First published 2000
Marcus Didius Falco returns to Rome after a grueling mission in North Africa. Emperor Vespasian rewards his efforts with a new title: Procurator of Poultry for the Senate and People of Rome. The job means watching over the city's sacred geese. The pay remains modest, but the position improves his standing with his wife's family. Falco looks forward to quiet time at home with his loved ones. Rest proves impossible when murder strikes the Sacred Brotherhoods. A member of the religious order turns up dead. Then a young woman vanishes. She was the prime candidate to join the Order of Vestal Virgins. Falco digs deeper and discovers a web of lies protecting dangerous secrets. The investigation pulls him into Rome's shadowy religious world. He uncovers corruption that reaches high places. The deeper he goes, the harder it becomes to walk away. Falco must choose between safety and justice.
Genres: historical-fiction, mystery, crime, ancient-history
Vibes: suspenseful, thought-provoking
Tropes: amateur-sleuth, investigation
Setting: North Africa, Rome
Period: Ancient Rome
356 pages · Hardcover · Mysterious Press