Two worlds on vastly different tracks collide in the first book of Jason Born’s new series called The Wald Chronicles.

The Wald begins in 16 B.C. when the belligerent Sugambrian tribe leaves their beloved forest to cross the Rhenus River into Gaul. While on their foraging rampage meant simply to gather supplies for the coming winter, they cross paths with the Roman Fifth Legion. An ever-so brief battle ensues. Though short, this encounter will set in motion a conflict lasting more than two decades with the tribes struggling under the might of the professional legions. The outcome of these wars, in forthcoming works, will prove to have lasting repercussions. In fact, we still feel them today in the global order.

The Wald is chock full of heroism, brotherhood, adventure, wit, and even history. Read it today to find out how tribesmen Berengar and his friend Ermin will fare against the likes of Drusus, Tiberius, and Augustus.

It is 8 B.C. The once numerous and independent tribes of Germania have been subjugated by a parade of Roman generals. The belligerent Sugambrians are exiled. Berengar is their only survivor. Ermin, the most influential of young Cheruscan nobles, is held captive. Separated from his beloved wald and his betrothed, Thusnelda, Ermin lives in the very palace of Augustus quickly becoming Romanized.

Yet, all hope is not lost. In the dark recesses of the wald, the hungry survivors of the wars cling to the visions of victory seen by the ancient priestess, Rike. Berengar and Thusnelda begin to scrape together a new coalition to free the tribes from Roman rule. They await a true leader. They wait for Ermin’s return.

But Berengar discovers that it is not just the legions he must fight. There are tribesmen who would prefer to accept the power of Caesar rather than the rigors of independence. Ancient jealousies resurface. And worst of all, Berengar battles his own promises as he finds that he loves Thusnelda. Will he steal her from his absent brother-in-arms? Honor and loyalty are in play, as is Germania. Hearts and trees of the wald are burning. It is Wald Afire.

Ermin’s epoch of separation is nearing its end. From captive to cavalry commander in the legions of Augustus, Ermin has inspired soldiers and generals with his heroism. His name, too, has changed. They call him Arminius.

Back in the forests of his youth, what remains of Arminius’ people capitulate. Mighty Rome has won. There is nothing left with which to fight. The men and women who provided the spark in earlier failed rebellions are exhausted. They transform from warriors to citizens. Rome transitions from conqueror to governor.

But a glowing ember may be borne on the wind and travel over long distances. In another part of the empire, as General Tiberius leads two massive armies, a set of former tribesmen hope to slough off their Roman masters. Will their revolt become the tinder that enables all of the wald to become free?

As Arminius, with horse and steel, serves the emperor, the path foreseen long ago by the priestess Rike rolls out before him. He hurtles back toward his father, his friend, Berengar, and his betrothed, Thusnelda. His fate and destiny propel him ever onward to what will be the most epic military engagement in all of human history.

2.) Germanic Tribes - Battle of the Teutoburg Forest

3.) Decisive Battles - Teutoburg Forest (Rome vs Germanic Tribes)

4.) Germania : the Nation that Defeated Rome 1 (Military Channel Documentary)