MEDICUS: A Novel of the Roman Empire by Ruth Downie

(Previously published in the UK as 
Ruso and the Disappearing Dancing Girls)

Amazon UK £7.99 Audio £3.99
Amazon US $17.99 Audio $4.7
Amazon CA $n/a

This title was  selected as the April Book of the Month

Mystery / Crime / Drama Series

Roman Britain

The Medicus Series #1 of seven novels

‘Divorced and down on his luck, Gaius Petreius Ruso has made the rash decision to seek his fortune in an inclement outpost of the Roman Empire, namely Britannia. In a moment of weakness, after a straight thirty-six-hour shift at the army hospital, he succumbs to compassion and rescues an injured slave girl, Tilla, from the hands of her abusive owner.

Now he has a new problem: a slave who won't talk and can't cook, and drags trouble in her wake. Before he knows it, Ruso is caught in the middle of an investigation into the deaths of prostitutes working out of the local bar. Now Ruso must summon all his forensic knowledge to find a killer who may be after him next.’

I loved this novel, not only because Roman Britain is one of my passions and I enjoy mysteries – both of those - but primarily because Ruth Downie is such a wonderful writer, and is a pleasure to read. The detail, of things medical, of Britain at the time of the Roman occupation and of daily life is so rich and vivid. As are the characters who are instantly engaging. 

There is drama, mystery of course (a classic who-dun-it) adventure, thrills, spills, tragedy and humour, all of which is so skilfully included you find yourself laughing, almost crying or holding your breath as you turn the pages as swiftly as you can to find out what happens next. 

My advice, read this first adventure in the series then move swiftly on to the next, and the next. You will not be disappointed.

© Helen Hollick

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