Discover books similar to "Last Act in Palmyra"

Last Act in Palmyra cover

Lindsey Davis

Last Act in Palmyra

4.04

Part of "Marcus Didius Falco" series

"Last Act in Palmyra" by Lindsey Davis is a riveting historical mystery that transports readers to the ancient city of Palmyra, located in present-day Syria. The novel is the twenty-first installment in Davis' popular series featuring Marcus Didius Falco, a private investigator and imperial agent in first-century Rome. In "Last Act in Palmyra," Falco and his wife, Helena, travel to Palmyra to investigate the disappearance of a Roman magistrate. Upon arrival, they become embroiled in a complex web of political intrigue, organized crime, and personal vendettas. As they delve deeper into the case, they uncover a plot to overthrow the city's ruler, Queen Zenobia, and seize control of the lucrative trade routes that run through Palmyra. Davis' meticulous research and attention to detail bring the ancient city to life, immersing readers in its bustling markets, opulent palaces, and sandy streets. The novel is populated with a diverse cast of characters, from the cunning Queen Zenobia to the enigmatic leader of the city's criminal underworld. Falco and Helena are engaging and relatable protagonists, whose witty banter and sharp observations add levity to the often dark and dangerous world they inhabit. One of the strengths of "Last Act in Palmyra" is its exploration of the tensions between Rome and its provinces. Davis skillfully portrays the complex power dynamics at play, as Rome seeks to maintain its grip on Palmyra while the city's leaders chafe under imperial rule. The novel also touches on themes of identity, loyalty, and the human cost of political ambition. "Last Act in Palmyra" is a thrilling and entertaining read, with a gripping plot, vivid setting, and memorable characters. Fans of historical fiction and mystery novels will enjoy this immersive journey into the ancient world, and the novel will also appeal to readers who appreciate well-crafted storytelling and sharp social commentary...

List of books similar to "Last Act in Palmyra":

The Silver Pigs cover

Lindsey Davis

The Silver Pigs

If you enjoyed 'Last Act in Palmyra', you'll likely appreciate the first book in Lindsey Davis's historical mystery series featuring Marcus Didius Falco. Set in ancient Rome, this novel introduces the reader to Falco, a private investigator who becomes entangled in a conspiracy involving stolen silver, a beautiful woman, and a dangerous senator.

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Murder in Mesopotamia cover

Agatha Christie

Murder in Mesopotamia

Fans of 'Last Act in Palmyra' might enjoy this historical mystery by Agatha Christie, which takes place in the Middle East during the 1930s. When a nurse is murdered in an archaeological dig near the ancient city of Ur, Hercule Poirot is called in to solve the case, uncovering a web of secrets and lies.

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The Daughter of Time cover

Josephine Tey

The Daughter of Time

In this meticulously researched historical mystery, detective Alan Grant becomes fascinated by the portrait of Richard III and sets out to investigate the mystery surrounding the disappearance of the Princes in the Tower. Readers who enjoyed the historical detail and intrigue in 'Last Act in Palamyra' will appreciate Tey's attention to detail and thought-provoking narrative.

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The Name of the Rose cover

Umberto Eco

The Name of the Rose

Set in a medieval monastery, this historical thriller combines semiotics, biblical analysis, and medieval studies with a thrilling murder mystery. Fans of 'Last Act in Palmyra' will enjoy the rich historical detail and intellectual intrigue.

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The Hangman's Daughter cover

Oliver Pötzsch

The Hangman's Daughter

Set in 17th-century Bavaria, this historical mystery follows the story of a hangman and his daughter as they investigate a series of murders that threaten to destroy their community. Fans of 'Last Act in Palmyra' will enjoy the rich historical detail and intricate plotting in this novel.

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The Alienist cover

Caleb Carr

The Alienist

Set in 1896 New York City, this historical thriller follows the story of a criminal psychologist who must track down a serial killer who is targeting boy prostitutes. Fans of 'Last Act in Palmyra' will enjoy the rich historical detail and psychological insight in this novel.

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The Poisoner's Handbook cover

Deborah Blum

The Poisoner's Handbook

This nonfiction book tells the story of the early days of forensic science, as seen through the eyes of two pioneering chemists who developed new techniques for detecting poison in the human body. Fans of 'Last Act in Palmyra' will enjoy the rich historical detail and scientific insight in this book.

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