Videssos Books in Order

Videssos Series by Harry Turtledove

The Videssos series by Harry Turtledove is a captivating blend of fantasy and historical fiction. Set in a world inspired by the Byzantine Empire, the series explores themes of war, politics, and magic. The story begins with a Roman legion transported to the magical land of Videssos, where they must navigate a world of intrigue and sorcery. With its richly detailed world-building and compelling characters, this series is a must-read for fans of epic fantasy.

Publication Order of Videssos Books

Videssos Cycle

1. The Misplaced Legion (1987)
2. An Emperor for the Legion (1987)
3. The Legion of Videssos (1987)
4. Swords of the Legion (1987)

Tale of Krispos

5. Krispos Rising (1991)
6. Krispos of Videssos (1991)
7. Krispos the Emperor (1994)

Time of Troubles

8. The Stolen Throne (1995)
9. Hammer and Anvil (1996)
10. The Thousand Cities (1997)
11. Videssos Besieged (1998)

Standalone Novel

12. The Bridge of the Separator (2005)

1. The Misplaced Legion (1987)

A Roman legion led by Marcus Aemilius Scaurus is transported to the magical world of Videssos after a clash of enchanted swords. In this unfamiliar land, the Romans must adapt to a world filled with magic, political intrigue, and new enemies. As mercenaries for the Videssian Empire, they face challenges that test their loyalty and survival skills.

2. An Emperor for the Legion (1987)

The Videssian Emperor is killed by dark sorcery, plunging the empire into chaos. Marcus and his legion must navigate a treacherous political landscape while defending the empire from external threats. This book delves deeper into the complexities of Videssian politics and the legion’s struggle to find their place in this new world.

3. The Legion of Videssos (1987)

The Roman legion becomes embroiled in Videssos’s civil war. As alliances shift and betrayals abound, Marcus must lead his men through battles and political intrigue. The story explores themes of loyalty, honor, and the cost of war.

4. Swords of the Legion (1987)

In the final installment of the Videssos Cycle, Marcus faces his greatest challenge yet. With the fate of Videssos hanging in the balance, he must confront powerful enemies and make difficult choices. This book delivers a thrilling conclusion to the legion’s journey.

5. Krispos Rising (1991)

This prequel series follows Krispos, a humble farmer who rises to power in Videssos. His journey from obscurity to the throne is filled with ambition, betrayal, and determination. Krispos Rising sets the stage for a new era in Videssian history.

6. Krispos of Videssos (1991)

Now Emperor, Krispos must navigate the challenges of ruling an empire. From internal conspiracies to external threats, his reign is anything but peaceful. This book explores the burdens of leadership and the sacrifices required to maintain power.

7. Krispos the Emperor (1994)

Krispos faces his greatest test as Emperor when Videssos is threatened by a powerful enemy. As he struggles to protect his empire, he must also confront personal demons and the consequences of his decisions. This book provides a satisfying conclusion to Krispos’s story.

8. The Stolen Throne (1995)

Set during the Time of Troubles, this book introduces a new cast of characters and explores the conflicts that arise when the Videssian throne is contested. With its fast-paced plot and rich world-building, this installment is a standout in the series.

9. Hammer and Anvil (1996)

The empire is under siege from all sides, and its survival depends on the courage and cunning of its leaders. This book delves into the struggles of war and the resilience of the Videssian people.

10. The Thousand Cities (1997)

Videssos faces a new threat as rival factions vie for control of the empire. This book is a gripping tale of ambition, betrayal, and the fight for power.

11. Videssos Besieged (1998)

The series reaches its climax as Videssos is besieged by a formidable enemy. With the empire’s future at stake, its defenders must rally together to overcome impossible odds. This book delivers an epic conclusion to the Time of Troubles.

12. The Bridge of the Separator (2005)

This standalone novel explores the life of Rhavas, a devout man whose faith is tested by the harsh realities of Videssos. As he grapples with his beliefs, he becomes entangled in the empire’s political and religious conflicts. This book offers a unique perspective on the Videssian world.

Why You’ll Love the Videssos Series

The Videssos series combines the best elements of fantasy and historical fiction. Harry Turtledove’s deep knowledge of Byzantine history adds authenticity to the richly detailed world of Videssos. The characters are complex and relatable, and the stories are filled with intrigue, action, and magic. Whether you’re a fan of epic battles or political drama, this series has something for everyone.

Books Similar to Videssos Series

If you enjoyed the Videssos series, you might also like:

• The Drenai Saga by David Gemmell
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• The Malazan Book of the Fallen by Steven Erikson
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• The Black Company by Glen Cook
  A gritty fantasy series that follows a mercenary company through war and intrigue.

• The Chronicles of Amber by Roger Zelazny
  A classic fantasy series with a unique blend of magic and political intrigue.