I would go for Saba or Hayasdan. Two small factions that will face mighty enemies soon and ensure a thrilling campaign.
But when you prefer a european faction how about the Getai?
The atm leading Ptolies are a very easy faction. On the other side Marcellus Scato is right, there are not many AAR´s for them.

Quote Originally Posted by LotW89 View Post
No reloading, what happens happens
This is no house rule imho. Instead common sense when playing a strategy game. It wouldn´t be any challenge or in any way satisfying when playing a TW game using reloads after loosing any battle or town.