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 fun!'' -- ***** 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...