The Iron Way

The Iron Way is a historical adventure novel by Tim Leach, set in the second century AD and based on legends of King Arthur. It follows the story of Kai, a Sarmatian warrior, who is exiled from his home lands and ordered to take the Iron Way to the far north of the Empire. Along the way, Kai discovers that every barrier has its weaknesses and has his chance to fight and die. The novel is praised for its gripping narrative, beautiful language, and rounded characters.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 320 pages
Publication date: 13 April 2023
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

The Iron Way, the second installment in Tim Leach's captivating Sarmatian Trilogy, transports readers to the second century AD, where a gripping historical adventure unfolds based on legends of King Arthur. Set in AD 175,Vindolanda,Britannia, the story follows the journey of Sarmatian warrior Kai, who, after his cavalry is defeated by the legions on the frozen waters of the Danube, vows to save his people by serving Rome. Bound by the Emperor's will, the Sarmatians are prepared to fight and willing to die—death in battle is their only escape from the dishonor of defeat. Exiled from their homeland, they are tasked with embarking on a perilous journey along the Iron Way, a great wall of stone that stretches across the land, dividing Rome's dominion from the mysterious and perilous realm beyond. On one side, the empire's power and grandeur; on the other, mist and rumors—stories of men closer to giants, of warriors who fight without fear or restraint. For a people who have known no borders, the prospect of garrison duty is a cruel punishment. Yet, as insurrection stirs on both sides of the wall, Kai will uncover the weaknesses of every barrier, presenting him with a chance to fight and perhaps even die.

Reviewers have praised The Iron Way for its exceptional Roman military adventure, comparing it to the finest historical fiction available today. Simon Turney, in his review for the Historical Novel Society, hailed it as a "great story from a fascinating period... masterfully written with beautiful language." The characters, according to the Historical Novel Society, are well-rounded and authentic, and their desperate efforts to preserve their world and evade the tyrannical reach of Rome are heart-wrenching. The Times praised Tim Leach's writing, describing it as "beautifully written." For Winter Nights recommended the book, and the Historical Novel Society described it as "magnificent." Historia praised the narrative as "poetic, absorbing," and the Sunday Times called it a "poetic, absorbing narrative."

In conclusion, The Iron Way is a must-read for fans of historical fiction, offering a captivating and immersive journey set in a fascinating period of history. Tim Leach's masterful storytelling and exquisite language bring the characters and events to life, making it a truly memorable and inspiring read.

Weight: 224g
Dimension: 198 x 128 x 19 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781800242913