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Product Reviews:
A Murder on the Appian Way: A Novel of Ancient Rome (Novels of Ancient Rome) |
Rating: 5 (out of 5)
Summary: A Series that Gets Better with Each Installment
Comments: I started with the 1st volume of Steven Saylor's sub rosa series and after Murder on the Appian Way, I have to say that each1is better than the last. This is just as much historical fiction as a mystery series. Besides interesting plots and characters, in Murder on the Appian Way Saylor takes us on a tour of ancient Rome as it might have been. We witness an urban riot, go on a guided tour of the Appian Way in which we visit villas, inns, and temples, experience adventures with Rome's almost all unsavory characters, and also meet such historical characters as Julius Caesar, Pompey, Cicero, Marc Antony, and many others. I am a Roman history buff which is likely part of the reason why I enjoyed this book so much. Familiarity with the institutions, historical stream, and personalities heightened my understanding and enjoyment. For me, this is a slam dunk 5 Star review. |
Rating: 4 (out of 5)
Summary: Nice Historical Myster
Comments: I am a fairly picky reader, turned off by the lack of craft in much of commercial fiction, however I enjoy Saylor's Roman novels. The setting and Roman details are wonderful and the mysteries are enjoyable in a "cozy" sort of way. That is, the emphasis is on Gordianus resolving the mental puzzle rather than danger to the main characters.
My only real complaint is that Saylor falls victim to the "as you know, Bob" syndrome. That is, character explain things about Roman life and history to other characters that they would never need to know in order to get information to the reader. It would be the equivalent of a modern character saying, "As you know, Bob, July 4 is Independence Day in the United States. It celebrates the day when the Founding Fathers signed the Declaration of Independence and began the American Revolution. Before then, the Americans were subject to the English crown."
I wish Saylor would find a way to more skillfully relay this sort of detail. |
Rating: 4 (out of 5)
Summary: Manipulating the Mob
Comments: Murder on the Appian Way is a study in crowd psychology. The Novel begins with a riot in Rome, apparently caused by the assassination of1of the citizens favorites, Publius Clodius. The climate is tense as Rome is divided into2crowds;1mob supports the radical views of Clodius who pushed for more rights and privileges for the average citizen - especially the poor. The other gang supports a colleague of Cicero, Titus Annius Milo, who fights for the traditional ways which appeal to the upper classes. Both groups are populated with packs of tough young men who functioned to fight and plunder members of the opposing group. The riots eventually lead to Roman officials taking strong actions to enforce peace.
Gordianus is hired by Pompey, who insists on being called the "great one". Pompey takes control of Rome and decides to investigate the death of Clodius so peace may be restored. Additionally, Gordianus is hired by Clodius's window, Fulvia and Clodius's sister Clodia.
The relatives of Clodius charge Milo with the crime and a trial is planned with Cicero scheduled to defend Milo. The preparations for the trial lead to much strife and conflict.
Gordianus insists on finding the truth. His search for the facts, leads through many twists and turns, and finally leads to unexpected results.
For me, the clear detailed descriptions and3dimensional characters transform this book from a great detective story to a polished novel. I felt the trepidation of confronting a blood thirsty riot. I experienced outrage when marauding crowds threatened homes and families. I sympathized with the loss of close friends. Murder on the Appian Way is well worth reading.
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Rating: 5 (out of 5)
Summary: I have no problem giving this1five stars.
Comments: I must admit that I feel like a "finder" for discovering this series. Gordianus the Finder is a remarkable character. He is clever, however vulnerable, jaded, however a loving father and husband, and he is vividly portrayed by Mr. Saylor. This is an outstanding series, however I honestly endorse that it be read in order. This book is the fifth in the series. Saylor covers the peculiar slaying of Publius Clodius, and the fallout that occurred in Rome as result of his murder. In that respect, it is a little less of a mystery, however Gordianus has been asked by2 prominent citizens to find out what actually happened on the Appian Way the day Clodius was killed. Rome was at a unsettled time at this point in history, and it was the beginning of the end of the Roman Republic. The book illustrates all the conflicting ambitions that were driving Rome at this time. We have the murdered man, Clodius, and the man accused of killing him - Milo wanting power. We also have Pompey and Caesar in the background who also want to control Rome's destiny. These are totally engrossing books, and they've kind of taken over my life right now, even though I continue to read others by other authors, my mind keeps wandering back to wonder what Gordianus is up to now. Highly addicting!! |
Rating: 5 (out of 5)
Summary: The Fifth Book in the Roma Sub Rosa series
Comments: Steven Saylor's fascination with Ancient Rome began at an early age. A history graduate and former newspaper and magazine editor, he lives in Berkeley, California. His series of books about Ancient Rome and featuring Gordianus the Finder are popular both here in England and also in America. Anyone who is a fan of Lindsey Davis will love these books too. Steven Saylor brings Ancient Rome to life, so much so that the reader can lose himself in the sights and sounds of the ancient city.
Gordianus the Finder, the investigator of crimes, a man whose skill and integrity have made him much sought after by some of the almost all important men in Rome. Men who may need a secret to be kept, men who need to know that when Gordianus is working for them he will be discreet and not susceptible to bribery.
In this novel Gordianus the Finder is assigned to a case by the great man himself, Pompey. He is now1of the almost all important, if not the almost all important man in Rome, although perhaps1Julius Caesar, may in later times argue with that. Pompey is determined to find out about the disappearance of the high born politician Publius Clodius. His disappearance has caused a great upheaval in the city of Rome, with riots on the streets and bouts of arson taking place. He needs Gordianus to find out what happened to Clodius and quickly before the mob destroy the city. |
