Fans of S. J. Parris, Donna Leon, Steven Saylor and C. J. Sansom will love this enthralling and expertly written mystery from multimillion-copy bestselling author Lindsey Davis. Bringing Ancient Rome to life with its vivid description and characterisation, you'll feel like you are right there!'Surely the best historical detective in the business' -- Daily Telegraph'If only all bestsellers were this satisfying' -- Time Out'Davis's writing zings with fun' -- Daily Mail'Quite brilliant' -- ***** Reader review'A laugh a minute as always' -- ***** Reader review'Remarkable' -- ***** Reader review'Vastly entertaining' -- ***** Reader review************************************************************************************FIGHTING FOR TRUTH IN NORTH AFRICALumbered with working alongside reptilian Chief Spy Anacrites, Marcus Didius Falco has the perfect plan to make money - he will assist Vespasian in the Emperor's 'Great Census' of AD73.His potential fee could finally allow him to join the middle ranks and be worthy of long-suffering Helena Justina.Unexpectedly confronted with the murder of a man-eating lion, Falco is distracted from his original task, uncovering a bitter rivalry between the gladiators' trainers. With one star gladiator dead, Falco is forced to investigate and the trail leads from Rome to the blood-soaked sand of the arena in North Africa. But what lies in store...?
