What do you think?
Rate this book
Roma Sub Rosa #1
Roman Blood
Steven Saylor's historical mysteries set in ancient Rome and featuring investigator Gordianus the Finder enjoy a widespread following in America. Over the next two years, Robinson will publish the whole series - five novels to date - in the UK. We begin on 25 September with three titles: Roman Blood and Arms of Nemesis in paperback and the most recent title, A Murder on the Appian Way, in hardback. Vivid historical fact, a completely believable world and keen plotting are the hallmarks of Saylor's novels. In Roman Blood Gordianus the Finder - the large, eccentric, philosophical investigator whose famed skills and integrity have made him much sought after in Rome - is hired by the young Cicero to acquit or convict a man accused of murdering his own father, an ugly, delicate case that soon produces dangerous fireworks.
564 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 1991
351 people are currently reading
6436 people want to read
About the author
Steven Saylor
93 books1,076 followersSteven Saylor is the author of the long running
Roma Sub Rosa
series featuring Gordianus the Finder, as well as the New York Times bestselling novel, Roma and its follow-up, Empire. He has appeared as an on-air expert on Roman history and life on The History Channel.
Saylor was born in Texas and graduated with high honors from The University of Texas at Austin, where he studied history and classics. He divides his time between Berkeley, California, and Austin, Texas.
Saylor was born in Texas and graduated with high honors from The University of Texas at Austin, where he studied history and classics. He divides his time between Berkeley, California, and Austin, Texas.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 584 reviews
July 14, 2014
7.5/10
A great start to this Roman series which attacks on two levels, one being the atmosphere and culture of Ancient Rome and the other being a good old mystery. To rate the book on one of these levels solely would do a disservice, the mystery is playing somewhat second fiddle to the ambience for a large part of the book but then becomes the main driving force at the end.
This is one of those where I wasn't expecting to read it but it was a group read for this month, it was on my (very large) wish list, and it cost the princely sum of £0.84 on the Kindle. It caught me off guard because of this; I was thrown straight into Ancient Rome with all these historical figures and their way of life and instantly donned my toga and joined in. This oozed atmosphere, every description added an extra level of realism to the time, the main character (Gordianus) I believe to be fictitious but the surrounding cast are all real historical figures.
This brings us to the mystery element. It only hit me that this was Cicero's actual first trial in real life, and not just a little gimmick the author threw in. It plodded along to start with just simmering in the background and then things kicked off with Gordianus digging deeper and finding out the rhymes and reason much to the determent of his own wellbeing. Or so we think, there are many twists and turns here with quite a bit of intrigue and it all comes out in the wash in the end.
So whilst a great start and I really enjoyed the setting and the style it was written, there were a few parts which went a little slow and the overall mystery wasn't massively interesting or shocking in the end. However, these minor quibbles aside, this was a great entry novel and I look forward to reading more in this series (I already own the next few in the series to crack on!).
If you like this try: "The Gates of Rome” by Conn Iggulden
A great start to this Roman series which attacks on two levels, one being the atmosphere and culture of Ancient Rome and the other being a good old mystery. To rate the book on one of these levels solely would do a disservice, the mystery is playing somewhat second fiddle to the ambience for a large part of the book but then becomes the main driving force at the end.
This is one of those where I wasn't expecting to read it but it was a group read for this month, it was on my (very large) wish list, and it cost the princely sum of £0.84 on the Kindle. It caught me off guard because of this; I was thrown straight into Ancient Rome with all these historical figures and their way of life and instantly donned my toga and joined in. This oozed atmosphere, every description added an extra level of realism to the time, the main character (Gordianus) I believe to be fictitious but the surrounding cast are all real historical figures.
This brings us to the mystery element. It only hit me that this was Cicero's actual first trial in real life, and not just a little gimmick the author threw in. It plodded along to start with just simmering in the background and then things kicked off with Gordianus digging deeper and finding out the rhymes and reason much to the determent of his own wellbeing. Or so we think, there are many twists and turns here with quite a bit of intrigue and it all comes out in the wash in the end.
So whilst a great start and I really enjoyed the setting and the style it was written, there were a few parts which went a little slow and the overall mystery wasn't massively interesting or shocking in the end. However, these minor quibbles aside, this was a great entry novel and I look forward to reading more in this series (I already own the next few in the series to crack on!).
If you like this try: "The Gates of Rome” by Conn Iggulden
July 2, 2022
This amazing and eventful Roman mystery is the very 1st published, but chronologically wise the 4th adventurous outing of "Gordianus the Finder".
Storytelling is excellent, the characters, real historical and wonderful fictional, come all superbly to life, while also the tyrannical atmosphere and harsh way of life under the Dictatorship of Sulla come splendidly off the pages.
At the beginning of the book you'll find two well-drawn maps, one of Rome in 80 BC during Sulla's Dictatorship, and one of the countryside and places north of Rome, especially a place called Ameria, because this place that will play an important part in this vengeful mystery.
The book is divided into three parts, the first being the preliminaries, in which Gordianus get to know his employer Marcus Tullius Cicero and his personal Secretary, Tiro, and this case about parricide, the second being the investigations themselves by Gordianus with all its dangers, hardship and deaths, and thirdly after having collected the evidence, the eventual trial will follow with its final outcome and consequences.
The story is set in 80 BC, during the reign of the Dictator Sulla, when Gordianus is summoned to attend Marcus Tullius Cicero in the form of Cicero's personal Secretary, Tiro, for a very special criminal case.
The case that needs investigating is the parricide of Sextus Roscius "Pater" and committed seemingly by his son, Sextus Roscius "Filius", and the accused son will have to face trial and eventually death.
What will follow is a fascinating mystery, filled with political/family intrigue, backstabbing, greed and death, and these factors will manifest themselves in a most convincing fashion throughout this wonderful mystery, and after some eventful turn of events followed by a magnificent plot, in which the Roman virtues and vices will come to the fore, this mystery will be concluded with a very surprising but determined twist.
Highly recommended to everyone who like a detailed Roman historical mystery filled with suspense and action, and for that reason I like to call this great episode: "A Captivating Bloody Roman Mystery"!
Storytelling is excellent, the characters, real historical and wonderful fictional, come all superbly to life, while also the tyrannical atmosphere and harsh way of life under the Dictatorship of Sulla come splendidly off the pages.
At the beginning of the book you'll find two well-drawn maps, one of Rome in 80 BC during Sulla's Dictatorship, and one of the countryside and places north of Rome, especially a place called Ameria, because this place that will play an important part in this vengeful mystery.
The book is divided into three parts, the first being the preliminaries, in which Gordianus get to know his employer Marcus Tullius Cicero and his personal Secretary, Tiro, and this case about parricide, the second being the investigations themselves by Gordianus with all its dangers, hardship and deaths, and thirdly after having collected the evidence, the eventual trial will follow with its final outcome and consequences.
The story is set in 80 BC, during the reign of the Dictator Sulla, when Gordianus is summoned to attend Marcus Tullius Cicero in the form of Cicero's personal Secretary, Tiro, for a very special criminal case.
The case that needs investigating is the parricide of Sextus Roscius "Pater" and committed seemingly by his son, Sextus Roscius "Filius", and the accused son will have to face trial and eventually death.
What will follow is a fascinating mystery, filled with political/family intrigue, backstabbing, greed and death, and these factors will manifest themselves in a most convincing fashion throughout this wonderful mystery, and after some eventful turn of events followed by a magnificent plot, in which the Roman virtues and vices will come to the fore, this mystery will be concluded with a very surprising but determined twist.
Highly recommended to everyone who like a detailed Roman historical mystery filled with suspense and action, and for that reason I like to call this great episode: "A Captivating Bloody Roman Mystery"!
August 11, 2023
I rather enjoyed Saylor's "Roma" historical fiction detailing the rise of Rome. Thus when I saw that he'd written a novel set in the time of Sulla's Dictatorship (around 80 BCE), I was interested. The case that is described seems to be based on an actual event where the famous advocate Marcus Tullius Cicero defended a Sextus Rosicus in a patricide case.
Gordianus The Finder is much like an ancient Private Investigator and is hired by Cicero to help investigate the case of Sextus Rosicus. This begins a strange and twisted case of greed, hatred, and jealousy. Gordianus and Tiro, Cicero's slave, must navigate the complex Roman labyrinth to find out all the messy and sordid details.
The case takes on more complexities as it seems Chrysoganus, Sulla's chief minister, is also involved. Now the young and, for now, relatively unknown Cicero will find himself set against the Dictator of Rome.
This book was a fun read. Saylor's knowledge of Rome is on display with detailed descriptions of daily life in Rome. The fact that this novel is based on a real case that actually turned Cicero into the famous advocate of later years makes for an even better incentive to read this novel. It might interest you to know that Cicero's speech is detailed in Michael Grant's "Murder Trails" a translation of Cicero's cases-and the book that set Saylor interested in Sextus Rosicus.
Gordianus The Finder is much like an ancient Private Investigator and is hired by Cicero to help investigate the case of Sextus Rosicus. This begins a strange and twisted case of greed, hatred, and jealousy. Gordianus and Tiro, Cicero's slave, must navigate the complex Roman labyrinth to find out all the messy and sordid details.
The case takes on more complexities as it seems Chrysoganus, Sulla's chief minister, is also involved. Now the young and, for now, relatively unknown Cicero will find himself set against the Dictator of Rome.
This book was a fun read. Saylor's knowledge of Rome is on display with detailed descriptions of daily life in Rome. The fact that this novel is based on a real case that actually turned Cicero into the famous advocate of later years makes for an even better incentive to read this novel. It might interest you to know that Cicero's speech is detailed in Michael Grant's "Murder Trails" a translation of Cicero's cases-and the book that set Saylor interested in Sextus Rosicus.
June 13, 2023
This really is a well researched and well written complex mystery, layers over layers. Sailor is so adept at bringing Rome alive in the time of Sulla’s waning dictatorship and just after the proscriptions. A fine balance between social and political history was achieved and it was a most enjoyable re-read.
April 29, 2012
Having not studied Latin or ancient history at school or university, my knowledge of the ancient world has come from reading Gore Vidal's Creation and Robert Harris' Imperium. Oh, and Asterix the Gaul and it's various sequels. I've also gleaned a bit from Shakespeare, although I've never been that keen on Shakespeare's histories, and while I've spent time looking at Roman ruins and ancient Roman and Greek sculptures in various places, that has not led to the acquisition of any knowledge about the history those things represent.
All this means that I came to this particular novel - the first in a series set in ancient Rome and featuring Gordianus the Finder - with very little knowledge of the time in which it is set and with no particular expectations. The first factor put me at something of a a disadvantage. The second factor was probably a plus.
Gordianus the Finder is a private detective of sorts*. He is engaged by the young Cicero to assist him in preparing the defence of Sextus Roscius, who has been accused of murdering his father. It is Cicero's first major case. The crime, the litigation and Cicero's defence of the accused are all factual, as is the political situation: specifically, the dictatorship of Sulla and the corruption of Chrysogonus, Sulla's former slave who in 82BC was placed in charge of proscriptions (that is, the identification and condemnation of enemies of the state). Saylor's imagination fills in the rest of the tale.
About three quarters of the way through the novel there is a lengthy piece of exposition - okay, let's call it an awkward information dump - which covers Sulla's rise to the position of dictator. I found it reasonably interesting at the time - because it's a topic I know nothing about - but it did interrupt the plot. Not only that, but two pages further on I couldn't remember the details of the history lesson I'd only just been taught. That was the most significant weakness of the novel. Otherwise, it was a success. The narrative is interesting and while I guessed one of the twists in the plot, I didn't guess the final big twist. In addition, the characters are well-drawn and the portrayal of Cicero made me want to read some of his works (I had the same reaction when I read Imperium, but didn't do anything about it. This time I've downloaded an edition of his Selected Works).
Overall, this was an enjoyable read, made the more enjoyable by reading it with my friends Jemidar and Hayes. I plan to read more of the series. This one gets 3-1/2 stars.
*I find it hard not to think of Gordianus as a Private Roman Eye, which will only make sense to those who have seen or heard Wayne and Shuster's Rinse the Blood Off My Toga
December 5, 2014
This is the best "starter book" I have read in a long time! Normally I find myself annoyed with books intended to start a series. There tends to be too much delving into the background of the lead characters. The actual story tends to get lost in various details about where things take place. My other problem, especially with historical series, is the amount of time spent detailing the specific time in which the story takes place.
In the case of Roman Blood, we are introduced to Gordianus, told he is known as "The Finder", he lives in a house in inherited from his late father, and he's sort of in a relationship with . That's about as far into Gordianus' story as we get. I like it. In my opinion, it leaves the door open for story lines in the following books. I have no idea what the story lines of the other books are but I have added the entire series to my tbr list. I'm excited to discover more about Gordianus.
Before I go too much further into why I enjoyed this book, I should point out that I know very little about B.C. Rome. In fact, I know very little about most civilizations in existence during the B.C.E. That being said, Steven Saylor did an excellent job giving readers a crash course in Roman politics. Various conversations between characters throughout the course of the novel gave great insight into how things were in Rome. There was in conversation in particular between Gordianus and Tiro about why the Republic does not have a police force. The way in which the explanation was effortlessly weaved into the conversation between the two characters was fantastic. The background information given to the reader about Sulla and how he came to rule was also well-done. I thought it was a smart move by the author to place the explanation (which was a little dry reading but important to the story) towards the end of the book when Sulla was starting to play a larger role in the plot of story. In my opinion it made a lot of sense to put that information where the author did instead of taking the more conventional route and boring the reader with the detail at the onset of the novel.
As far as the mystery itself, I was pleasantly surprised.
I look forward to continuing on with this series. I am glad to have been introduced to it.
In the case of Roman Blood, we are introduced to Gordianus, told he is known as "The Finder", he lives in a house in inherited from his late father, and he's sort of in a relationship with . That's about as far into Gordianus' story as we get. I like it. In my opinion, it leaves the door open for story lines in the following books. I have no idea what the story lines of the other books are but I have added the entire series to my tbr list. I'm excited to discover more about Gordianus.
Before I go too much further into why I enjoyed this book, I should point out that I know very little about B.C. Rome. In fact, I know very little about most civilizations in existence during the B.C.E. That being said, Steven Saylor did an excellent job giving readers a crash course in Roman politics. Various conversations between characters throughout the course of the novel gave great insight into how things were in Rome. There was in conversation in particular between Gordianus and Tiro about why the Republic does not have a police force. The way in which the explanation was effortlessly weaved into the conversation between the two characters was fantastic. The background information given to the reader about Sulla and how he came to rule was also well-done. I thought it was a smart move by the author to place the explanation (which was a little dry reading but important to the story) towards the end of the book when Sulla was starting to play a larger role in the plot of story. In my opinion it made a lot of sense to put that information where the author did instead of taking the more conventional route and boring the reader with the detail at the onset of the novel.
As far as the mystery itself, I was pleasantly surprised.
I look forward to continuing on with this series. I am glad to have been introduced to it.
January 27, 2014
Sextus Roscius was a wealthy, degenerate old man murdered on his way to a brothel in the heart of Rome. The man accused of the crime is none other than Sextus Roscius' own son, Sextus Roscius the Younger. A young, ambitious Orator (i.e., lawyer/advocate) - none other than Marcus Tullius Cicero - is defending the young Roscius. Cicero retains Gordianus the finder (i.e., a private detective) to help solve a mystery. What follows next was one of the best mysteries I've read in some time.
First, the mystery itself. Like any good mystery what looks like an open and shut case is anything but. Sextus Roscius the Younger clearly has motive. His father treats him poorly and is squandering the family fortune on food, drink, gambling and whores. But it also turns out that the Roscii have a long simmering feud with their cousins. And then there are the political feuds, the maneuvering, the jockeying, the struggle for advantage. (This doesn't even touch the Proscriptions, the culmination of Sulla's political purge against enemies of the state.) There is much more going on here than Gordinas (and the reader) suspects.
The setting itself is fantastic. I read historical fiction because I like to gain insight and learn about distant lands and times. Roman Blood took me on a thrilling tour of Ancient Rome - from the slums of the Subura to the Forum to the seemingly peaceful countryside. I especially appreciated the time period of the story. Much of Roman historical fiction that I had read thus far seemed to focus on either Julius or Augustus. I suppose this makes sense - the transition from Republic to Empire provides ample opportunities for drama. Saylor focused his story on the period following the Social Wars (about 90 BCE). This provided some insight into Marius and Sulla and a period that I had only known about in the most general terms. I liked the new perspective. Saylor did a good job of bringing it to life. The world felt alive to me as Gordinas wandered through it.
Finally, Gordinas himself was an excellent character. The story is told from his perspective and his interactions felt genuine to me. He made no exceptional leaps to the truth. Rather he gained his insights the hard way. He traveled the city. He visited the scene of the crime. He spoke to witnesses. He tried to intimidate a person or two. He followed false leads. He did exactly what I'd like to think a hard-boiled investigator would do back in the day. It didn't hurt that I actually liked the guy. He was good to his slave, Bethesda. He actually hired someone to protect her. And, at the very end he really does an extraordinary act of human decency that I really appreciated. What a great character.
Four and a half stars rounded down to four. The book was missing something that would've popped it up to five. Not entirely sure why I feel that way. Maybe it needed another character? Maybe it dragged in a couple of places? No worries, it was still a fun book. I recommend to those who enjoy historical fiction and mysteries.
First, the mystery itself. Like any good mystery what looks like an open and shut case is anything but. Sextus Roscius the Younger clearly has motive. His father treats him poorly and is squandering the family fortune on food, drink, gambling and whores. But it also turns out that the Roscii have a long simmering feud with their cousins. And then there are the political feuds, the maneuvering, the jockeying, the struggle for advantage. (This doesn't even touch the Proscriptions, the culmination of Sulla's political purge against enemies of the state.) There is much more going on here than Gordinas (and the reader) suspects.
The setting itself is fantastic. I read historical fiction because I like to gain insight and learn about distant lands and times. Roman Blood took me on a thrilling tour of Ancient Rome - from the slums of the Subura to the Forum to the seemingly peaceful countryside. I especially appreciated the time period of the story. Much of Roman historical fiction that I had read thus far seemed to focus on either Julius or Augustus. I suppose this makes sense - the transition from Republic to Empire provides ample opportunities for drama. Saylor focused his story on the period following the Social Wars (about 90 BCE). This provided some insight into Marius and Sulla and a period that I had only known about in the most general terms. I liked the new perspective. Saylor did a good job of bringing it to life. The world felt alive to me as Gordinas wandered through it.
Finally, Gordinas himself was an excellent character. The story is told from his perspective and his interactions felt genuine to me. He made no exceptional leaps to the truth. Rather he gained his insights the hard way. He traveled the city. He visited the scene of the crime. He spoke to witnesses. He tried to intimidate a person or two. He followed false leads. He did exactly what I'd like to think a hard-boiled investigator would do back in the day. It didn't hurt that I actually liked the guy. He was good to his slave, Bethesda. He actually hired someone to protect her. And, at the very end he really does an extraordinary act of human decency that I really appreciated. What a great character.
Four and a half stars rounded down to four. The book was missing something that would've popped it up to five. Not entirely sure why I feel that way. Maybe it needed another character? Maybe it dragged in a couple of places? No worries, it was still a fun book. I recommend to those who enjoy historical fiction and mysteries.
June 16, 2024
I thoroughly enjoyed this trip to Rome in 80 BC. Great blend of historical fiction and mystery. The main character is intriguing and I'm looking forward to reading more about Gordianus the Finder!
(Reviewed 11/14/10)
(Reviewed 11/14/10)
June 5, 2021
7,5/10
Me gusta la historia romana y las novelas detectivescas, por lo que cuando me recomendaron este libro, que mezcla ambos mundos, no dudé ni un instante en añadirlo a mi pila.
Así muy por encima, la trama nos sitúa en mitad de un periodo muy convulso para Roma, con el tirano Sila al mando. Uno de sus ciudadanos es acusado de matar a su padre, el crimen más atroz que una mente humana de la época podría imaginar, y para resolver ese misterio es contratado Gordiano, conocido como el "Sabueso", y el protagonista de nuestra novela. Sin llegar a ser un Sherlock Holmes romano, Gordiano demuestra ser un tipo muy avispado e inteligente, que hace honor al sobrenombre por el que es conocido.
Poco a poco la trama nos irá introduciendo en una conspiración de mayor escala de lo que de primeras parecía, en la que nada parece ser lo que es y donde Gordiano y aquellos que le acompañan tendrán que vigilar muy bien sus espaldas para no terminar con un cuchillo clavado en ellas.
Lo mejor de está novela para mi gusto, acostumbrado como estoy a un estilo más bélico, es como su autor nos muestra una Roma más cotidiana y cercana al ciudadano medio, pero que al mismo tiempo está tan podrida como lo estaba la política de la época. Además, me ha gustado bastante la aparición de personajes históricos muy interesantes, como Ciceron o Sila, y no quiero olvidar que el ritmo narrativo una vez arranca todo, es muy agradable para el lector.
Por otro lado, me costó bastante entrar en la historia, las primeras páginas se me hicieron cuesta arriba y tuve que esforzarme para entrar en la narración, aunque por fortuna a las 30-40 páginas ya estaba enfrascado en la lectura, por lo que siendo un aspecto negativo, tampoco lo veo demasiado grave. Otro punto en su contra, es que hay algún giro de guion algo forzado para mi gusto, sobre todo por el devenir de como se llega a ellos.
Resumiendo, novela que gustará tanto a aquellos que gusten de novelas de misterio como aquellos fanáticos de Roma, así como al público en general, ya que no es una lectura complicada ni demasiado densa.
Me gusta la historia romana y las novelas detectivescas, por lo que cuando me recomendaron este libro, que mezcla ambos mundos, no dudé ni un instante en añadirlo a mi pila.
Así muy por encima, la trama nos sitúa en mitad de un periodo muy convulso para Roma, con el tirano Sila al mando. Uno de sus ciudadanos es acusado de matar a su padre, el crimen más atroz que una mente humana de la época podría imaginar, y para resolver ese misterio es contratado Gordiano, conocido como el "Sabueso", y el protagonista de nuestra novela. Sin llegar a ser un Sherlock Holmes romano, Gordiano demuestra ser un tipo muy avispado e inteligente, que hace honor al sobrenombre por el que es conocido.
Poco a poco la trama nos irá introduciendo en una conspiración de mayor escala de lo que de primeras parecía, en la que nada parece ser lo que es y donde Gordiano y aquellos que le acompañan tendrán que vigilar muy bien sus espaldas para no terminar con un cuchillo clavado en ellas.
Lo mejor de está novela para mi gusto, acostumbrado como estoy a un estilo más bélico, es como su autor nos muestra una Roma más cotidiana y cercana al ciudadano medio, pero que al mismo tiempo está tan podrida como lo estaba la política de la época. Además, me ha gustado bastante la aparición de personajes históricos muy interesantes, como Ciceron o Sila, y no quiero olvidar que el ritmo narrativo una vez arranca todo, es muy agradable para el lector.
Por otro lado, me costó bastante entrar en la historia, las primeras páginas se me hicieron cuesta arriba y tuve que esforzarme para entrar en la narración, aunque por fortuna a las 30-40 páginas ya estaba enfrascado en la lectura, por lo que siendo un aspecto negativo, tampoco lo veo demasiado grave. Otro punto en su contra, es que hay algún giro de guion algo forzado para mi gusto, sobre todo por el devenir de como se llega a ellos.
Resumiendo, novela que gustará tanto a aquellos que gusten de novelas de misterio como aquellos fanáticos de Roma, así como al público en general, ya que no es una lectura complicada ni demasiado densa.
October 19, 2023
I don't know what it is about my fascination with mysteries set in Ancient Rome lately but I cannot get enough. It started with Lindsey Davis and the Falco series when I'd read all of her books I went searching for more and have been amazed at how many there are. Gordianus the finder is the latest find (ha ha) but it is one of the best. There is a squalor to the streets of Rome and the people that fills you with despair. There are no innocents in Gordianus Rome, even the children run in packs tormenting those more vulnerable. The story is a gripping one a tale of murder and greed again though there are no innocents here, Gordianus seems a man of his convictions but I'm not sure yet it will take more than one book to get the measure of the man. The book is also based on a real event, found in the memoirs of Cicero (one of the.main characters in this book) and very cleverly the author has blended fact and fiction in a fascinating tale. ...................
December 17, 2014
rating: 5.5/5
I always hate writing reviews for mysteries because everything I say feels like a spoiler. So I'm keeping this one short and sweet, and couldn't possibly do justice to the awesomeness that is Gordianus and his brilliant sleuthing skills.
80 B.C. Rome. The famous Cicero (before he becomes famous, that is) hires Gordianus the Finder to solve a mystery and help him make history or, well, just help him finds facts for a client's defense. Taken from a real case, and a real defense by Cicero. And then of course we have the dictator Sulla, all life is living under the shadow of his rule...
And ancient Rome is a city without a police force. A city of rich nobles and poor street urchins. It is as violent as beautiful and wondrous. And Saylor knows how to pull together the sights, sounds, tastes, smells, and feel of the city, time, its people, culture, religion, and politics wrapped up in a mystery involving history's most intriguing characters. We get to interact with all levels of society as Saylor blurs the line between fact and fiction creating a world that just so real.
And then he inserts little mute Eco that broke my heart and left me emotionally destroyed. Shattered.
Saylor's understanding of ancient Rome as a living, breathing, multi-faceted city is at the same level as Renault's understanding of ancient Greece. A stunning page-turner filled with action, violence, suspense, and lots of ancient Roman goodness. Next please...
I always hate writing reviews for mysteries because everything I say feels like a spoiler. So I'm keeping this one short and sweet, and couldn't possibly do justice to the awesomeness that is Gordianus and his brilliant sleuthing skills.
80 B.C. Rome. The famous Cicero (before he becomes famous, that is) hires Gordianus the Finder to solve a mystery and help him make history or, well, just help him finds facts for a client's defense. Taken from a real case, and a real defense by Cicero. And then of course we have the dictator Sulla, all life is living under the shadow of his rule...
And ancient Rome is a city without a police force. A city of rich nobles and poor street urchins. It is as violent as beautiful and wondrous. And Saylor knows how to pull together the sights, sounds, tastes, smells, and feel of the city, time, its people, culture, religion, and politics wrapped up in a mystery involving history's most intriguing characters. We get to interact with all levels of society as Saylor blurs the line between fact and fiction creating a world that just so real.
And then he inserts little mute Eco that broke my heart and left me emotionally destroyed. Shattered.
Saylor's understanding of ancient Rome as a living, breathing, multi-faceted city is at the same level as Renault's understanding of ancient Greece. A stunning page-turner filled with action, violence, suspense, and lots of ancient Roman goodness. Next please...
January 10, 2019
One of my favorite books, featuring the actual murder defense that made Cicero's reputation. Gordianus the Finder is a wonderful protagonist; you really get to know and like him tremendously. And Saylor makes Rome come alive, describing the streets and people quite vividly. The actual solution to the murder really surprised me, even the fourth(?) time I read it (my memory not being quite as good as it should). One of my favorite things about this series is the way Gordianus' unconventional family grows.
September 17, 2010
Background to book choice.
I was on a short break away and found myself without a book to read, so popped into a small bookshop to see if anything took my interest, the shop had a small historical fiction section so i decided to have a browse.
I think I probably picked this up because i'd recently been reading other Roman based fiction in the form of Simon Scarrow's brilliant 'Eagle' series.
I've had an interest in Roman history since studying it in history lessons at school so was pleased to see that this book had characters in it based on real people and thier dealings.
I must admit that I'm not normally one to pick up mystery/who dunnit type books but It piqued my interest enough to give it a go.
The book itself.
Set in 80BC the story centres around the events surronding the 1st 'case' of a young Cicero and his defence of Sextus Roscius who is accused of Parricide (Murdering his Father).
Cicero hires our main character Gordianus, who is known as 'The Finder'
(a kind of private eye for the time), to Find out who really committed the murder.
Gordianus is someone who seeks the truth, often at the expence of great personal danger, he is keenly observant and shrewedand manages to gradually piece together the shocking truth.
This book has several other significant historical people woven into it Including Sulla one of Rome's Dictators.
I won't plot spoil, as that would be unfair to new readers, but there are a good few twists and turns that keep this a good page turner.
To those who follow in Gordianus's footsteps I say you'll be in for an interesting time, particularly if 'period accuracy' is something you enjoy, as Mr Saylor is an un doubted expert in this time period.
Summary.
Well researched, well written and introducing the ancient worlds Poirot/Holmes, thoroughly enjoyable!
I was on a short break away and found myself without a book to read, so popped into a small bookshop to see if anything took my interest, the shop had a small historical fiction section so i decided to have a browse.
I think I probably picked this up because i'd recently been reading other Roman based fiction in the form of Simon Scarrow's brilliant 'Eagle' series.
I've had an interest in Roman history since studying it in history lessons at school so was pleased to see that this book had characters in it based on real people and thier dealings.
I must admit that I'm not normally one to pick up mystery/who dunnit type books but It piqued my interest enough to give it a go.
The book itself.
Set in 80BC the story centres around the events surronding the 1st 'case' of a young Cicero and his defence of Sextus Roscius who is accused of Parricide (Murdering his Father).
Cicero hires our main character Gordianus, who is known as 'The Finder'
(a kind of private eye for the time), to Find out who really committed the murder.
Gordianus is someone who seeks the truth, often at the expence of great personal danger, he is keenly observant and shrewedand manages to gradually piece together the shocking truth.
This book has several other significant historical people woven into it Including Sulla one of Rome's Dictators.
I won't plot spoil, as that would be unfair to new readers, but there are a good few twists and turns that keep this a good page turner.
To those who follow in Gordianus's footsteps I say you'll be in for an interesting time, particularly if 'period accuracy' is something you enjoy, as Mr Saylor is an un doubted expert in this time period.
Summary.
Well researched, well written and introducing the ancient worlds Poirot/Holmes, thoroughly enjoyable!
August 12, 2017
My first reading of a book by Steven Saylor and I really enjoyed this one. I am now into 3 different series about mysteries in Ancient Rome. The Medicus series by Ruth Downie, then there is Marcos Didius Falco by Lindsey Davis and now the Roma Sub Rosa series by Saylor.
They all get about the same 4**** rating. I enjoyed all the history that Saylor incorporated into this book, as well as all the intrigue and hidden secrets that drove the plot. This series features Gordianus the Finder, who searches for clues to help Cicero in his first great oratorial defense, that being the defense of a man accused of killing his own father (Parricide) an extremely grave offense with an extreme death sentence for anyone found guilty of this crime. We get to meet all sorts of people from Ancient Rome - Cicero, Rufus, Sulla, Chrysogonos, and a host of others as Cicero prepares his defense and Gordianus must try and provide him with the clues and evidence necessary to support Cicero's arguments.
The book sometimes gets a little heavy on history, especially the chapter that dealt with the rise of Sulla and the Social Wars for supremacy in Rome, but the book was a good, solid read and one I would recommend to one and all who like history, Roman history and a good mystery.
They all get about the same 4**** rating. I enjoyed all the history that Saylor incorporated into this book, as well as all the intrigue and hidden secrets that drove the plot. This series features Gordianus the Finder, who searches for clues to help Cicero in his first great oratorial defense, that being the defense of a man accused of killing his own father (Parricide) an extremely grave offense with an extreme death sentence for anyone found guilty of this crime. We get to meet all sorts of people from Ancient Rome - Cicero, Rufus, Sulla, Chrysogonos, and a host of others as Cicero prepares his defense and Gordianus must try and provide him with the clues and evidence necessary to support Cicero's arguments.
The book sometimes gets a little heavy on history, especially the chapter that dealt with the rise of Sulla and the Social Wars for supremacy in Rome, but the book was a good, solid read and one I would recommend to one and all who like history, Roman history and a good mystery.
November 24, 2024
“Bring me your most experienced whore!”
-Gordie Anus the finder
This was a fun mystery set in Ancient Rome that I originally thought was just well researched.noticing bits from some pop history books I’d read about Rome, I came to find it was based on an actual trial from 80B.C. In the trial, the famous Roman lawyer and orator, Cicero defended a man charged with the murder of his father, this trial actually took place and is documented in a book on the cases of Cicero.
Gordianus, the Roman P.I. Is an invention of the author and brings the procedural elements to the story.
The depiction of day to day life for the average Roman and the landscape of Rome itself was really well done. If you’re into Roman history you’ll really enjoy this one but it’s good enough to be worth a read for casual mystery fans.
-Gordie Anus the finder
This was a fun mystery set in Ancient Rome that I originally thought was just well researched.noticing bits from some pop history books I’d read about Rome, I came to find it was based on an actual trial from 80B.C. In the trial, the famous Roman lawyer and orator, Cicero defended a man charged with the murder of his father, this trial actually took place and is documented in a book on the cases of Cicero.
Gordianus, the Roman P.I. Is an invention of the author and brings the procedural elements to the story.
The depiction of day to day life for the average Roman and the landscape of Rome itself was really well done. If you’re into Roman history you’ll really enjoy this one but it’s good enough to be worth a read for casual mystery fans.
April 29, 2020
Roma Sub Rosa es una saga de novelas históricas de misterio ambientadas en la antigua Roma, cuyo protagonista es el detective Gordiano el Sabueso. El nombre de Roma Sub Rosa viene de que en latín esta expresión - que un asunto estaba 'bajo la rosa' - se empleaba para decir que era confidencial.
Tomando como punto de partida hechos y personajes históricos, nos plantea tramas muy entretenidas, llenas de humor y personajes singulares.
En esta primera entrega, el abogado Cicerón defiende a un hombre acusado de parricidio - el más terrible crimen y con un castigo cruel en la época - y contrata los servicios de Gordiano el Sabueso para investigar los pormenores del caso.
Muy bien documentada y con un buen equilibrio entre la ficción histórica y el entretenimiento.
Tomando como punto de partida hechos y personajes históricos, nos plantea tramas muy entretenidas, llenas de humor y personajes singulares.
En esta primera entrega, el abogado Cicerón defiende a un hombre acusado de parricidio - el más terrible crimen y con un castigo cruel en la época - y contrata los servicios de Gordiano el Sabueso para investigar los pormenores del caso.
Muy bien documentada y con un buen equilibrio entre la ficción histórica y el entretenimiento.
May 1, 2009
Roman Blood (book one of the Roma Sub Rosa series) by Steven Saylor centers around the real life patricide trial of a country farmer by the name of Sextus Roscius. The advocate of Sextus Roscius, the well known Marcus Tullius Cicero, employs the help of a man named Gordianus to dig up information about the murder in order to prove his client innocent. Gordianus is known as ‘the finder,’ a man well experienced in finding facts no matter how well hidden or obscure. Of course, such facts don’t come easy. There is much lying, much danger, and tons of characters only out for their own benefit that all together paint a picture of a corrupt Roman aristocracy. It is a very perilous time in Rome, after all, which has only just caught its breath from the proscription of Sulla and his restoration of the aristocracy over the common people. In order to prove Sextus Roscius innocent, Cicero and Gordianus must attack those very aristocrats that now hold Rome in a powerful grip.
I avoided reading this book for a while because I didn’t want it to disappoint me. And it didn’t.
Saylor is clearly a historian. If it’s not obvious in his reader’s notes, it’s apparent in his clear delivery of accurate and compelling historical detail. You can almost see the dark dilapidation of the Roman Subura that is as hazardous as it is teeming with life, or see the immaculate scene of Carthage on the Rostra, or imagine the men in togas sitting around the Senate. What Saylor does is bring Rome to life, but not without insult and credit where credit is due. He doesn’t present a Rome that is glorious and magnificent as some are prone to do, but neither does it portray it as a place irredeemably corrupt as others would have it. Saylor gives his readers Rome in all her shameless glory without falling into some one of the most common traps of those who attempt to write historical fiction. A tendency of most historical writers is to accentuate what is ‘abnormal’ by today’s standards because they imagine it will help people understand the time period more, or respect it for how different it is, but this often backfires. I like how Saylor did not give excuses for Rome, but didn’t gloss over the many faults. Details are presented in an easy and matter of fact way, which I found helped me get into the time period more simply because it was all given so casually.
Roman Blood is not a ‘great men of Rome’ sort of book, though it does feature many of the people we know: Cicero and Sulla to name a few. They all play their roles, as great men do, but without stealing the spotlight. Gordianus is a great character because he is likable, realistic and humble. And very Roman. I also quite like the portrayal of Cicero in Roman Blood because I think it captured his peculiarities perfectly while still redeeming him at the end when it was shown to Gordianus the doubter that Cicero is more than just a picky nag and really is one of the greatest statesmen.
Roman Blood is as much mystery as it is historical fiction. It’s full of murder, perversion, ruthlessness, and doubt. There are enough twists and turns to make the plot interesting while not so many that you lose sense of the thing. In the end, you come to understand that everyone is guilty of something in some way and even an ‘innocent’ man has committed plenty of crimes of his own.
I avoided reading this book for a while because I didn’t want it to disappoint me. And it didn’t.
Saylor is clearly a historian. If it’s not obvious in his reader’s notes, it’s apparent in his clear delivery of accurate and compelling historical detail. You can almost see the dark dilapidation of the Roman Subura that is as hazardous as it is teeming with life, or see the immaculate scene of Carthage on the Rostra, or imagine the men in togas sitting around the Senate. What Saylor does is bring Rome to life, but not without insult and credit where credit is due. He doesn’t present a Rome that is glorious and magnificent as some are prone to do, but neither does it portray it as a place irredeemably corrupt as others would have it. Saylor gives his readers Rome in all her shameless glory without falling into some one of the most common traps of those who attempt to write historical fiction. A tendency of most historical writers is to accentuate what is ‘abnormal’ by today’s standards because they imagine it will help people understand the time period more, or respect it for how different it is, but this often backfires. I like how Saylor did not give excuses for Rome, but didn’t gloss over the many faults. Details are presented in an easy and matter of fact way, which I found helped me get into the time period more simply because it was all given so casually.
Roman Blood is not a ‘great men of Rome’ sort of book, though it does feature many of the people we know: Cicero and Sulla to name a few. They all play their roles, as great men do, but without stealing the spotlight. Gordianus is a great character because he is likable, realistic and humble. And very Roman. I also quite like the portrayal of Cicero in Roman Blood because I think it captured his peculiarities perfectly while still redeeming him at the end when it was shown to Gordianus the doubter that Cicero is more than just a picky nag and really is one of the greatest statesmen.
Roman Blood is as much mystery as it is historical fiction. It’s full of murder, perversion, ruthlessness, and doubt. There are enough twists and turns to make the plot interesting while not so many that you lose sense of the thing. In the end, you come to understand that everyone is guilty of something in some way and even an ‘innocent’ man has committed plenty of crimes of his own.
February 10, 2017
This is an engrossing mystery, set in the Rome of 80 BC, where the rather shady Gordianus the Finder investigates a case of murder on behalf of the young lawyer Cicero. The investigation takes Gordianus to the houses of nobles and the brothels of Rome, encountering slaves, bodyguards and senators, and the corruption of Sulla's dictatorship.
This is an absorbing novel, and the author really brings to life every aspect of Roman life, from top to bottom of society. Gordianus' investigations proceed steadily - although there are moments of danger, this is not in any way a 'blood and guts' Roman novel, and its fascination lies in the way the reader is immersed in the detail of Republican Rome. The brutality of this world is not ignored, but is always integral to the mystery. The course of the investigation that Gordianus undertakes brings out the contrast between city and country life, the bustle of the markets and law courts, and the lives of slaves at all levels.
Another interesting facet of this book is the combination of fictional and real characters. This means that we get an impression of living alongside such historical figures as Sulla, Crassus and Cicero. I enjoyed learning more about these notable Romans and their achievements in such a lively and interesting way.
This was a real pleasure to read and I would strongly recommend to anyone who enjoys historical fiction set in the Roman era.
This is an absorbing novel, and the author really brings to life every aspect of Roman life, from top to bottom of society. Gordianus' investigations proceed steadily - although there are moments of danger, this is not in any way a 'blood and guts' Roman novel, and its fascination lies in the way the reader is immersed in the detail of Republican Rome. The brutality of this world is not ignored, but is always integral to the mystery. The course of the investigation that Gordianus undertakes brings out the contrast between city and country life, the bustle of the markets and law courts, and the lives of slaves at all levels.
Another interesting facet of this book is the combination of fictional and real characters. This means that we get an impression of living alongside such historical figures as Sulla, Crassus and Cicero. I enjoyed learning more about these notable Romans and their achievements in such a lively and interesting way.
This was a real pleasure to read and I would strongly recommend to anyone who enjoys historical fiction set in the Roman era.
May 24, 2012
I am simply overwhelmed by this novel. The author has presented an accurate, well-researched and wonderfully written story about life in Ancient Rome, with its treacheries, lies, vulgar activities, politics etc. Is is very explicit but not boring when explaining habits or places and his characters are vivid and true-to-life. Moreover, the whole story is very thrilling. What more could one want from a historical novel? Oh, and I should also mention that this was only Steven Saylor's debut novel! Can't wait to read the other ones about Gordianus The Finder (in fact, I think I'll get started right away xD).
Absolutely intoxicating and strongly recommendable to any fan of history, especially about the Roman Empire!
Absolutely intoxicating and strongly recommendable to any fan of history, especially about the Roman Empire!
February 10, 2023
In this book I have finally found a Roman historical fiction that details a vast portion of the roman political and justice system.
Gordianus the Finder is hired to aid Cicero with the defense of a man accused of patricide. Cicero is a young man at the start of his career and he is determined to make a name for himself. As Cicero prepares to argue his first case, Gordianus must travel through the most disgusting of slums and to the farms in the countryside in order to solve the mystery.
I almost loved this book. It was entertaining and informative, with enough action to keep the story from getting boring and enough accurate history about the laws and living styles of Romans in 80 BC to hold my interest. I didn’t think it was quite good enough to hold its own with the other books on my 5 star shelf but it came close.
Gordianus the Finder is hired to aid Cicero with the defense of a man accused of patricide. Cicero is a young man at the start of his career and he is determined to make a name for himself. As Cicero prepares to argue his first case, Gordianus must travel through the most disgusting of slums and to the farms in the countryside in order to solve the mystery.
I almost loved this book. It was entertaining and informative, with enough action to keep the story from getting boring and enough accurate history about the laws and living styles of Romans in 80 BC to hold my interest. I didn’t think it was quite good enough to hold its own with the other books on my 5 star shelf but it came close.
April 17, 2017
An interesting book set in Rome at the end of Sula's dictatorship.
The book is a combination of a crime thriller, historical novel and legal thriller and mostly reads like a page turner but includes some dull moments.
I liked the descriptions of every day life in Rome, both of the nobility and of the more simple people. The struggles of power and the political schemes are interesting too. The emphasis of the book, on the day to day life in Rome as opposed to the big battles and expansions that are described in other books about the era, suited me.
There were some descriptions of dreams and spiritual/mystical episodes that I did not really care for.
The book is a combination of a crime thriller, historical novel and legal thriller and mostly reads like a page turner but includes some dull moments.
I liked the descriptions of every day life in Rome, both of the nobility and of the more simple people. The struggles of power and the political schemes are interesting too. The emphasis of the book, on the day to day life in Rome as opposed to the big battles and expansions that are described in other books about the era, suited me.
There were some descriptions of dreams and spiritual/mystical episodes that I did not really care for.
January 19, 2009
Roman history + Mystery= Fantastic series!
April 27, 2021
Read this one only because I was curious about the portrayal of Sulla by a different author, as it's not a genre I'm big on.
February 17, 2021
I read Roman Blood by Steven Saylor six years ago. Reading historical fiction is an interesting recreation of the past. One can read history, but unless the reader is a scholar, the history books tend to be dry. Historical novels are imaginative recreations of the past on the human level. They are also enjoyable adventures in the past, and the reader is richly rewarded by taking a trip into the past. Roman Blood combines fact with fiction. While the storyline and quality of such novels is not very strong, they blend in a certain level of originality in terms of what has actually happened.
When a historical fiction is done well, it gives images and textures to the dry bones of historical dates, places, and names. I can feel the heat of the Roman sun and the tension of a middle class citizen who works for the rich and very famous in this novel. You can also "feel" the anger (and danger) of Sulla, the ambition of Pompeii the Great, the incredible wealth of Crassus. Finally, this book is about a man who falls in love, who becomes an excellent father, and who consequently feels like a great friend of the reader.
The book is definitely worth reading, especially if you're interested in ancient history or detective stories. Steven Saylor is a professor of classics, or the study of Ancient Greece and Rome, and so this story is largely based on primary sources and actual events told through a fictional eye-witness. It's a very interesting book in both how it handles the history and in the detective and crime story portions. This book is an ancient historical detective novel that includes very detailed insight into the daily lives of people that lived in that society. The setting, interactions, and even the wardrobe is detailed. As a reader, my imagination went wild.
Even though it is "historical fiction" there is a very large amount of accuracy in the setting and historical figures. I was able to look into the individuals and cities, and found them to be portrayed well, most notably the orator and senator, Cicero. I found his life and philosophy to be very interesting given his time in history. It is interesting how Steven Saylor described the social hierarchies and political landscape of the time.
As for the story, it is an ancient detective novel that I like to say is "Alex Cross in Rome." Gordianus is no hero, he is just an ordinary citizen trying to make a living. However, his wit gets him in harm’s way by asking a lot of questions. He is not a fighter but is instead an evasive protagonist.
Roman Blood seem to bring alive real characters such as Sulla and Cicero. You can actually get to see and know them through multiple viewpoints. For example, the character of Cicero is intricately detailed in Roman Blood, and helps us learn more about the original character.
Another plus point is that, these novels attempt to provide the reader with the 'look and feel' of those times. You can, in a way, explore the age. The history and geography is so powerfully narrated that we get to be a part of those times.
Such novels also set the stage for historical events and scenarios. For example, Saylor's novel 'Empire' describe the very evolution of the Roman empire, from its first days during Augustus, through Nero's whimsies, to its peak during the time of Hadrian.
However, it is not a perfect book. Often the fictional characters become a bit too artificial and repetitive. Nonetheless, the good points of the book outweigh the minor bad points.
The setting is accurate, the reader can experience the setting without being there. The dialogue and characters are true to their times, while using modern forms of English, but not the slang or other current expressions that didn't belong in ancient Rome. The plot is compelling.
I definitely recommend this book for readers who like mystery and those who like ancient history as a setting.
When a historical fiction is done well, it gives images and textures to the dry bones of historical dates, places, and names. I can feel the heat of the Roman sun and the tension of a middle class citizen who works for the rich and very famous in this novel. You can also "feel" the anger (and danger) of Sulla, the ambition of Pompeii the Great, the incredible wealth of Crassus. Finally, this book is about a man who falls in love, who becomes an excellent father, and who consequently feels like a great friend of the reader.
The book is definitely worth reading, especially if you're interested in ancient history or detective stories. Steven Saylor is a professor of classics, or the study of Ancient Greece and Rome, and so this story is largely based on primary sources and actual events told through a fictional eye-witness. It's a very interesting book in both how it handles the history and in the detective and crime story portions. This book is an ancient historical detective novel that includes very detailed insight into the daily lives of people that lived in that society. The setting, interactions, and even the wardrobe is detailed. As a reader, my imagination went wild.
Even though it is "historical fiction" there is a very large amount of accuracy in the setting and historical figures. I was able to look into the individuals and cities, and found them to be portrayed well, most notably the orator and senator, Cicero. I found his life and philosophy to be very interesting given his time in history. It is interesting how Steven Saylor described the social hierarchies and political landscape of the time.
As for the story, it is an ancient detective novel that I like to say is "Alex Cross in Rome." Gordianus is no hero, he is just an ordinary citizen trying to make a living. However, his wit gets him in harm’s way by asking a lot of questions. He is not a fighter but is instead an evasive protagonist.
Roman Blood seem to bring alive real characters such as Sulla and Cicero. You can actually get to see and know them through multiple viewpoints. For example, the character of Cicero is intricately detailed in Roman Blood, and helps us learn more about the original character.
Another plus point is that, these novels attempt to provide the reader with the 'look and feel' of those times. You can, in a way, explore the age. The history and geography is so powerfully narrated that we get to be a part of those times.
Such novels also set the stage for historical events and scenarios. For example, Saylor's novel 'Empire' describe the very evolution of the Roman empire, from its first days during Augustus, through Nero's whimsies, to its peak during the time of Hadrian.
However, it is not a perfect book. Often the fictional characters become a bit too artificial and repetitive. Nonetheless, the good points of the book outweigh the minor bad points.
The setting is accurate, the reader can experience the setting without being there. The dialogue and characters are true to their times, while using modern forms of English, but not the slang or other current expressions that didn't belong in ancient Rome. The plot is compelling.
I definitely recommend this book for readers who like mystery and those who like ancient history as a setting.
May 18, 2019
Roman Blood is a fictional narrative of Cicero's first major case, Sextius Roscia's defence for killing this father. He hires the services of Gordanius to find out exactly what happened, and the author has woven a thrilling story. I am not much of a Roman history fan, but I looked up some aspects of the case and was surprised by how true Saylor has been to history, even with the inclusion of a major fictional character.
The narrative was good too, and the action is consistent. The only parts that bored me was when the author had Gordianus pontificate about Roman history. When you are in the mood for murder and mysteries, you don't want to read about who won wars or what their aristocratic background is. A murder mystery must keep to the theme.
The characters were well etched, and I especially loved Tiro. There were no inconsistencies such as superwomen or stupid men masquerading as heroes, as is so often seen in historical fiction and / or mystery novels these days. Every person behaved as we would have expected them to behave, and that is a huge plus. I also enjoyed the details about daily Roman life that Saylor wove in effortlessly in the story. All in all, an excellent read for history / mystery fans.
The narrative was good too, and the action is consistent. The only parts that bored me was when the author had Gordianus pontificate about Roman history. When you are in the mood for murder and mysteries, you don't want to read about who won wars or what their aristocratic background is. A murder mystery must keep to the theme.
The characters were well etched, and I especially loved Tiro. There were no inconsistencies such as superwomen or stupid men masquerading as heroes, as is so often seen in historical fiction and / or mystery novels these days. Every person behaved as we would have expected them to behave, and that is a huge plus. I also enjoyed the details about daily Roman life that Saylor wove in effortlessly in the story. All in all, an excellent read for history / mystery fans.
July 9, 2014
I wasn't expecting when I first started this book. I had read a Finder story years ago. At the time I wasn't that impressed with the story, maybe because it was in the middle of the series, and I couldn't remember much of it now anyway.
On the other hand, Roman Blood is the first in the series, so that is a better start. Starting at the start is a better start, so start there.
The first thing that leaps out to the reader is how detailed Mr. Saylor is on showing Roman life back then. I think most books about Ancient Rome tend to focus on battles, and their leaders. The story focuses a lot on Sulla and Cicero, but from a normal Roman citizen's point of view. You can tell the author's love for Roma in the opening chapters as the protagonist travel's to meet his client Cicero.
These moments, and when Gordianus is talking politics is my favorite parts of the novel.
The mystery part almost seems secondary. The mystery is pretty much solved halfway through, although there is a twist at the end. It also does not have a happy ending, but something more realistic.
If you are looking for a historical fiction set in Rome, I would highly recommend this book. However, if you are looking for a mystery, then I'd look elsewhere.
On the other hand, Roman Blood is the first in the series, so that is a better start. Starting at the start is a better start, so start there.
The first thing that leaps out to the reader is how detailed Mr. Saylor is on showing Roman life back then. I think most books about Ancient Rome tend to focus on battles, and their leaders. The story focuses a lot on Sulla and Cicero, but from a normal Roman citizen's point of view. You can tell the author's love for Roma in the opening chapters as the protagonist travel's to meet his client Cicero.
These moments, and when Gordianus is talking politics is my favorite parts of the novel.
The mystery part almost seems secondary. The mystery is pretty much solved halfway through, although there is a twist at the end. It also does not have a happy ending, but something more realistic.
If you are looking for a historical fiction set in Rome, I would highly recommend this book. However, if you are looking for a mystery, then I'd look elsewhere.
March 27, 2013
Gordianus the Finder – a Roman detective with a lust for the truth, hard drinking, and his slave-girl Bathsheba – is hired by Cicero to unearth the facts behind a mysterious killing. Gentleman farmer Sextus Roscius is accused of killing his estranged father, but the truth of the matter may reveal corruption not only in the man’s own family, but in the noblest and richest families of Rome; the murder may involve even the dictator Sulla himself.
This is a superb historical detective novel. Gordianus is a Roman Matt Scudder, a hard-living survivor with no special interests or abilities except a deep need for the truth and, possibly, a liking for rough justice. He’s an empathetic everyman with foibles and flaws, always a must in a detective. Saylor’s scholarship seems excellent; his Rome is vivid and picturesque. You get a sharp portrait of Roman life in 80 BC, from the street gutters to the gangs to the games of trigon to the slave economy. Cicero in particular is brought to life in fine detail. The book’s plot is convoluted and opaque, but in a satisfying way. All together, a promising start to a mystery series with a very solid historical background.
This is a superb historical detective novel. Gordianus is a Roman Matt Scudder, a hard-living survivor with no special interests or abilities except a deep need for the truth and, possibly, a liking for rough justice. He’s an empathetic everyman with foibles and flaws, always a must in a detective. Saylor’s scholarship seems excellent; his Rome is vivid and picturesque. You get a sharp portrait of Roman life in 80 BC, from the street gutters to the gangs to the games of trigon to the slave economy. Cicero in particular is brought to life in fine detail. The book’s plot is convoluted and opaque, but in a satisfying way. All together, a promising start to a mystery series with a very solid historical background.
December 21, 2009
This is an excellent historical mystery series set in ancient Rome. It has darker undertones than Lindsay Davis's Falco series,which I also enjoy, and Saylor's main character interacts with all of the major players in the twilight of the Roman Republic.
December 6, 2018
I read this very long ago now, perhaps 22 years ago or so. I actually came back to it after by-chance reading book #7, Rubicon. I read this amazing series in order from then.
December 4, 2024
This was a surprise 5 star read for me. This being the author's debut novel I didn't expect it to be so well written, engaging and fun.
I expected a nice little mystery with some historical elements added to the mix, but what I got was a thrilling and complex murder investigation with a lot of political intrigue and machinations along with a very rich and interesting account on the Ancient Rome era of the dictatorship of Sulla. All this was wrapped up in a fun and thrilling package. Even though the book was a bit too long, I devoured every page and I think I found my new addiction with this series!
Considering all of the above and especially the fact this was Saylor's debut this earns my 5 stars!!
For fans of historical fiction mysteries this is a must read..
8,5/10
I expected a nice little mystery with some historical elements added to the mix, but what I got was a thrilling and complex murder investigation with a lot of political intrigue and machinations along with a very rich and interesting account on the Ancient Rome era of the dictatorship of Sulla. All this was wrapped up in a fun and thrilling package. Even though the book was a bit too long, I devoured every page and I think I found my new addiction with this series!
Considering all of the above and especially the fact this was Saylor's debut this earns my 5 stars!!
For fans of historical fiction mysteries this is a must read..
8,5/10
Displaying 1 - 30 of 584 reviews