Also, Saylor gives us beautiful descriptions of locations along the Appian Way. Saylor does a wonderful job of giving the details without seeming to lecture the reader. A Murder in the Appian Way is particularly strong in its details of the Roman political and legal system in the late Republic, and we can clearly see signs that the Republic is heading toward its last days. Steven Saylor’s descriptions of life in ancient Rome are vivid, as they always are in this series. Will they be able to escape? And will they discover the truth behind the murder? But they receive conflicting reports from the various witnesses, and danger awaits them on their return journey, as they are kidnapped and kept in a pit for over forty days. The investigation leads Gordianus and his son Eco on a journey along the Appian Way, as they visit the inns, temples, and villas near the site of the murder. Pompey hires Gordianus to find out exactly how Clodius was murdered, and who murdered him. In the aftermath of the riots, Pompey becomes sole consul and sends his troops out into the Roman Forum to keep order. Chaos ensues, riots break out in the streets of Rome, and Clodius’ supporters burn down the Senate house. But every witness to the murder tells a different story about how it happened, who instigated the attack, and even what time of day it took place. Naturally, the two of them hate each other, and matters come to a head when Clodius’ body is found on the Appian Way, supposedly after a confrontation with Milo’s supporters.

Milo, on the other hand, is of humble origins but has gained the support of the aristocrats. Clodius is an aristocrat turned rabble-rouser and has set himself up as the champion of the common people.

The plot focuses on two rival politicians, Clodius and Milo.

It is inspired by actual events that took place in 52 BCE. A Murder on the Appian Way is the fifth book in Steven Saylor’s mystery series featuring ancient Roman detective Gordianus the Finder.

Steven saylor gordianus series