Genre: Historical Mystery
Setting: Rome, 52 BC
Steven Saylor is the author of the Roma Sub Rosa mystery series. His main character is Gordianus the Finder. Gordianus is ancient Rome's answer to the private detective. In his investigations he meets some of Rome's most powerful citizens. Saylor's plots have Gordianus rubbing elbows such well known historical figures as Caesar, Pompey, Marc Antony, and Cicero.
In this novel, two of Rome's most powerful men Publius Claudius and Titus Annius Milo are vying for political control of Rome. When Claudius is found dead on the Appian way Milo is accused of his murder. Gordianus is asked by several powerful people to investigate.
Rome is in an uproar with riots between opposing political forces. Gordianus and his family are in danger from the rioting mobs. His house is ransacked, and his faithful slave Belbo is killed.
In order to quell the lawlessness of the mob, Pompey, a Roman general, takes command of the city. Milo must be put on trial for the murder. Will Gordianus untangle the mystery, find the truth, and save Rome from itself?
I enjoy Saylor's novels. Gordianus is a great character. While he is rubbing elbows with Rome's elite, he must also solve domestic family problems with his wife, daughter, adopted sons, and slaves. These details make Gordianus and believable and likable character. Like many other mystery novel main characters, he must choose between truth and justice to find a solution he can live with.
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