Picture a British storyteller who traded corporate life for the gritty battlefields of second-century Rome—meet Anthony Riches! With a passion for military history and a knack for vivid storytelling, Riches has carved a niche in historical fiction with his thrilling Empire series. His tales of Roman centurions, forged from meticulous research and a trek along Hadrian’s Wall in full Roman gear, pull readers into a world of swords, shields, and high-stakes intrigue.
From his Hertfordshire home, Riches spins narratives that blend brutal action with rich historical detail, making the Roman Empire feel as alive as today’s headlines. Ready to march alongside his characters? Let’s dive into the life and legacy of this master of military fiction!
The Making of Anthony Riches
Born with a fascination for soldiers and war, sparked by his father’s and grandfather’s World War tales, Anthony Riches was destined for a life steeped in military lore. He channeled this passion into a degree in Military Studies at Manchester University, honing his understanding of warfare’s gritty realities. For 25 years, Riches thrived as an IT professional and freelance project manager across the UK, Europe, and beyond, all while quietly crafting fiction for fun. A pivotal moment in Belfast in 2008 ignited his drive to publish, transforming a decade-old manuscript into Wounds of Honour, the Empire series’ explosive debut.
Anthony Riches’s Unforgettable Stories
The Empire series, now spanning over a dozen novels, is Riches’s crown jewel. Set in second-century Britain during Emperor Commodus’s turbulent reign, it follows Marcus Valerius Aquila, a young centurion on the run after his family’s massacre. In Wounds of Honour (2009), Marcus hides among the Tungrian auxiliaries on Hadrian’s Wall, battling barbarians and imperial assassins. Arrows of Fury (2010) ramps up the stakes with fierce clashes against rebellious tribes, while The Leopard Sword (2012) takes Marcus to Germania, facing bandits and betrayal. River of Gold (2020) transports readers to Egypt’s deserts, weaving treasure hunts with political intrigue.
Riches’s style is a masterclass in immersive storytelling. His battle scenes crackle with visceral energy, informed by his walks in Roman regalia along Hadrian’s Wall and deep dives into Osprey books for historical accuracy. He champions the unsung auxiliaries—often overlooked in Roman narratives—infusing their camaraderie and crude banter with modern flair. Fans love his sharp dialogue and plot twists, which keep the series fresh across its sprawling saga.
Beyond Empire, Riches penned the Centurions trilogy, exploring 68 AD’s chaotic Year of the Four Emperors, and two modern thrillers in The Protector series. Each work showcases his knack for blending historical rigor with pulse-pounding action, earning comparisons to Roman fiction giants like Simon Scarrow.
Why Anthony Riches Matters
Anthony Riches has redefined Roman historical fiction by spotlighting the everyday grunts—auxiliaries who bore the brunt of Rome’s wars. His meticulous research and lived experiences, like marching in Roman armor, lend authenticity that resonates with readers and aspiring writers. The Empire series’ enduring popularity, with fans eagerly awaiting each release, underscores his ability to make ancient history feel urgent and alive. Riches’s work inspires a deeper appreciation for the Roman world’s complexity, from its brutal battles to its political machinations.
- Birthplace: United Kingdom
- Key Works: Empire series, Centurions trilogy, The Protector series
- Notable Fact: Walked Hadrian’s Wall in Roman military gear for research
Snag Wounds of Honour and dive into Anthony Riches’s thrilling world of Roman adventure! Whether you’re a history buff or a fan of epic tales, his books promise a wild ride through the Empire’s heart.