You need to sign in or sign up before continuing.
Scan barcode
halfcentreader's review against another edition
4.0
I found this first in series to be engaging and refreshing... and while it may seem that the Roman empire couldn't possibly be as advanced in their medical knowledge... I am fully ready to believe it's possible. This book undoubtedly is a bit slow paced in order to develop character, to give the reader back story for future books. But there is a subtle humor that I always appreciate in anything I read.. which makes the character of Ruso instantly likeable. I fully intend to explore this series further since this is not an era I've spent too much time in.
m_is_for_awesome's review against another edition
3.0
An interesting and layered book - slow paced and funny like a cozy, but set in Britain in the time of Hadrian with heart-breakingly realistic depictions of the fragility of life, the vulnerability of women of the time, the brutality of slavery and the sex trade.
auntblh's review against another edition
4.0
I enjoyed this story and may listen to others in the series. I liked the humor and how Ruso kept stumbling into trouble but tried to fix it because he had a good heart. Years ago, my book group read Haunted Mesa by Louis L'Amour and complained about how often Mike stopped to make coffee. I wonder what they would say about how many times Ruso scratched his ear. :)
alysona's review against another edition
3.0
A good historical mystery. I loved learning about Britain and Rome as the main character is a Roman but the setting is Britain.
mgcco's review against another edition
4.0
An interesting peek into Roman Britain. The plot a little tediously long at times, but very readable. I immediately wanted to read the second book in this series upon finishing the last page, thus the four stars.
brandolini's review against another edition
adventurous
mysterious
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.75
jocelyn_sp's review against another edition
3.0
This was a lot of fun. A nice mystery, with the research about Roman Britain woven in entertainingly with a light touch.
alextaylor16's review against another edition
4.0
I really enjoyed this book. The protagonist is a very compelling figure and I found myself quickly invested in his fortune. The historical setting, character development and unpredictable plot were all very well done.
lyndiane's review against another edition
5.0
I was utterly captivated by the end of the second paragraph. Ruth Downie's richly detailed recounting of a Roman army doctor's life in ancient Britain is filled with marvelously human characters facing some startlingly modern problems. Humorous, charming, this is a story that grab the attention of even the most hardcore science fiction/fantasy geek!!