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Eagles of the Empire #24
Tyrant of Rome
THE EPIC NEW EAGLES OF THE EMPIRE NOVEL FROM BESTSELLING AUTHOR SIMON SCARROW
Roman army heroes Cato and Macro are dispatched to one of the most dangerous regions of the first-century Roman Empire, where they face a brutal fight for survival. The gripping new adventure in the bestselling Eagles of the Empire series.
IF YOU DON'T KNOW SIMON SCARROW, YOU DON'T KNOW ROME!
Praise for the Eagles of the Empire
'Scarrow's novels rank with the best' INDEPENDENT
'Always a joy' THE TIMES
'Gripping' SUNDAY EXPRESS
416 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 6, 2025
145 people are currently reading
266 people want to read
About the author
Simon Scarrow
171 books2,169 followersSimon 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 subsequent adventures in every corner of the empire. The stories are told through the eyes of two centurions, Macro and Cato. To date there are eighteen books in the series.
Scarrow has also written a series of four novels on the Napoleonic wars, focusing on the lives of Wellington and Napoleon.
He is best known for his "Eagle" series. This is Roman empire military fiction, starting with the second invasion of Britain, and continuing with subsequent adventures in every corner of the empire. The stories are told through the eyes of two centurions, Macro and Cato. To date there are eighteen books in the series.
Scarrow has also written a series of four novels on the Napoleonic wars, focusing on the lives of Wellington and Napoleon.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
January 7, 2026
Me gusta que esta entrega modifique (un poco) la fórmula para dar más peso a la política romana y a las intrigas de la corte de Nerón (se empieza a otear el Año de los Cuatro Emperadores) por lo demás, está bien. Estos libros no me sorprenden, pero me dan lo que quiero.
January 3, 2026
I mean, look - I read the previous book in the ‘Eagles of the Empire’ series as my last book of 2024, I read this one as my first of 2026, and there’s nothing Simon Scarrow can do to stop me asking for the next installment for Christmas 2027. And if you’re also 24 books deep in the series, there’s not much point in you reading these reviews either. But - and with the healthy caveat that, after this long, I can barely remember some of the earlier entries in the series - this is the best one I can remember for a while.
Sure, Scarrow is running out of runway to do much that’s particularly novel - and this book follows all the classic tropes. By now, we know Cato and Macro are going to survive every crisis Rome throws at them; we know Macro is going to find yet another spurious excuse to ignore his retirement; we even know which supporting characters we’re going to come across. But ‘Tyrant of Rome’ not only advances the macronarrative in terms of bringing us closer to the Year of the Four Emperors (which I always prefer compared to, for example, the rinse-and-repeat installments dealing with episodic and disconnected forays to Rome’s frontiers) - it also introduces a darker and more nuanced story than seen previously. ‘Tyrant of Rome’ will have you question some much loved characters from previous books, as the scales fall from your eyes as well as Cato’s - all whilst you spend much of this book hoping, for the first time, that Cato and Macro do not succeed in their mission. For that reason, ‘Tyrant of Rome’ is to be commended.
See you next year.
Sure, Scarrow is running out of runway to do much that’s particularly novel - and this book follows all the classic tropes. By now, we know Cato and Macro are going to survive every crisis Rome throws at them; we know Macro is going to find yet another spurious excuse to ignore his retirement; we even know which supporting characters we’re going to come across. But ‘Tyrant of Rome’ not only advances the macronarrative in terms of bringing us closer to the Year of the Four Emperors (which I always prefer compared to, for example, the rinse-and-repeat installments dealing with episodic and disconnected forays to Rome’s frontiers) - it also introduces a darker and more nuanced story than seen previously. ‘Tyrant of Rome’ will have you question some much loved characters from previous books, as the scales fall from your eyes as well as Cato’s - all whilst you spend much of this book hoping, for the first time, that Cato and Macro do not succeed in their mission. For that reason, ‘Tyrant of Rome’ is to be commended.
See you next year.
November 29, 2025
This is Number 24 in Simon Scarrow's continuing adventures of the Roman soldiers Cato and Macro, both of whom are getting a little long in the tooth and have outlived the average Roman, but they keep on going. This time around, they're not out in the field battling the bad guys, but battling the bad guys in Rome, helping preserve the reign of one of Rome's worst rulers, Nero.
Initially, Nero is presented as someone who means well, but is impressionable and more concerned with the arts than he is with ruling. By the end, all that has changed and they come to see Nero for what he really is - a loser, to put it in modern day terms.
There's also more than just a little political intrigue with a subplot involving Romans who are hard at work in their attempts to overthrow Nero - only they haven't figured out how to do it. That will no doubt come up again in #25 of the series.
All Macro and Cato want to really do, after helping make the Roman Empire peaceful, is to kick back and enjoy life, relax and take it easy. However, that is not the way things work out with Cato being placed in charge of what could be thought of as an early type of police force, the Roman Cohorts, with Macro of course coming along as his second-in-command. They see plenty of action, particularly towards the end when all hell breaks loose in Rome.
If you've been following the adventures of this duo since the beginning, you'll want to pick up this one as well. As with all of Simon Scarrow's books, it's a page turner and keeps you interested up to the end and then you're wishing for more. Scarrow is without a doubt, the leading writer when it comes to ancient Rome and once again, doesn't disappoint.
Initially, Nero is presented as someone who means well, but is impressionable and more concerned with the arts than he is with ruling. By the end, all that has changed and they come to see Nero for what he really is - a loser, to put it in modern day terms.
There's also more than just a little political intrigue with a subplot involving Romans who are hard at work in their attempts to overthrow Nero - only they haven't figured out how to do it. That will no doubt come up again in #25 of the series.
All Macro and Cato want to really do, after helping make the Roman Empire peaceful, is to kick back and enjoy life, relax and take it easy. However, that is not the way things work out with Cato being placed in charge of what could be thought of as an early type of police force, the Roman Cohorts, with Macro of course coming along as his second-in-command. They see plenty of action, particularly towards the end when all hell breaks loose in Rome.
If you've been following the adventures of this duo since the beginning, you'll want to pick up this one as well. As with all of Simon Scarrow's books, it's a page turner and keeps you interested up to the end and then you're wishing for more. Scarrow is without a doubt, the leading writer when it comes to ancient Rome and once again, doesn't disappoint.
November 8, 2025
Another transition novel of Cato and Macro's adventures set in the history of Rome. Nothing much happened that was new, but it's getting us to the next stages of the story, and that was confirmed thy the afterward.
As with the other novels, regardless of the rating I give to the story, I listened to the audiobook narrated by Jonathan Keeble and those performances rate 5 out of 5 stars, he really brings the characters voices and even the emotions they display to life.
The story itself is how Cato is the new Prefect of the Urban Cohorts against the backdrop of Nero's divorce of Claudia Octavia and marrying Poppaea and the fire of Rome. Alongside some of Nero's behaviour which you would think are surprisingly out of character. There is also an attempt to bring Cato into a conspiracy against the empire. It ends with him saving Nero from the mob and being thanked by being sent to the Legions in the East.
There are some set pieces which are well written and thrilling, but have been done before. Saving sailors from boats being wrecked against the shore in a storm. A small group defending against a siege. Bravery and survival against the odds, a small group of soldiers moving through enemy territory as a tightly formed group. All things that have been written of in other novels.
The afterward talks of the changes coming to Rome and the Imperial succession, and a small amount of reading about Rome in this period tells you that the Year of the Four Emperors is coming and that Vespasian (then Titus and Domitian, who make brief appearances in this novel) will create the Flavian dynasty. And The two protagonists will be a part of this. Those are the novels that I would like to read and I'll stick with the series until we get to those.
As with the other novels, regardless of the rating I give to the story, I listened to the audiobook narrated by Jonathan Keeble and those performances rate 5 out of 5 stars, he really brings the characters voices and even the emotions they display to life.
The story itself is how Cato is the new Prefect of the Urban Cohorts against the backdrop of Nero's divorce of Claudia Octavia and marrying Poppaea and the fire of Rome. Alongside some of Nero's behaviour which you would think are surprisingly out of character. There is also an attempt to bring Cato into a conspiracy against the empire. It ends with him saving Nero from the mob and being thanked by being sent to the Legions in the East.
There are some set pieces which are well written and thrilling, but have been done before. Saving sailors from boats being wrecked against the shore in a storm. A small group defending against a siege. Bravery and survival against the odds, a small group of soldiers moving through enemy territory as a tightly formed group. All things that have been written of in other novels.
The afterward talks of the changes coming to Rome and the Imperial succession, and a small amount of reading about Rome in this period tells you that the Year of the Four Emperors is coming and that Vespasian (then Titus and Domitian, who make brief appearances in this novel) will create the Flavian dynasty. And The two protagonists will be a part of this. Those are the novels that I would like to read and I'll stick with the series until we get to those.
December 19, 2025
Another excellent instalment of the Cato and Macro saga, and yes as good as ever. An enjoyable and satisfying read with plenty of action, political intrigue and banter. Much like being reunited with old friends. Yet plenty of historical accuracy and detail to satisfy those looking for credibility. It’s the 24th book in the series and I’m already looking forward to the next one.
☘️
☘️
December 15, 2025
A great read to learn more about the history of Rome.
January 9, 2026
I honestly struggle to see how anyone has given this more than three stars. I love this series, but the last few books have followed the same formula again and again. Cato and Macro are posted to a new assignment, they discover the soldiers are unfit for purpose, Macro is brought in to whip them into shape, and it all builds to a predictable climax involving a desperate holdout in a confined space, usually with the enemy trying to burn them out. At this point it feels lazy rather than familiar. Even the political intrigue, usually a strength of the series, feels thin and underdeveloped.
My biggest gripe, possibly the biggest of the entire book, is Cato’s continued support for Nero and his view of Vespasian as morally wrong, which ultimately destroys their relationship. This simply does not ring true for Cato’s character. He would despise Nero and recognise that the empire would be better served by his removal. In trying to make Cato appear naïve, Scarrow instead makes him look foolish. How many times can Cato be caught off guard or be painfully slow to grasp what is happening around him before it becomes frustrating rather than believable?
There is also a huge amount of filler. Large sections add very little to the story, and I found myself skipping ahead just to get back to the parts where something actually happens. Overall, this felt like a tired entry in a series that is capable of far better.
My biggest gripe, possibly the biggest of the entire book, is Cato’s continued support for Nero and his view of Vespasian as morally wrong, which ultimately destroys their relationship. This simply does not ring true for Cato’s character. He would despise Nero and recognise that the empire would be better served by his removal. In trying to make Cato appear naïve, Scarrow instead makes him look foolish. How many times can Cato be caught off guard or be painfully slow to grasp what is happening around him before it becomes frustrating rather than believable?
There is also a huge amount of filler. Large sections add very little to the story, and I found myself skipping ahead just to get back to the parts where something actually happens. Overall, this felt like a tired entry in a series that is capable of far better.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 13, 2025
Another adventure for Prefect Cato and Centurion Macro, only this time, the danger isn’t on some distant frontier. Instead, it’s right at the heart of the greatest empire and civilisation in the known world.
I’ve given this instalment 4 ⭐. While it’s a well written and engaging addition to the series, there were a couple of moments where the plot felt like it stalled slightly. Thankfully, each of these lulls picked up again within a chapter or two.
Cato (who, by rights, surely deserves to be General Cato by now) finds himself torn between being the best commander he can be and protecting those he loves. Navigating the treacherous waters of imperial politics and keeping Emperor Nero on side, tests him as much as any battlefield. Macro, meanwhile, is very much Macro; as the saying goes, you can take the man out of the army, but you can’t take the army out of the man.
Simon Scarrow continues to build the world and the bond between these brothers-in-arms with his usual skill. Still, this book did feel a little like a bridge to bigger adventures yet to come.
I’ve given this instalment 4 ⭐. While it’s a well written and engaging addition to the series, there were a couple of moments where the plot felt like it stalled slightly. Thankfully, each of these lulls picked up again within a chapter or two.
Cato (who, by rights, surely deserves to be General Cato by now) finds himself torn between being the best commander he can be and protecting those he loves. Navigating the treacherous waters of imperial politics and keeping Emperor Nero on side, tests him as much as any battlefield. Macro, meanwhile, is very much Macro; as the saying goes, you can take the man out of the army, but you can’t take the army out of the man.
Simon Scarrow continues to build the world and the bond between these brothers-in-arms with his usual skill. Still, this book did feel a little like a bridge to bigger adventures yet to come.
January 3, 2026
Tyrant of Rome is the current novel in the series featuring Prefect Cato and Centurion Macro who have to deal with the complex politics of Rome under Nero, while taking charge of the Urban Cohorts, the section of the army used to keep the city of Rome safe and secure.
Incredibly, this is the 24th novel in the series featuring the two central characters and there is no sense of the story flagging or becoming stale. The novel is exciting, with an interesting context and characters and I can only hope that Scarrow continues the series with further adventures for Cato and Macro, who feel like old friends after so many novels over so many years.
Incredibly, this is the 24th novel in the series featuring the two central characters and there is no sense of the story flagging or becoming stale. The novel is exciting, with an interesting context and characters and I can only hope that Scarrow continues the series with further adventures for Cato and Macro, who feel like old friends after so many novels over so many years.
November 7, 2025
Actually enjoyed this novel. Very well paced and the political intrigue kept me glued to the pages just to see how Cato and Macro negotiated their very precarious situation. Throwing in characters that would be involved in the next big changes in a few years was a clever move, setting it up nicely for Macro and Cato’s possible involvement in the machinations following the end of Nero’s maniacal reign.
November 12, 2025
Having read all this superb series, this is another high quality instalment. Usually these books fall into intrigue or set battles, this one is unusual as it is mostly one, but with a segment of the other.
The characters are as rich as ever and great to read about once again. The plot is strong and evolving, with a taint of predictability and once again, I read this as quickly as I was able to.
The characters are as rich as ever and great to read about once again. The plot is strong and evolving, with a taint of predictability and once again, I read this as quickly as I was able to.
November 12, 2025
Best Eagles Yet
Pleasantly surprised to see Mr. Scarrow at the absolute top of his game with the 24th installment in this enjoyable series. Intentionally, or not, the parallels to current events was handled exceptionally well imho. A big departure from the “Rome versus the Barbarians” thru line of the prior novels. I didn’t think that I’d enjoy this storyline hitting too close to reality but Mr. Scarrow’s writing is so good that I couldn’t put it down. Highly recommended!
Pleasantly surprised to see Mr. Scarrow at the absolute top of his game with the 24th installment in this enjoyable series. Intentionally, or not, the parallels to current events was handled exceptionally well imho. A big departure from the “Rome versus the Barbarians” thru line of the prior novels. I didn’t think that I’d enjoy this storyline hitting too close to reality but Mr. Scarrow’s writing is so good that I couldn’t put it down. Highly recommended!
November 14, 2025
It's always a pleasure to return to Marco and Cato's adventure, and after 24 books it feels like being back at home with some friends when you get to spend time with these characters.
Simon Scarrows has the voices of these characters so well down that it never misses a beat, in similar fashion to Richard Sharpe and Pat Harper from Bernard Cornwell's Sharpe series. These are two authors who have mastered their style of historical fiction and the characters that inhabit them.
Simon Scarrows has the voices of these characters so well down that it never misses a beat, in similar fashion to Richard Sharpe and Pat Harper from Bernard Cornwell's Sharpe series. These are two authors who have mastered their style of historical fiction and the characters that inhabit them.
December 13, 2025
Again, the latest adventure! This time in Rome and rapidly approaching the dramatic end to the reign of the emperor Nero. Several types of political wheeling and dealing, a few real life emergencies, and a glimpse into the mind of the mad emperor. Well written as always, but I could just warm to the idea of the two protagonists supporting Nero. Cato could have had him overthrown! Next, the actual suicide of Nero, the start of the Long Year?
January 3, 2026
This was more like the earleir "Cato and MAcro" books from Mr S. There was a good deal of political intribue and all about Macro getting the recuits into order. Cato trying to be correct and diplomatic at the same time. The Nero storline is factual, so Mr S needs to keep some facts correct, but the artistic licence applied this time in this book was excellent. So I now await the next chapter. Well done Mr S.
November 23, 2025
Nueva entrega de Cato y Macro, bien escrita como siempre. En este caso sería más bien 3,5, una puntuación algo más baja que las anteriores. Quizá es solo una impresión, pero creo que hay un exceso de tramas políticas y disertaciones justificando unas u otras posturas frente a la situación del imperio romano con Nerón. En cualquier caso, muy entretenido!
November 28, 2025
Simon Scarrow as always is excellent, and his latest Tyrant of Rome is no exception. It takes you for a roller coaster ride from start to finish. The Eagles of the empire characters are my favourite. Cato and Macro my all time favourites. I heartily recommend all Eagles of the Empire books actually, especially if you are into historical fiction.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 9, 2025
Par for the course, Cato and Macro get dragged into the political cesspit that is Rome against their wills. How much bad luck can two men have?
Another rollercoaster of an adventure, roll on the next one
Another rollercoaster of an adventure, roll on the next one
December 6, 2025
This series is brilliant. I’ve loved following the history of the Roman Empire through the lives of Cato and Macro. Jonathan Keeble is a brilliant reader. I’m delighted to think that Sion Scarrow may write a further instalment.
January 1, 2026
This wonderful book makes me reflect.
Simon Scarrow describes Nero well. History describes him as a Narcissist, and society seems to allow itself to be led by such dangerous people.
The acts are different but the behavior stays the same. We look at our world leaders and see reflections of Nero.
Simon Scarrow describes Nero well. History describes him as a Narcissist, and society seems to allow itself to be led by such dangerous people.
The acts are different but the behavior stays the same. We look at our world leaders and see reflections of Nero.
November 10, 2025
A decent addition. 3.5⭐️
November 12, 2025
Fantastic read as always
November 19, 2025
A fun read, interesting to see some old characters return.
nice change of pace too from some more disappointing sequels!
nice change of pace too from some more disappointing sequels!
November 26, 2025
as always Simon dose a fantastic job with all the characters
November 30, 2025
Another brilliant Cato and Marco romp
December 1, 2025
top draw
Mint yet again never fails to draw you in till you cannot but the book down for a moment lol
Mint yet again never fails to draw you in till you cannot but the book down for a moment lol
December 3, 2025
If you like this series you will love this book.
December 16, 2025
3.5 Stars
December 28, 2025
A great series that never fails to entertain and this is no exception. Loved it, struggled put it down and can't wait for the next instalment.
January 4, 2026
Superb
Another great book from Simon Scarrow. Do keep them coming. I have read the
whole series and they still hold me spellbound and wanting more. Must get the next one
Another great book from Simon Scarrow. Do keep them coming. I have read the
whole series and they still hold me spellbound and wanting more. Must get the next one
Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews