In “Rome: The Eagle of the Twelfth”, we are transported to that Legion’s participation in the War in Parthia, and subsequent action in Jerusalem. The Twelfth Legion has to endure shame, and near-obliteration, before finding redemption through the actions of the author’s principal characters. Authenticity seems to drip from every page of M. C. Scott’s novel; whether it is the superstitions of the common soldier, the description of the local geography or the tactics and training of this incredibly well-drilled fighting machine. And it’s so difficult to review such a story and refrain from including “spoilers” – but they are called that for a reason, and I would hate to lessen your enjoyment of this by tipping you off to the action, now! This book centres around Demalion of Macedon, his comrades, and their immediate leaders – some loved and some loathed, and, as with many armies throughout history, the effects their decisions have on the campaigns being waged. The action unfolds in several, different and distinct phases; each one with a different feel and atmosphere, and each one pivotal to the development of the plot. I cannot emphasise strongly enough what a good story this is; my favourite periods of history are the myths and legends of Greece; and the empire-building of Rome, and this latter is not only well catered for, here, but actually adds to my knowledge – and, therefore, my enjoyment of the tale. I have added the author’s other novels to my wishlist – can’t give any higher praise than that? Anyone who calls one of their leading characters “Pantera” is ok in my book – and in his!