J
John Maddox Roberts
John Maddox Roberts writes historical mysteries and science fiction, most notably his SPQR series set in ancient Rome. His books, including The Tribune's Curse and Oracle of the Dead, follow a
The Tribune's curse
In 55 B.C., Rome is paralyzed by a terrifying religious curse cast by a tribune against the wealthy Crassus and his departing army. When the tribune is found murdered shortly after his blasphemous ritual, investigator Decius Caecilius Metellus the Younger is tasked with finding the killer. Amidst a city gripped by superstition and political maneuvering, Decius must navigate the dangerous intersection of Roman law and divine wrath.
The Tribune's Curse is the first book in the SPQR series, which follows Decius Caecilius Metellus the Younger through various investigations in ancient Rome. While each book presents a self-contained mystery, reading them in order allows for a deeper appreciation of the character development and ongoing political landscape.
John Maddox Roberts integrates several prominent historical figures from the late Roman Republic into the narrative, including Crassus and other well-known politicians of the era. Their presence grounds the fictional mystery within a historically accurate political and social context.