Anthony Riches

Anthony Riches is a British author of historical fiction whose Empire series has established him as one of the leading writers of Roman military adventure fiction. Riches holds a degree in Military Studies from the University of Manchester, and his lifelong interest in warfare began with his father's stories about the Second World War. A visit to Housesteads Roman Fort on Hadrian's Wall in 1996 inspired him to write the story that would become the first novel in his Empire series. The Empire series follows Centurion Marcus Aquila through the Roman military world of the second century AD. Beginning with Wounds of Honour (2009) and spanning over a dozen novels — including Arrows of Fury, Fortress of Spears, The Leopard Sword, The Wolf's Gold, The Eagle's Vengeance, The Emperor's Knives, Thunder of the Gods, and Altar of Blood — the series takes Marcus from Hadrian's Wall through the Empire's frontiers in Germany, Parthia, and beyond. Riches writes what he calls hardcore historical fiction — Roman military life rendered with meticulous accuracy but told in a vigorous, modern voice that makes the action vivid and immediate. His battle sequences are visceral and convincing, his military detail is thoroughly researched, and his characters are driven by loyalty, honour, and survival. He has also written the Protector thriller series, set in the modern world. The audiobook editions of Riches's Empire novels are immersive and action-packed. His books and audiobooks are essential for fans of Roman historical fiction, military adventure, and series that bring the ancient world thrillingly to life.