Discover books similar to "Under Vesuvius"
John Maddox Roberts
Under Vesuvius
4.09
Part of "SPQR" series
"Under Vesuvius" by John Maddox Roberts is a thrilling historical mystery novel that transports readers to the vibrant and tumultuous city of Pompeii, Italy, in the year 79 AD. The novel's protagonist, Decius Metellus, is a Roman senator and detective who becomes embroiled in a dangerous investigation while on a diplomatic mission to the Bay of Naples. When a series of brutal murders occurs in the lead-up to the annual Vulcanalia festival, Decius is called upon to solve the crimes before the city is consumed by panic and superstition. As he delves deeper into the investigation, Decius uncovers a web of intrigue and deceit that threatens to destroy the very fabric of Pompeian society. Roberts' meticulous research and attention to detail bring the ancient world to life in vivid and compelling fashion. From the bustling markets and brothels of Pompeii to the opulent villas of the Roman elite, the novel offers a fascinating glimpse into the complexities and contradictions of life in the ancient world. At its heart, "Under Vesuvius" is a gripping murder mystery that will keep readers on the edge of their seats until the very last page. But it is also a thought-provoking exploration of the human condition, touching on themes of power, corruption, and the fragility of life in the face of natural disaster. Fans of historical fiction, mystery novels, and ancient Rome will find much to love in "Under Vesuvius." With its engaging protagonist, vividly drawn setting, and intricate plot, the novel is a must-read for anyone interested in exploring the rich and complex world of the ancient Mediterranean...
List of books similar to "Under Vesuvius":
Lindsey Davis
The Silver Pigs
Another great choice for fans of 'Under Vesuvius' is 'The Silver Pigs' by Lindsey Davis. This is the first book in the Marcus Didius Falco series and follows the private investigator as he uncovers a plot to smuggle silver out of Britain. Davis's vivid descriptions of ancient Rome and its inhabitants make this a compelling read.
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Steven Saylor
Roman Blood
Another great choice by Steven Saylor is 'Roman Blood', the first book in the Gordianus the Finder series. This novel is set in ancient Rome and follows Gordianus as he investigates the murder of a senator. The novel's vivid descriptions of ancient Rome and its inhabitants make it a compelling read.
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Lawrence Durrell
The Alexandria Quartet
If you're looking for a literary novel set in the Mediterranean, you might enjoy 'The Alexandria Quartet' by Lawrence Durrell. This four-book series explores the lives of a group of expatriates living in Alexandria, Egypt, in the years leading up to World War II. Durrell's lush prose and psychological insights make this a compelling read.
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John Fowles
The Magus
Another literary novel set in the Mediterranean is 'The Magus' by John Fowles. This novel follows a young Englishman named Nicholas as he becomes embroiled in a complex web of intrigue and deception on a remote Greek island. Fowles's exploration of themes such as identity, reality, and morality make this a thought-provoking read.
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Giuseppe Tomasi di Lampedusa
The Leopard
If you're looking for a historical novel set in the Mediterranean, you might enjoy 'The Leopard' by Giuseppe Tomasi di Lampedusa. This novel is set in Sicily during the Risorgimento, the movement for Italian unification, and follows the fortunes of a noble family as they navigate the changing political landscape. Tomasi di Lampedusa's vivid descriptions of Sicilian life and his exploration of themes such as tradition, change, and mortality make this a rich and rewarding read.
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Michael Ondaatje
The English Patient
Another historical novel set in the Mediterranean is 'The English Patient' by Michael Ondaatje. This novel is set in Italy during World War II and follows a group of allied soldiers as they recover from their wounds in a villa outside Florence. Ondaatje's lyrical prose and exploration of themes such as love, identity, and memory make this a haunting and unforgettable read.
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Louis de Bernières
Captain Corelli's Mandolin
If you're looking for a historical novel set in the Mediterranean, you might enjoy 'Captain Corelli's Mandolin' by Louis de Bernières. This novel is set on the Greek island of Cephalonia during World War II and follows the lives of the island's inhabitants as they navigate the occupation by Italian and German forces. De Bernières's vivid descriptions of Cephalonian life and his exploration of themes such as love, war, and identity make this a rich and rewarding read.
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Donna Tartt
The Secret History
If you're looking for a contemporary novel with a classical setting, you might enjoy 'The Secret History' by Donna Tartt. This novel is set at a small liberal arts college in Vermont and follows a group of classics students as they become embroiled in a murder conspiracy. Tartt's exploration of themes such as morality, identity, and the dark side of academia make this a thought-provoking read.
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