Roman army heroes Macro and Cato have the fate of the Empire in their hands when rebellion breaks out Crete. A riveting and epic adventure in the acclaimed and bestseller Eagles of the Empire series. AD 48. The friendship between Roman Centurions Cato and Macro is rock solid. Returning to Rome from a harrowing campaign, they are shipwrecked when an earthquake strikes the island of Crete. Struggling ashore they discover panic, devastation and a slave revolt. Led by a gladiator called Ajax, the enslaved men are driven by a bloodthirsty desire for revenge that renders them almost invincible. Taking control of the shaken men of the local garrison, Cato and Macro must save the province, before the rebellion can threaten the Empire itself... What readers say about The Gladiator 'Superb storylines . . . tremendous enjoyment' ***** 'One of the most gripping novels of this series' ***** 'A beautifully scripted novel I couldn't stop reading' ***** 'A glorious read. Enjoy' *****