<P><B>The first in a major new Roman trilogy tells the story of Valerius Verrens as he faces up to 50,000 British warriors with only 3,000 defenders—and a last stand that will live on in history</B><div> </DIV><DIV>The Roman grip on Britain is weakening. Emperor Nero has turned his face away from this far-flung outpost; the Druids are on the rise, spreading seeds of rebellion among the British tribes; and Roman cruelty and exploitation have angered their British subjects. The warrior queen Boudicca will lead the tribes to war. Standing against the rising tide of Boudicca's rebellion is Roman Tribune Gaius Valerius Verrens, Commander of the veteran legions at Colonia. Valerius leads the veterans in a last stand against the unstoppable horde of Boudicca's rebel army. Step by step, the bloodied survivors are forced back into the Temple of Claudius. It is here that Valerius wins lifelong fame and the accolade Hero of Rome.</DIV>