Crimson & Steel — Ric Bern

The demise of Braxus was not the end of the troubles to befall the barbarian and the general.

Set in Ancient Rome, Scarlet Sands continues the story of two pairs of lovers. Marcus is a Roman general stationed in Noricum. His recent actions after the death of a favored gladiator have him at odds with the egomaniacal mayor where he is stationed, and his political acumen will soon be put to the test. Kell, the willowy, young slave girl of Nordic origin he recently purchased, is learning how to best serve her master.

Asmin is also no stranger to bondage, having been trained in the seraglios of the East as a pleasure slave. A runaway, she has been taken in and protected by Ulf. She a dusky-skinned treasure from Armenia, and he a sandy-haired Adonis from Germania, they make an unlikely pair. Yet they strive to find a way to live in the wilds of Noricum and shy away from imperial authority. But winter is coming, and so that Ulf can ensure Asmin's survival, they must risk a journey into the city to trade for supplies. Their decision to venture to the heart of Noricum has drastic consequences for both couples.