Book Review: Saturnalia

Reviewed By: Harriet Klausner

Saturnalia     Amazon US HC Amazon Canada HC
John Maddox Roberts
Class/Genre:   Mystery
Series: SPQR # 5
St. Martin’s, Oct 1999, $23.95, 288 pp.

In 695 AD Rome, Marcus Calpurnicus Bibulis and Casus Julius Caesar head the consulship. However, Caesar's term will soon end. He will become the next consul of Gaul. Clodius is to replace him in Rome. Senator Decius Caecilis hates these changes because Clodius is his enemy. His family and friends consider Decius to be a weirdo as he would rather solve a mystery than dabble in politics. His efforts gain him many enemies and frequent exiles out of the city.

During the current transition of power, his father summons Decius home from Rhodes. Due to the festive winter holiday of Saturnalia, Decius feels that Clodius will not try to kill him. Decius’ father wants his son to determine whether the deceased’s wife murdered their kinsman Quintus Caecilis by poisoning him. Quintus’ spouse happens to be Clodius’ sister making it possible that any finding will have severe political repercussions that could shake the foundation of the empire. Still, Decius risks his life to find the real killers and not necessarily the politically correct one.

After too long an absence, John Maddox Roberts brings back popular Roman sleuth Decius who is in his usual form solving a mystery with major implications. Mr. Roberts uses many historical tidbits so that his audience can see Rome at the beginning of its most glorious period when Caesar is starting to consolidate his power. The who-done-it is cleverly designed so that the audience will follow a fine mystery as well as vividly observing everyday life in Ancient Rome. SPQR V: SATURNALIA may bring Mr. Roberts more than just another best seller. The wonderful mystery might also bring the author several awards.

Harriet Klausner

Reprinted with permission. Do Not repost without permission from the author, Harriet Klausner