Author: Adrian Goldsworthy

This was another "keeper" from my History Book Club. Fifteen Roman generals are profiled, spanning the years from Fabius Maximus' delaying campaigns against Hannibal to Belisarius' against the Persians during the Early Byzantine empire. Some of these are well known, like Julius Caesar in Gaul, while others are lesser known like Corbulo's campaigns against the Armenians and Germans on behalf of Claudius.

Goldsworthy draws attention to the common traits among the great commanders profiled, as well as pointing out where they differed (such as Marcus Claudius Marcellus' slaying of Gallic king in single combat). Of course, in 385 pages, a lot of depth cannot be obtained about more than a dozen generals. However, Goldsworthy leaves you a definite taste of the style and personality of each general.

There are 14 maps or diagrams of battles or campaign areas, as well as a fairly detailed chronology of Rome's wars at the end. I definitely found inspiration to paint up armies here, especially when the nitty gritty of units and tactics are discussed, as in the section on Quintus Sertorius in Spain. If you are a fan of Roman history (as I am), you will likely enjoy this book. I'd recommend picking it up.

Reviews: Armorer's Forge

Dave Krabel Miniature Painting Service
Gladiator Games 28mm Skraelings Figure Review.
In the Name of Rome: The Men who Won the Roman Empire Book Review.