Set in ancient Rome. Decius Caecilius Metellus investigates. OK.

The story itself was pretty good. However, I got the feeling that the author did so much research for the book that he felt like he just couldn't leave out anything. There were looonnnggg sections where nothing about the actual plot was discussed but loads of Roman life and politics were catalogued. I really wanted to like this book since there are so many others in the series and I love historical mysteries. But...alas... that was not the case. Perhaps, one day, I'll try another in the series... just in case. ( )

This is a historical mystery set during the waning years of the Roman Republic, about 70 B.C. Julius Caesar is a minor character. This is the first in a series of mysteries set in ancient Rome featuring Decius Caecilius Metellus the Younger as a Commissioner in the city of Rome. As such, it is his job to investigate murders in his district. Roberts sets up his characters for parts in later books well , and integrates his historical and fictional characters very well. Roberts includes a glossary that is very helpful, but I wish he would include a pronunciation guide, as well.

Overall, I like Lindsey Davis's mysteries set in about 70 A.D. better. Marcus Didio Falco is funnier, and all of the people he interacts with are more interesting. Roberts's characters are more serious. Since this is Roberts first book in the series, maybe his characters get more interesting as the stories progress. I did like the book enough to go out and buy the second one today. ( )

First in the series: Decius Caecilius Metellus the Younger is a high-born commander of the local vigiles in rome, determined to investigate deaths in the Subura district, and discovers possible corruption at the highest levels of the Republic of Rome under Crassus and Pompey. A good series. ( )

Very humorous and engaging series of historical mysteries set in ancient Rome. ( )