Spqr XI: Under Vesuvius - (Spqr Roman Mysteries) by John Maddox Roberts (Paperback)

Book Synopsis

Things are going well for Decius Caecilius Metellus. He is praetor peregrinus, which means he has to judge a case or two outside Rome. His first stop is Campania, "Italy's most popular resort district." He and his wife, Julia, are happy for a change of scenery. But the good times end when, in a town near Vesuvius, a priest's daughter is murdered. Decius must find her killer and keep the mob off a young boy whom everyone blames but he believes to be innocent. Decius may have acquired more prestige, but he's also acquired more trouble.

With his SPQR novels, John Maddox Roberts has written a satisfying and entertaining historical mystery series. The stakes just keep getting higher in this latest atmospheric puzzle.

Review Quotes

"Roberts's characters are entertaining, very human, and frequently both witty and surprising." --Mystery News

"Longtime fans and those interested in the Roman Republic will enjoy this crafty puzzle." --Publishers Weekly on SPQR IX: The Princess and the Pirates

"Under Roberts' skilled hand and light touch, this visit to ancient Rome seems like touring a familiar neighborhood with old friends." --Tampa Tribune on SPQR VIII: The River God's Vengeance

About the Author

John Maddox Roberts is the author of numerous works of science fiction and fantasy in addition to his suspenseful SPQR mysteries. He and his wife live in New Mexico.