About the book

'Surely the best historical detective in the business!' -- Daily Telegraph 'If only all bestsellers were this satisfying. . .' -- Time Out 'Davis's writing zings with fun' -- Daily Mail 'Quite brilliant!' -- ***** Reader review 'A laugh a minute as always' -- ***** Reader review 'Remarkable' -- ***** Reader review 'Vastly entertaining!' -- ***** Reader review ************************************************************************************ FIGHTING FOR TRUTH IN NORTH AFRICA Lumbered with working alongside reptilian Chief Spy Anacrites, Marcus Didius Falco has the perfect plan to make money - he will assist Vespasian in the Emperor's 'Great Census' of AD73. His potential fee could finally allow him to join the middle ranks and be worthy of long-suffering Helena Justina. Unexpectedly confronted with the murder of a man-eating lion, Falco is distracted from his original task, uncovering a bitter rivalry between the gladiators' trainers. With one star gladiator dead, Falco is forced to investigate and the trail leads from Rome to the blood-soaked sand of the arena in North Africa. But what lies in store? ________________________ Fans of S. J. Parris, Donna Leon, Steven Saylor and C. J. Sansom will love this enthralling and expertly written mystery from multimillion-copy bestselling author Lindsey Davis. Bringing Ancient Rome to life with its vivid description and characterisation, you will feel like you're right there!