Storming the Heavens: Soldiers, Emperors, and Civilians in the Roman Empire

Rating:
Summary: An Entertaining Read
Review: Antonio Santosuosso's Storming the Heavens is more than just another chronicle of Roman military campaigns. It describes the evolving role of the soldier in Roman society and government, relying on both classical sources and modern scholarship. The author's engaging style makes this an enjoyable and entertaining read for both specialists and the general reader.

Rating:
Summary: Good History and Great Storytelling
Review: This is a good book to read for a perspective on Roman history that emphasises the role played in that grand drama by Rome's legions. The author discusses the changing political, social and economic effects of how the legions were recruited, commanded and paid, as well as providing significant detail on the structure, command and performance of the legions over time. The effects of the military reforms of Marius, Julius Caesar, Octavian, as well as Septimius Severus and Diocletian are given special attention as are their different offensive and defensive strategies.

The author weaves historical information and his own insights into a well written story that moves along easily over the long time period covered. His discussion of specific battles (e.g. Adrianopole) and brief character studies (e.g. Marius) add personal detail and improve the general story. The book is both educational and entertaining and strongly recommended.