The Complete Calidus Roman Mysteries Books 1–2

In this 2-book box set: BOOK 1: THE YEAR OF THE SNAKE The slave Calidus is freed when his beloved master, a senator, dies. However, while neither he nor the dead man’s wife believe that the death was natural, Rome is a place where power and status speak louder than justice. Having secured the freedom of his own wife, Calidus sets about solving the murder, and in doing so takes the reader with him through every aspect of Roman society, from the slaves’ quarters to the emperor’s household. BOOK 2: THE YEAR OF THE FLAME Calidus, illegitimate heir to the house of Nerva, knows that life under Emperor Nero is dangerous. But when Rome’s high priests start dying, it seems that Nero’s instability may not be the only threat facing his people. Calidus tries to find out who is behind an apparent challenge to the current Roman ruler, but Nero becomes increasingly suspicious of Calidus’s motives . . .