Falco continues tracing the surviving members of the conspiracy uncovered in The Silver Pigs. His search takes him through southern Italy, where former supporters of Vespasian's rivals are concealing money, loyalties and plans for renewed opposition.
The political assignment is complicated by Falco's attachment to Helena Justina and by the limits of his status. As apparent accidents accumulate, he must determine which conspirators remain active and which officials are using the investigation for their own advantage.
Vespasian's new regime cannot assume that victory in the civil war has ended opposition. Former supporters of rival emperors retain money, clients and provincial connections that might fund another challenge. Falco's search through Campania therefore becomes part of the practical consolidation of a dynasty, while his relationship with Helena tests whether an informer serving power can build a private life beyond it.
Steven Saylor
19 books
Amanda Cockrell
10 books
Anthony Riches
20 books
Christopher Lee Buckner
4 books
Alex Gough
15 books