February 2013 Book of the Month A second thrilling adventure for young Marcus, now perfecting his gladiatorial skills with further training in the palace of Julius Caesar himself. Marcus’s fighting skills have gained him the role of body guard of the Emperor’s niece Portia. And still his training in the art of fighting continues as does the danger from violent gangs in Rome. Marcus needs his physical skills as well as his courage and his intelligence when he is deployed undercover to protect his Emperor. Simon Scarrow portrays physical and mental courage is this gripping story of loyalty and bravery.
'It is settled. The boy is in your charge. You will train him to fight. He must be able to use the dagger, throwing-knife, staves and his bare hands. One day young Marcus may well become a gladiator in the arena. But you must also teach him the ways of the street'. Now a member of Julius Caesar's palace, Marcus' training continues in the city of Rome. The streets are plagued by vicious gang war attacks, and Caesar must employ his own gang leader, who learns of a plot to murder him. Only Marcus can go in undercover. But he's in terrible danger. If the rival gang discover him the price will be fatal. Julius Caesar's isn't the only life at risk...
Simon Scarrow will do for boy gladiators what JK Rowling did for boy wizards. waterstones.com
Hogwarts meets Rome - TheTelegraph
Author
About Simon Scarrow
Simon Scarrow was born in Nigeria, Africa and lived in a number of countries, including Hong Kong and the Bahamas, before settling in Britain.
He started writing his first novel after finishing his degree and became a teacher. After he secured his first book deal he continued teaching until 2005 when he reluctantly decided to devote all his time to writing.
