Step into the gritty, pulse-pounding world of Agent of Rome, where espionage, warfare, and political intrigue collide in the crumbling Roman Empire of the 3rd century AD! Nick Brown’s historical fiction series follows Cassius Corbulo, a young intelligence officer who’s more brains than brawn, navigating a treacherous landscape of spies, rebels, and ruthless enemies. With vivid historical detail and heart-racing action, this series is a must-read for fans of Roman adventure and clever storytelling.
Unlike the sword-swinging heroes of typical historical epics, Cassius is a refreshingly flawed protagonist—nervous, inexperienced, and often out of his depth. Accompanied by his loyal servant Simo and ex-gladiator bodyguard Indavara, he tackles missions that test his wits and courage. If you’re craving a blend of James Bond intrigue and ancient Roman grit, Agent of Rome delivers.
How Agent of Rome Began
British author Nick Brown, a former history teacher born in Norwich in 1974, crafted Agent of Rome after being inspired by C.J. Sansom’s historical novel Dissolution. Fascinated by the Roman Empire but seeking a fresh angle, Brown stumbled upon the frumentarii—Rome’s shadowy ‘secret service.’ This discovery sparked the idea for Cassius, a reluctant hero thrust into high-stakes missions. Starting with The Siege in 2011, Brown’s meticulous research and love for authors like Ian Fleming shaped a series that balances historical accuracy with thrilling plots.
The Heart of Agent of Rome
The series kicks off with The Siege (2011), where 19-year-old Cassius must defend a Syrian fort against Queen Zenobia’s advancing Palmyran army. Out of his depth and leading a ragtag garrison, he relies on cunning to survive. The Imperial Banner (2012) sees Cassius tasked with recovering a stolen Persian battle standard, dodging assassins and cults in a tense chase across Syria. In The Far Shore (2013), a mission to Rhodes spirals into a deadly conspiracy involving murder and betrayal. The Earthly Gods (2016), a fan favorite, shifts to a personal quest as Cassius goes AWOL to rescue missing girls, showcasing his growth.
Themes of loyalty, self-doubt, and moral ambiguity run deep. Cassius’s humanity—his fear, arrogance, and compassion—sets him apart in a genre often dominated by stoic warriors. The 3rd century setting, with its fractured empire and rising threats like Palmyra, grounds the series in a vivid, chaotic world. Brown’s prose is fast-paced yet rich, blending action with character-driven drama that keeps readers hooked.
Why Agent of Rome Resonates
Agent of Rome stands out in historical fiction for its unique spin on the Roman world, focusing on espionage over battlefield glory. Fans on platforms like Goodreads praise its relatable characters and immersive settings, with Cassius often called an ‘un-Roman Roman’ for his emotional depth. The series has carved a niche among readers who love authors like Simon Scarrow or Bernard Cornwell but crave a detective-like twist. Its blend of historical rigor and modern thriller vibes keeps it fresh, while the 2023 spinoff, Tarchon, proves its lasting appeal.
- Publication Span: 2011–2023 (including spinoff)
- Number of Books: 7 main novels, 3 short stories, 1 spinoff
- Setting: 3rd century Roman Empire, primarily Syria
- Genre: Historical fiction, espionage thriller
Grab The Siege and dive into Agent of Rome’s thrilling world of spies, secrets, and ancient adventure!