Unfortunately, I haven't read both the previous books, which meant that I felt like i was missing out on some detail. Nevertheless, this was a thoroughly enjoyable read, carefully plotted and wonderfully evocative of ancient Roman times.

Just as you'd expect from a book of this length, there are subtle subplots and a compelling storyline which combine with careful characterisation to make this an exceptional novel. The mood is controlled, going from serene and compassionate to shocking violence, presented in such a way to leave you gasping.

Highly recommended.

Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC without obligation.

Beasts From the Dark is the third and final instalment in the Brothers of the Sands epic historical adventure series set amongst the chaos of ancient Rome from one of the masters of the genre Robert Low. To get the most from this trio of books I highly recommend reading them in chronological order as you will get the most enjoyment that way; that way you are privy to the introductions and evolution of the cast of characters and references made to events that took place in the preceding novels and therefore talk of prior incidents or plot developments will not merely leave you confused, lost or simply go over your head. The group are in the Alps searching for a rogue Roman officer when an incident leaves them unable to exit the area and they are blocked in a remote and freezing zone many meters above sea level. Being trapped in the mountains is extremely dangerous as it gives their enemies an easy way to reach them. Can they all make it out alive or will they die trying?

As alluded to above in the previous paragraph Robert Low has written another almost flawless ancient Roman tale of grit and drama with an impeccable sense of both time and place; I would never have thought I would've enjoyed these books as I am probably unlikely to be in his usual demographic, however, anyone with a penchant for detail, an exquisitely woven historical yarn and a cast of characters reminiscent of a Shakespearean play will find much to sing about within these pages. He is undoubtedly one of the genres most underrated writers. This is an action-packed read and the sheer amount of research that has been undertaken to ensure the story is believable is extensive and this really appears to be a stunning labour of love. A stunning amalgamation of compulsive plot and an iconic, refined backdrop, I am indeed warmly anticipating his next release. Those who appreciated any of the novels of Dan Brown i feel would find this worth picking up. Many thanks to Canelo for an ARC.

Beasts From The Dark is the third historical novel in the Brothers of the Sands series by Robert Low. Due out 6th Jan 2020, it's 400 pages and available in ebook format.

This is an exquisitely plotted and meticulously researched and accurate novel. My notes from my read through are very sparse because I found almost nothing wrong. In fact, my reading notes look more like one long fangirl squeal from start to finish. I can't remember the last time I read an author with such a commanding grasp of tension and plotting. The characterizations are crisp, beautifully three dimensional and believable and the narrative arc is both twisty and straightforward at the same time. There are currents and undercurrents throughout and the whole is subtle and complex and thoroughly immersive.

There is a brooding threat of real violence as well as compassion and camaraderie. I found the book quite moving in a number of places. The focus on detail was impressive and never overwhelmed the overarching narrative. This is also an author who is definitely not afraid to kill his darlings. The whole is muscular and spare and very very well done. There are a number of scenes which were even more shocking than they would have otherwise been because they happened by contrast in an otherwise calm/peaceful surrounding.

There is a useful glossary included at the end of the book, but I didn't really need to consult it because the author is adept at defining things in context. There is quite a lot of violence (we're talking about the Roman Empire during the Severan period) as well as lots of political interplay and machination.

Beautifully written. Readable as a standalone, but I recommend the author's other work as well.

Five stars for the book, five for the series. Definitely an author to seek out.

I love historical fiction set in Ancient Rome and this was an excellent book that kept me hooked till the end.
I liked the well researched historical background, the well thought cast of characters, and the fast paced and action packed plot.
It's the first book I read by this author and won't surely be the last.
Recommended.
Many thanks to Canelo and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book and the trip though ancient Rome. It was a tale well worth reading. I look forward to the next from Low.