A review by noizyhanner
The Eagle by Rosemary Sutcliff

It's interesting that the 2011 movie is based on a comparatively Disney-like book. It’s not so brutal or tense as the movie; fewer misunderstandings, less bloodshed, an understanding Marcus, and a far more obliging Esca (both whom admittedly feel a little distant in comparison to their hotheaded movie counterparts). I think the adaptation is more "masculine" and "gritty", but the novel is more enjoyably sentimental; allowing for a satisfying quest, likeable periphery characters, and (best of all) a queer-coded, doting Marcus&Esca. I mean just look at this little bit on page 76;

Esca dropped to one knee beside the cot, and Marcus found that he was lying with his head on Esca's shoulder, the rim of the cup cool against his mouth as he drank. Then, as the cup was withdrawn, he turned his head contentedly on Esca's arm.

And ah, little Cottia. May she live happily with her wolf pup, her hot, retired warrior brother Marcus, and his hot, retired warrior partner, Esca. Happily Ever After if I've ever heard one.