02-13-2004, 02:50 PM
Legion is a story of Diocles, a Greek scholar, given the task of Immortalizing the Roman Legions by training with a group of recruits, experiencing Army life, and writing about his experiences. All this takes place at an Legionary Fortress near the Rhenus(Rhine) river in Gaul, modern day France. Through Diocles, we meet the other characters in the book, including the man who comes to dominate the book, Rufio, a grizzled veteran centurion, haunted by the past. All this takes place under the threat of an imminent invasion from the barbarian German hordes. The characters are fleshed out well, especially from the Roman side and the plot moves smoothly. Legion is more two books than one. The main plot detailed above and also the training and practices of the Roman Legionnaire. This should not daunt anyone unfamiliar with the Roman Army as the author explains this aspect in an educating and entertaining manner that is easily grasped. Legion is a rip-roaring read that leaves you wanting for more! It is Historical Fiction at its best! <p></p><i></i>
