Simon Scarrow Books In Order To Read

If you’ve ever found yourself lost in the thunder of Roman legions charging into battle, the clash of gladiatorial swords, or the shadowy intrigues of Napoleonic Europe, then Simon Scarrow’s novels are calling your name. This British master of historical fiction has captivated millions with his gripping tales of heroism, betrayal, and unyielding camaraderie. With over 6 million books sold worldwide and translations into 25 languages, Scarrow’s works aren’t just stories—they’re immersive journeys through time. But with multiple series, standalone novels, and novellas spanning ancient Rome to World War II, keeping track of Simon Scarrow books in order can feel like navigating the Appian Way during a siege.

That’s where this guide comes in. Whether you’re a die-hard fan plotting your next read or a newcomer wondering where to start, we’ll break down every Simon Scarrow series in publication order (the best way to experience his evolving storytelling). We’ll spotlight his blockbuster Eagles of the Empire series—home to the unbreakable duo of Macro and Cato—while covering his other adventures. Grab your metaphorical pilum, and let’s march through Scarrow’s literary empire.

Who Is Simon Scarrow? A Quick Dive into the Author Behind the Legions

Born in Nigeria in 1962 and raised across continents, Simon Scarrow brings a global perspective to his historical epics. After earning a Master’s in history from the University of East Anglia, he ditched a career in tax inspection (talk about a plot twist) for teaching and, eventually, full-time writing. His breakthrough came in 2000 with Under the Eagle, kicking off the Eagles of the Empire series that now boasts 24 novels and counting.

Scarrow’s secret sauce? Meticulous research blended with pulse-pounding action. He pores over ancient texts, visits battle sites, and even crafts his own authentic dialogue—Latin phrases and all—to make history feel alive. As he once shared in an interview, “I write what I want to read: stories that transport you to the front lines.” Living in Norfolk, UK, with his wife and two sons, Scarrow continues to churn out bestsellers, including his latest foray into Nazi-era Berlin. Now, let’s get to the books.

The Eagles of the Empire Series: Macro and Cato’s Epic Roman Saga

This is Scarrow’s crown jewel—a sprawling chronicle of two Roman soldiers navigating the brutal campaigns of the 1st century AD. Centurion Macro, the grizzled veteran with a heart of oak, mentors the clever young Optio Cato as they battle barbarians, emperors, and their own ambitions. Starting in AD 42 amid Emperor Claudius’s invasion of Britain, the series spans gladiatorial arenas, desert skirmishes, and imperial plots. With 24 books (and the 25th, Tyrant of Rome, slated for November 2025), it’s perfect for binge-reading.

Fans rave about the brotherly bond between Macro and Cato—think Band of Brothers meets Gladiator. Each novel stands alone but builds on its arcs, so publication order is key for maximum impact. Here’s the full lineup:

*Note: The Emperor trilogy (#12-14) flashes back to Macro’s youth but slots seamlessly into the main arc. For a true chronological read, weave them in after Book 11.

Why start here? If you’re new to Scarrow, Under the Eagle is your gateway drug—raw, relentless, and rated 4.1/5 on Goodreads with over 10,000 reviews. Pro tip: Pair it with a map of Roman Britain for that extra immersive kick.

The Revolution Series: Napoleon’s Shadowy Rivals

For a change of era, dive into Scarrow’s Napoleonic quartet. Here, French spy Etienne Lefevre crosses paths with British officer Thomas Lazalle in a web of espionage and cannon fire. It’s The Bourne Identity with bicorn hats—tense, twisty, and full of 19th-century grit.

Publication order:

1. Young Blood (2009) – A naval showdown sparks lifelong enmity.
2. The Generals (2010) – Wellington and Napoleon clash through their pawns.
3. Red Rats (2012) – Berlin’s salons hide assassination plots.
4. The Empress’ Sword (Planned/Teased) – Empire’s endgame looms.

This shorter series is ideal for readers craving high-stakes duels without committing to 20+ books. Average rating: 4.0/5.

Other Simon Scarrow Series and Standalones: From Pirates to Nazis

Scarrow’s range is staggering. He tackles YA gladiators, pirate novellas, and even modern thrillers. Here’s a curated list of his other gems, all in publication order:

Gladiator Series (YA Roman Adventure)

1. Gladiator: Fight for Freedom (2011) – A Thracian slave rises in Nero’s games.
2. Gladiator: Street Fighter (2012) – Urban brawls and underground rings.
3. Gladiator: Son of Spartacus (2013) – Legacy of rebellion ignites.
4. Gladiator: Vengeance (2014) – Final blood-soaked revolt.

Perfect for teens (or adults reliving their Spartacus phase)—fast-paced and fiercely empowering.

Pirata Series (Novellas with T.J. Andrews)

1. Pirata: The Pirate Chief (2019) – Corsican seas teem with cutthroats.
2. Pirata: The Roman (2019) – A rogue legionnaire turns buccaneer.
3. Pirata: The Slave (2020) – Chains break amid galley raids.
4. Pirata: Gold (2020) – Treasure hunts turn treacherous.
5. Pirata: Empire (2021) – Rome’s navy strikes back.

Bite-sized blasts of salty adventure—each under 100 pages.

Invader Series (Novellas with T.J. Andrews)

1. Invader: Dark Blade (2021) – AD 108: Barbarian hordes test Roman steel.
2. Invader: Blood King (2021) – Tribal wars erupt on the frontier.
3. Invader: Black Death (2022) – Plague and peril in the shadows.
4. Invader: Iron Will (2022) – A commander’s last stand.
5. Invader: Sacrifice (2023) – Gods demand a brutal toll.

Moody, medieval-feeling Roman tales for fans of dark historicals.

CI Schenke Series (Berlin Noir)

1. Blackout (2021) – 1939: A detective hunts killers in pre-war shadows.
2. The Pretender (2023) – Forged identities unravel amid rising terror.
3. A Death in Berlin (2025) – Hitler’s grip tightens; one cop fights back.

Scarrow’s modern pivot—chilling WWII thrillers with procedural bite. A Death in Berlin dropped in March 2025 and is already a Sunday Times hit.

Standalones and Odds ‘n’ Ends

• The Sword and the Scimitar (2012): The Siege of Malta in 1565—knights vs. Ottoman fury.
• Hearts of Stone (2015): WWII Greek islands; love and resistance collide.
• Playing with Death (2018, with Lee Francis): A contemporary medical thriller.
• The Roman Arena Series (Novellas): Quick gladiator hits like Barbarian (2012) and Challenger (2012).
• Warlord of Britannia (2024): A fresh Boudica retelling—standalone spice.

Why Read Simon Scarrow? The Appeal That Keeps Readers Hooked

Scarrow doesn’t just write history; he weaponizes it. His battles feel visceral—the mud, the screams, the fleeting triumphs. Characters like Cato evolve from green recruits to scarred legends, mirroring real soldiers’ psyches. And that research? It’s the scaffolding for non-stop momentum. As one Goodreads reviewer put it: “Scarrow makes you smell the sweat of the shield wall.”

For SEO sleuths, his books dominate searches for “best Roman fiction” alongside Conn Iggulden and Bernard Cornwell. But beyond rankings, Scarrow ignites a passion for the past—proving why empires rise and fall on the backs of ordinary men with extraordinary grit.

Final Scroll: Where to Start Your Scarrow Conquest

Newbies: Begin with Under the Eagle—it’s the spark that lit the fire for thousands. Veterans: Pre-order Tyrant of Rome and relive Nero’s madness. Whichever path you choose, Scarrow’s worlds will leave you breathless, begging for the next volley.

What’s your favorite Scarrow moment? Drop it in the comments—Macro’s roar? Cato’s cunning? Let’s legion up the discussion. And if this guide sharpened your reading spear, share it with a fellow history buff. Vale!