I have read the previous two books from this trilogy and although there were some issues with writing and style, the story was interesting enough and the plot moved along at a nice pace. The historical detail seemed quite accurate, to someone like me, with just some generic knowledge about the period.In this third book, however, it became more and more difficult to sidestep the issues I have with the writing. The main issues that bothered me were a constant shifting of POV and the ploy to stop chapters at cliffhangers and not adhering to a continues timeline in the process. At one point the latter just started to feel as a cheap ploy. But what bothered me the most was the lack of depth in the main characters, and consequently the lack of development of these characters. A plot can only take you so far, and unfortunately I could not connect enough with the characters to keep me engaged. Too bad, because the series started out nicely and deserved a better finish. The Forgotten Legion series is one of the strongest series set in ancient Rome that has been produced to date. The scope of the series in length of years, geographical reach, depth of character and intertwining some of the most tumultuous and important events in the history of he world with the life story of a small number of fictional characters is phenomenal. As a series, it is sad to reach this point and see it end.The third and final novel of the series is a complex weave of history and fiction. With all the ability of amaster storyteller, Ben takes us through Caesar's civil war, following the action around the Mediterranean and through some of the most astounding battles seen through the eyes of Romulus, one of the series' two main protagonists. Meanwhile, his sister continues to become embroiled in Roman politics and intrigue as she plots the downfall of one of the most powerful men in history.The story builds to a stunning climax, taking us through the lead up and into the dreadful events of March, 44BC and intertwining the fictional characters and their motives with the known events in a tight, even seamless knit. The last quarter of the book, in particular, are vivid and all-consuming and I could picture everything as clear as were I watching it on a screen.I smiled, I sighed. I even shed a little tear. Bravo, Ben.All in all, a very fitting end to the series. I look forward to Ben's more recent works: Hannibal and Spartacus.
What do You think about The Road To Rome (2010)?
Not far into it so far but already it's a phenomenal read!
—Cipriana
Great read! Highly recommended for history buffs!
—ebennet09
