This historical novel ticks all the boxes, it’s thrilling, emotional, and oh-so believable. It’s the last in the Sarmatian Trilogy, yet my first foray and I’ve sent it to the ranks of our LoveReading Star Books, so can most definitely be read as a standalone. I would recommend going back to the beginning and reading A Winter War to start your journey into the far north. The Hollow Throne is set in AD180, the local tribes are besieged by the Painted People who turn their gaze towards the Romans. Author Tim Leach has created the most vivid world either side of the wall, the countryside and ways of the tribes fell into place around me. The characters are vibrantly authentic, and although this was our first meeting, they felt known to me. I lived within the pages as I read, the plot consumed me and I was emotionally invested in all that happened. In fact, I was so captivated, I was in that wonderful position of wanting to read as quickly as I could to discover what happened, while savouring each and every word. I will admit to tears falling at one point, so while full of action and adventure there is a beautiful emotional reach within. The ending comes with majestic and fierce intensity and we just had to include this novel as a Book of the Month. Make sure you set some quality reading time aside for The Hollow Thorne, it’s powerful, provocative, and comes with a whopping thumbs up from me.
The unmissable conclusion to Tim Leach's critically acclaimed historical adventure series set in the Roman Empire. AD 180. Vindolanda, Britannia. Sarmatian warrior Kai and his adopted tribe, the Votadini, struggle for survival in unfamiliar lands north of the Wall, living just beyond the reach of Rome. When an old enemy takes control of the Votadini’s hated foes, a confederation of tribes known as the Painted People, and rouses them to action, Kai heads south, hoping to ally with the Romans against this resurgent threat. But the Romans have heard tales of butchery and mayhem beyond the Wall. Lucius, Legate of the North, believes Kai and his allies are responsible, and sends forth an expedition to capture his old comrade. Can Kai survive the onslaught – or will such determined enemies spell the end for the warrior and his tribe? Perfect for fans of Bernard Cornwell and Adrian Goldsworthy. Reviews for Tim Leach 'Roman military adventure at its best.' Simon Turney 'The characters feel rounded and real.' The Times 'Magnificent.' Historia 'A poetic, absorbing narrative.' Sunday Times
