The Scorpion's Strike: Empire X

Gallia is in turmoil. [set first line as heading]

A renegade Praetorian called Maturnus - once one of the Emperor's most trusted warriors - is wreaking havoc in the province. And it may be more than mere banditry, as deserters and freed slaves flock to his cause. Rebellion is in the air for the first time in a generation.

Freshly arrived in Rome after a close escape from imperial betrayal in the German forest, Marcus Aquila and the Tungrians march north. It seems the safest way out: Rome is a dangerous city for a man with a price on his head, and every stone reminds him of the tragedies that have dogged his life.

But Marcus soon realizes that danger has followed him. The expedition is led by Praetorians whom he has every cause to hate.

And to fear, if they should discover who he really is.

Praise for Empire:
'This is fast-paced and gripping "read-through-the-night" fiction, with marvellous characters and occasional moments of dark humour. Some authors are better historians than they are storytellers. Anthony Riches is brilliant at both.' Conn Iggulden