For several years, ancient Roman private investigator Marcus Didius Falco has tried to put away crime lord Balbinus Pius. He finally succeeds in catching Pius in a hanging offense, but the notorious criminal invokes a law that allows convicted felons the opportunity to permanently leave town instead of stay around for their execution. With the removal of the gang chief, a power struggle breaks out among Pius' former lieutenants to see who will now run the mob.
Crime begins to run rampart.
Marcus is assigned the job of determining the underlying cause. The story line is fast-paced, entertaining, and brilliantly brings to life Ancient Rome. Falco remains as fresh today as he did six novels ago. This Sam Spade in the first century mystery series is one of the best collections on the market today. Comments and suggestions welcome.