Step into the gritty, sword-clashing world of the Veteran of Rome series, where the Roman Empire’s frontiers pulse with danger and drama! William Kelso’s historical fiction saga follows the rugged legionary Corbulo and his son Marcus as they navigate battles, betrayals, and the burdens of duty in a vividly crafted 1st- and 2nd-century AD. Perfect for history buffs and adventure seekers, this series blends heart-pounding action with the raw human cost of Rome’s expansion.
From the misty hills of Britannia to the war-torn Parthian frontier, Veteran of Rome captures the thrill of legionary life with meticulous historical detail. Ready to march with Corbulo and Marcus? Let’s explore this epic journey!
How Veteran of Rome Began
William Kelso, a Dutch author with a passion for ancient Rome, launched the Veteran of Rome series in 2015 with Caledonia. Inspired by the early to mid-republic’s tales of grit and glory, Kelso drew from his love of storytelling—sparked by his grandfather’s WWII experiences—and a deep dive into Roman history. His goal? To craft immersive, character-driven novels that bring the empire’s edge to life, focusing on the unsung heroes of the legions.
Kelso’s research shines through, blending historical accuracy with fictional flair. Over nine books, he built a loyal readership, with fans praising his ability to make Roman campaigns feel personal and immediate. The series grew from a single tale into a sprawling family saga, reflecting Kelso’s ambition to write 100 books!
The Heart of Veteran of Rome
The series kicks off with Caledonia (2015), set in AD 83, where Corbulo, a flawed veteran, seeks redemption after a lifetime of violence drives his family apart. He journeys through war-ravaged Scotland to uncover a secret that could shift Rome’s northern strategy. In Hibernia (2015), Corbulo, now a retired businessman in Londinium, is thrust into a conspiracy, battling across Ireland to save his name and family. The Dacian War (2017) follows Marcus and his son Fergus as they face enemies on the Danube frontier, weaving political intrigue with brutal combat. Finally, Veterans of Rome (2018) wraps the saga in AD 116, with Fergus caught in a rebellion that tests Rome’s limits.
Themes of duty, identity, and sacrifice run deep. Kelso explores the tension between personal loyalty and imperial ambition, showing how war shapes families across generations. The settings—Britannia’s rebellious tribes, Dacia’s gold-rich hills, Mesopotamia’s chaotic battlefields—immerse readers in Rome’s sprawling reach. Kelso’s straightforward style, packed with action and historical nuggets, keeps pages turning, though some note minor editing quirks like misplaced commas.
Characters like Corbulo, a grizzled yet redeemable father, and Fergus, chasing dreams of legionary glory, ground the epic scope in human struggles. Fans love the series’ balance of historical accuracy and emotional depth, making Roman tactics and tribal politics accessible and gripping.
Why Veteran of Rome Resonates
Veteran of Rome stands out in historical fiction for its focus on the empire’s fringes, where soldiers and settlers faced uncertain futures. Readers praise its addictive quality, with many devouring all nine books and craving more. Kelso’s ability to parallel ancient campaigns with modern conflicts, like the Iraq War in Rome and the Conquest of Mesopotamia, adds a thought-provoking layer.
The series’ legacy lies in its vivid portrayal of Roman life, from legionary tactics to family dynamics, inspiring readers to explore history’s lesser-known corners. Its niche but passionate fanbase proves that well-crafted stories can thrive, even in a crowded genre. Kelso’s ongoing work, like the Soldier of the Republic series, keeps his vision alive.
- Publication Years: 2015–2018
- Number of Books: 9
- Setting: Roman Empire, late 1st to early 2nd century AD
- Genre: Historical Fiction
Grab Caledonia and dive into Veteran of Rome’s thrilling world of legions, loyalty, and epic adventure!