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The Eagle's Conquest (Eagle #2)

4.11 of 5 stars 4.11 · rating details · 1,454 ratings · 57 reviews

When Centurion Macro and his young subordinate, Optio Cato arrive on the shores of Britain to take part in the Emperor Claudius' invasion in AD 43, Macro knows the desperately outnumbered Roman army will be facing one of the toughest campaigns ever. Meanwhile, a sinister organization is secretly betraying the brave men of the legions. When assassination rumors coincide wit...more

Paperback, 320 pages

Published January 16th 2004 by St. Martin's Griffin (first published 2001)

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The First Man in Rome by Colleen McCullough

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Jan 11, 2013 Colin rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: fiction

This book is great. It clearly does lack the pondering depth of certain other authors (such as Steven Saylor) but if you're in the mood for a fun romp, look no further. This series in general is one I'd equate to Hollywood action films; very easy to digest, lots of action, punchy, lively, succinct with a tight overall structure, whilst also scraping by on enough historical depth to remain interesting and immersive. It never questions things too deeply and the result it a fun slice of fiction.

The...more

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May 07, 2012 Robin Carter rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: historical-fiction

This was even better than Simon Scarrow's first book - and that's some achievement!
This time around Cato and Macro are ranged against the Britons, desperately defending their homeland in a series of pitched battles. The battle scenes are something else and carry the reader right into the heart of the bloody conflict so that somehow the author manages to make you see, hear, smell and feel the terrified combatants.

The characters are wonderful creations and smack of real living and breathing people...more

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Jul 16, 2011 Mike rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

After bad mouthing the first book in the series, it takes chutzpah to say that I am now reading the second in the "Eagle" series.

I was looking for an easy simple read and I could not find anything else that fitted the bill. These books are written, I think, as adventure stories for school boys or teenagers. If you keep that in mind, they may appeal when you are in the mood for escapist fiction with a little bit of history thrown in.

It gives me pleasure to say that, so far, this is a better book...more

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Nov 12, 2012 Ben Mcbride rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: historical-fiction

The Eagles Conquest is the second book in Simon Scarrows series following Macro the centurion and Cato his optio. I read this book straight after the first (Under the Eagle) and have the whole series waiting to be read on my bookshelf. I can assure you that they will be read soon.

I am a young man myself with an interest in all things academic much like Cato and I find if I was thrown into the Roman legions away from a life of study and security my reaction would be the same. Cato struggles to g...more The Eagles Conquest is the second book in Simon Scarrows series following Macro the centurion and Cato his optio. I read this book straight after the first (Under the Eagle) and have the whole series waiting to be read on my bookshelf. I can assure you that they will be read soon.

I am a young man myself with an interest in all things academic much like Cato and I find if I was thrown into the Roman legions away from a life of study and security my reaction would be the same. Cato struggles to get along with his comrades as they are from different worlds to him and as such have vastly contrasting views on most matters. If it were not for the lovable rough role-model Macro Cato may well be dead the characters bounce off one another very well, bringing out the best in both of them.

The other main character, although maybe not as much as Macro and especially Cato, is Vespasian. He is forever fretting, whether about his wife and a connection to the anarchists in Rome or how his career is moving along and finally how to deal with the sneaky tribune Vitellius.

Vitellius is the bad guy in this series he is a sneaky tribune who will stop at nothing to satisfy his high ambitions. He will kill, steal and manipulate and it seems to Cato that he is the only one to see through the tribunes agenda.

The reason why the rating is only a 4 star and not a 5 is the lack of originality throughout the books. Obviously when writing about history it is hard to change the past and give a sense of uniqueness, but this is not what worries me it is the structure of the books. There is a 'bad guy' who the protagonist always catches, only to be quelled at the last minute, giving a feeling of injustice. This structure is very stereotypical of most fiction books and what the character Vespasian brings to the books is a breakaway from this, as well as a look into the pressure of Roman politics, deciding on where the line lies between family and ambition.

All in all Simon Scarrows novels give a very rich and imaginitive insight into many walks of Roman life. From the basic legionnaire to even the emperor himself! This broad outlook does not lack on historical detail as the author explains at the back of each book.

The book is fast paced and full of excitement, yet sometimes this does lack authenticity as lots of events fall into place for very little reasoning, though again sometimes this needs to happen when writing with a historical background.(less)

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Aug 18, 2012 MG Mason rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

So continues the exploits of Cato, Optio of the sixth century of Legio II Augusta in the attempts to conquer the Britons and battle for acceptance in the legions who looked unkindly on the unusual method by which he became their superior officer.

This second novel follows immediately on from the first "Under the Eagle" and we are thrown into the middle of the war against Caratacus and the Catuvellauni tribe. Along for the ride are a few familiar faces: Macro the Centurion, Vespasian the Legate, V...more So continues the exploits of Cato, Optio of the sixth century of Legio II Augusta in the attempts to conquer the Britons and battle for acceptance in the legions who looked unkindly on the unusual method by which he became their superior officer.

This second novel follows immediately on from the first "Under the Eagle" and we are thrown into the middle of the war against Caratacus and the Catuvellauni tribe. Along for the ride are a few familiar faces: Macro the Centurion, Vespasian the Legate, Vitellius the Tribune (both future Emperors) and a few other incidental characters from the first.

Fans of the first novel will slot in quite nicely without feeling too disjointed as we are reminded quickly and efficiently the events and people of the first. The writing style is very reminiscent of Bernard Cornwell and fans of his work would easily settle into this series.

First the good points. This novel has flow that is as good as the first. Cato is coming into his own as he copes with growing up in the legion in the middle of a campaign. His relationship with Macro is also coming along quite nicely. It also deals with the issue of the conquest of the Britons in light but effective detail. The plot flows well and is an easy read.

But there are drawbacks. The characters are pretty one dimensional with not much scope for development beyond the stereotypes to which they subscribe. Emperor Claudius is portrayed as an inept buffoon, a caricature obviously being made to contrast with the shrewdness and justness of Vespasian who is portrayed as wholly noble and all round perfect command of Legio II Augusta. There is no real depth to the plot and even the element of the mystery of a plan to assassinate Claudius is quite superficial. The mechanics of battle lack any real depth or focus on strategy and in that it comes off as the poor cousin to another series I have been reading recently (Warrior of Rome by Harry Sidebottom).

Overall it is a good read and well written but it is best not to expect anything too heavy. I will continue reading the series but in the hope that some depth is added in subsequent novels.

See more book reviews at my blog (less)

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Jun 22, 2011 Alex rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

The second of Simon Scarrow's 'Eagle' series picks up straight from where the first book left off and continues at a great pace.

The main battle is described in loving detail and you really feel part of it as the Romans are getting battered by the British tribes.

But once again the political conspiracy lets the story down and is easily the weakest aspect of Scarrow's writing.

I will continue with this series because I like the characters but I sincerely hope Scarrow improves the political side of t...more

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Jan 25, 2012 Patrícia rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: historical-romance, foreign-literature, sagas, leituras-2012

O Império Romano tem dado azo ao longo dos séculos a grandes obras, com histórias e personagens inesquecíveis, umas vezes, outras nem por isso, mas não deixa de ser um tema que nunca passa de moda e que tem legiões de fãs por todo o mundo. Nos últimos anos têm proliferado autores que têm ganho notoriedade utilizando esta civilização como mote, directa ou indirectamente, como é o caso de Simon Scarrow e a sua Série da Águia, baseada na vida dos exércitos romanos, que tem conseguido os maiores elo...more O Império Romano tem dado azo ao longo dos séculos a grandes obras, com histórias e personagens inesquecíveis, umas vezes, outras nem por isso, mas não deixa de ser um tema que nunca passa de moda e que tem legiões de fãs por todo o mundo. Nos últimos anos têm proliferado autores que têm ganho notoriedade utilizando esta civilização como mote, directa ou indirectamente, como é o caso de Simon Scarrow e a sua Série da Águia, baseada na vida dos exércitos romanos, que tem conseguido os maiores elogios e conquistado todos aqueles que ainda hoje se fascinam por aquele que é considerado o maior Império que alguma vez houve e que muitos têm tentado imitar ao longo da História.
A minha experiência com este autor já tem alguns anos e não me deixou recordações. Talvez por ter lido o primeiro livro desta série numa idade em que este tipo de leitura não me puxava, talvez porque estava a espera de outra coisa, os anos foram passando e o livro esquecido. A oportunidade para voltar a ler esta série surgiu quando este livro veio como oferta nas minhas compras na banca da SdE na Feira do Livro. Talvez pela memória desse tal livro que há muito me passou pelas mãos, O Voo da Águia esteve até a uma semana a espera que eu lhe pegasse.
E querem saber? Mesmo estando a uma semana a estudar sobre gregos e romanos, isto tornou-se uma leitura completamente inesperada! Quando o comecei a ler, só conseguia pensar «Mas como é que eu não gostei disto?!». Não sei mas ainda bem que o acaso fez com que este livro me chegasse às mãos. Este livro é um vício, cuidadosamente trabalhado por alguém que conhece o “material” com que decidiu trabalhar, e é feito para aqueles que realmente adoram a história de Roma, principalmente este período, que por acaso é o meu preferido.
Bernard Cornwell, senhor que ando para ler, diz que «não precisava de concorrência desta», bem, ele podia não precisar mas nós leitores merecemos ler livros destes! Scarrow aproveitou o que de melhor Roma tinha: as campanhas, as intrigas, a política, os valores, a corrupção e a honra que andavam de mãos dadas. Brilhante, brilhante, brilhante! Apesar de saber o que iria acontecer a seguir e conhecer muitos destes nomes (ainda de mim senão soubesse!), o escritor conseguiu surpreender-me da primeira à última página e dar-me uma nova visão de um mundo já tão falado.
E tanto empolgamento não seria possível sem Macro e Cato. A forma como Scarrow junta duas personalidades tão díspares e tão sinónimas dos sentimentos vividos pelos dois lados daqueles que faziam parte do Império, foi um golpe de génio, que só por si, já vale a pena ler esta série. Depois temos as “verdadeiras” personagens como Cláudio, Vespasiano, e outros, que me deixaram mais que satisfeita. Por falar nisso, adorei a caracterização do Cláudio, era mesmo assim que eu o imaginava!
Depois temos toda a construção e caracterização das batalhas, dos banquetes, os pequenos pormenores que nos deixam de batimento cardíaco alterado e que justificam todos os elogios recebidos por esta obra. É para seguir, até porque em termos históricos eu já sei onde isto vai dar, e tenho a sensação que isto melhora!

http://girlinchaiselongue.blogspot.co...
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Jan 16, 2011 Ed rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition Recommends it for: Historical Fiction and Roman History Fans

Shelves: historical-fiction, reviewed

This is the second book in the Roman history series featuring Centurion Macro and his subordinate Optio Cato. In this volume, the invasion of Britain, begun the year before is moving forward as the Roman Legions try to capture the major trading center and capitol of the Catuvellauni, Camulodunum, from the Britons and their leader Caratacus. The Romans are outnumbered but confident. Things become complicated when the Emperor, Claudius, decides to be there for the final battle while an assassinati...more

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Mar 19, 2010 Nate rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

After finishing Under the Eagle: A Tale of Military Adventure and Reckless Heroism with the Roman Legions I decided to pick up The Eagle's Conquest. The Eagle's Conquest continues where Under the Eagle left off the initial invasion of Briton), with Rome and our friends Marco and Cato attempting to finish the invasion they started. Our friends Macro and Cato (and the 2nd Legion) are still our focus. For much of the story Cato seem taken to brooding over things and the communications between him a...more

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Sep 27, 2009 Diane rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

I'm fast becoming addicted to this series and am gratified to realise that I'm actually reading them in order... that's a shock for a start. The Roman Army depicted is much closer to that experienced by Titus Pullo (from the mini series ROME) than that of The General Maximus Decimus Meridius, and all the more readable for it. Macro and Cato are a fascination and at times humourous combination. It's going to be interesting so see how the sensitive Cato grows up under the wing of the rough and rea...more

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Nov 03, 2012 Joel Judge rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

I'm really enjoying this series. Book II, The Eagle's Conquest, finds Cato and Macro in the thick of it yet again. Cato, still young, inexperienced and naive must show his mettle in the heat of battle, for he must prove to his men that he can lead by example and display courage where fear threatens to overwhelm. Off the battlefield, things are no easier for our impressionable hero and Cato's unrequited love is destined to teach him a painful but invaluable lesson. If personal trials and tribulat...more

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Sep 04, 2011 Marcus rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Packed with action and written in very accessible style, it will be an anjoyable quick read for anyone interested in this sort of book. I must however remark that characters of Mr. Scarrow do have one potentially fatal flaw - compared with creations of Davis or Cornwell, they simply fail to give the impression of being from that time period. And that kind of spoils the fun.

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Aug 26, 2011 David Campton rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: historical-fiction

The second of Scarrow's Roman saga... a sort of Sharp in sandals... It is perfect leisure reading for the ancient history buff... Strategy, tactics, conspiracy, a wee bit of sex and lots of violence... with a thoroughly despicable villain lurking in the background throughout... When will he get his come-uppance... will have to read the next one, or two to find out...

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Apr 30, 2012 Ron rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: war, historical-fiction

The continuing adventures of Marco and Cato with the 2nd Legion under Vespasian in the invasion of Britannia. I had this series on my to-read-list but listening to The British History Podcast raised my interest. Jamie from BHP and Scarrow presented similar stances on how the battles occurred. I will have to read the next volume to see how Marco and Cato fare.

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Mar 26, 2012 Evan Macbeth rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Not quite as good as the first one, but still a fun read. The author really takes a dim view of Claudius in the book, which I guess makes for a better story in terms of contrasting villains with heroes. I think I prefer the Claudius from "I Claudius" though.

Excellent development of Cato, the main character in this one.

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Oct 12, 2010 Allancarlson added it · review of another edition

This book finally pushed the boundaries of character behaviour and was less predictable than previous novles. This series will likely never mature or break the bonds of its formula, but its a good, consistent read and entertaining in its own way.

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Feb 04, 2013 Fernando Delfim rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

“Quantos herois desconhecidos andavam por aí à procura da morte enquanto políticos inúteis e funcionários imperiais usurpavam os louros?”

Bom romance histórico passado na conquista da Bretanha por Roma. Dá uma ideia da organização das legiões Romanas, da vida dos legionários, das terríveis batalhas que travavam e das intrigas políticas que assolavam Roma.

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May 05, 2010 Mohammed rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: historical-fiction

Good,fun historical story.

I dont read this series because its about Romans,their famous Empire. I like the fact it tells a good story from the point of view of regular soldiers,people that in real history died to create the big Empires of history.

Scarrow's writing add good historical realism to the story.

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Oct 18, 2012 Jane rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Thoroughly enjoyed the second instalment of roman ingenuity and violence. Great work dealing with the invasion of my homeland. The characters are genuine and well fleshed out. Guerrilla warfare at its best.

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Sep 24, 2012 Kelli Robinson rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

A second amazing read by Simon Scarrow. Following directly from the previous book, this continues the story of Centurion Macro and Optio Cato in the fight to take Camulodunum from the savage british.

With many twists and sudden turns, you never know where the book and story will lead you next.

Gripping!

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Jul 27, 2011 Ubalstecha rated it 4 of 5 stars

Excellent historical fiction that is gritty, realistic and engaging. Cato's development as an optio as his legion helps with the invasion of Britain continues to be believable and fun.

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Sep 11, 2010 Bee rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition Recommends it for: History lovers

Shelves: favourites, historical-fantasy

I just love this series and the author. Excellently written and developed. The history is well researched and accurate. The story itself is attention-grabbing from the first to the last page.

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Sep 30, 2012 Graham rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: 2012-reading-challenge

wow
what fun. I think that this earlier book is better than the 'centurion' book. Battles, intrigue, believable characters; pleased I found this in the school library!

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Sep 12, 2012 Ian rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

The first year of the campaign in Britain. Claudius is portrayed as a dunce, with Narcisuss as the power behind the throne. Vitellius comes across as a complete skunk.

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Oct 28, 2011 Cal rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

I found this volume a little predictable. The narrative
is compelling but the results are a foregone conclusion.
Not a waste of time but not something I would re-read.

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Jun 10, 2011 gargamelscat rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: 2011, novels, ebook

This review has been hidden because it contains spoilers. To view it, click here.

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Feb 14, 2011 Mike rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: general, ebook

A very solid novel set during the Second Invasion of Britain, full of military heroics and dastardly plots. I enjoyed it, even if it didn't blow me away.

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Sep 21, 2010 Andrew added it · review of another edition

Follows on from the first book. plenty of set piece battles and political intrigue. Fun easy to read book with a well researched historical background.

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Apr 10, 2012 adam-p-reviews rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: historical-fiction

Check out my review of this brilliant book at http://adam-p-reviews.blogspot.co.uk/...

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Nov 09, 2010 Richard Jacoby rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Scarrow is not quite another Bernard Cornwell yet, but he is improving. I was not wild about the first book in this series, "Under the Eagle," but it was worth it knowing that an exciting new series was underway that I was interested in.

I'm not sure how the author overcomes this, but dialogue is a problem. The characters talk like British soccer fans. This may be Scarrow's way to make the characters seem real. It just takes away from what is a great unfolding story.

This is not Richard Sharpe as...more

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About Simon Scarrow

Simon Scarrow is a UK-based author, born in Nigeria, and now living in Norfolk. He completed a master's degree at the University of East Anglia, and, after working at the Inland Revenue, went into teaching as a lecturer at City College, Norwich.

He is best known for his "Eagle" series. This is Roman empire military fiction, starting with the second invasion of Britain, and continuing with subsequen...more

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