Arms of Nemesis : A Novel of Ancient Rome (A Novel of Ancient Rome)

Rating:
Summary: Not Roman Blood, but still a great read
Review: The only reason why I gave this one 4 stars is because I didn't like it as much as I liked Roman Blood, the first book in the series. But this book is a great read. Saylor keeps you guessing right up until the end. The addition of a sidekick(although he is much more than that) for Gordianus in his adopted son Eco is welcome. This relationship is special and has a sweet turn at the end. I love how Saylor titillates the reader with the stories of Mummius and Olympias and their surprise love interests. The author's exhaustive research is apparent in the intriguing details of classical food, potions, funerals, and other aspects of daily life of different classes of ancient people. The plight of slaves was conveyed with profound sympathy. Having experienced two suspenseful and beautifully written books so far, I will be sure to finish the Roman Sub Rosa series with enthusiam.

Rating:
Summary: Much better than I expected
Review: The other "Roman mysteries" I've read are by Lindsey Davis, books I can't say that I really like for several reasons. But this book, the first I read from Steven W. Saylor gives me hope that there are good mysteries set in a fairly historically accurate Rome afterall. My first summer class I'm teaching will be reading this this early June and we'll talk about the historical and social realities behind the book. I'm glad I took the risk of buying this book. I look forward to reading more Saylor books, especially those with Gordianus whose detective skills seem to fit well into the late Republican period of Rome. Little seemed strained or "modern" not even the attitudes toward slavery which were, even then, a mixture and varied from person to person, class to class.

Rating:
Summary: Second Isn't First
Review: The second in Saylor's Roma Sub Rosa series wasn't what I hoped for, but it wasn't bad. I did like it enough to continue the series and I'm glad I did. Don't give up. Continue on to Cailina's Riddle.