April 238 AD. The empire is in turmoil. After the death of Gordian the Elder and the Younger in North Africa, the tyrant and former emperor Maximin Thrax seeks to regain his throne. The Senate, which supported Gordian's uprising, chooses two contenders for power.  But fighting breaks out in the streets as ambitious men call for a violent change of power. When Maximin enters northern Italy, the city of Aquileia is the only thing standing between him and Rome. Despite everything, Menophilus supports the Gordians and prepares to defend the city. In one of the greatest sieges of all time, the fate of the Empire must be decided. A dramatic and gripping story of murder, rebellion and civil war, Fire and Sword creates a magnificent world built on violence and revenge - a world where no one feels safe, especially those who dares to rule Rome