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SPQR V: Saturnalia cover art

SPQR V: Saturnalia

By: John Maddox Roberts
Narrated by: John Lee
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Summary

This eagerly awaited fifth book in John Maddox Roberts's Edgar-nominated historical mystery series once again takes the reader back to the Rome of Julius Caesar and the Roman Senator Decius Caecilius Metellus the Younger. Decius has won himself a reputation as both an investigator and, most unfortunately, a bit of a playboy. Having been banished by his family for sometimes embarrassing activities to a rather leisurely lifestyle on Rhodes, he is puzzled to be suddenly and unexpectedly summoned home to assist in an investigation.

Quintus Caecilius Metellus Celer, a relative of Decius and his family and the head of a powerful political clan, has been poisoned, and his infamous wife, Clodia, is immediately suspected of disposing of her rather inconvenient husband. Not entirely convinced of Clodia's guilt, Decius delves into the intricacies of Rome's ruling class and discovers that a clandestine, forbidden witches' cult is inextricably intertwined with some very highborn people. A trial for Clodia would be most unwelcome, as it could bring to light some well-kept secrets. To get to the bottom of the corruption that accompanies the intoxicating allure of this ancient city, Decius must form an uneasy alliance with Clodius, Clodia's brother and his sworn enemy, and be extremely careful not to step on any toes.

©1999 John Maddox Roberts (P)2012 Audible, Inc.

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What listeners say about SPQR V: Saturnalia

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  • 31-01-24

Another great read..,,

I’m so glad to have discovered this series. I’ve learned lots of interesting facts about Rome & Roman life, and really enjoy the presentation of this character who never takes life or himself too seriously.

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Fab series

I love this series, both the writing and the narration. The first two books are read by someone else, but for once in a way the two narrators have such similar styles that it doesn't matter.

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Great series.

Great series. I’ve loved each book for story and humour. I have little knowledge of Roman history but the Americanism “ gotten” grates every time used, and that is often!! Shame as I can’t fault the rest of books and narrations.

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Decius the Roman Sherlock

Expertly read by John Lee this is the fifth instalment following Decius Metellus the Younger as he applies his own precocious brand of logic to solving murder and mayhem in Rome.
This time back from Rhodes, Decius is charged by his family to investigate the death of a prominent family member and by his bitter enemy the mad Claudius to exonerate his infamous sister of the crime. With Cults and Stregas to contend with and helped by fiancée Julia, physician Asklepious and slave Hermes, Decius plies his own brand of deductive reasoning to track down the murderer.
Historical detail and characters are brought to life in this light hearted but entertaining series. Start with the first book and enjoy the whole lot!

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Go on, see if you can guess...

Great setting (Rome), great time period (that of Julius Caesar), great detective story (murder), great characters, great humour, great fight scenes (but not battles), great visuals, great writing, great narration - do I recommend this book?
Guess.

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1 person found this helpful