4.08
Part of "Marcus Didius Falco" series
"One Virgin Too Many" by Lindsey Davis is a historical mystery novel that takes readers on a thrilling journey through ancient Rome. The story is set in 77 AD, during the reign of Emperor Vespasian, and follows the adventures of Marcus Didius Falco, a private investigator and occasional agent of the emperor. In this installment of the popular Falco series, Falco is tasked with investigating the murder of a wealthy widow, who was found dead in her bedroom with an apple in her hand. The widow's family believes that she was poisoned, and they suspect that her young and beautiful slave, Sylph, is the culprit. However, Falco is not so sure, and he sets out to uncover the truth behind the widow's death. As Falco delves deeper into the case, he discovers a web of secrets, lies, and deceit that threatens to destroy the lives of everyone involved. Along the way, he encounters a colorful cast of characters, including a scheming maid, a lecherous senator, and a mysterious gladiator. Davis's vivid and engaging prose brings ancient Rome to life, immersing readers in a world of intrigue, danger, and excitement. Her attention to detail is impressive, and she skillfully weaves historical facts and anecdotes into the narrative, giving the story a sense of authenticity and depth. At its heart, "One Virgin Too Many" is a classic whodunit, with a clever and twisty plot that keeps readers guessing until the very end. However, it is also a thoughtful exploration of power, privilege, and the human condition, touching on themes that are as relevant today as they were in ancient times. Overall, "One Virgin Too Many" is a highly entertaining and satisfying read that will appeal to fans of historical fiction, mystery novels, and anyone who enjoys a well-crafted and engaging story...
Lindsey Davis
The Silver Pigs
If you enjoyed 'One Virgin Too Many', you'll likely appreciate the first book in Lindsey Davis's historical mystery series featuring Marcus Didius Falco. In 'The Silver Pigs', Falco gets embroiled in a conspiracy involving stolen silver, a beautiful woman, and the Roman Empire's darkest secrets.
Learn MoreRosemary Sutcliff
The Eagle of the Ninth
This classic historical novel tells the story of a young Roman officer named Marcus who travels to Britain to solve the mystery of his father's disappearance. Like 'One Virgin Too Many', 'The Eagle of the Ninth' explores the complexities of life in the Roman Empire.
Learn MoreRobert Graves
I, Claudius
This historical novel tells the story of the Roman Empire through the eyes of Claudius, a member of the Julio-Claudian dynasty. If you enjoyed the political intrigue and historical detail in 'One Virgin Too Many', you'll appreciate the rich world-building and complex characters in 'I, Claudius'.
Learn MoreVirgil
The Aeneid
If you're interested in reading more about ancient Rome, you might enjoy this epic poem by Virgil. 'The Aeneid' tells the story of Aeneas, a Trojan who travels to Italy and becomes the ancestor of the Romans.
Learn MoreUmberto Eco
The Name of the Rose
This historical mystery novel is set in a medieval monastery, where a series of murders takes place during a theological dispute. If you enjoyed the intellectual puzzles and historical detail in 'One Virgin Too Many', you'll appreciate the complexity of 'The Name of the Rose'.
Learn MoreDeborah Blum
The Poisoner's Handbook
This nonfiction book explores the history of forensic science, focusing on the early days of toxicology in 1920s New York. If you're interested in the science behind crime-solving, you'll enjoy the detailed research and engaging storytelling in 'The Poisoner's Handbook'.
Learn MoreJosephine Tey
The Daughter of Time
This classic mystery novel tells the story of a modern-day detective who becomes obsessed with solving the mystery of Richard III's alleged murder of his nephews. If you enjoyed the historical detail and intellectual puzzles in 'One Virgin Too Many', you'll appreciate the clever plotting and thought-provoking themes in 'The Daughter of Time'.
Learn MoreArturo Pérez-Reverte
The Flanders Panel
This historical mystery novel is set in modern-day Spain, but it features a 500-year-old chess problem that may hold the key to a series of murders. If you enjoyed the combination of history, art, and crime in 'One Virgin Too Many', you'll appreciate the intricate plotting and atmospheric setting of 'The Flanders Panel'.
Learn MoreCaleb Carr
The Alienist
This historical thriller is set in 1896 New York, where a series of murders leads a criminal psychologist, a newspaper illustrator, and a police commissioner to team up to solve the case. If you enjoyed the combination of history, psychology, and crime in 'One Virgin Too Many', you'll appreciate the rich historical detail and gripping narrative in 'The Alienist'.
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