Roman Blood: A Novel of Ancient Rome (Mass Market Paperback)

By Steven Saylor
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Description

Elena asks that you come to the House of Swans at once . . . Compelled by this message, the wealthy, sybaritic Sextus Roscius goes not to his harlot, but to his doom—savagely murdered by unknown assassins. In the unseasonable heat of a spring morning in 80 B.C., Gordianus the Finder is summoned to the house of Cicero, a young advocate staking his reputation on this case. The charge is patricide; the motive, a son's greed. The punishment, rooted deep in Roman tradition, is horrific beyond imagining.

Gordianus's investigation takes him through the city's raucous, pungent streets and deep into urban Umbria, unraveling layers of deceit, twisted passions, and murderous desperation. From pompous, rouged nobles to wily slaves to citizens of seemingly simple virtue, the case becomes a political nightmare. As the defense proceeds toward a devastating confrontation in the Forum, one man's fate may be threaten the very leaders of Rome itself.

About the Author

Steven Saylor is the author of eight books in the Roma Sub Rosa series featuring Gordianus the Finder. He divides his time between homes in Austin, Texas, and Berkeley, California.

Praise for Roman Blood: A Novel of Ancient Rome…

"Saylor's scholarship is breathtaking and his writing enthralls."—Ruth Rendell, The Sunday Times (London)

"Remarkable . . . A stirring blend of history and mystery, well-seasoned with conspiracy, passion and intrigue. A classic historical mystery in every sense."—Publishers Weekly

"Saylor offers rich history with great imagination."—Seattle Times

"Saylor's evocation of anient Rome is vivid and realistic. Within its compelling story, one tours Roman life from bottom to top in what is both good history and good mystery . . . A novelist whose future work will be worth reading."—Austin Chronicle

"Engrossing . . . An enteraining mystery [which] also provides a view of life in ancient Rome. Highly Recommened."—Booklist

"Gripping . . . a combination of Hithccock-style suspense and vivid historical detail."—Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

Product Details ISBN-10: 0312972962
ISBN-13: 9780312972967
Published: Minotaur Books, 02/01/2000
Pages: 416
Language: English