Germanicus

Marcus Corvinus #2

by David Wishart

Set in Ancient Rome. When Marcus Corvinus is summoned by the Empress Livia he fears the age has not sweetened her. But Livia has a favour to ask, Marcus must investigate the death of her grandson, Germanicus. This favour is to embroil Marcus in a multi-stranded web of betrayal and deceit.

Genres: Mystery, Historical Fiction, Fiction, Roman, Historical, Historical Mystery, Crime

340 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1997

About the author

Librarian Note: There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name. See this thread for more information.

Historical crime writer David Wishart was born in Arbroath, Scotland. He studied Classics - Latin and Greek - at Edinburgh University and after graduation taught for four years in a secondary school.

He then retrained as a teacher of English as a Foreign Language and worked abroad for eleven years, in Kuwait, Greece and Saudi Arabia. He returned to Scotland in 1990 and now lives with his family in Carnoustie, mixing writing with teaching EFL and study skills at Dundee University.

Reviews

[Clemens Schoonderwoert · Rating 4 out of 5]

**Should Read as 4.5 Stars!**

Read this book in 2008, and its the 2nd volume of the wonderful "Marcus Corvinus" series.

In this mystery Marcus Corvinus is summoned the the Imperial Palace by Empress Livia, and not really looking forward to it, to say the least.

This formidable Empress Livia has a task for Marcus Corvinus, and that's to investigate the death or murder of her grandson, the famous and battle-winning General Germanicus.

While investigating this death or murder of Germanicus, Corvinus will encounter many layers of betrayal and deceit within the Imperial family, where Germanicus was seen as a potential danger by those in power as for example Emperor Tiberius.

What is to follow is an intriguing and thrilling Roman mystery, where backstabbing and treachery at the Imperial court will be the foundation for the death of Germanicus, and Corvinus will have to tread carefully not to hurt too many nerves within the Imperial family when uncovering the truth behind the death/murder of Germanicus.

Highly recommended, for this is another sublime addition to this great series and that's why I like to call this episode: "A Very Enjoyable Germanicus Mystery"!

[Mary Heron · Rating 5 out of 5]

Corvinius does Livia's bidding once again. Investigating the death of Germanicus, her grandson.

It's been 18 months since the events in the first book. Perilla is now married to Corvinus after divorcing her ex husband Rufus. Marriage is suiting the couple and they are enjoying life when Corvinus is summoned to the palace, it's Livia and one does not turn down an invitation from the Empress. Turns out Livia wants Corvinius to look into the circumstances surrounding Germanicus death. Piso and his wife Placinia were accused of his murder and tried in Rome, Pizo was also tried for treason, the murder trial failed but on the night before his guilt verdict was to be given Pizo committed suicide, Tiberius pleaded with the Senate to show leniency to Piso's family thereby fuelling the rumours that Germanicus was murdered by Piso on Tiberius's orders...........or Livia's............Olivia claims no hand in what happened.to her grandson and wants Corvinus to find out the truth of the matter for her. Corvinus is a Roman man to look into this case he will have to travel to the provinces where he knows no-one and has no support. Not a good place to be especially when the wife insists on going with him.................. A very complicated plot cleverly weaves historical facts with fiction to make a fine take on what did happen to Germanicus....................

[Assaph Mehr · Rating 5 out of 5]

After enjoying Ovid so much, I'm binge reading the Marcus Corvinus series.

What to Expect

Picking up about a year after the events in Ovid, Wishart continues with a similar tale of treachery and intrigue, this time regarding the death of Germanicus (who was the heir apparent to the emperor Tiberius). Again, the protagonist Corvinus is doing his best after the fact to unravel backroom deals, treachery, betrayals, plots, and underhanded killings at Rome's highest levels.

While this is the second novel in the series and there is some continuity in Corvinus' life from the first, there is no pressing need to read them in order. It's a matter pf preference.

What I liked

Wishart's writing is exceedingly well researched, and he presents all the personas of the period - from the very top to those lesser known figures who made the city and the empire work - as living characters. He goes beyond the 'bare facts' as they are known from (nearly) contemporary reports, and weaves them together into a plausible tale of intrigue that places people and events in a logical causal chain. I personally love going down the rabbit hole of historical research (as broader understanding increases my enjoyment), but it's not needed to follow and enjoy the story.

Stylistically, Wishart uses a modern language to bring the characters to life. He's also using a time-honoured trope of representing the Roman patriarchy similar to British aristocracy. The result is a novel that reads as a cross between Sam Spade and Downton Abbey, on a backdrop of ancient Rome. And it works!

What to be aware of

Though Wishart's prose is excellent, he avoids all Latin terms to the point where it's a bit much (like referring to a toga as a mantle, or to the Forum as Market Square). While I understand the reasoning, this is still ancient Rome - I find this affectation a bit diluting his otherwise excellent prose.

Summary

The novel was a pleasure to read. If you liked works by Lindsey Davis, Steven Saylor, Ruth Downie and the like, you really need to read Wishart as well. I am now planning to binge-read the rest of the series.
--
Assaph Mehr, author of Murder In Absentia: A story of Togas, Daggers, and Magic - for lovers of Ancient Rome, Murder Mysteries, and Urban Fantasy.

[Andy · Rating 3 out of 5]

Its a mystery so can't say tooo much.

For the most part enjoyable, like the two main characters & how they go about there sleuthing & despite Marcus Corvinus being a "purple striper" he is a man of the people which fits in well with his modernisms & language. Decent series & will read on some more.

[Ana Cristina Lee · Rating 3 out of 5]

Protagonizada por el detective Marcus Corvinus y ambientada en la antigua Roma, esta novela es la segunda de la serie.

En este caso, la emperatriz Lidia encarga la investigación de la muerte de Germánico, un gran militar cuya repentina y misteriosa muerte conmocionó a la sociedad romana. Basada en hechos históricos, es una propuesta sobre lo que realmente pudo ocurrir.

Está muy bien narrada y, además de un buen entretenimiento, es una oportunidad de aprender más sobre la historia de Roma.

[Michal · Rating 3 out of 5]

Not bad, this series is picking up.

[Jane · Rating 3 out of 5]

On the whole, I liked this novel, one of the Marcus Corvinus series of ancient Roman mysteries. I didn't think it was as good as the other two in the series I've read--#1 and #10. By this time I'm used to Wishart's unconventional Rome, so that was no stumbling block. This particular mystery was just too confusing. One of the villains was not brought in until the book was nearly finished, which to my understanding, is sloppy mystery writing. I'd give the story 3.5 stars if possible.

The Empress Livia summons Marcus Corvinus and asks him to investigate the death of her son [and Tiberius's adopted son], Germanicus, the hero and general. Ostensibly, he had died of an illness, but even Tacitus has admitted the details of Germanicus's death were cloudy.

In Rome, Marcus does find evidence of a conspiracy having to do with the death, but he has raised as many questions as he has answered. The plot was confusing to me, or else I'm obtuse. After Marcus had an "Aha!" moment, I'm glad he and his wife, Perilla would discuss what he had discovered; then through their questions and answers I would "get" it.

The charismatic Germanicus had been sent away from the western part of the empire to Asia to dilute his influence. Marus and Perilla travel to Antioch, where Germanicus had died, to try to fit more pieces of the puzzle together. As the couple is getting too close to the truth for someone's comfort, they are "asked" to leave and to return to Rome. The conclusion was ingenious speculation, but plausible. I think the author took an interesting premise and made the plot a bit more complicated than it should have been.

Marcus's new stepfather, Priscus, was emphasized and was a comic figure. There were some humorous comments in this novel: e.g., concerning the innkeeper of the Two Cedars Inn in Antioch and his extended family. The sightseeing tour in Antioch, the guide, and Marcus's interior thoughts were also funny--I took this as a satire on sightseeing tours in general, with the delighted wife and the all-suffering husband.

I enjoyed this light mystery, however I felt it was too elaborate for its own good. I do recommend it, however.

[Janet · Rating 3 out of 5]

A historical mystery series set in Imperial Rome. Wishart’s Marcus Corvinus really existed, although the author takes the necessary license that writers of historical fiction can and must take to tell a compelling story. Corvinus is given the assignment (by Empress Livia, no less) to discover who really killed Germanicus, heir to the empirical throne. Fun reading for those who can’t get enough of sword and sandals Rome.

[Dani Patrick · Rating 4 out of 5]

Marcus is right back into the thick of Roman intrigue and mystery. Apparently impressed by his methods of deduction and his inconspicuous role in Roman politics, empress Livia calls on Marcus to investigate the death of heir apparent, Germanicus. All of Rome believes Live and Emperor Tiberius are responsible, even when governor of Syria, Piso, is charged with the crime; but Livia swears she had nothing to do with the poisoning and Marcus must discover the truth. However nothing is ever easy when dealing with the imperials and Marcus' life is in jeopardy once again.

I was much more pleased with the second installment of the series than the first. Wishart maintains his unparalleled historical research but I much more enjoyed the characters now that their background has been established. I also took my advice and referenced characters in order to keep the plot straight, as it is very complex. I would also suggest a family tree of the Julio-Claudian line for another resource. I am in general thrilled with the series, although complex coming in prepared really makes you appreciate Marcus' unique character. A must read series for any Ancient Rome lover.

[margaret chalmers · Rating 5 out of 5]

Being a nice guy gets you dead.

Another five star mystery in the hands of the delicious Corvinus. A romp through Rome and then off sightseeing to the possessed territories. Our hero, like Nelson, is chronically seasick. He does not enjoy the journey or the lesser wines. We do. The subject is the death of Germanicus, that popular thoroughly decent boring lad, who (with hindsight we know) fathered more trouble for the Imperials. If I mention 'little boots' you know who I mean. Perilla is there to adorn the scene and keep our hero right. A lovely couple. And we got introduced to an interesting newcomer, an officer of the Watch. Hope he features in later stores. All in all an interesting, enjoyable read not quite up to Lindsey Davis standard but a few steps of the Palatine behind. Will look out for the next with pleasure. I recommend it.

[Ian · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am giving this novel 4 stars, not because it is quiet so great, but because of the explanation of the Germanicus mystery. The cause of the death of Germanics, and the ramifications have been debated for two millennia. The belief that he was a traitor actively plotting against the emperor, well... Tantalising. The remainder of the novel is well written, though I find the supporting characters just a little too two dimensional. The protagonist is the only introspective characters, others enter and leave stage left. An enjoyable read, entertaining, fast-paced, not to be ignored if you indulge in historical who-dun-its from time to time.

[Pindar's Muse · Rating 2 out of 5]

This book is similar in construction and wit to Lindsey Davis' Marcus Didius Falco series (Wishart borrows the same tag-along wife schtick, even the same praenomen. Some may have a hard time getting into this book, which is a rather dull account following the murder of well-like general, Germanicus. Why pick a famous Roman and investigate his death when there are plenty of other intestings aspects to Roman culture to write about? Not everyone will be a fan of the "modern" language used throughout the novel either.

Fans of Roman whodunnits may like Wishart's works, but for others, Steven Saylor and Lindsey Davis will suffice.

The book cover was nice, at least.

[Carolyn Rose · Rating 3 out of 5]

I enjoyed the sarcastic voice, and I understand the complexity of the family relationships among the players, but I found the recapping and retelling confusing and often kind of a snore. Not every book is for every reader.

[Cuchi · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ha estado bien, también me he reído y ha sido entretenido.

[Marc · Rating 4 out of 5]

Not as good a mystery as its predecessor Ovid.

[Suzann · Rating 4 out of 5]

Four stars, but with the caveat that I think I'd have to read it again to fully absorb all the ins and outs of the plot. There are a number of characters involved who are central to the story but are dead before it begins, which makes them more difficult to keep track of and distinguish from one another. (Some of my difficulty may also be my own fault -- I started and stopped reading this one a few times, which probably hindered my ability to remember everything well.)

I like Corvinus, even though some of the details of his character grate after a while (using the same handful of goofy expressions nonstop, for example). Many of the other characters are great, too, if a tad one-dimensional. My favorite thing about this series, however, is how well Wishart brings ancient Rome to life. The pictures he paints and the scenes he sets are spot on, and always perfectly clear in my mind, which is I think what ultimately keeps me coming back for more.

[Dorothy · Rating 3 out of 5]

Who killed Germanicus is the question asked by this entry in the Marcus Corvinus series. Marcus is commissioned by Augustus' widow, Livia, to find the answer to that question. He can hardly say no when she makes her "request" and once committed to the investigation, he follows it wherever it leads. In this case, to Syria and then back to Rome. He finds the answer in the end, of course. Along the way, he smart talks himself into and out of trouble time and time again. And there's the rub for me.

I find Marcus' manner of speaking - calling everyone "pal," his constant "uh-huhs," always referring to his servant as "little guy" - very annoying. At some point, I think it may become more annoying than my pleasure in the story itself. I'm not sure I'll ever finish reading the entire series.

[Morgiana · Rating 5 out of 5]

our hero is Marcus Corvinus the ancient Philip Marlowe, who is investigating now the mysterious death of Germanicus, heir to Tiberius and Rome's favourite.
This is a very interesting crime novel with a living backround of Rome and Antioch in the 1st century A.D. I read it in just a few days and was really surprised and shocked, what Wishart thinks, WHY Germanicus was murdered.
This is a very exciting book with well written characters and great storyline.
I am already looking forward for Wishart's next book.

[Argum · Rating 5 out of 5]

Marcus is back and the Empress Livia asks him to look into who killed the heir, Germanicus. Germanicus's death is a bit of an unsolved mystery - is it murder, if so who did it and why. Wishart takes a variant of the classic solution. Marcus and Perilla head off to Syria to investigate but not much historic detail is bestowed. I liked the characters and the unraveling of the plot. Knowing the ending of this book and what actually transpires when Livia dies I am quite interested in reading the next entry.

[Lynn · Rating 4 out of 5]

Took me a while to figure out what the problem was that Corvinus was investigating. I think the author needs to do a better job of explaining the political and social climate of the time. I think he assumes a lot. Once I got the concept, I really enjoyed the book a lot. I keep trying, and I have the next volume waiting in the wings. I hope I am quicker on the uptake for that one. Maybe it is just a matter of getting used to the style.

[Ruth · Rating 2 out of 5]

c1997: FWFTB: Livia, detective, death, snake, machinations. It was a quick read and enjoyable to an extent. I did find it all a bit superficial and the use of 'yeah' really started to annoy me. But there were some funny lines. Recommended for those of the normal crew that like light historical crime books. "She was still smiling at me. I've seen cats at the Games smile like that just before they overtake their lunch."

[Paul · Rating 4 out of 5]

I liked this book better than the first. Perhaps because I am getting used to Wishart's style (although I do find Corvinus' manner of speech a little grating and not to say a little too colloquial for a Roman patrician). The characters are developed more in this volume and I can safely say I am hooked. I still prefer Lindsey Davis and Falco but Corvinus looks as if if he going to come in a close second if the series improves at the same rate.

[Tchipakkan · Rating 3 out of 5]

It kept me going, I love the way Corvinus pulls together the "evidence" for his mysteries, the way historians attempt to build their theories about what happened in a particular time and place.
Sadly, this was apparently when Wishart starting having Corvinus call everyone Pal, which he didn't in Ovid, and I really preferred that. This has not stopped me from beginning to read Sejanus, but it might stop me from reading the series. I find it annoying.

[Jack · Rating 4 out of 5]

Liked the book - of course, I like Roman history as well. I felt the author was trying to prove a theory - who killed Germanicus, son of the Roman emperor - rather than just present us with a good who done it mystery.
However - I thought the character development was very good and I did get a feel for the locations, the smells, the grit. Well done.

[Vicki Cline · Rating 1 out of 5]

I'm sorry to say I didn't like this at all and only read about 60 pages before abandoning it. Corvinus, the main character and narrator, speaks with way too modern idioms for my taste. I really wanted to like the book because of the subject, the death of Germanicus, Tiberius' son and heir. But Corvinus just didn't seem Roman to me.

[Albert Gomperts · Rating 3 out of 5]

Somewhat plodding and novelized account of how Germanicus might have died. David Wishart is well at home in the period and apologizes for his historical liberties. I am, however, not particularly enchanted by his hard-boiled protagonist Corvinus. I must admit to preferring the ironic and rather less prosperous Falco in Lindsey Davis's admirable series of Roman crime thrillers.

[Walter · Rating 3 out of 5]

Der faule Aristokrat als Amateurdetektiv mit allerhöchstem Auftrag ist ja kein neues Konzept. Nur dass bei Wisehart das Ganze nicht im späten 19./ frühen 20.Jahrhundert sondern Anfang des ersten in Rom spielt. Der Hintergrund der Handlung entspricht dem, was wir über die mörderische Kaiser-Familie wissen, aber der Krimi im Vordergrund ist eher schwach. Na ja, leichte Kost eben.

[Bron · Rating 4 out of 5]

I don't remember it too well because I read it so long ago, but I know I enjoyed it at the time.

[Michael Rhode · Rating 3 out of 5]

A fairly confusing story, as it dealt with a real death of a real imperial. Slangy voice was a bit distracting at time. I'd read others in the series though.

[Violetta Signore · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love the Corvino series