Order of SPQR Book Series

The "SPQR" series by John Maddox Roberts is a captivating blend of historical fiction and mystery set in ancient Rome. Centering around the life and times of Decius Caecilius Metellus, a shrewd and astute investigator, the series invites readers into the vibrant and often perilous world of the Roman Republic. With each installment, Roberts expertly intertwines rich historical detail with intriguing plots filled with political intrigue, social complexities, and the timeless struggle for power.

As Decius navigates the turbulence of Roman society, he encounters a diverse cast of characters, including senators, gladiators, and slaves, each contributing to the multifaceted tapestry of life in ancient Rome. The series not only delves into the mysteries that Decius must solve but also paints a vivid picture of the cultural, religious, and everyday realities of the era.

Renowned for its sharp dialogue and deep character development, the "SPQR" series stands out as both an engaging mystery saga and a thoughtful exploration of a fascinating period in history, making it a must-read for fans of historical fiction and mystery alike. Each book offers a unique glimpse into the challenges of justice and morality in a world where loyalty and betrayal often walk hand in hand.

The "SPQR" series by John Maddox Roberts is a historical mystery series set in Ancient Rome, following the adventures of a fictional character named Decius Caecilius Metellus. The series combines elements of mystery, history, and intrigue, providing a rich portrayal of Roman society. Here's a summary of each book in the series:

1. SPQR I: The King's Gambit (1990)

   • In this first installment, Decius Metellus is tasked with investigating the murder of a prominent politician during a time of political unrest. As Decius delves into the murky waters of conspiracy, he uncovers layers of intrigue and threat against the backdrop of Roman politics.

2. SPQR II: The Catiline Conspiracy (1991)

   • This novel centers around the infamous conspiracy led by Catiline to overthrow the Roman Republic. Decius becomes embroiled in the investigation as he uncovers plots and plans that threaten the stability of Rome, all while navigating the complex social and political dynamics of the time.

3. SPQR III: The Sacrilege (1992)

   • Decius investigates a robbery at one of the city's temples that leads to a murder. The narrative explores the religious tensions and superstitions of Rome, as Decius tries to unravel the mystery while adhering to the expectations of Roman society.

4. SPQR IV: The Prisoner of Amon (1993)

   • In this story, Decius is drawn into an intricate plot involving Egyptian cults and Roman politics. As he searches for a missing Roman senator, he encounters a web of deceit that connects Rome to far-off lands.

5. SPQR V: The Anubis Gates (1994)

   • Decius's investigation takes him into the world of ancient Egyptian magic and the mysterious. He must work through a series of bizarre occurrences and dark rituals, all while trying to maintain his duties as a Roman citizen.

6. SPQR VI: The Senate Murders (1997)

   • A high-ranking senator is found dead, and Decius is asked to uncover the truth. The novel delves into the political machinations of the Senate and examines themes of loyalty, power, and betrayal within the Roman elite.

7. SPQR VII: The Shadow of Vesuvius (1998)

   • As Mount Vesuvius looms, Decius is drawn into a mystery that intertwines with the natural disaster threatening the region. Political tension and personal stakes elevate the urgency of his investigation.

8. SPQR VIII: The Temple of the Twelve (1999)

   • This book explores themes of betrayal and faith, as Decius investigates attacks on an important religious temple. He must contend with both the supernatural and the political implications of his findings.

9. SPQR IX: The Last of the Roman Republic (2000)

   • Set during a time of great change for Rome, Decius navigates the final days of the Roman Republic while uncovering plots and conspiracies that threaten to plunge the city into chaos.

10. SPQR X: Last Days of Pompeii (2001)

    • The final installment ties together the previous narratives while bringing Decius's story to a close amidst the backdrop of impending disaster from Vesuvius. His investigations culminate in a gripping portrayal of resilience, love, and loss.

The SPQR series offers a captivating mixture of mystery, history, and richly drawn characters, providing a vivid glimpse into Roman life while keeping readers engaged with its intricate plots.

The "SPQR" series by John Maddox Roberts revolves around the adventures of a fictional Roman detective named Marcus Didius Falco, who navigates the intrigues of Ancient Rome. Here are the main characters in the series:

1. Marcus Didius Falco: The protagonist, a private informer (or detective) in ancient Rome. Falco is witty, resourceful, and often finds himself in challenging situations due to his job. He has a keen sense of observation and a knack for uncovering the truth, though he often clashes with the authorities and faces personal risks.

2. Helena Justina: Falco's love interest, who is initially presented as a strong, independent woman with her own agency. She is of noble birth, which sometimes creates tension with Falco's lower social status. Their relationship evolves throughout the series, introducing elements of romance, conflict, and partnership.

3. Aulus Gabinius: A friend and ally of Falco, Aulus often helps him navigate the political landscape of Rome. He provides support, both personal and professional, and serves as a foil to Falco's more impulsive nature.

4. Cornelius: A recurring character and often Falco’s rival, Cornelius typically represents the law and order side of Rome. His interactions with Falco highlight the tension between justice and personal ambition.

5. Various historical figures: Throughout the series, Falco interacts with several real historical figures from Roman history, such as emperors, senators, and other notable personalities of the time, which adds depth and authenticity to the narrative.

The series combines historical detail, mystery, and character-driven storytelling to bring ancient Rome to life while following Falco's adventures in solving crimes and navigating the complexities of Roman society.

The "SPQR" series by John Maddox Roberts is a historical mystery series set in ancient Rome, featuring the character of Decius Caecilius Metellus, a fictional senator and detective. Here are some interesting facts about the series:

1. Title Significance: The title "SPQR" stands for "Senatus Populusque Romanus," which means "The Senate and People of Rome." This reflects the series' strong connection to Roman history and culture.

2. Genre Blending: The series combines elements of historical fiction and mystery, providing readers with both an engaging storyline and insights into Roman customs, politics, and daily life.

3. Rich Historical Context: Roberts weaves real historical events and figures into his fictional narrative, allowing readers to experience the political intrigue and social dynamics of ancient Rome. This integration of fact with fiction adds depth to the storytelling.

4. Character Development: Decius Metellus is portrayed as a relatable and nuanced character, navigating the complexities of Roman society while solving various crimes. His character's development over the series helps to draw readers into the narrative.

5. Multiple Installments: The series consists of several novels, each with its own unique mystery to solve, allowing for a variety of plots while maintaining the common thread of Roman life and politics.

6. Influence of Classical Literature: Roberts often references classical literature and mythology, enriching the narrative and connecting it to a broader literary tradition.

7. Critical Acclaim: The series has been well-received by both readers and critics, praised for its engaging storytelling, historical accuracy, and character development.

8. First Novel: The inaugural book, "SPQR I: The King's Gambit," introduces readers to Decius Metellus and sets the stage for his adventures throughout the series.

9. Cultural Insights: The series offers a glimpse into ancient Roman values, superstitions, and societal norms, providing readers with a deeper understanding of this period in history.

10. Fan Base: The series has garnered a dedicated fan base, particularly among those interested in both mystery genres and ancient history, bridging the gap between entertainment and education.

The "SPQR" series is not just a collection of mysteries; it's a rich tapestry of ancient Roman life and culture, brought to life through engaging storytelling and thoughtful character exploration.