Discover books similar to "Saturnalia"

John Maddox Roberts

Saturnalia

4.11

"Saturnalia" by John Maddox Roberts is a historical mystery novel set in ancient Rome during the festival of Saturnalia. The protagonist, Decius Metellus, is a Roman senator and detective who becomes embroiled in a series of murders that occur during the chaotic and lawless week-long celebration. The novel provides a vivid and immersive depiction of ancient Rome, with its rich and complex social hierarchy, political intrigue, and diverse population. Roberts' meticulous research and attention to detail bring the city to life, from the opulent villas of the wealthy to the crowded and bustling streets of the lower classes. Decius Metellus is a compelling and likable protagonist, with a strong moral compass and a talent for solving puzzling crimes. As he investigates the murders, he must navigate the treacherous waters of Roman politics and society, confronting corrupt officials, dangerous gangs, and even members of his own family. The plot of "Saturnalia" is fast-paced and engaging, with plenty of twists and turns to keep readers guessing. The mystery itself is well-crafted and satisfying, with a clever resolution that ties together all of the various threads and clues. One of the strengths of "Saturnalia" is its exploration of the themes of power, corruption, and social inequality. The novel highlights the stark contrast between the wealthy and powerful elite of Rome and the struggling masses, and the ways in which the former use their influence and wealth to exploit and oppress the latter. Overall, "Saturnalia" is a highly entertaining and thought-provoking novel that combines historical detail, compelling characters, and a gripping mystery to create a truly memorable reading experience. Fans of historical fiction, mystery novels, and ancient Rome will find much to enjoy in this excellent book...

List of books similar to "Saturnalia":

Lindsey Davis

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If you enjoyed 'Saturnalia' for its engaging mystery set in ancient Rome, you'll likely appreciate 'The Silver Pigs'. This is the first book in the Marcus Didius Falco series, featuring a private investigator and his adventures in the Roman Empire. The novel offers a similar blend of historical detail and intrigue.

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Robert Graves

I, Claudius

For those who appreciated the political intrigue and historical setting of 'Saturnalia', 'I, Claudius' is a must-read. This novel, written in the form of an autobiography of the Roman Emperor Claudius, provides a rich and detailed portrayal of the Roman Empire during the Julio-Claudian dynasty.

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Lawrence Durrell

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For readers who enjoyed the vivid and immersive setting of 'Saturnalia', 'The Alexandria Quartet' is a must-read. This series of four novels explores the lives of a group of characters in Alexandria, Egypt, during the early 20th century, offering a rich and evocative portrayal of the city and its inhabitants.

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Rosemary Sutcliff

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If you were captivated by the historical detail and sense of adventure in 'Saturnalia', 'The Eagle of the Ninth' is a great choice. This novel tells the story of a young Roman soldier who travels to Britain in search of his father's lost legion, offering a thrilling and immersive portrayal of the Roman Empire.

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Donna Tartt

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For readers who enjoyed the dark and atmospheric tone of 'Saturnalia', 'The Secret History' is a must-read. This novel tells the story of a group of classics students at a small college in Vermont who become embroiled in a dark and dangerous secret, offering a thrilling and suspenseful portrayal of the human psyche.

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Umberto Eco

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For readers who enjoyed the blend of mystery and historical detail in 'Saturnalia', 'The Name of the Rose' is a must-read. This novel tells the story of a Franciscan friar who investigates a series of murders at a medieval monastery, offering a thrilling and immersive portrayal of the medieval world.

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Virgil

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If you were captivated by the epic scope and historical detail of 'Saturnalia', 'The Aeneid' is a classic that you won't want to miss. This epic poem tells the story of the Trojan hero Aeneas and his journey to Italy, where he becomes the ancestor of the Roman people, offering a thrilling and immersive portrayal of the ancient world.

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For readers who enjoyed the historical detail and political intrigue of 'Saturnalia', 'The Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire' is a monumental work of history. This book explores the fall of the Roman Empire, offering a detailed and comprehensive portrayal of the events and factors that led to its decline and eventual fall.

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If you were drawn to the bawdy and irreverent tone of 'Saturnalia', 'The Satyricon' is a classic that you won't want to miss. This novel tells the story of the adventures of Encolpius and his friends in ancient Rome, offering a unique and entertaining portrayal of the city and its inhabitants.

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