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Calidus #1
The Year of the Snake
Sometimes, a snake is just a snake. And sometimes…
First-century Rome.
Senator Gaius Lucius Nerva is taken ill at a dinner party and dies a few days later. His heartbroken wife, Flavia, is told it was a natural death. Calidus, Nerva’s recently freed slave, suspects otherwise.
As he embarks upon the funeral ceremonies, Calidus becomes more and more convinced that his master was murdered and begins an investigation, seeking out everyone who had attended the dinner party.
His enquiries lead him to rub shoulders with the ‘great and good’ of Rome; senators, soldiers, even the ruthless and mercurial Emperor Nero. And his former lover, Julia Eusabia, who seems intent on rekindling their romance and luring him away from his wife and daughter.
Calidus’ quest is by no means easy or safe as he encounters the darkest and most dangerous people in Rome. But he knows he must keep searching for the person responsible, to bring justice to the master he had loved.
This racy historical whodunnit brings to life the sights, smells and sounds of ancient Rome, with sharp humour and a Christie-style finale to boot.
First-century Rome.
Senator Gaius Lucius Nerva is taken ill at a dinner party and dies a few days later. His heartbroken wife, Flavia, is told it was a natural death. Calidus, Nerva’s recently freed slave, suspects otherwise.
As he embarks upon the funeral ceremonies, Calidus becomes more and more convinced that his master was murdered and begins an investigation, seeking out everyone who had attended the dinner party.
His enquiries lead him to rub shoulders with the ‘great and good’ of Rome; senators, soldiers, even the ruthless and mercurial Emperor Nero. And his former lover, Julia Eusabia, who seems intent on rekindling their romance and luring him away from his wife and daughter.
Calidus’ quest is by no means easy or safe as he encounters the darkest and most dangerous people in Rome. But he knows he must keep searching for the person responsible, to bring justice to the master he had loved.
This racy historical whodunnit brings to life the sights, smells and sounds of ancient Rome, with sharp humour and a Christie-style finale to boot.
313 pages, ebook
Published July 1, 2018
85 people are currently reading
100 people want to read
About the author
M.J. Trow
149 books119 followersMeirion James Trow is a full-time teacher of history who has been doubling as a crime writer for seventeen years. Originally from Ferndale, Rhondda in South Wales he now lives on the Isle of Wight. His interests include collecting militaria, film, the supernatural and true crime.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
October 2, 2019
Review of Kindle edition
Publication date: July 1, 2018
Publisher: Endeavour Quill
Language: English
ASIN: B07FJ6JHZG
264 pages
For most of history most people have been little better than slaves or serfs. That is the way things are in this Rome of the very early years of Nero's reign. Slaves have no rights, not even the right to live if their owners so choose. Ex-slaves are in theory able to do anything except hold public office. In reality, they and even most Roman citizens can do most anything except annoy the rich and those in power. Despite this, Calidus, freed upon the death of his beloved master, Nerva, risks many dangers as he investigates the death of Nerva. He annoys many people with his questions, his presence and by simply being alive. With only his wits as a weapon, he perseveres in the face of threats and danger.
A well written tale of ancient Rome and a good mystery. A few modernisms in the language occasionally struck a jarring note for me. If you like mysteries set in the Roman world, you may also want to try Death in Londinium by John Drake.
Publication date: July 1, 2018
Publisher: Endeavour Quill
Language: English
ASIN: B07FJ6JHZG
264 pages
For most of history most people have been little better than slaves or serfs. That is the way things are in this Rome of the very early years of Nero's reign. Slaves have no rights, not even the right to live if their owners so choose. Ex-slaves are in theory able to do anything except hold public office. In reality, they and even most Roman citizens can do most anything except annoy the rich and those in power. Despite this, Calidus, freed upon the death of his beloved master, Nerva, risks many dangers as he investigates the death of Nerva. He annoys many people with his questions, his presence and by simply being alive. With only his wits as a weapon, he perseveres in the face of threats and danger.
A well written tale of ancient Rome and a good mystery. A few modernisms in the language occasionally struck a jarring note for me. If you like mysteries set in the Roman world, you may also want to try Death in Londinium by John Drake.
July 2, 2018
(3.5 stars)
In The Year of the Snake, the authors certainly succeed in bringing to life the sights, smells and sounds of ancient Rome, describing customs, festivals, food and clothing in meticulous detail. I particularly enjoyed the description of the Juvenal Games near the end of the book with its panoply of exotic creatures and extravagant procession.
Calidus’s investigation into the death of his beloved master, Gaius Lucius Nerva, centres on those who attended a dinner the evening before Nerva’s unexpected demise. It plunges Calidus into the murky world of politics, ambition and ancient cults. ‘Dark deeds are done are done in darkness.’ He also finds himself drawn into the decidedly dangerous ambit of the power-crazed (actually pretty much everything-crazed) Emperor Nero. ‘But this was Nero’s Rome, a city crawling with the cruel, the licentious, the insane.’ Within the Imperial Household there is extravagance, excess, debauchery, plots and intrigue aplenty. And then, of course, there’s Calidus’s old flame, Julia, now a lady of the court but is that flame still flickering? Calidus’s wife, Paula, certainly begins to suspect there’s no smoke without fire...
In The Year of the Snake, the authors give readers a lot of characters to get to grips with, especially when you include the husbands, wives, servants and mistresses of key characters. A dramatis personae would perhaps have been helpful. My favourite character was Piso the pickpocket who, through his knowledge of the seedier side of Rome, helps Calidus with his investigation. Piso has a great turn of phrase and a scathing view of those who would like to think they are his betters. After listening to Emperor Nero’s obsequious speech at the Juvenal Games, ‘Piso toyed with throwing up in the corner, but somebody like him would have to clean it up and so, in an unusual rush of solidarity with the people of Rome, he thought better of it.’
The book description promises an Agatha Christie-style finale and it certainly delivers on that promise with Calidus adopting the mantle of Hercule Poirot to unravel the mystery of Nerva’s death and reveal the culprit while the tension builds. Events of the past cast long shadows, it seems.
I enjoyed The Year of the Snake. I very much liked the historical detail that was clearly the product of extensive research on the part of the authors. As the book progresses I did find however that the investigation of Nerva’s murder takes second place to the shenanigans in the Imperial Household and the politics of ancient Rome.
I received a review copy courtesy of publishers, Endeavour Media, and NetGalley in return for an honest and unbiased review. I did have a few issues with the formatting of the book, especially the sudden changes of scene mid-chapter with no indication except for an asterisk which could easily be overlooked. Hopefully, since I was reading an eARC, this will be corrected for the final version.
In The Year of the Snake, the authors certainly succeed in bringing to life the sights, smells and sounds of ancient Rome, describing customs, festivals, food and clothing in meticulous detail. I particularly enjoyed the description of the Juvenal Games near the end of the book with its panoply of exotic creatures and extravagant procession.
Calidus’s investigation into the death of his beloved master, Gaius Lucius Nerva, centres on those who attended a dinner the evening before Nerva’s unexpected demise. It plunges Calidus into the murky world of politics, ambition and ancient cults. ‘Dark deeds are done are done in darkness.’ He also finds himself drawn into the decidedly dangerous ambit of the power-crazed (actually pretty much everything-crazed) Emperor Nero. ‘But this was Nero’s Rome, a city crawling with the cruel, the licentious, the insane.’ Within the Imperial Household there is extravagance, excess, debauchery, plots and intrigue aplenty. And then, of course, there’s Calidus’s old flame, Julia, now a lady of the court but is that flame still flickering? Calidus’s wife, Paula, certainly begins to suspect there’s no smoke without fire...
In The Year of the Snake, the authors give readers a lot of characters to get to grips with, especially when you include the husbands, wives, servants and mistresses of key characters. A dramatis personae would perhaps have been helpful. My favourite character was Piso the pickpocket who, through his knowledge of the seedier side of Rome, helps Calidus with his investigation. Piso has a great turn of phrase and a scathing view of those who would like to think they are his betters. After listening to Emperor Nero’s obsequious speech at the Juvenal Games, ‘Piso toyed with throwing up in the corner, but somebody like him would have to clean it up and so, in an unusual rush of solidarity with the people of Rome, he thought better of it.’
The book description promises an Agatha Christie-style finale and it certainly delivers on that promise with Calidus adopting the mantle of Hercule Poirot to unravel the mystery of Nerva’s death and reveal the culprit while the tension builds. Events of the past cast long shadows, it seems.
I enjoyed The Year of the Snake. I very much liked the historical detail that was clearly the product of extensive research on the part of the authors. As the book progresses I did find however that the investigation of Nerva’s murder takes second place to the shenanigans in the Imperial Household and the politics of ancient Rome.
I received a review copy courtesy of publishers, Endeavour Media, and NetGalley in return for an honest and unbiased review. I did have a few issues with the formatting of the book, especially the sudden changes of scene mid-chapter with no indication except for an asterisk which could easily be overlooked. Hopefully, since I was reading an eARC, this will be corrected for the final version.
June 27, 2018
Finished reading: June 24th 2018
"There comes a time when even the luckiest of charms runs out."
*** A copy of this book was kindly provided to me by Netgalley and Endeavour Media in exchange for an honest review. Thank you! ***
P.S. Find more of my reviews here.
May 28, 2018
In first century Rome, senator Gaius Lucius Nerva falls ill at a dinner party and never recovers, dying at home a few days later. He leaves behind his devastated wife Flavia, and newly freed slaves Calidus and his wife and young daughter. Calidus loved his master and was treated as part of the family. He stays on at the home determined to learn who has murdered Nerva, which proves harder than he expected since everyone is convinced it was natural causes.
He's brave enough to question both senators and soldiers in Rome and captures the unwanted attention of the young and cruel emperor Nero. Keeping his family close but his enemies closer, Calidus seeks justice for the house of Nerva and finds he has belonged there all along.
Full of racy humor and sexual innuendos, The Year of the Snake is an entertaining mystery that will keep you guessing until the very Agatha Christie style end.
Thanks to Endeavor Media and NetGalley for providing an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
He's brave enough to question both senators and soldiers in Rome and captures the unwanted attention of the young and cruel emperor Nero. Keeping his family close but his enemies closer, Calidus seeks justice for the house of Nerva and finds he has belonged there all along.
Full of racy humor and sexual innuendos, The Year of the Snake is an entertaining mystery that will keep you guessing until the very Agatha Christie style end.
Thanks to Endeavor Media and NetGalley for providing an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
February 26, 2024
The killer is a bit obvious but for.all.that it's very enjoyable book. Calidous does seem to.enjoy a bit.too.much freedom for a man who till.the.Seth of.his.master was a slave it it's a.minor quibble. The book is set in the time of Nero and Rome is a very dangerous place where murder has become.commonplace along with sexual.debauchery. Decent.people.just try to keep their heads down nd off they escape notice. This is not an option for Calidous though as he is convinced his master was murdered and his dreams are full of nightmares where his masters shade demands justice. So Calidous.must.go.out among the best nd the good.of.Rome......including the Emperor in his quest for the truth....
July 23, 2018
Sometimes a snake is not just an animal ...
A good old whodunnit, who does not like that? I was really looking forward to reading this. I have to admit, history is not my cup of tea, but I promised myself to keep an open mind.
It started certainly well. There was already a corpse on the first page, but soon after I felt more like I was reading a history book. There was not enough balance between the murder investigation and the rest.
Was it a bad book? No, not at all. If you like ancient Rome combined with some suspense, you would feel like a fish to water.
I was pleasantly surprised by the revelation at the end and the humour. Unfortunately, I felt more like a fish out of water.
Thank you, M.J. Trow, Maryanne Coleman and Endeavour Media
A good old whodunnit, who does not like that? I was really looking forward to reading this. I have to admit, history is not my cup of tea, but I promised myself to keep an open mind.
It started certainly well. There was already a corpse on the first page, but soon after I felt more like I was reading a history book. There was not enough balance between the murder investigation and the rest.
Was it a bad book? No, not at all. If you like ancient Rome combined with some suspense, you would feel like a fish to water.
I was pleasantly surprised by the revelation at the end and the humour. Unfortunately, I felt more like a fish out of water.
Thank you, M.J. Trow, Maryanne Coleman and Endeavour Media
September 16, 2018
A murder mystery set during the enlightened reign of Nero (well, maybe not enlightened, more of a spoiled kid playing with power). An aged Senator, Gaius Nerva dies suddenly and it is assumed it was a natural death, but his devoted steward/slave Calidus thinks otherwise and embarks on an investigation. This search for the murderer leads in many directions including to the Imperial Court. A cleverly concocted set of circumstances reveals many suspects and motives. Calidus, now a freedman, is persistent despite a lack of results, and an increasingly dangerous situation. The authors kept me engaged throughout this many faceted who done it including a look at Nero and the strange relationship he has with his mother, Agrippina; an interesting subplot to this enjoyable look at what Rome was like during this rather bizarre period of history. The characters, from the upper echelons of Roman society to the seedy underworld of the delightful cut purse thief, Piso are brought out in exquisite detail. The conclusion of the investigation and the resulting revelations is a top notch bit of creativity, though I will not say more about that. :-) 4 stars
June 28, 2024
This book is a mix of good Roman historical info and very mistaken, confused info. The detective is a slave who is set free in his master's will (for reasons we learn later), and this freedman spends the entire book going places and treating people in ways that he'd get killed on the spot for doing. This dude who spent his entire life servile and submitting to authority, proceeds to act like an authority with zero submission to anyone, anywhere, at any time -- even Nero.
The mystery winds all over the place, and there are a few red herrings that aren't even ever addressed later. Overall it was disappointing, and not a single person in the book was likable except for the hero's adorable little girl.
The mystery winds all over the place, and there are a few red herrings that aren't even ever addressed later. Overall it was disappointing, and not a single person in the book was likable except for the hero's adorable little girl.
August 1, 2018
A murder mystery set in Ancient Rome. Calidus, a former slave, is convinced that his master Nerva, a Senator, was poisoned when he dies suddenly after attending a dinner party. Calidus's investigation takes him from the dregs of society, where he acquires a sidekick in "witty" pickpocket Piso, to the very top, with Emperor Nero and his mother Agrippina. Matters become more personal when Calidus encounters an old girlfriend, which causes trouble in his marriage.
This book is so bad, you guys. So bad. I don't even know where to start. Perhaps with how literally every female character spends the majority of her page time worrying about her physical attractiveness as compared to any other women nearby? They're constantly envying whoever's hot and pitying whoever's ugly with not a single other thought in their minds. It culminates in this absolutely thrilling exchange at the climax:
‘You absolute bitch, Julia,’ Poppaea sneered.
‘It takes one to know one, whore!’ Julia snapped.
Ah, great literature.
The writing in general is a mess. Characterization is incoherent, with problems arising and disappearing without logic; actions have no reasonable consequences (my particular favorite was when Calidus breaks into a senator's house at night, violently threatens him, tells him who he is, and then... nothing. The senator apparently never reports this or retaliates in any way); the point of view can't decide if it's omniscient or third person limited; and everything is obvious and dumb and unfunny. Another favorite example of mine: The other was Fabius Quintus, and he was a hard man to find. Calidus knew exactly where he was. They couldn't even wait one sentence to directly contradict themselves?
The plot timeline is awkwardly stretched and squashed, presumably because the authors wanted to include real historical events that had to take place on specific dates, but it does violent damage to the mystery. For example, we're told that Calidus is devoting so much time to his investigation that his infant daughter has almost forgotten who he is, and yet eight months after Nerva's death he hasn't interviewed more than two people. Even when he does get around to speaking to others, he's still only asking them basic matters like where they sat and what they spoke about at the fatal dinner party, nearly a year after it happened. Who would remember details like that? And who cares? It's hard to believe Calidus is so devoted to his master's memory, as we're repeatedly told he is, when he see him doing so little and so slowly.
Another thing that bothered me was that the characters constantly make modern allusions, from Robert Frost ("Well, it’s late. And I have miles to go before I sleep.") to Baskin Robins ("The Augusta is not exactly the flavour of the month at the moment.") to government security (‘You misunderstand me, sir,’ Calidus said. ‘I merely wanted a guest list for the meal in question.’ / ‘Classified,’ Gellius snorted. ‘I’m a senator, for Jupiter’s sake; I can’t go around giving out that sort of information.’). Which I suppose could be fun, if the authors were deliberately trying for an anachronistic postmodern feel, but here it just flops. It's particularly striking because they otherwise seem so eager to show off their research credentials! Among the many Latin terms they namedrop without explanation are "subigaculum" and "Falernian"; those respectively are a sort of loincloth and a particularly famous kind of wine, but if you don't come to the book with that knowledge in hand, the authors aren't going to help you.
Anyway, this is an awful book – terrible writing, uninteresting characters, incoherent plot – with no redeeming characteristics, and I hope to save anyone from wasting time on it.
I read this as an ARC via NetGalley.
This book is so bad, you guys. So bad. I don't even know where to start. Perhaps with how literally every female character spends the majority of her page time worrying about her physical attractiveness as compared to any other women nearby? They're constantly envying whoever's hot and pitying whoever's ugly with not a single other thought in their minds. It culminates in this absolutely thrilling exchange at the climax:
‘You absolute bitch, Julia,’ Poppaea sneered.
‘It takes one to know one, whore!’ Julia snapped.
Ah, great literature.
The writing in general is a mess. Characterization is incoherent, with problems arising and disappearing without logic; actions have no reasonable consequences (my particular favorite was when Calidus breaks into a senator's house at night, violently threatens him, tells him who he is, and then... nothing. The senator apparently never reports this or retaliates in any way); the point of view can't decide if it's omniscient or third person limited; and everything is obvious and dumb and unfunny. Another favorite example of mine: The other was Fabius Quintus, and he was a hard man to find. Calidus knew exactly where he was. They couldn't even wait one sentence to directly contradict themselves?
The plot timeline is awkwardly stretched and squashed, presumably because the authors wanted to include real historical events that had to take place on specific dates, but it does violent damage to the mystery. For example, we're told that Calidus is devoting so much time to his investigation that his infant daughter has almost forgotten who he is, and yet eight months after Nerva's death he hasn't interviewed more than two people. Even when he does get around to speaking to others, he's still only asking them basic matters like where they sat and what they spoke about at the fatal dinner party, nearly a year after it happened. Who would remember details like that? And who cares? It's hard to believe Calidus is so devoted to his master's memory, as we're repeatedly told he is, when he see him doing so little and so slowly.
Another thing that bothered me was that the characters constantly make modern allusions, from Robert Frost ("Well, it’s late. And I have miles to go before I sleep.") to Baskin Robins ("The Augusta is not exactly the flavour of the month at the moment.") to government security (‘You misunderstand me, sir,’ Calidus said. ‘I merely wanted a guest list for the meal in question.’ / ‘Classified,’ Gellius snorted. ‘I’m a senator, for Jupiter’s sake; I can’t go around giving out that sort of information.’). Which I suppose could be fun, if the authors were deliberately trying for an anachronistic postmodern feel, but here it just flops. It's particularly striking because they otherwise seem so eager to show off their research credentials! Among the many Latin terms they namedrop without explanation are "subigaculum" and "Falernian"; those respectively are a sort of loincloth and a particularly famous kind of wine, but if you don't come to the book with that knowledge in hand, the authors aren't going to help you.
Anyway, this is an awful book – terrible writing, uninteresting characters, incoherent plot – with no redeeming characteristics, and I hope to save anyone from wasting time on it.
I read this as an ARC via NetGalley.
June 14, 2018
In first century Rome, Senator Gaius Lucius Nerva dies. His slave Calidus, who was freed in Nerva’s will, doesn’t believe his previous master died of natural causes as others believes. He begins to investigate the death as a murder.
This book should attract readers who are interested in historical mysteries. I was disappointed in this book not by the setting, but by the writing. The author needed an editor to help with awkward transitions, confusing sentences, and syntax. If the latter is not important to the reader, she/he might well enjoy this historical mystery.
This book should attract readers who are interested in historical mysteries. I was disappointed in this book not by the setting, but by the writing. The author needed an editor to help with awkward transitions, confusing sentences, and syntax. If the latter is not important to the reader, she/he might well enjoy this historical mystery.
June 25, 2018
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
It's the first century AD, and Rome is a roaring giant that sleeps fitfully under the guidance of a half-insane Emperor, the infamous Nero. Senator Gaius Lucius Nerva was old, but not unwell enough as to die of fever and hallucinations. The family is told that it has been a death of natural causes. His favourite slave and now freeman, Calidus, is certain that this is not the case.
As he embarks on a journey of finding his beloved master's true murder, Calidus will find himself in the middle of danger, conspiracy and betrayals. Politics in the Roman Empire is a dangerous game, and if Calidus wants to avenge his master, he will have to tread carefully among the secrets that all powerful people of this city seem to keep. But during his quest, Calidus will uncover more secrets than he ever had imagined ; what will this brave, intelligent man find out about his own life and the course it has been on? And who can he actually trust during his ventures?
The Year Of The Snake instantly transports the reader to the grounds of the most powerful ancient empire in the world : Rome. In times of danger, an unstable Emperor and murderers lurking around every corner, you can experience the atmosphere so incredibly well, as if you were there yourself. It is not just about the mystery of a man's death; there are so many background stories to this plot, that it never gets dull or tiring.
The characters are carefully constructed, backed by intricately woven backgrounds, to the point that it is almost impossible to guess the murder behind this compelling story. Calidus, the main hero of this conundrum, is a very smart and resourceful man, devoted and persistent. It is easy to like him and empathise with his turmoil.
The Year of the Snake is a great book for everyone that loves historical fiction, also strongly suggested for fans of the mystery genre.
It's the first century AD, and Rome is a roaring giant that sleeps fitfully under the guidance of a half-insane Emperor, the infamous Nero. Senator Gaius Lucius Nerva was old, but not unwell enough as to die of fever and hallucinations. The family is told that it has been a death of natural causes. His favourite slave and now freeman, Calidus, is certain that this is not the case.
As he embarks on a journey of finding his beloved master's true murder, Calidus will find himself in the middle of danger, conspiracy and betrayals. Politics in the Roman Empire is a dangerous game, and if Calidus wants to avenge his master, he will have to tread carefully among the secrets that all powerful people of this city seem to keep. But during his quest, Calidus will uncover more secrets than he ever had imagined ; what will this brave, intelligent man find out about his own life and the course it has been on? And who can he actually trust during his ventures?
The Year Of The Snake instantly transports the reader to the grounds of the most powerful ancient empire in the world : Rome. In times of danger, an unstable Emperor and murderers lurking around every corner, you can experience the atmosphere so incredibly well, as if you were there yourself. It is not just about the mystery of a man's death; there are so many background stories to this plot, that it never gets dull or tiring.
The characters are carefully constructed, backed by intricately woven backgrounds, to the point that it is almost impossible to guess the murder behind this compelling story. Calidus, the main hero of this conundrum, is a very smart and resourceful man, devoted and persistent. It is easy to like him and empathise with his turmoil.
The Year of the Snake is a great book for everyone that loves historical fiction, also strongly suggested for fans of the mystery genre.
August 1, 2018
I must start by saying I found the description of Rome itself to be fantastic. The sights, sounds and smells of the eternal city are really brought to life on the pages. That for me was the only highlight.
Our main character is Calidus, and throughout the book I felt we didn't really get to know him. He felt two dimensional, not quite the finished product. I felt the same for the supporting cast. The danger with writing a book set in the time of Nero is that readers of Roman historical fiction would have read Manda Scott, Simon Scarrow, Robert Fabbri, Douglas Jackson, LJ Trafford (I could name more), who have all depicted him so brilliantly in recent years. It's well covered ground, and a book set in the same period would have to be exceptional to rise up in that crowded field.
Also the pacing of the story is erratic. It must be hard to pace a story based on a mystery, I've never tried. But I felt as though chapters would creep by with nothing happening, then a few pages of excitement, then back to nothing. The investigation in the death of Calidus' master became repetitive after a while, and it felt as though the side story of Nero and Agrippina was forced in last minute to help derive from that.
Our main character is Calidus, and throughout the book I felt we didn't really get to know him. He felt two dimensional, not quite the finished product. I felt the same for the supporting cast. The danger with writing a book set in the time of Nero is that readers of Roman historical fiction would have read Manda Scott, Simon Scarrow, Robert Fabbri, Douglas Jackson, LJ Trafford (I could name more), who have all depicted him so brilliantly in recent years. It's well covered ground, and a book set in the same period would have to be exceptional to rise up in that crowded field.
Also the pacing of the story is erratic. It must be hard to pace a story based on a mystery, I've never tried. But I felt as though chapters would creep by with nothing happening, then a few pages of excitement, then back to nothing. The investigation in the death of Calidus' master became repetitive after a while, and it felt as though the side story of Nero and Agrippina was forced in last minute to help derive from that.
July 4, 2018
I do enjoy reading historical fiction and Ancient Rome is always a fascinating period of time to set a book, particularly a murder mystery. Having enjoyed listening to the Lindsey Davis’ ‘Falco’ series on the radio for years, also set in Ancient Rome, I had high hopes for this story.
There were all the elements of a great mystery: the mysterious death of a notable Roman Senator, the upstanding former slave who wants justice for his dead master, the nobles who saw him last and really don’t want to be troubled by this freedman and don’t forget the salacious Nero, the most notorious Roman emperor.
The descriptions of the city were brilliant, I certainly felt like I could have been walking the streets and sitting in the arena whilst I was reading. There were a few wonderfully described scenes involving gladiators, a hunt with wolves and Nero’s triumphant entrance with elephants.
I liked Caldius the freedman but didn’t feel like I got to know him, unlike Nero and his mother, the Agusta, the only characters who really jumped off the page to me.
As the blurb says it was a ‘racy whodunnit’ constantly reminding me of the Carry On films and particularly Carry on Cleo.
I’m so glad that I read this as a buddy read with Yvo@It’s all About Books as I’m not sure I would’ve enjoyed reading it by myself, especially as there were formatting problems with my arc.
Thanks to NetGalley and Endeavour Media for my digital ARC.
There were all the elements of a great mystery: the mysterious death of a notable Roman Senator, the upstanding former slave who wants justice for his dead master, the nobles who saw him last and really don’t want to be troubled by this freedman and don’t forget the salacious Nero, the most notorious Roman emperor.
The descriptions of the city were brilliant, I certainly felt like I could have been walking the streets and sitting in the arena whilst I was reading. There were a few wonderfully described scenes involving gladiators, a hunt with wolves and Nero’s triumphant entrance with elephants.
I liked Caldius the freedman but didn’t feel like I got to know him, unlike Nero and his mother, the Agusta, the only characters who really jumped off the page to me.
As the blurb says it was a ‘racy whodunnit’ constantly reminding me of the Carry On films and particularly Carry on Cleo.
I’m so glad that I read this as a buddy read with Yvo@It’s all About Books as I’m not sure I would’ve enjoyed reading it by myself, especially as there were formatting problems with my arc.
Thanks to NetGalley and Endeavour Media for my digital ARC.
August 12, 2018
M. J. Trow and Maryanne Coleman have captured the culture of Rome in THE YEAR OF THE SNAKE. They did such a good job that at times I felt sadness as I read. In this world slavery is just an unremarkable fact of life. Slaves are expendable. Murderous deaths in the arena are considered mere entertainment. After all, many of the victims are just slaves. It is a world where the vast majority of men exist only to service the rich. The mass of men starve while the rich live a lifestyle of incalculable luxury.
Such a world seems alien and horrible to our eyes. After reading so much history, however, and teaching history and government, I have realized that this has been the world since the beginning of time. The boundary is very slim between the cultures most of us have enjoyed (as flawed as they have been and are) for the past few generations and that of the ancient Romans. Viewed in this way, THE YEAR OF THE SNAKE might be seen as something of a cautionary tale.
I don’t really think that Trow and Coleman intended this as an allegory. Rather, I think they wanted to provide a murder mystery in as authentic a setting as possible. It seems to me, as I noted earlier, that the authors succeeded this. I had a few doubts at first, but the murder mystery set in that world ultimately seemed plausible enough.
Calidus, the main character, was a slave of Nerva, who was apparently one of the few (maybe the only) Senator who had a conscience and a sense of integrity. He was loved by his wife and slaves. His ideas were perhaps eccentric to his peers, but Nerva was brave and fought for what he believed to be right. He died one night after a party, apparently from natural causes, but Calidus is convinced Nerva was murdered. Calidus was freed in Nerva’s will and tries to found out who murdered his former owner, friend, and father figure.
I wasn’t quite sure how this could play out, considering that murdering even a pesky ex-slave in that culture would be easy enough. Calidus, however, is smart and brave. He navigates the perils of that society, including a murder attempt on his life. He uncovers disquieting secrets that lead to tragedy as well as success when he reaches his goal.
I had a few questions about possible anachronisms – not relating to fact but to word choices. It seemed to me that some of the ancients sometimes talked in modern jargon. I decided to not pay much attention to these because, I figured, it might be as if the authors had translated from ancient Latin to modern English. I also found myself slightly puzzled at the many names a man could go by and references in Latin, without translation.
It was also interesting that while Christians, in the time of Nero, were a growing presence, they were referenced only once in a passing joke about the entertainment at the Circus. This could also make sense, however, because Christianity existed primarily among the poor and slaves, so the rich men and women would have no reason to think about them in their day-to-day lives.
In other words, I did not consider these enough to not enjoy the story itself. It is fiction, after all.
With that being said, it might not be bad if this story did cause the reader to think deeper about history and to see a cautionary tale about the horror that results when a few powerful men enslave the multitude of other men and women for their own pleasure.
(I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.)
Such a world seems alien and horrible to our eyes. After reading so much history, however, and teaching history and government, I have realized that this has been the world since the beginning of time. The boundary is very slim between the cultures most of us have enjoyed (as flawed as they have been and are) for the past few generations and that of the ancient Romans. Viewed in this way, THE YEAR OF THE SNAKE might be seen as something of a cautionary tale.
I don’t really think that Trow and Coleman intended this as an allegory. Rather, I think they wanted to provide a murder mystery in as authentic a setting as possible. It seems to me, as I noted earlier, that the authors succeeded this. I had a few doubts at first, but the murder mystery set in that world ultimately seemed plausible enough.
Calidus, the main character, was a slave of Nerva, who was apparently one of the few (maybe the only) Senator who had a conscience and a sense of integrity. He was loved by his wife and slaves. His ideas were perhaps eccentric to his peers, but Nerva was brave and fought for what he believed to be right. He died one night after a party, apparently from natural causes, but Calidus is convinced Nerva was murdered. Calidus was freed in Nerva’s will and tries to found out who murdered his former owner, friend, and father figure.
I wasn’t quite sure how this could play out, considering that murdering even a pesky ex-slave in that culture would be easy enough. Calidus, however, is smart and brave. He navigates the perils of that society, including a murder attempt on his life. He uncovers disquieting secrets that lead to tragedy as well as success when he reaches his goal.
I had a few questions about possible anachronisms – not relating to fact but to word choices. It seemed to me that some of the ancients sometimes talked in modern jargon. I decided to not pay much attention to these because, I figured, it might be as if the authors had translated from ancient Latin to modern English. I also found myself slightly puzzled at the many names a man could go by and references in Latin, without translation.
It was also interesting that while Christians, in the time of Nero, were a growing presence, they were referenced only once in a passing joke about the entertainment at the Circus. This could also make sense, however, because Christianity existed primarily among the poor and slaves, so the rich men and women would have no reason to think about them in their day-to-day lives.
In other words, I did not consider these enough to not enjoy the story itself. It is fiction, after all.
With that being said, it might not be bad if this story did cause the reader to think deeper about history and to see a cautionary tale about the horror that results when a few powerful men enslave the multitude of other men and women for their own pleasure.
(I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.)
September 5, 2018
A delightful book that focuses on early roman history and the many shenanigans of the patricians, plebs, cataphracts and the Emperor. A bewildering array of characters that befuddles you and makes you think about all these characters as part of the story. You learn a lot about the roman history and the different classes and types of people existing during that period and the decadent life styles which they led. A beautiful mystery which holds you in suspense as you try to unravel the mystery till the end of the book. The nocuous and subtle leitmotif of the book on the Bacchantes and the Bacchanalia was the binding piece that holds you in thrall as you try to unravel the mystery. The allusion to the snake and other related information further adds to the aura of the mystery and the lares in the lararium are unable to thwart the death of the master of the household. A riveting mystery that is a good read for knowing a lot about roman history and the colorful people living during that time.
September 15, 2018
I was pleasantly surprised by this entertaining, compelling, realistic history mystery. Clarifying the cause of death of an esteemed Senator is the quiet theme, punctuated by scenes of a wolf hunt, a gladiator battle, and a raucous party for nobles. Engaging historic characters include emperor Nero, his mother Agrippina, the senator's wife, Flavia, and a pickpocket, Piso. The central character, a trusted slave given freedom in the senator's will, stands up to the nobles in every scene. Lots of drama and romance, including the wife and a former girlfriend. A cult of ambitious females gets full treatment. Apparently the story was improved with careful editing, including the author's use of common English phrases that may have linguistic roots in Roman Latin, with humorous intent. I really liked this novel!
June 29, 2025
#1 in the former slave now freed and heir Calidus mystery series. He is illegitimate son of his former master, to the house of Nerva, mystery series set in first century Rome when Nero is emperor and living in Rome at this time is a dangerous sport.
Calidus's master, Senator Gaius Lucius Nerva has just been poisoned at a dinner party. Calidus, the newly freed steward of his house, is charged with finding out who did it. His enquiries lead him to rub shoulders with the higher members of Roman society; senators, soldiers, even the Emperor Nero. It also includes his former lover who seems intent on rekindling their romance and luring him away from his wife and daughter. His quest is by no means easy or safe as he encounters the darkest and most dangerous people in Rome. But he knows he must keep searching for the person responsible, to bring justice to the master he had loved.
Calidus's master, Senator Gaius Lucius Nerva has just been poisoned at a dinner party. Calidus, the newly freed steward of his house, is charged with finding out who did it. His enquiries lead him to rub shoulders with the higher members of Roman society; senators, soldiers, even the Emperor Nero. It also includes his former lover who seems intent on rekindling their romance and luring him away from his wife and daughter. His quest is by no means easy or safe as he encounters the darkest and most dangerous people in Rome. But he knows he must keep searching for the person responsible, to bring justice to the master he had loved.
August 26, 2018
Set in Nero’s Rome, slave Calidus steward of Villa Nerva’s life is changed following the unexpected death of his kindly master senator Gaius Lucius Nerva. Calidus begins to question that his master died from natural causes and becomes convinced old Nerva was murdered but who did it and why?
Calidus decides that one of those people attending a meal where his master died could be responsible and sets out to find out which one. There is much intreague and blind ends before he gets close to the surprising truth and a good few twists on the way.
A good read for anyone who enjoys historical fiction and murder mystery.
I receive o free copy of this book in exchange for a review
Calidus decides that one of those people attending a meal where his master died could be responsible and sets out to find out which one. There is much intreague and blind ends before he gets close to the surprising truth and a good few twists on the way.
A good read for anyone who enjoys historical fiction and murder mystery.
I receive o free copy of this book in exchange for a review
October 11, 2021
Must read more by these authors.
Intensely researched. I had to look up new and unfamiliar words.
I really like books written by highly detailed and smart people.
The words painted such a clear picture of Rome. Are we sure the writers are from this century?
The mystery driving the plot was foreshadowed, but not so intensely that the ending was minimized.
Interesting power plays. No one was really innocent.
And Daddy shouldn’t discount daughter. Ever.
Intensely researched. I had to look up new and unfamiliar words.
I really like books written by highly detailed and smart people.
The words painted such a clear picture of Rome. Are we sure the writers are from this century?
The mystery driving the plot was foreshadowed, but not so intensely that the ending was minimized.
Interesting power plays. No one was really innocent.
And Daddy shouldn’t discount daughter. Ever.
May 29, 2020
A murder in Ancient Rome
The master of Calidus , a Roman Slave , dies and Calidus is convinced he has been murdered. His decision to investigate involves him in the household of Nero. This is an involved and exciting story reflecting the lives of the different echelons of Roman society.We
The master of Calidus , a Roman Slave , dies and Calidus is convinced he has been murdered. His decision to investigate involves him in the household of Nero. This is an involved and exciting story reflecting the lives of the different echelons of Roman society.We
September 3, 2023
A.D. 50's Rome. Senator Gaius Lucius Nerva becomes ill at a dinner party held at the Villa Gellius, and a few days later he is dead. His steward and now freedman, Calidus, believes he was poisoned at that dinner and decides to seek out the murderer.
An entertaining historical mystery. A good start to this series.
An entertaining historical mystery. A good start to this series.
August 3, 2018
A most interesting storyline set in the time of the Roman empire and when Nero was emperor. I loved it! It made all my Greek / Roman History classes pop up in my mind :)
November 18, 2018
Not my normal thing but the mystery was a pleasant enough read.
January 4, 2020
Sadly, it's no Falco :(
May 21, 2020
An enjoyable start to this series, with a solid introduction to the main characters and a fascinating description of Nero's Rome. A very good read.
July 23, 2021
A typical hard boiled detective story - complete with gather everyone in the drawing room at the end - set during the early reign of Emperor Nero.
June 19, 2025
An interesting mystery, with lots of information about Rome and Romans during the period. But it dragged a bit.
sff-ok-bx
July 13, 2025Bx,Rokp
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October 14, 2025PopSugar Reading Challenge 2025 Prompt 5: A book with a snake on the cover or in the title
June 12, 2019
I do like murder mysteries with an interesting historical background. There was plenty of that here, and judging by who wrote this book I guess it was as accurate as one could wish for. However, at times I felt as if the story meandered off too far from the mystery at hand.
The final chapter was amazing, though, and put it all together rather nicely. Hercule Poirot would have been proud of Calidus.
There were a large number of names to remember while reading, as well as some Roman/Latin expressions and titles to understand. This was made more difficult by the fact that in chapter XIII, Gaius Lucius Calidus was suddenly called “Gaius Licinius Calidus” twice. I am not sure if that was a typo or he was stealthily introducing himself with a wrong name on purpose.
I liked the dialogues a lot, there were a number of humorous expressions included and those always make a story more enjoyable to read. I am not sure those old Romans would have expressed themselves that way (‘There’s the ten thousand sesterce question, isn’t it?’, ch. VIII), but as I would not be able to read this story in their actual language that point seems to be moot.
Many thanks to Endeavour Media for providing me with a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
The final chapter was amazing, though, and put it all together rather nicely. Hercule Poirot would have been proud of Calidus.
There were a large number of names to remember while reading, as well as some Roman/Latin expressions and titles to understand. This was made more difficult by the fact that in chapter XIII, Gaius Lucius Calidus was suddenly called “Gaius Licinius Calidus” twice. I am not sure if that was a typo or he was stealthily introducing himself with a wrong name on purpose.
I liked the dialogues a lot, there were a number of humorous expressions included and those always make a story more enjoyable to read. I am not sure those old Romans would have expressed themselves that way (‘There’s the ten thousand sesterce question, isn’t it?’, ch. VIII), but as I would not be able to read this story in their actual language that point seems to be moot.
Many thanks to Endeavour Media for providing me with a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
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