33 thoughts on “The Thrice Named Man IX – Issedonian”
Best character ever.
Thank you – enjoy!
Привет всем. Честно вовек не писал отзывы, но тут другой случай, уделю минутку. Вы пишете вконец здорово и познавательно. Можно что почитать и подчертить для себя кое-что интересное. Я уже давненько читаю Ваши публикации. Создавайте и выставляйие у Вас это прекрасно получаеться.
Hi
Thank you for the positive feedback. I am glad that you enjoy the series.
Hector
Just read “Issedonian”. Frankly I’m a little perturbed. It was too short. I was looking for something in the 600-700 pages range, minimum. Maybe even 1,000 pages. Gosh, that would have been awesome! Instead I get, like, 186. Hector, it takes me almost a half a page to even get immersed in the story, which leaves me, in this case, with only around 185 and half pages of story. This is not nearly enough! I need VOLUME with these characters, Hector. I need lots and lots of dialogue, strategy, insight and action. More, more more. As the author/creator, I don’t think you have a full appreciation of how tremendously enjoyable these books are. I don’t think you…I’m just going to say it…really “get” how fantastic your characters and dialogue are. The shortness of the book demonstrate that. You seem reluctant to put it out there. Clearly there is some lack of confidence. You may be clueless of your prodigious talent. Very sad. In fairness, I was left hanging there at the end again, this time with Cai’s promise, so I’m not gonna lie, I am a little angry, which may have influenced some of my comments, But the message I’m trying to subtly deliver is : I need more Hector, much more and many more books. Please stop fooling around and get back to work.
Hi David
I take all your comments to heart. I love writing the stories and only took one week off after publishing Issedonian. I have started with the next volume already. Today I spent hours researching the customs of the ancient peoples who dwell within the Taiga, the Boreal Forest of Siberia. It is fascinating to say the least.
I plan to publish the next installment before Christmas and will do my best to put more meat on the bones.
I think most authors suffer from self doubt and I am no exception. Thank you for making my day.
Kind regards.
Hector
You see! that’s what I’m talking about! Instead of answering my idiotic post, you could have been advancing the next Thrice Named installment. Thankfully, I discovered “erilaR” which is coincidentally is written by someone sharing your name, and I love these books almost as much (by a sliver…maybe) as Thrice Named.
In all seriousness, I’m a voracious reader of historical fiction, and I mean “VORACIOUS”. Name the author and I’ve read it. You are without a doubt at the top of the heap. I love your writing style and your dialogue. So talented.
All the best,
Dave
Dave
Thank you again – enjoy erilaR.
Hector
Hi there, just like Dave’s comment above – I was left hanging after I finished book 9 (last night). I think it took me approx. 2 weeks to read all 9 books and my wife and family are grateful to have me back 🙂 I love historical fiction and love your writing style.
There is a lot to take, as you don’t just focus on one particular culture, you have gone into great detail about many cultures and this requires a huge amount of research. I enjoy reading Cornwell, Gough, Darman, Iggulden and now certainly Miller.
If you were to turn The Thrice Named Man into a TV mini (or Epic) series who would you cast as Lucius and who would you cast as Hostilius?
Hi Jeff
Nothing comes close to losing oneself in a good book. I used to read at least two books per week, but I must admit that since I started writing I hardly get time for three a month!
I am honoured that you mention my name in the same sentence as accomplished authors. (By the way, most of them are favourites of mine as well.)
For some reason or other I have developed a fascination with the tribes of the Eurasian Steppes. I read everything I can lay my hands on. Although it is enjoyable, it takes up a lot of time. I believe I spend at least three hours on research for every hour I put pen to paper. Having said that, I still probably get it wrong from time to time.
I have always pictured Mark Wahlberg in the role of Hostilius, Jet Li as Cai, and Jason Mamoa as Bradakos. I can’t seem to find the right Lucius yet (the same goes for Gordas).
Let me know when you stumble upon the right candidates.
Kind regards.
Hector
Got them both Hector although I disagree with Walhberg as Hositlus. There is only one Hostilus: Tom Hardy
Chris Hemsworth should be Eochar. And as for Gordas….Liev Schreiber
I’ll give you Tom Hardy as Hostilius if you’ll allow Dave Bautista as Gordas.
Although I like Chris Hemsworth, he might just be too good-looking, eh? Maybe Alexander Dreymon from the Last Kingdom?
Yeah, I think Hemsworth is too Anglo looking – He needs to carry off the half Scythian & half Roman look.
Uhtred! Well I like Dreymon for sure. That is a very good pick. Bautista is a good one too.
I finished all of erilaR. So good. I’m now re-reading Conn Iggulden’s Ghengis Khan “Conqueror Series”. Inspired by Gordas of course.
Arguably my favourite series of all time.
Just goes to show that the ancient peoples of the Steppes were a force to be reckoned with. I always view Attila as a forerunner of Ghengis Khan.
Watched a Jason Statham movie yesterday – he might be a good Hostilius?
I so agree with you on Attila as the fore runner to Ghengis. In your research, have you come to the conclusion that the Huns and the Mongols fought the same way? Horse archers and such. There is much talk about the genius of Tsubodai as a strategist and tactician, but it seems the Huns employed a lot of the same tactics almost a thousand years earlier. That would have been some battle. Attila vs. Genghis
Hi Dave
I have not researched the fighting style of the Mongols (apart from what I have read in historical fiction books) but have read as much as I can about the Huns.
The followers of Attila who invaded the Roman Empire were a confederation of “Scythian” tribes under the Great Khan’s dominion, such as the Goths, Heruli and Alans (who all fought in different ways). I believe that it would have been the same in the case of Genghis Khan.
The Steppes have always had an abundance of hardy, skillful and extremely competent horse warriors – all it took was for special men to unite them. And there is no doubt in my mind that good or bad, the likes of Attila and Genghis are few and far between.
Hector. Have you read Darman’s Parthian Chronicles?
Hi Dave
Yup, read them all. I love the humour and the setting. I am a big fan of Peter Darman’s and have read most of his series, but the Parthian chronicles is my pick.
Have you tried the Marching with Caesar series by RW Peake?
yes. great series. 18 books (hint hint). I will tell you that another fantastic series is the Master of War series by David Gilman. Love those books and his main character Thomas Blackstone. Also, Cameron’s books (e.g. Thom Swan and William Gold). The 100 years war is another of my favorites time periods. His Killer of Men books with Arimnestos are also terrific. And then there is of course Cornwell and Uhtred. These authors are part of an elite group in rarefied air that Hector Miller also occupies. I’m heavy with the platitudes because your books are so so good.
Last thing Hector. If you haven’t already, you should check out Grif Hosker’s Sword of Cardimandua books relating to the Roman occupation of Britannia. Really really good stuff.
Except for the Master of War series, I’ve read them all. Christian Cameron is a genius. I’ve read most of Griff Hosker’s books, but nowadays I focus on one or two of his series. Since I started writing I can’t keep up with him – he seems to publish a book every month!
You are so lucky that you haven’t read the “Master of War” series! Trust me on this one, it is one of the best I’ve ever read. You will love Blackstone. Genius stuff.
I can’t wait until you write the “young” Gordas books!
Wow! I waited so long for book IX ! It was fantastic, as is the whole series but… short! Where’s the rest? I absolutely love your work, I’ve read the ErilaR series and now I’m left adrift in a sea of mediocre books waiting, just waiting for book X. You really have an amazing talent, don’t underestimate your abilities. An old , old book by Vic Hurley, The Parthian is the only book that’s held my attention as your work does. I’ve read it nine times! If you’ve missed it be sure to give it a read! Thank you! Keep writing!
Hi Janet
Thank you for the kind words. I will definitely look up Vic Hurley. The title has already piqued my interest.
Guilty as charged – my books are on the short side. Before you sentence me, allow me to offer some arguments in mitigation.
I believe I overdo my research, but I am addicted to it. I spend hours on the notebook trying to figure out routes through faraway mountains and read up all about the traditions of the peoples I write about. Sometimes very little of this makes its way into the books, because it doesn’t fit the story.
I retired from the corporate world five years ago thinking that I would put my feet up and spend my days fishing. Then, out of boredom, I started writing Scythian and suddenly my hobby turned into an occupation! Now I work every weekend!
The tenth book is gaining momentum, although the first couple of chapters takes a bit longer to write before I get into the ‘flow’ of the tale. This installment doesn’t have a name yet, but it might be called ‘Herulian’ depending on where the story takes me.
Thank you again for taking the time to comment.
I must admit , loving the way you write has to include the details which you take so much time to research. I could live in your world, so I’ve started the series over to keep me occupied and will also reread The Parthian to hold me over until your next instalment. No dilly dallying though! Your avid readers await! Keep on him Dave!
I’m 67 now and have always been a voracious reader and can count on my fingers how many author’s books I have enjoyed as much as yours. Keep up the great work but remember, I’m old, don’t keep me waiting too long! 👍
Hi Janet
I’ve realised that I can’t keep away from the notebook for too long else I get moody. I’m afraid that if I do 600 pages (compliments of Dave) you will have to wait too long!
The tenth installment is already gaining momentum although my head is spinning from all the research I’ve done today.
Thank you again for the support – it keeps my motivational tank filled to the brim.
(And by the way, you must decide whether you’re 67 or old… these two statements are miles apart.)
Lol, my “old ness” depends on the day! We’re a foster home for infants, special needs and born addicted, so some days I’m beat and most days I’m upbeat!
Keep up the great work and I eagerly await book X !
Wow! And you still get time to read!
You must regularly fall asleep with your face in a book or kindle.
Sounds like an amazing (yet taxing) calling.
Thank you again – all the best.
Janet
Don’t you think that Hector should consider a series about the young Gordas and his life with the Huns prior to meeting Eochar? I love that character. Come to think of it maybe a series about a young Hostilus would be better. I love that character too. Hmmmm. Maybe just the next Lucius book. SOMETHING PLEASE. Heh heh.
I think a series about either Gordas or Hostilus would be amazing but hesitate to distract him from this current series. My curiosity is running rampant about Cai ! What a story his life would make!
I’m going to look up some of the other authors listed in the comments. I’ve already reread the first two in the Thrice Named Man and have started to reread the third! At this rate I’ll be desperate in no time!
Reading for me is like breathing! It’s a must!
Keep writing Hector! 👍
That’s what I keep telling him Janet! He’s so talented but too modest to admit it. I think if we band together we can get him to write a 600 pager for the next book! Let keep the pressure on!
Best character ever.
Thank you – enjoy!
Привет всем. Честно вовек не писал отзывы, но тут другой случай, уделю минутку. Вы пишете вконец здорово и познавательно. Можно что почитать и подчертить для себя кое-что интересное. Я уже давненько читаю Ваши публикации. Создавайте и выставляйие у Вас это прекрасно получаеться.
Hi
Thank you for the positive feedback. I am glad that you enjoy the series.
Hector
Just read “Issedonian”. Frankly I’m a little perturbed. It was too short. I was looking for something in the 600-700 pages range, minimum. Maybe even 1,000 pages. Gosh, that would have been awesome! Instead I get, like, 186. Hector, it takes me almost a half a page to even get immersed in the story, which leaves me, in this case, with only around 185 and half pages of story. This is not nearly enough! I need VOLUME with these characters, Hector. I need lots and lots of dialogue, strategy, insight and action. More, more more. As the author/creator, I don’t think you have a full appreciation of how tremendously enjoyable these books are. I don’t think you…I’m just going to say it…really “get” how fantastic your characters and dialogue are. The shortness of the book demonstrate that. You seem reluctant to put it out there. Clearly there is some lack of confidence. You may be clueless of your prodigious talent. Very sad. In fairness, I was left hanging there at the end again, this time with Cai’s promise, so I’m not gonna lie, I am a little angry, which may have influenced some of my comments, But the message I’m trying to subtly deliver is : I need more Hector, much more and many more books. Please stop fooling around and get back to work.
Hi David
I take all your comments to heart. I love writing the stories and only took one week off after publishing Issedonian. I have started with the next volume already. Today I spent hours researching the customs of the ancient peoples who dwell within the Taiga, the Boreal Forest of Siberia. It is fascinating to say the least.
I plan to publish the next installment before Christmas and will do my best to put more meat on the bones.
I think most authors suffer from self doubt and I am no exception. Thank you for making my day.
Kind regards.
Hector
You see! that’s what I’m talking about! Instead of answering my idiotic post, you could have been advancing the next Thrice Named installment. Thankfully, I discovered “erilaR” which is coincidentally is written by someone sharing your name, and I love these books almost as much (by a sliver…maybe) as Thrice Named.
In all seriousness, I’m a voracious reader of historical fiction, and I mean “VORACIOUS”. Name the author and I’ve read it. You are without a doubt at the top of the heap. I love your writing style and your dialogue. So talented.
All the best,
Dave
Dave
Thank you again – enjoy erilaR.
Hector
Hi there, just like Dave’s comment above – I was left hanging after I finished book 9 (last night). I think it took me approx. 2 weeks to read all 9 books and my wife and family are grateful to have me back 🙂 I love historical fiction and love your writing style.
There is a lot to take, as you don’t just focus on one particular culture, you have gone into great detail about many cultures and this requires a huge amount of research. I enjoy reading Cornwell, Gough, Darman, Iggulden and now certainly Miller.
If you were to turn The Thrice Named Man into a TV mini (or Epic) series who would you cast as Lucius and who would you cast as Hostilius?
Hi Jeff
Nothing comes close to losing oneself in a good book. I used to read at least two books per week, but I must admit that since I started writing I hardly get time for three a month!
I am honoured that you mention my name in the same sentence as accomplished authors. (By the way, most of them are favourites of mine as well.)
For some reason or other I have developed a fascination with the tribes of the Eurasian Steppes. I read everything I can lay my hands on. Although it is enjoyable, it takes up a lot of time. I believe I spend at least three hours on research for every hour I put pen to paper. Having said that, I still probably get it wrong from time to time.
I have always pictured Mark Wahlberg in the role of Hostilius, Jet Li as Cai, and Jason Mamoa as Bradakos. I can’t seem to find the right Lucius yet (the same goes for Gordas).
Let me know when you stumble upon the right candidates.
Kind regards.
Hector
Got them both Hector although I disagree with Walhberg as Hositlus. There is only one Hostilus: Tom Hardy
Chris Hemsworth should be Eochar. And as for Gordas….Liev Schreiber
I’ll give you Tom Hardy as Hostilius if you’ll allow Dave Bautista as Gordas.
Although I like Chris Hemsworth, he might just be too good-looking, eh? Maybe Alexander Dreymon from the Last Kingdom?
Yeah, I think Hemsworth is too Anglo looking – He needs to carry off the half Scythian & half Roman look.
Uhtred! Well I like Dreymon for sure. That is a very good pick. Bautista is a good one too.
I finished all of erilaR. So good. I’m now re-reading Conn Iggulden’s Ghengis Khan “Conqueror Series”. Inspired by Gordas of course.
Arguably my favourite series of all time.
Just goes to show that the ancient peoples of the Steppes were a force to be reckoned with. I always view Attila as a forerunner of Ghengis Khan.
Watched a Jason Statham movie yesterday – he might be a good Hostilius?
I so agree with you on Attila as the fore runner to Ghengis. In your research, have you come to the conclusion that the Huns and the Mongols fought the same way? Horse archers and such. There is much talk about the genius of Tsubodai as a strategist and tactician, but it seems the Huns employed a lot of the same tactics almost a thousand years earlier. That would have been some battle. Attila vs. Genghis
Hi Dave
I have not researched the fighting style of the Mongols (apart from what I have read in historical fiction books) but have read as much as I can about the Huns.
The followers of Attila who invaded the Roman Empire were a confederation of “Scythian” tribes under the Great Khan’s dominion, such as the Goths, Heruli and Alans (who all fought in different ways). I believe that it would have been the same in the case of Genghis Khan.
The Steppes have always had an abundance of hardy, skillful and extremely competent horse warriors – all it took was for special men to unite them. And there is no doubt in my mind that good or bad, the likes of Attila and Genghis are few and far between.
Hector. Have you read Darman’s Parthian Chronicles?
Hi Dave
Yup, read them all. I love the humour and the setting. I am a big fan of Peter Darman’s and have read most of his series, but the Parthian chronicles is my pick.
Have you tried the Marching with Caesar series by RW Peake?
yes. great series. 18 books (hint hint). I will tell you that another fantastic series is the Master of War series by David Gilman. Love those books and his main character Thomas Blackstone. Also, Cameron’s books (e.g. Thom Swan and William Gold). The 100 years war is another of my favorites time periods. His Killer of Men books with Arimnestos are also terrific. And then there is of course Cornwell and Uhtred. These authors are part of an elite group in rarefied air that Hector Miller also occupies. I’m heavy with the platitudes because your books are so so good.
Last thing Hector. If you haven’t already, you should check out Grif Hosker’s Sword of Cardimandua books relating to the Roman occupation of Britannia. Really really good stuff.
Except for the Master of War series, I’ve read them all. Christian Cameron is a genius. I’ve read most of Griff Hosker’s books, but nowadays I focus on one or two of his series. Since I started writing I can’t keep up with him – he seems to publish a book every month!
You are so lucky that you haven’t read the “Master of War” series! Trust me on this one, it is one of the best I’ve ever read. You will love Blackstone. Genius stuff.
I can’t wait until you write the “young” Gordas books!
Wow! I waited so long for book IX ! It was fantastic, as is the whole series but… short! Where’s the rest? I absolutely love your work, I’ve read the ErilaR series and now I’m left adrift in a sea of mediocre books waiting, just waiting for book X. You really have an amazing talent, don’t underestimate your abilities. An old , old book by Vic Hurley, The Parthian is the only book that’s held my attention as your work does. I’ve read it nine times! If you’ve missed it be sure to give it a read! Thank you! Keep writing!
Hi Janet
Thank you for the kind words. I will definitely look up Vic Hurley. The title has already piqued my interest.
Guilty as charged – my books are on the short side. Before you sentence me, allow me to offer some arguments in mitigation.
I believe I overdo my research, but I am addicted to it. I spend hours on the notebook trying to figure out routes through faraway mountains and read up all about the traditions of the peoples I write about. Sometimes very little of this makes its way into the books, because it doesn’t fit the story.
I retired from the corporate world five years ago thinking that I would put my feet up and spend my days fishing. Then, out of boredom, I started writing Scythian and suddenly my hobby turned into an occupation! Now I work every weekend!
The tenth book is gaining momentum, although the first couple of chapters takes a bit longer to write before I get into the ‘flow’ of the tale. This installment doesn’t have a name yet, but it might be called ‘Herulian’ depending on where the story takes me.
Thank you again for taking the time to comment.
I must admit , loving the way you write has to include the details which you take so much time to research. I could live in your world, so I’ve started the series over to keep me occupied and will also reread The Parthian to hold me over until your next instalment. No dilly dallying though! Your avid readers await! Keep on him Dave!
I’m 67 now and have always been a voracious reader and can count on my fingers how many author’s books I have enjoyed as much as yours. Keep up the great work but remember, I’m old, don’t keep me waiting too long! 👍
Hi Janet
I’ve realised that I can’t keep away from the notebook for too long else I get moody. I’m afraid that if I do 600 pages (compliments of Dave) you will have to wait too long!
The tenth installment is already gaining momentum although my head is spinning from all the research I’ve done today.
Thank you again for the support – it keeps my motivational tank filled to the brim.
(And by the way, you must decide whether you’re 67 or old… these two statements are miles apart.)
Lol, my “old ness” depends on the day! We’re a foster home for infants, special needs and born addicted, so some days I’m beat and most days I’m upbeat!
Keep up the great work and I eagerly await book X !
Wow! And you still get time to read!
You must regularly fall asleep with your face in a book or kindle.
Sounds like an amazing (yet taxing) calling.
Thank you again – all the best.
Janet
Don’t you think that Hector should consider a series about the young Gordas and his life with the Huns prior to meeting Eochar? I love that character. Come to think of it maybe a series about a young Hostilus would be better. I love that character too. Hmmmm. Maybe just the next Lucius book. SOMETHING PLEASE. Heh heh.
I think a series about either Gordas or Hostilus would be amazing but hesitate to distract him from this current series. My curiosity is running rampant about Cai ! What a story his life would make!
I’m going to look up some of the other authors listed in the comments. I’ve already reread the first two in the Thrice Named Man and have started to reread the third! At this rate I’ll be desperate in no time!
Reading for me is like breathing! It’s a must!
Keep writing Hector! 👍
That’s what I keep telling him Janet! He’s so talented but too modest to admit it. I think if we band together we can get him to write a 600 pager for the next book! Let keep the pressure on!