Step into the sandals of ancient Rome with the Cato & Macro series, where swords clash, empires rise, and two unlikely heroes carve their names into history! Penned by Simon Scarrow, this historical fiction saga follows the thrilling adventures of Quintus Licinius Cato, a former slave turned soldier, and Lucius Cornelius Macro, a battle-hardened centurion. Set against the sprawling backdrop of the Roman Empire, these novels blend heart-pounding action with rich historical detail, pulling readers into a world of military campaigns, political intrigue, and unbreakable camaraderie.
From the misty battlefields of Britannia to the sun-scorched sands of Judea, Cato and Macro’s journey is a rollercoaster of bravery, betrayal, and brotherhood. Whether you’re a history buff or just love a good adventure, this series offers a front-row seat to the glory and grit of Rome’s legions.
How Cato & Macro Began
Simon Scarrow, a former teacher with a passion for history, launched the Cato & Macro series in 2000 with Under the Eagle. Inspired by his time in the Officer Training Corps and the Roman ruins near his Norfolk home, Scarrow crafted a vivid world that balances historical accuracy with gripping storytelling. His goal? To bring the Roman Empire to life through the eyes of two soldiers whose contrasting personalities—Cato’s intellect and Macro’s brute strength—create a dynamic duo that readers can’t resist.
What started as a planned ten-book series has grown into an epic saga, with Scarrow’s meticulous research and knack for character-driven plots earning him a loyal fanbase. The series, also known as the Eagles of the Empire, has become a cornerstone of historical fiction, captivating readers with its blend of authenticity and adventure.
The Heart of Cato & Macro
The series kicks off with Under the Eagle (2000), where Cato, a lanky teenager fresh from the Imperial Palace, joins the Second Legion as Macro’s optio in 42 AD. As Emperor Claudius invades Britain, the duo faces ambushes, betrayals, and a plot to steal Caesar’s gold. In The Eagle’s Conquest (2001), the campaign continues, with Cato proving his mettle amidst fierce battles and political schemes. The Eagle’s Prophecy (2005) shifts gears to the high seas, tasking Cato and Macro with hunting pirates in the Mediterranean, while Revenge of Rome (2024) pits them against Boudica’s rebellion in a brutal showdown.
Themes of loyalty, courage, and survival pulse through the series, grounded by the evolving friendship between Cato and Macro. Scarrow’s style is fast-paced yet richly detailed, painting vivid scenes of Roman military life—think clashing shields, strategic war councils, and the occasional tavern brawl. The settings, from Germania’s forests to Crete’s rugged shores, immerse readers in the Empire’s vast reach, while historical figures like Vespasian and Claudius add depth to the fictional drama.
Beyond the sword fights and sieges, the series explores personal growth. Cato matures from a nervous recruit to a cunning prefect, while Macro’s grizzled exterior hides a loyal heart. Their dynamic, laced with humor and mutual respect, keeps readers hooked across 23 books (and counting).
Why Cato & Macro Resonates
The Cato & Macro series has carved a niche in historical fiction, praised for its accessibility and adrenaline-fueled plots. Fans on platforms like Goodreads and Amazon rave about Scarrow’s ability to make ancient Rome feel alive, with reviews calling the books “gripping” and “unputdownable.” The series’ blend of historical insight and relatable characters appeals to both casual readers and Roman history enthusiasts, offering a gateway into the era’s complexities.
Its lasting appeal lies in its universal themes—friendship, duty, and resilience—paired with Scarrow’s knack for reinventing the duo’s challenges across diverse settings. With a 24th book slated for 2025, Cato and Macro’s legacy endures, inspiring readers to explore Rome’s past through their thrilling lens.
- First Book: Under the Eagle (2000)
- Latest Book: Revenge of Rome (2024)
- Total Books: 23, with a 24th due in 2025
- Setting: Roman Empire, 42 AD onward
Ready to march with Rome’s finest? Grab Under the Eagle and dive into Cato and Macro’s epic world of courage, conspiracy, and conquest!