Arminius and Thusnelda turned out to be something of an enigma of a book. I wasn’t sure what to expect when initially I picked it up, but the author has an ability to turn what could otherwise have been dry historical facts into an incredible story both entertaining and educational. It has the feel of a contemporary drama while being set in historical times. The characters of Arminius and Thusnelda make excellent protagonists, both colourful and cunning, and the dialogue especially I could easily see transferred to a TV mini series.

A great read from an accomplished writer. ( )

Michael G. Kramer takes you back in time in his book Arminius and Thusnelda Versus Rome. The story follows the clash between Rome and Germany back in 9 A.D. Arminius and his bride Thusnelda become disgusted by the way Rome treats its people and also turns on them. The book is an epic and complex adventure that brings to life history. Kramer does a wonderful job of providing interesting context and details as well as sharing his passion for history into the book. The book has a unique voice as we get short chapters that delve into different elements of the conflict. I found this book to be both informative as well as engaging. I would highly recommend this book to history lovers. ( )

Arminius and Thusnelda Versus Rome by Michael G. Kramer is told by the ghost of Adalhard, a Germanic warrior. The story begins with much history about the origins of present Germanic people and the attempt Rome had in overtaking them. Mixed in with history is the story of Arminius when he goes off to train in the Roman Calvary. At five, he was feisty and demanded respect the officers refused to give. We also meet Thusnelda, a girl who takes her training as a warrior seriously. Julius Caesar and his contribution to the Roman cause. This novel is a historian's dream as so much research was put into this book. The chapters are short and told from a storyteller's point of view, instead of your usual novel form. I loved the skill in which the author places you in the story. You feel the pride of the women defending their men. This historical fiction was a delight to read, and I highly recommend it to lovers of ancient tales. ( )

Arminius and Thusnelda Versus Rome by Michael G. Kramer is a fascinating look at this not often studied period of history. The book opens with a history of the Germanic people, their origins, all of this told by a ghost which is a great touch. The book is all about battles between the Germans and the Romans, and how the Germans ultimately won. Rome was constantly trying to conquer new lands, and this time, Arminius and Thusnelda were in the middle of the action and proved to be victorious. Truly an epic historical novel, you will learn so much by reading this. This is a well-constructed book that explains succinctly what happened during this time and makes it enjoyable and entertaining. If you want to learn more about history, this is the perfect book. Highly recommend. ( )

Australian author Michael Kramer earned degrees in architecture and engineering, and is a Veteran of the Vietnam War, having served with the First Battalion Royal Australian Regiment (1RAR) in the Vietnam War during 1968 and 1969, and has published seven novels - FULL CIRCLE FOR MICK, FOR THE LOVE OF ARMIN, NOW WHAT?!! (and the version, ANGLO-SAXON INVASION), A GRACIOUS ENEMY, A CASTLE OF DOOMSDAY, and now ARMINIUS AND THUSNELDA VERSUS ROME – an updated version of FOR THE LOVE OF ARMIN – ‘a response to the female reviewers who have asked to read more about the wife of Armin or Arminius. She was named Thusnelda.’

Having read and enjoyed all of Michael Kramer’s books, it is with some assurance that this reader underlines the importance of his contribution to our understanding, appreciation, and respect for history. Not only is reading this book a fascinating journey back to ancient Rome, but it also is rich in descriptive and fictional details that make it a fine novel as well.

The complex plot is well condensed by the author – ‘In September of 9 A.D., The three legions and their supporting units under the command of Varus thought that they could complete the Roman conquest of Germania. Due to the efforts of Thusnelda and her husband, Armin or, if you like, his Latin name, Arminius, the Romans lost! When he was informed about the loss of his legions and their supporting units, Augustus began wailing, "Varus, Varus, give me back my legions!" For months afterwards, he left his hair to grow and also his beard and he appeared to be totally unkept! What made it all much harder for the Romans to bear was a few warriors only supported Arminius and Thusnelda. However, they did manage to increase their number for the final battle at Kalkriese Hill in the Teutoburg Forest. That battle set the current boundaries of Europe, between those who drink wine and speak the Latin based language, as opposed to those who like to drink beer and speak the Germanic languages!’

Michael introduces this epic with a section on the origins of the Germanic people – ‘I am the ghost of Adalhard, an ancient Germanic warrior…I will now tell you of the goings-on that took place and finally resulted in the Roman army leaving Germania forever. The events that preceded it and the events after my people’s great victory over the cruel and arrogant Roman invaders.’ It is that degree of history placed in context with contemporary writing style that brings his saga to immediate life.

Fine writing, well considered research, and a sense of immediacy make this a fine history book – and novel! ( )