REVIEWS+

Caveat Emptor

A Novel of the Roman Empire
by Ruth Downie
Caveat Emptor: A Novel of the Roman Empire. Bloomsbury, dist. by Macmillan. Jan. 2011. c.352p. ISBN 9781596916081. $25. F
COPY ISBN
Immediately following the events of Persona Non Grata, Ruso and his barbarian wife, Tilla, have returned to the Roman outpost in Britain. No sooner do they arrive in Londinium hoping to resume their normal lives then Ruso is called upon, once again, to solve a mystery; this time involving a pregnant woman whose murdered lover was rumored to have absconded with several thousand denarii in taxes. Unfortunately, the unusually convoluted plot involving forgery, theft, murder, and attempted murder obscures the more delightful aspects of Downie's usual writing style, which has charmed her many fans. Ruso's customary acerbic wit seems lackluster, and his charmingly contentious relationship with Tilla takes an unfortunate backseat to the criminal investigation.
VERDICT After an ending that leaves the characters at a crossroads and the reader with unanswered questions, one hopes that Downie will continue this series with a return to the personalities and distinctive historical perspective on Roman Britain that we have come to know and love. Recommended where the series is popular.
Reviewed by Jane Henriksen Baird, Anchorage P.L., AK , Nov 01, 2010
Comment Policy:
  • Be respectful, and do not attack the author, people mentioned in the article, or other commenters. Take on the idea, not the messenger.
  • Don't use obscene, profane, or vulgar language.
  • Stay on point. Comments that stray from the topic at hand may be deleted.
  • Comments may be republished in print, online, or other forms of media.
  • If you see something objectionable, please let us know. Once a comment has been flagged, a staff member will investigate.

RELATED 

More
ALREADY A SUBSCRIBER?

We are currently offering this content for free. Sign up now to activate your personal profile, where you can save articles for future viewing

ALREADY A SUBSCRIBER?