VENATOR

In Swink’s historical novel set in the year 59, political intrigue and personal passions clash during the Roman conquest of Britain.

Decimus Maximus is a battle-weary professional soldier who can’t wait to finish his tour of service in Britain and return to Rome. Luciana is a tough-minded Celtic princess who’s an accomplished horse rider. When a devious enemy makes it appear that Luciana’s tribe has betrayed their alliance with their Roman conquerors, it leads to the Romans laying waste to their community. After she kills an enslaved person for plundering her father’s body, she’s taken captive and encourages Decimus to purchase her as Cato’s replacement. Decimus knows that it’s a dangerous idea, even as the two enemies feel a spark of instant mutual attraction. Decimus is determined to conquer his emotions, while Luciana hopes to gain leverage—and get revenge. A vast cast of characters populates the Roman settlement of Viroconium, including some with their own schemes in play. Swink juggles the various subplots well, although readers may find it difficult at times to remember all the various players and their backstories. It’s also not easy to judge the novel’s historical authenticity or accuracy, as sources are relatively scant for this period. However, it’s bursting with detail, and overall, it’s a stirring imagining of life in Roman Britain and an insightful portrait of a merciless empire that’s always hungry for more victories and resources. What the empire’s actions mean for individuals, among the conquerors and among the conquered, is conveyed in a nuanced, dynamic plot. Swink conjures palpable chemistry between the two main characters, whose immediate attraction yields some very explicit sex scenes. Also, although this is very much a character-driven story, the book offers plenty of action and sometimes intense violence. Throughout, its use of colloquial dialogue results in an approachable and accessible historical opus, though a few phrases, such as “piece of skirt” and “what I want in the sack,” feel too modern.

A steamy sword-and-sandals story.