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raptorimperator's review
4.0
Another fine edition of the SPQR series. This one the murder pops up (quite literally) in the very first chapter. I enjoyed the exploration of Roman religious cults in this one. And the banter between Decius and Hermes remains top notched. I also liked having Julia Minor present for more of the story, as I always get a kick out of the conversation Decius and her share. Decius gets himself into trouble, as he often does, but this time we have Julia around to berate him for it. Pompey and Cato also make appearances in this one. The political tension is high, as in the timeline the civil war is fast approaching and Caesar's fateful crossing of the Rubicon is looming on the horizon. The mystery is failure good, as I really didn't know who was behind it, though I turned out to be half right.
I'm sad that there is only one book left in the series.
I'm sad that there is only one book left in the series.
traveller1's review
4.0
Lots of fun. This novel in the series is more amusing than most, even though it deals with multiple murder. Two competing temples, adjacent to each other. A conspiracy to defraud and murder pilgrims, for money (tsk tsk), set against the backdrop of the emerging civil war between Caesar and Pompey. The last year of the Republic.
Complex plot, amusing characters, fun.
Complex plot, amusing characters, fun.
catmum's review
4.0
Whether intended or not, this entry is a nod to Agatha Christie. A bit of a locked room mystery (although in this case it is an inaccessible cave) with all relevant parties gathered at the end for the Poirot-esque denouement. Decius and Julia visit the oracle at the shrine of Hecate in Campagna only to have the body of the head priest of the adjoining cult of Apollo appear at their feet. A day later, all the priests of Apollo are found dead.
razgon's review
5.0
Once again, its like coming home to be reading SPQR - Mr. Maddox's command of the historical events is impressive, and his ability to weave it into an engaging tale of mystery and imagination is even more so.
I cannot recommend this series enough!
I cannot recommend this series enough!
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