Downie's thrilling murder mystery set against the vivid backdrop of the Roman Empire in the year A.D. 118 is well realized by the classical voice of Simon Vance. The reading is perfectly delivered, with Vance's traditional English dialect a perfect fit for this period piece. Vance captures the volatility and rawness of the era, offering rich characters and a compelling saga that never ceases to excite the imagination.

“In Downie's second mystery featuring Roman-era army doc Gaius Ruso, the sawbones is now stationed on the outskirts of Britain and investigating the ritualistic beheading of a soldier. But is the knife-wielding killer a local or a comrade?

“If you missed Downie's debut novel, Medicus, which introduced regimental doctor Gaius Petreius Ruso and his slave/housekeeper Tilla, you'll want to get caught up. This book, which is even better than the first, opens with the pair headed to northern outposts, where Ruso hopes to gain some advancement...This is a terrific series that historical mystery fans shouldn't miss - Downie's knowledge of Roman military medicine is phenomenal - but you do need the background of the first book.”—Margaret Cannon, Globe and Mail