Thomas F. (hardtack) -
Even more sub-plots than usual make this an interesting book. And will young love triumph or will there be broken hearts and lives. Meanwhile, Falco and his former adversary seem to be reaching toward a somewhat difficult friendship.
As always a great Marcus Didius Falco mystery!
Beth G. (BethG) -
In this the tenth book in her Roman mystery series, Davis's detective, Falco, has been forced into partnership with the former chief spy, Anacrites, an old enemy. They have a job working for Vespasians census (better known as a tax.)
For their first investigation they set to work on the lanistas who supply gladiators and beastiari for the games. They have barely started when their first client's best lion is killed mysteriously. Shortly afterward the popular gladiator of another lanista is killed.
Falco cant resist investigating, though it isnt part of the job. This all twists and turns to a climax in the arena of a provincial city.
The mystery was good and the continuing characters are mostly charming and always interesting. A very good read.
For their first investigation they set to work on the lanistas who supply gladiators and beastiari for the games. They have barely started when their first client's best lion is killed mysteriously. Shortly afterward the popular gladiator of another lanista is killed.
Falco cant resist investigating, though it isnt part of the job. This all twists and turns to a climax in the arena of a provincial city.
The mystery was good and the continuing characters are mostly charming and always interesting. A very good read.
An enjoyable series of mysteries set during the reign of Emperor Vespasian. These are lighter on historical detail and the detective, while enjoyable, seems a bit modern.
