Picture a battlefield where Roman legions clash and Zulu warriors charge—meet James Mace, the American historian and novelist who brings history to life with heart-pounding detail! A best-selling author of historical fiction, Mace weaves tales of valor and sacrifice, drawing from his military service and passion for the past. His works, like the acclaimed Artorian Chronicles, transport readers to ancient Rome and the British Empire with gripping authenticity.
The Making of James Mace
Born on May 14, James Mace grew up with a deep love for history, fueled by tales of ancient warriors and epic battles. His time in the U.S. Army, including a deployment in Iraq from 2004 to 2005, shaped his storytelling. While serving, he penned the first draft of Soldier of Rome: The Legionary as a cathartic escape, blending his military experience with meticulous historical research. What started as a hobby evolved into a prolific career, with Mace crafting stories that resonate with readers worldwide.
James Mace’s Unforgettable Stories
Mace’s novels are a thrilling blend of action, character depth, and historical accuracy, focusing on two eras: ancient Rome and the British Empire. His flagship series, The Artorian Chronicles, follows legionary Artorius through the gritty realities of Roman warfare. Soldier of Rome: The Legionary (2012) sets the stage with a vivid depiction of the 9 A.D. Teutoburg Forest ambush, showcasing Mace’s knack for immersive battle scenes. Soldier of Rome: The Sacrovir Revolt (2012) continues Artorius’s journey, exploring themes of loyalty and vengeance.
Beyond Rome, Mace’s Anglo-Zulu War series captures the 19th-century clash of empires. Brutal Valour: The Tragedy of Isandlwana (2016) recounts the devastating Zulu victory, while Crucible of Honour: The Battle of Rorke’s Drift (2017) dramatizes the iconic British stand. Mace’s style—marked by vivid descriptions and relatable characters—makes history accessible, earning him fourteen ancient history best-sellers and five South African history best-sellers.
His work as a research historian and scriptwriter for Redcoat History, plus his blog, The Buffed Historian, reflects his commitment to sharing history’s untold stories. Mace’s upcoming works, including Soldier of Rome: Hadrian Ascending (2025), promise to delve deeper into Rome’s golden age.
Why James Mace Matters
James Mace’s novels do more than entertain—they educate, bridging the gap between past and present. His military background infuses his stories with authenticity, making readers feel the weight of a legionary’s shield or the chaos of a Zulu charge. By humanizing historical figures, Mace inspires curiosity about ancient cultures and forgotten wars. His global fanbase and best-seller status attest to his impact, while his plans to explore medieval times and World War I signal a lasting legacy.
- Born: May 14
- Key Works: Soldier of Rome: The Legionary, Brutal Valour, Crucible of Honour
- Notable: Nominated for Best Author in the 2015 Best of the Treasure Valley
About James Mace
Ready to march with Roman legions or stand at Rorke’s Drift? Grab Soldier of Rome: The Legionary and dive into James Mace’s thrilling world of historical fiction!