Books: Roman Blood By Steven Saylor

 (Drivebycuriosity) - Books about ancient Rome focus usually on her emperors (Ceasars), kings, dictators, consuls & senators. "Roman Blood: A Novel of Ancient Rome" by Steven Saylor focuses on common Romans (amazon ). The novel, set around the year 80 B.C, is based on a real case which is taught in history classes: Sextus Roscius, a Roman citzen, was accused of the murder of his father. Marcus Tullius Cicero, then a young aspiring lawyer, was defending him. The plot is told in first person by Gordianus the Finder, a (fictional) private investigator, who is commissioned by Cicero to investigate the backgrounds of this case and to deliver material for the defense (this is a spoiler free blog).

Reading this book was like traveling more than 2,000 years back in time. I felt like being in the ancient place and observing Gordianus` highly dangerous activities. Saylor dives deep into Roman politics and social life. He describes Roman life - and Gordianus` investigation - intensely and lively. I enjoyed Saylor`s  humorous style, mixed with gory elements and spiced with Hitchcock style scenes & amorous episodes. The author also draws a fascinating psychological portrait of the young Cicero, which explains his later political career.

I also learned a lot. The majority of the 1 million Romans where slaves, imported from conquered countries, and their offsprings. Apparently every Roman citizen owned at least one slave - and the rich many of them - because slaves where extremely cheap. Slaves did all the work and often fulfilled administrative jobs. Many were mistreated and often sexually abused. But some lucky slaves enjoyed the respect of the owners and got their freedom granted, making them regular citizens.

Ancient Rome was a very dangerous place, dirty, smelly & unhealthy.  There was no police force and not much of a law system. Basically everyone was on his own and the right of the stronger ruled. "Roman Blood" is the first book of a series and I am looking forward to read more about Gordianus the Finder.