Murder in the Forum (A Libertus Mystery of Roman Britain, book 3)

Book excerpt: A Roman Emperor lies dead and a mystery is to be solved... As Libertus investigates a seemingly accidental death, sinister details begin to unravel. Murder in the Forum is the third historical crime thriller in Rosemary Rowe's gripping crime series, in the vein of Lindsey Davis but against a British background. 'Libertus himself is a highly diverting character, the story moves briskly along at chariot pace and there are many diversions along the highways and byways of Roman and Celtic life' - Northern Echo When Perennis Felix, favourite of the Roman Emperor and would-be enemy of all, heralds his arrival in Glevum (modern Gloucester) with the arbitrary execution of a slave, there are few who dare to question his actions. Indeed, a feast in his honour is universally approved in the cause of self-preservation. Libertus, freedman and pavement-maker, and his patron, Marcus Septimus, are among the reluctant citizens at the celebration. But the festivities come to an end when Felix appears to choke on a nut and dies in front of a stunned gathering. But Libertus suspects that behind Felix's apparently accidental death lies a much more sinister explanation... What readers are saying about Murder in the Forum: 'This series just keeps getting better' 'Best Libertus yet' 'Fascinating take on Romano-British life as captivating as ever'