POV alternates between Ruso and his (native) wife Tilla, written in the 3rd person. This might make some of the characters' shared history and in-jokes opaque, though you can start reading here without too much issues.

There are some references to events in past books. Expect the usual twisting plot (you only think you know what's going on!), engaging fully-fleshed characters, charming and realistic dialogue, well-researched history, and everything you might enjoy in a detective mystery set in Roman Britain. So yeah, an amazing novel for anyone who loves the genre.ĭumped straight into the action, Ruso is visiting ancient Bath in an attempt to clear his friend from a murder charge. In fact, I enjoyed it so much that while reading the last bits of the book I missed my train stop. This is probably my most-favourite Roman-era mystery series, and so - unsurprisingly - I enjoyed this latest volume very much. Persona Non Grata was Ruso and the Root of All Evils,Ĭaveat Emptor was Ruso and the River of Darkness -īut SEMPER FIDELIS, TABULA RASA, VITA BREVIS, MEMENTO MORI and PRIMA FACIE only have one title each - hooray! Terra Incognita was Ruso and the Demented Doctor, Medicus was Ruso and the Disappearing Dancing Girls, Since she is unable to wind back time, British readers may find it useful to know that: Ruth is still wondering how this ever seemed like a good idea. *The first four books have all had two titles. Downie, but she isn't the person with the same name who writes medical textbooks, and recommends that readers should never, ever take health advice from a two thousand year old man who prescribes mouse droppings. A combination of nosiness and a childish fascination with mud means she is never happier than when wielding an archaeological trowel. Ruth is the author of nine mysteries* featuring Roman Army medic Gaius Petreius Ruso and his British partner Tilla.

Ruth downie new book