Synopses & Reviews
In the year 48 B.C., Rome is in the midst of Civil War. As Pompey and Julius Caesar fight for control of the Republic, Rome itself becomes a hotbed of intrigue, riven by espionage, greedy profiteering, and bitter betrayals...
A MIST OF PROPHECIES
A beautiful young seeress staggers across the Roman marketplace and dies in the arms of Gordianus the Finder. Possibly mad and claiming no memory of her past, Cassandra--like her Trojan namesake-was reputed to possess the gift of prophecy. For such a gift there are many in Rome who would pay handsomely. . . or resort to murder.
Obsessed with Cassandra and her mystery, Gordianus begins to investigate her murder. As he gradually peels away the veils of secrecy that surround Cassandra's life and death, he discovers a web of conspiracy linking many of the city's most ruthless and powerful women. Now Gordianus's pursuit of the truth not only endangers his own life, but could change the future of Rome itself. . .
"Vivid and robust...exquisite detail and powerful drama."
--Philadelphia Inquirer
"Saylor shows once again why fans of ancient historicals regard him as the leader of the field."
--Publishers Weekly (starred review)
Review
"Vivid and robust...exquisite detail and powerful drama." Philadelphia Inquirer
Review
"Saylor shows once again why fans of ancient historicals regard him as the leader of the field." Publishers Weekly (Starred Review)
Review
"One of the best mystery series being published today...A pitch-perfect work...gripping prose." Austin Chronicle
Review
"A gritty depiction of the underbelly of the great city in its heyday. The secret history of Rome has never been so fascinating." Maxim Jakubowski, The Guardian (London)
Review
"A chilling mystery." Booklist
Review
"Intriguing both as a mystery and as a historical novel...recommended." Library Journal
Synopsis
In the year 48 B.C., Rome is in the midst of Civil War. As Pompey and Julius Caesar fight for control of the Republic, Rome itself becomes a hotbed of intrigue, riven by espionage, greedy profiteering, and bitter betrayals...
A beautiful young seeress staggers across the Roman marketplace and dies in the arms of Gordianus the Finder. Possibly mad and claiming no memory of her past, Cassandra like her Trojan namesake was reputed to possess the gift of prophecy. For such a gift there are many in Rome who would pay handsomely...or resort to murder.
Obsessed with Cassandra and her mystery, Gordianus begins to investigate her murder. As he gradually peels away the veils of secrecy that surround Cassandra's life and death, he discovers a web of conspiracy linking many of the city's most ruthless and powerful women. Now Gordianus's pursuit of the truth not only endangers his own life, but could change the future of Rome itself...
About the Author
Steven Saylor has had a lifelong fascination with ancient Rome, from the drive-in movies of his boyhood (
Cleopatra, Spartacus, Ben Hur), to his degree in history from the University of Texas, and through his appearances on the History Channel as an expert on Roman politics and life. He is the author of the Roma Sub Rosa series as well as
A Twist at the End, a historical novel set in 19th century Texas. He divides his time between Berkeley, California and Austin, Texas.