Where to Start: The Recommended Reading Path
If you are diving into the action-packed world of B.K. Greenwood, the best starting point is the core trilogy: Exile, Abyss, and Absolution. Although there are prequels and standalone novellas set earlier in the timeline, starting with the main novels is highly recommended. The trilogy establishes the high-stakes conflict between the immortal Roman officer, Marcus Sempronius Gracchus, and his nemesis, Thomas. It also introduces the rules of their immortality and the modern-day framing narrative that ties the history together.
After completing the main trilogy, you can read the various side stories and prequels to enrich your understanding of the characters and historical eras. These supplemental works expand on specific time periods Marcus and other immortals lived through.
The Last Roman Series in Publication Order
Here is the order in which B.K. Greenwood released the books, including the core novels, novellas, and collections:
- Exile (2021) – The first novel in the core trilogy. Marcus is introduced, leaping between ancient battlefields and modern-day intrigue.
- Abyss (2021) – The second novel. Marcus races across the globe to stop Thomas from utilizing an ancient, devastating artifact.
- Hatchet (2021) – A Last Roman Tale focusing on Isabella, who must rally the citizens of Tortosa against an invading Moorish army.
- Horns (2022) – A Last Roman Tale set in 1187 A.D. during the Crusades, featuring historical figures like Saladin.
- Monsoon (2022) – A supplemental Last Roman Tale exploring another period in Marcus's long life.
- Absolution (2022) – The action-packed final book of the main trilogy, bringing Marcus’s 2,000-year quest for redemption to a climax.
- Bastion of Last Roman Tales (2022) – A compilation anthology that collects the previously published short stories and flashback chapters.
- Insurrection (2023) – A novella set in the Roman province of Judea in 66 CE during the First Jewish-Roman War.
- Hammer of God (2023) – A prequel novel set in the 8th century following the death of Pepin the Short, during the Umayyad invasion of Hispania.
Chronological Order vs. Publication Order
Because the protagonist is an immortal who has walked the earth for 2,000 years, the chronological timeline of historical events spans multiple centuries. The novellas and prequels are set in specific historical periods, whereas the core trilogy constantly jumps between ancient history and the modern day. Here is how the timeline looks chronologically:
- Insurrection (Set in 66 CE during the Judean revolt against Rome)
- Hammer of God (Set in the 8th Century, focusing on the rise of Charles Martel)
- Horns (Set in 1187 CE during the Crusades)
- Hatchet (Set during the medieval Moorish siege of Tortosa)
- The Core Trilogy (Exile, Abyss, Absolution) (Spans from Marcus's origin in 37 AD through various eras, culminating in a modern-day showdown)
While reading chronologically is an interesting experiment for a re-read, first-time readers should stick to publication order or read the core trilogy first. The novellas like Insurrection were originally drafted as flashback chapters and work best when you already have context from the main books.
What to Know Before You Start
B.K. Greenwood's books are a thrilling blend of meticulous historical research and fast-paced adventure, frequently compared to Highlander meets the Jason Bourne series. Drawing inspiration from classic literature, historians like Barbara Tuchman, and adventure icons, Greenwood delivers rich historical settings combined with supernatural action. The books are self-published through Bat City Press, offering a unique indie voice in the historical thriller genre.