"Heroic Greek myths move this exciting quest set in the Roman Empire of Nero – a time of perilous journeys and warped power - all conspiring to turn the life of our young slave hero upside down."
Shortlisted for the Costa Children's Book Award 2019
A fast-paced read packed with historical detail In the Shadow of Heroes is a clever blend of intrigue, politics, crime, history and a bit of fantasy. Set in Rome at the time of Emperor Nero, it weaves some Greek mythology – the tale of the Golden Fleece – into the world of the Roman elite. When unexpected visitors turn up at Tullus’s house one night, his slave Cadmus, an educated boy slave who was taken in by Tullus after having been abandoned as a baby, knows that something dangerous is afoot. The visitors bring a box with something that is clearly very desirable in it. What can it be? When Tullus disappears and Cadman is given a message by a slave who was formerly a British princess he set off on a trail to find out what is going on. The plot is twisty and inventive ensuring that the reader remains enthralled through out.
Fourteen-year-old Cadmus has been scholar Tullus's slave since he was a baby - his master is the only family he knows. But when Tullus disappears and a taciturn slave called Tog - daughter of a British chieftain - arrives with a secret message, Cadmus's life is turned upside down. The pair follow a trail that leads to Emperor Nero himself, and his crazed determination to possess the Golden Fleece of Greek mythology. This quest will push Cadmus to the edge of the Roman Empire - and reveal unexpected truths about his past.
‘Buckle your sandals and pack your toga: you’re about to travel to the amazing world of ancient Rome – In the Shadow of Heroes will sweep you up on a voyage of wild discovery. Alongside two wonderful friends, Cadmus and Tog, you’ll uncover the secrets of the ancient heroes, cross the Roman Empire from Athens to a Britain of druids and magic, and find the truth hidden in the myths. (Plus, there’s a pet mouse!) Nick Bowling is a fast, funny, clever and mysterious writer – and this is a very special kind of storytelling.’Barry Cunningham, Publisher
