Gods and Legions - Michael Curtis Ford

There is no shortage of interesting stories to tell about the Roman Empire. Ford has chosen to tell the story of Julian Caesar. Appointed by the Emperor Constantius in 354 A.D. Julian is tasked with conquering Gaul. Again.

The story is told through the eyes of Constantius' physician, Caesarius. Julian is studying philosophy and Caesarius is studying anatomy in Greece when Constantius summons them to Rome. The Emperor has eliminated the rest of Julians family and thus any competition for the emperorship. Now, Julian fears it is his turn.

Constantius is in the middle of a battle east of Rome. Unfortunately the west is presenting problems with rebellion. He decides that Julian could be useful. He appoints him Caesar and sends him to Gaul to quash the rebellion. Never having trained at arms, Julian is not expected to survive much less be successful. Demonstrating a tremendous will, he quickly develops his martial skills. Pouring in endless hours training and practicing under the guidance of his general Sallustius he gains the respect and trust of his troops.

Following his success in quashing the revolt, he shows a surprising competence in administration as well. When Constantius decides to squeeze more and more out of the western portion of his realm to support his fight with the Persians in the east, Julian demonstrates his political aptitude.

Manipulating the masses of the west to demand he declare himself emperor, Julian abandons his Christianity and becomes Augustus, emperor of Rome. Caesarius keeps us well informed not only of what happens in Julians camp but, through his communications with the Christian leadership, also of the intrigues happening in Constantius' court.

Ford is an excellent story teller. While he has tendency to be somewhat verbose and poetic in his descriptions, his attention to historical detail is appreciated. I enjoyed this effort and look forward to reading his other writings.