sandals to devious machinations of roman politics and criminal nefarious enterprise and rooting it out with only the tools and minds of the time. But with Ben i always feel you get something totally different. You get undiluted history, told in such an honest personal emotive way that you cannot help but be pulled into the legion, to share the toil and travails of his characters, and hope that you survive to the end.
October 11, 2016
A very competently written historic blood and guts novel. Reminded me of Bernard Cornwall with a little more historical vim and a little less drama. A pleasant way to spend three hours.
December 27, 2023
La única razón para darle 4 estrellitas en lugar de 5 a este libro, es que en ningún lugar, ni de la portada, ni de la contraportada, ni en la sinopsis, aparece que este es el segundo libro de una trilogía.
Tampoco dice nada en el prólogo ni en la introducción, ni en la solapa de enfrente. No es sino hasta la solapa de atrás (la que está al final del libro) donde nos encontramos que esta es la segunda parte (y dado que el libro viene sellado al comprarlo, pues no nos podemos enterar de esto sino hasta que abrimos el libro).
Pero pese a esto, el autor es tan bueno que no importa que empecemos por al segunda parte, ya que nos da muy buenas referencias, y pensamientos de los personajes que nos ponemos en contexto sobre lo que está pasando y lo que pasó en el libro anterior. De hacho, es gracias a esto que al ir avanzando un poco en el libro nos damos cuenta que quizá este libro es continuación de otro. Pero como digo, no afecta a la historia que estamos leyendo, pero sí se hubiera agradecido que avisaran, y así uno pudiera decidir si empezar con este libro o si mejor comprar primero el libro 1. Ya que al menos en mi caso, ya iba tan avanzado en este libro y ya la misma historia me había hecho tanto spoilers sobre el anterior que ya mejor me seguí con este sin buscar el libro 1.
Pero bueno, fuera de eso, Ben Kane vuelve a lucirse con este libro. Nos presenta un montón de situaciones novedosas que nos hacen sentir que realmente estamos en campaña con estos romanos, que estamos ahí, junto con ellos, en el campamento en tierra enemiga. El autor nos presenta al inicio de la novela un motín dentro del campamento romano, un motín que es sangriento y brutal, donde se revelan los soldados en contra de sus centuriones, oficiales y generales, algo que al menos yo, no había visto en ninguna otra novela. Después nos presenta la larga marcha que todo un ejército realiza por los bosques germanos, adentrándose en el terreno del enemigo, y nos muestra por último cruentas batallas donde los romanos en un punto parecen tener todas las de perder... Sin lugar a dudas una novela donde suceden muchas cosas y donde nos encariñamos e identificamos con los personajes.
Algo que me encanta de este autor, es que no pierde el tiempo. No pierde el tiempo ni en descripciones innecesarias ni en dar demasiado contexto. El prácticamente desde el inicio nos mete de lleno en la acción y apenas abrimos el libro ya le están sucediendo cosas a los personajes. Y pese a no perder tiempo en descripciones, las pocas que va haciendo a lo largo del relato son tan precisas y tan puntuales que de hecho todo el rato podemos imaginarnos perfectamente los escenarios, la vestimenta y el ambiente en donde se mueven nuestros personajes.
Otra cosa que me gusta es que en su libro, él no toma bandos, o procura no hacerlo. Aquí no hay ni buenos ni malos, sólo hombres con sus propias esperanzas, sueños, miedos y ambiciones. El autor va alternando con maestría entre narrarnos la historia desde el punto de vista de los romanos y el punto de vista de sus antagonistas, los germanos. Lo cual nos ayuda a ver ambos lados de una misma contienda y entender las causas y motivaciones de cada bando. Nos muestra lo malo y lo bueno de los romanos, así como lo bueno y lo malo de los bárbaros, y ya nosotros podremos decidir con quién nos identificamos más.
Un libro que recomendaría de este autor, pero si estás viendo esta reseña, sí te recomendaría empezar con el primero antes de leer este.
Tampoco dice nada en el prólogo ni en la introducción, ni en la solapa de enfrente. No es sino hasta la solapa de atrás (la que está al final del libro) donde nos encontramos que esta es la segunda parte (y dado que el libro viene sellado al comprarlo, pues no nos podemos enterar de esto sino hasta que abrimos el libro).
Pero pese a esto, el autor es tan bueno que no importa que empecemos por al segunda parte, ya que nos da muy buenas referencias, y pensamientos de los personajes que nos ponemos en contexto sobre lo que está pasando y lo que pasó en el libro anterior. De hacho, es gracias a esto que al ir avanzando un poco en el libro nos damos cuenta que quizá este libro es continuación de otro. Pero como digo, no afecta a la historia que estamos leyendo, pero sí se hubiera agradecido que avisaran, y así uno pudiera decidir si empezar con este libro o si mejor comprar primero el libro 1. Ya que al menos en mi caso, ya iba tan avanzado en este libro y ya la misma historia me había hecho tanto spoilers sobre el anterior que ya mejor me seguí con este sin buscar el libro 1.
Pero bueno, fuera de eso, Ben Kane vuelve a lucirse con este libro. Nos presenta un montón de situaciones novedosas que nos hacen sentir que realmente estamos en campaña con estos romanos, que estamos ahí, junto con ellos, en el campamento en tierra enemiga. El autor nos presenta al inicio de la novela un motín dentro del campamento romano, un motín que es sangriento y brutal, donde se revelan los soldados en contra de sus centuriones, oficiales y generales, algo que al menos yo, no había visto en ninguna otra novela. Después nos presenta la larga marcha que todo un ejército realiza por los bosques germanos, adentrándose en el terreno del enemigo, y nos muestra por último cruentas batallas donde los romanos en un punto parecen tener todas las de perder... Sin lugar a dudas una novela donde suceden muchas cosas y donde nos encariñamos e identificamos con los personajes.
Algo que me encanta de este autor, es que no pierde el tiempo. No pierde el tiempo ni en descripciones innecesarias ni en dar demasiado contexto. El prácticamente desde el inicio nos mete de lleno en la acción y apenas abrimos el libro ya le están sucediendo cosas a los personajes. Y pese a no perder tiempo en descripciones, las pocas que va haciendo a lo largo del relato son tan precisas y tan puntuales que de hecho todo el rato podemos imaginarnos perfectamente los escenarios, la vestimenta y el ambiente en donde se mueven nuestros personajes.
Otra cosa que me gusta es que en su libro, él no toma bandos, o procura no hacerlo. Aquí no hay ni buenos ni malos, sólo hombres con sus propias esperanzas, sueños, miedos y ambiciones. El autor va alternando con maestría entre narrarnos la historia desde el punto de vista de los romanos y el punto de vista de sus antagonistas, los germanos. Lo cual nos ayuda a ver ambos lados de una misma contienda y entender las causas y motivaciones de cada bando. Nos muestra lo malo y lo bueno de los romanos, así como lo bueno y lo malo de los bárbaros, y ya nosotros podremos decidir con quién nos identificamos más.
Un libro que recomendaría de este autor, pero si estás viendo esta reseña, sí te recomendaría empezar con el primero antes de leer este.
February 5, 2018
Well, reading much of the synopsis you'd be forgiven for thinking that this sounds just like a re-run of Book One. It isn't. Not really. Though there are a number of similarities. Luckily, Ben gives us the superb writing and character depth of the first book, as his similarities. The Romans, to my limited knowledge of the actual events, seem intent on making all the same similar mistakes as in book one. The reason? Well, maybe arrogance. Maybe surprise, that the proto-Germans wouldn't roll over and play dead as so many other provinces had done before them.
From what I can gather from this book and Ben's afterword (always well worth a read), this marked the high-water point of Roman expansion in the area that now is mostly Germany. The original defeat in the Teutoberg Forest, can, then, be seen as not only altering Roman history, but also European history. That's why it is an important event, and that is why if you're going to read about it, it's important you read these Ben Kane books.
So, I’m thinking the Eagles of Rome series just might be Ben Kane’s best. I haven’t read the Spartacus series, but if Ben’s star is indeed rising and he's getting better as he goes, Eagles will be the pinnacle (so far), the peak, the soaring...better than Spartacus anyway. Would have liked to see Tubero get more of what's coming, though maybe (hopefully) Ben is saving that dish to be served in book three. Though as Tubero is one of the books' many actual historical characters, that may not be possible. It'd be a pisser to have him die of old age, that's all I'm saying.
Hunting has everything Eagles at War had, great build-up if tension, excellent plot construction and earthy pathos. Mostly, for me, around how the leaders had no real idea of what was motivating the ordinary rank and file legionary. Still, that hasn't changed any in 2000 years. Hunting is far from a book two, stretching it out until the denouement of book three. Much more than a time-waster. It looks closely at the characters, their motivations and their own search for answers, clearly not being provided by their leaders.
If you only read one book about the Teutoberg Forest, read these three.
The best book blog on the net: Speesh Reads
The Facebook Page: Speesh Reads
From what I can gather from this book and Ben's afterword (always well worth a read), this marked the high-water point of Roman expansion in the area that now is mostly Germany. The original defeat in the Teutoberg Forest, can, then, be seen as not only altering Roman history, but also European history. That's why it is an important event, and that is why if you're going to read about it, it's important you read these Ben Kane books.
So, I’m thinking the Eagles of Rome series just might be Ben Kane’s best. I haven’t read the Spartacus series, but if Ben’s star is indeed rising and he's getting better as he goes, Eagles will be the pinnacle (so far), the peak, the soaring...better than Spartacus anyway. Would have liked to see Tubero get more of what's coming, though maybe (hopefully) Ben is saving that dish to be served in book three. Though as Tubero is one of the books' many actual historical characters, that may not be possible. It'd be a pisser to have him die of old age, that's all I'm saying.
Hunting has everything Eagles at War had, great build-up if tension, excellent plot construction and earthy pathos. Mostly, for me, around how the leaders had no real idea of what was motivating the ordinary rank and file legionary. Still, that hasn't changed any in 2000 years. Hunting is far from a book two, stretching it out until the denouement of book three. Much more than a time-waster. It looks closely at the characters, their motivations and their own search for answers, clearly not being provided by their leaders.
If you only read one book about the Teutoberg Forest, read these three.
The best book blog on the net: Speesh Reads
The Facebook Page: Speesh Reads
October 27, 2021
Una mierda, que decir jajajajaja estuve meses tratando de terminarlo por que la mierda de historia era tan aburrida que no llegaba a nada, páginas y páginas de NADA. No lo recomiendo por nada del mundo. Ósea si queres leer 498 páginas de historias que no llegan a ningún lugar,personajes aburridos y un final abierto de mierda, lee la biblia, la vas a pasar mejor.
April 23, 2016
Excellent second edition to a The Eagles Trilogy, you really can feel the tension in the battle scenes, it's is if you where actually there.
Bring on the third book and hopefully Tullus regaining his lost eagle and well done Mr Kane on bringing us another fine tale.
Bring on the third book and hopefully Tullus regaining his lost eagle and well done Mr Kane on bringing us another fine tale.
April 9, 2019
Muy buen libro, súper enganchado con los personajes y la narrativa muy dinámica. Excelente segunda parte. Suspenso en todos los capítulos que no te provoca soltar el libro. Recomendado y feliz de volver a leer a Ben Kane.
May 8, 2016
4.7 stars
Probably the best Kane's book so far, staying far from the YA feel of some of the earlier books.
Probably the best Kane's book so far, staying far from the YA feel of some of the earlier books.
April 10, 2023
Schitterende beschrijving van deze veldslagen. Meeslepend en je voelt je op het slagveld en in de kampen.
September 2, 2023
Segunda parte de la trilogía de las Águilas, sobre la batalla de Teutoburgo, supera la primera parte (Águilas en Guerra), por un lado por la vinculación emocional con los protagonistas (Tulo, Piso, Vitelio,...) y, por otro, porque se centra en el día a día de la campaña militar.
Como novedades respecto a otras novelas históricas de la Roma Antigua, cabe destacar que recrea muy bien la penosa vida del legionario y la perspectiva de avanzar y ser atacado (o huir) dentro de un inmenso ejército de decenas de miles de soldados, con su caos, desinformación,... y donde la familia son los ocho compañeros de tienda, con quienes atravesarías el infierno si hiciera falta (de hecho lo hacen).
Muy buena novela bélica, con episodios de evidente violencia explícita, que no deja de ser reflejo de la realidad de la época.
Deseando proseguir con el tercero.
Como novedades respecto a otras novelas históricas de la Roma Antigua, cabe destacar que recrea muy bien la penosa vida del legionario y la perspectiva de avanzar y ser atacado (o huir) dentro de un inmenso ejército de decenas de miles de soldados, con su caos, desinformación,... y donde la familia son los ocho compañeros de tienda, con quienes atravesarías el infierno si hiciera falta (de hecho lo hacen).
Muy buena novela bélica, con episodios de evidente violencia explícita, que no deja de ser reflejo de la realidad de la época.
Deseando proseguir con el tercero.
September 3, 2021
DNF @78%
I put this down and can't be stuffed to pick it back up. How I got all the way to 78% I do not know. I repeatedly considered giving up but kept trying until now, just nah.
This a decent enough Roman historical fiction taking place in present day Germany. Unlike it's predecessor, there's really no action here. Plenty of showing us how morally upright Roman soldiers can be, feeling sick to their stomachs when they killed innocent villagers, but really? It was spread on so thick as to defy belief. Lots of marching, fighting, accomplishing little and on and on.
I think this might be my last attempt at this author. Too inconsistent.
I put this down and can't be stuffed to pick it back up. How I got all the way to 78% I do not know. I repeatedly considered giving up but kept trying until now, just nah.
This a decent enough Roman historical fiction taking place in present day Germany. Unlike it's predecessor, there's really no action here. Plenty of showing us how morally upright Roman soldiers can be, feeling sick to their stomachs when they killed innocent villagers, but really? It was spread on so thick as to defy belief. Lots of marching, fighting, accomplishing little and on and on.
I think this might be my last attempt at this author. Too inconsistent.
January 11, 2019
Really great sequel to Eagles at War. Centurion Tullus clearly dealing with some PTSD from the slaughter in the teutoburg forest was a good touch as well as the usual realistic battles and dialogue. I shall be reading the next one for sure.
January 28, 2020
It's ok, but it's more of the same. That's a bit unfair. It is a well researched, readable account of Roman soldiers during the mutiny on the death of Augustus followed by Germanicus Caesar's first attempts to regain the Eagles of the three legions lost at the Teutoburg Forest.
April 29, 2020
I devour all these Roman history stories and this is another good one.
January 19, 2022
Incredibly entertaining story with sentiments of revenge. The first one I liked quite a bit. This one I loved.
December 22, 2022
Molto e ben scritto. L’autore ha mixato assai bene gli eventi storici con elementi di finzione. Risultato: un libro gradevole senza pecche di trama e che si fa leggere.
December 26, 2016
It’s been a year or two since I last journeyed with Tullus and his companions in Eagles At War. And in some way, I feel that has improved my approach to the book rather than having launched into it on its release, because as this story opens 5 years have passed since the dreadful massacre in the Teutoborg forest where 3 legions were obliterated, a few straggling survivors limping back beaten and dejected to Roman lands.
Tullus is determined to revenge himself in Arminius and the Germans who destroyed his legion and handed the survivors dishonour by taking their eagle. Back in Rome where the new emperor Tiberius is being hailed, Tullus learns that the nobke general Germanicus is planning a campaign to chastise the Germans and recover the eagles. Sidestepping the rules, he signs on with this new army and makes his way back to Germania to have his revenge.
But Arminius has not been idle, and is stirring up trouble again, and so the two peoples – age old enemies – are lining up for a set-to of immense proportions. In this novel we are treated to our familiar heroes of both sides from book 1 facing endless trouble (rebellious legions, uncooperative tribes, burned-earth tactics, immense brutality and more.) Oh and my favourite scene rescuing endangered Germanic family members before Germanicus’ army rolls over them.
As always with Kane’s books, the characters are well-drawn, the scene perfectly set, the descriptive deep and powerful, the plot pacy and strong, the writing effusive and consuming. But the thing at which Kane excels for me, and which makes his books some of the darker and more powerful in the genre, is the level of reality the reader is made to feel. Every scene is so intricately woven with the yarns of human fact, deep emotion, historical detail and raw strength that Kane’s books can leave you needing to rest and recover before pressing on. His is a rare talent in provoking such a response, and it can often feel that you are experiencing the story far more than any other way other than actually being there.
Hunting the Eagles is one of Kane’s finest tales and builds on the first in the series, covering slightly less familiar events than that first military disaster. I shall be fascinated to see what he does with the last book of the trilogy.
Buy it. Read it. Experience it.
Tullus is determined to revenge himself in Arminius and the Germans who destroyed his legion and handed the survivors dishonour by taking their eagle. Back in Rome where the new emperor Tiberius is being hailed, Tullus learns that the nobke general Germanicus is planning a campaign to chastise the Germans and recover the eagles. Sidestepping the rules, he signs on with this new army and makes his way back to Germania to have his revenge.
But Arminius has not been idle, and is stirring up trouble again, and so the two peoples – age old enemies – are lining up for a set-to of immense proportions. In this novel we are treated to our familiar heroes of both sides from book 1 facing endless trouble (rebellious legions, uncooperative tribes, burned-earth tactics, immense brutality and more.) Oh and my favourite scene rescuing endangered Germanic family members before Germanicus’ army rolls over them.
As always with Kane’s books, the characters are well-drawn, the scene perfectly set, the descriptive deep and powerful, the plot pacy and strong, the writing effusive and consuming. But the thing at which Kane excels for me, and which makes his books some of the darker and more powerful in the genre, is the level of reality the reader is made to feel. Every scene is so intricately woven with the yarns of human fact, deep emotion, historical detail and raw strength that Kane’s books can leave you needing to rest and recover before pressing on. His is a rare talent in provoking such a response, and it can often feel that you are experiencing the story far more than any other way other than actually being there.
Hunting the Eagles is one of Kane’s finest tales and builds on the first in the series, covering slightly less familiar events than that first military disaster. I shall be fascinated to see what he does with the last book of the trilogy.
Buy it. Read it. Experience it.
December 29, 2018
This very adventurous and exciting book is the 2nd volume of the "Eagles of Rome" trilogy.
The historical details concerning this great story has been once again extremely well researched and documented in the author's note, and the book also contains a wonderfully explained glossary.
Storytelling is as ever of a top-notch quality, because once again the author has kept me captivated and spellbound from start to finish with this wonderful and very impressive read.
All the characters within this gripping tale come really vividly to life, whether they are real historical people or fictional ones, and the book has real lifelike interactions between the characters involved.
This tale is set during the years AD 14-15, so five years after the opener, and it starts first with an exciting and informative prologue in the year AD 12, and the tale itself starts just before the unexpected death of the Emperor Augustus.
At the German frontier the Roman legions, within their midst our main character of the book Centurion Lucius Cominius Tullus and which are led by the famous General Germanicus, will do anything in trying to retrieve the lost Eagle standards and at the same time track down and kill Arminius, the traitorous German chieftain, and so restoring their pride and glory.
What follows is a very gripping and thrilling read with great outlined battle scenes, and a lot of suspense about whether Lucius Tullus and his fellow Roman soldiers will succeed in their quest in "Hunting the Eagles", and thus hopefully retrieve them once and for all.
Highly recommended, for this is a tremendous tale about Roman history in Germania, and that's why I want to call this book "Another Epic Eagles"!
The historical details concerning this great story has been once again extremely well researched and documented in the author's note, and the book also contains a wonderfully explained glossary.
Storytelling is as ever of a top-notch quality, because once again the author has kept me captivated and spellbound from start to finish with this wonderful and very impressive read.
All the characters within this gripping tale come really vividly to life, whether they are real historical people or fictional ones, and the book has real lifelike interactions between the characters involved.
This tale is set during the years AD 14-15, so five years after the opener, and it starts first with an exciting and informative prologue in the year AD 12, and the tale itself starts just before the unexpected death of the Emperor Augustus.
At the German frontier the Roman legions, within their midst our main character of the book Centurion Lucius Cominius Tullus and which are led by the famous General Germanicus, will do anything in trying to retrieve the lost Eagle standards and at the same time track down and kill Arminius, the traitorous German chieftain, and so restoring their pride and glory.
What follows is a very gripping and thrilling read with great outlined battle scenes, and a lot of suspense about whether Lucius Tullus and his fellow Roman soldiers will succeed in their quest in "Hunting the Eagles", and thus hopefully retrieve them once and for all.
Highly recommended, for this is a tremendous tale about Roman history in Germania, and that's why I want to call this book "Another Epic Eagles"!
June 11, 2016
An author growing in (deserved) stature and confidence. This is the follow up to “Eagles at War” where a trusted ally walked three Roman legions into a trap and decimated them. We saw this through the eyes and actions of a centurion, Lucius Tullus who escaped with a small number of his men.
This is set six years later and the few survivors are still suffering the disgrace of the defeat and Rome has decided it is time for revenge and, with luck, recover the lost legion standards (Eagles). But these are troubled times for Rome as the Empires start to crumble lacking its previous power, influence and gold. So we have soldiers who haven’t been paid, haven’t been allowed to leave with pensions and carry considerable resentment into their treatment.
So no story of brave Roman legions going toe to toe with hairy barbarians, this is a bunch of soldiers on the verge of mutiny and this might be enough to lead Rome into another terrible defeat.
This is great stuff and works on every level. The story is exciting, the period of history fascinating and the writing is superb. Ben Kane has given real characterisation to Tullus and his troops and their attitude and interaction bring everything else to life.
Exceptional stuff.
This is set six years later and the few survivors are still suffering the disgrace of the defeat and Rome has decided it is time for revenge and, with luck, recover the lost legion standards (Eagles). But these are troubled times for Rome as the Empires start to crumble lacking its previous power, influence and gold. So we have soldiers who haven’t been paid, haven’t been allowed to leave with pensions and carry considerable resentment into their treatment.
So no story of brave Roman legions going toe to toe with hairy barbarians, this is a bunch of soldiers on the verge of mutiny and this might be enough to lead Rome into another terrible defeat.
This is great stuff and works on every level. The story is exciting, the period of history fascinating and the writing is superb. Ben Kane has given real characterisation to Tullus and his troops and their attitude and interaction bring everything else to life.
Exceptional stuff.
January 21, 2017
Ben Kane writes another Roman thriller. It carries forward the story of Centurian Tullus, demoted after the defeat in the Teutoburg Forest where 15000 soldiers of three legions were massacred in an ambush by the German Chieftain Arminius. The Eagle of Tullus' Legion was taken. Despite six long years Tullus still thirsts for revenge and a burning desire to recover the Eagle. Under Germanicus the Legions begin their operation to avenge the defeat. Tullus is promoted to his old position of leading a cohort. Meanwhile Arminius still struggles to get the tribes united against Rome. In the ongoing struggle, Thusnelda, Arminius' wife gets captured and sent to Rome. This motivates Arminius further and as the Legions advance he plans his vengeance. The Author brings out the details of the advance and its impact on the common soldier. Tullus' leadership again stands out, especially when a reluctant Arminius launches his attack. The bloody fight shows the Author at his best. He brings out the impact of battle on the common soldier as well as the leadership of Tullus. The clash of arms is perhaps the best part of the book. Otherwise one noticed a slight aimlessness in the trajectory of the novel. The book is worth reading regardless.
June 25, 2017
This is the second book in Kane's Eagles trilogy and is far superior in my opinion to the first book (see my review). I found Eagles at War to be slow to start and a bit pedestrian but the protracted battle scenes at the end were extremely well done and enjoyable.
By comparison, Hunting the Eagles, which picks up some 5 years after the massacre of Varus' legions in the German forest, is more fast paced with more action - not just battle scenes but stuff moving the story forward. I also think that more time was spent developing the characters, particularly the second string characters and as a result I really grew to care for some of them, a necessary ingredient in my opinion to make a book enjoyable.
A really enjoyable read and I can't wait to start reading book 3 tonight.
By comparison, Hunting the Eagles, which picks up some 5 years after the massacre of Varus' legions in the German forest, is more fast paced with more action - not just battle scenes but stuff moving the story forward. I also think that more time was spent developing the characters, particularly the second string characters and as a result I really grew to care for some of them, a necessary ingredient in my opinion to make a book enjoyable.
A really enjoyable read and I can't wait to start reading book 3 tonight.
March 27, 2016
Brilliant
Another fantastic novel by Ben Kane. I read it in one sitting, as I did with the first Eagles of Rome book. Ben's writing style is such that it enables an unimaginative reader like myself, to feel like I was there in the thick of the action fighting next to Tullus and his 'brothers'. Keep up the good work. Can't wait to read the final book of the trilogy.
Another fantastic novel by Ben Kane. I read it in one sitting, as I did with the first Eagles of Rome book. Ben's writing style is such that it enables an unimaginative reader like myself, to feel like I was there in the thick of the action fighting next to Tullus and his 'brothers'. Keep up the good work. Can't wait to read the final book of the trilogy.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 154 reviews