A Murder on the Appian Way
A Novel of Ancient Rome
ISBN10: 0312539681
ISBN13: 9780312539689
Trade Paperback
416 Pages
$26.99
CA$37.99
In 52 B.C., Publius Clodius, a Roman patrician turned rabble-rouser, is slain on the most splendid road in the world, the Appian Way. When Clodius's arch rival, Milo, is accused of the crime, the city teeters on the verge of chaos.
As Cicero and Marc Antony prepare their orations for the explosive trial to come, Gordianus the Finder is charged by Pompey the Great to take a closer look at the murder. With the Senate House in ashes, and his own life very much in danger, Gordianus must return to a deserted stretch of the Appian Way in search of the truth—a truth that may save, or destroy, a city drunk on power, rent by fear, and filled with the madness and glory that is Rome.
Reviews
Praise for A Murder on the Appian Way
"Saylor puts such great detail and tumultuous life into his scenes that the sensation of rubbing elbows with the ancients is quite uncanny."—The New York Times Book Review
"Saylor is skilled at spinning a tale out of unlikely historical sources . . . literate, humane, and dramatic."—The Boston Globe
"In Steven Saylor's lively imagination, Rome—both glorious and grimy—is revived."—Seattle Times
"Really excellent . . . an enthralling re-creation of time and place, fascinating storytelling."—Sir Derek Jacobi
"As always, Saylor sketches the real-life historical background with a masterly hand."—Kirkus Reviews
"Saylor meticulously resurrects ancient Rome, providing another irresistible installment in the continuing chronicles of Gordianus the Finder. . . . Gripping suspense and intrigue superbly supported by a wealth of accurate historical detail."—Booklist
"The suspense never lags as Saylor spins a sophisticated political thriller that also brings his readers up to speed on their Roman history."—Publishers Weekly
Reviews from Goodreads
BOOK EXCERPTS
Read an Excerpt
Chapter One
"Papa! Wake up!"
A hand gripped my shoulder and shook me gently. I pulled away and felt cold air on the back of my neck as the blanket slid away. I snatched it back and snuggled against...