Fans of S. J. Parris, Donna Leon, Steven Saylor, C. J. Sansom will love this exciting and enthralling historical mystery from multi-million copy bestselling author Lindsey Davis. Expertly weaving an authentic depiction of Ancient Rome with exceptional characterisation and a tightly woven plot, this will have you hooked.

'Another redolent dip into corruption in Vespasian's Rome ... original and delightful' -- Sunday Times
'A tumultuous Ancient Rome with a delightful modern eye' -- Sunday Times
'Fast-moving, funny and full of atmosphere' -- Mail on Sunday
'A thrilling murder mystery' -- ***** Reader review
'Such ... Read morefun!' -- ***** Reader review
'Another corking Falco' -- ***** Reader review
'My advice is BUY IT and READ IT as you will not regret it' -- ***** Reader review

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MARRY IN HASTE. DIE FOR THE MONEY.

Things are going well for Marcus Didius Falco, ancient Rome's investigator: he hates sharing a cell with a rodent, although being bailed by his old mother is almost as embarrassing; his highborn girlfriend can't decide if she wants him and Titus Caesar's reward for past services is disappointing to say the least.

Hoping for a better life, or at least a better apartment, he takes on new clients.

On the elegant slopes of the Pincian Hill, three freedmen with two flashy wives are under siege by a clever redhead. Severina Zotica has a foul-mouthed parrot, an odd connection with a snake dancer - and a very suspicious past.

As he pursues this flame-haired fortune-hunter, Falco finds himself beset by violent rent-racketeers, poisoners, and women without consciences who have dangerous designs on him...