Vespasian

 Tribune of Rome

Vespasian #1

by

Robert Fabbri

26 AD: Sixteen-year-old Vespasian leaves his family farm for Rome, his sights set on finding a patron and following his brother into the army. But he discovers a city in turmoil and an Empire on the brink. The aging emperor Tiberius is in seclusion on Capri, leaving Rome in the iron grip of Sejanus, commander of the Praetorian Guard. Sejanus is ruler of the Empire in all but name, but many fear that isn't enough for him.

Sejanus' spies are everywhere - careless words at a dinner party can be as dangerous as a barbarian arrow. Vespasian is totally out of his depth, making dangerous enemies (and even more dangerous friends - like the young Caligula) and soon finds himself ensnared in a conspiracy against Tiberius.

With the situation in Rome deteriorating, Vespasian flees the city to take up his position as tribune in an unfashionable legion on the Balkan frontier. But even here there is no escaping the politics of Rome. Unblooded and inexperienced, he must lead his men in savage battle with hostile mountain tribes - dangerous enough without renegade Praetorians and Imperial agents trying to kill him too.

Somehow, he must survive long enough to uncover the identity of the traitors behind the growing revolt...

This is where it all begins—the fictional yet fact‑rooted journey of a sixteen‑year‑old who will one day become emperor.

Driven out of Rome and newly made a tribune, young Vespasian travels under the protection of Magnus, a hardened former legionary veteran now sworn to guard him. Together they navigate a world where enemies lurk in every shadow.

Robert Fabbri crafts a gripping blend of action, intrigue, and political tension. The first half of the novel lays the groundwork, introducing us to Vespasian as a youth, but it isn’t long before he shows the sharp mind and steady resolve of a much older man, shaped by the lessons and discipline drilled into him.

As barbarians press from without and assassins strike from within, every threat forces him to rise faster and higher than anyone expects.

A strong opening to the series—engaging, fast‑paced, and compelling right to the final page. A solid 5/5.