Book Blurb:
‘Poetic and haunting: Forsyth provides a captivating glimpse into the life of one of Ancient Rome's greatest writers.’ Steven Veerapen, author of the Simon Danforth Mysteries
9 CE.
Rome’s celebrated love poet Ovid finds himself in exile, courtesy of an irate Emperor, in the far-flung town of Tomis.
Appalled at being banished to a barbarous region at the very edge of the Empire, Ovid soon discovers that he has a far more urgent - and potentially perilous - issue to address. A killer is at large in Tomis.
Somebody is slaughtering animals in a parody of ritual, and the Governor’s advisor Marcus Avitius is under pressure to apprehend the perpetrator.
Book Buy Link: https://geni.us/JREyW1
Author Bio:
I will never fully understand the Romans, and that is the challenge.
I have loved the ancient world since I read my first Greek myth, Theseus and the Minotaur. After reading Classics at Oxford, I taught at a boys’ public school for twenty-five years, but then my family moved to Qatar. There wasn’t much call for Latin teachers, so I wrote, and now I am back in the UK, all the questions I have asked myself about the Romans over the years are turning into novels.
I was once accused by a slightly indignant teenager of being in love with Cicero. This is not strictly true…
Editorial Review:
Marcus Avitius, Security Advisor to the Governor of Moesia, had picked up a ship heading north to Tomis. The winter was not as harsh as usual, so the River Danube had not iced over and the local tribes had been kept penned into the inland areas quite satisfactorily. Avitius had wintered along the coast, checking on the tiny garrisons in each town, and now he was looking forward to a gentle spring in Tomis, making sure the Governor was up to date. He’d be there until late summer, he reckoned, and then he would be sent — well, the gods know where. But preparing the province for incursions from the hungry tribes across the river would probably figure quite highly. Avitius leaned against the ship’s side and gazed at the grey sea ahead, almost surprised at how keen he was to see Tomis again.
"Poetic Justice" by Fiona Forsyth is a gripping historical fiction and mystery book that skillfully takes us to the heart of ancient Rome. The novel's opening paragraph engrosses the reader in the surroundings of ancient Rome and the predicament of Ovid, the main character. Forsyth's ability to write a captivating introduction establishes the tone for the entire work.
The story, which takes place in 9 CE, centers on the exiled Roman poet Ovid as he becomes involved in a string of horrific killings in the isolated village of Tomis. Forsyth expertly weaves a story that is thrilling and rich in historical detail, holding your attention throughout. It’s easy to tell it was carefully researched, while also being tightly written and fast-paced.
The book has a well-organized structure and has been carefully edited, which makes reading it more enjoyable. There are no mistakes that pull you out of the story. Consistent formatting makes it simple to navigate between the chapters, and everything flows well from scene to scene.
“Do you know, I don’t think I’ve ever considered how many temples there are in Tomis until this moment?” said Avitius. “I’ve tended to focus on the ones involved in the official life of the town — meaning the ones the Governor has had to visit. So, Baucis, what’s your favourite statue so far?” He grinned at Baucis and her face lit up in a smile back.
“Oh, the Cybele is lovely, sir,” she said. “Her dress is so beautifully carved, with all the folds falling down to the ground just like she was there in front of you. And one of those beautiful expressions on her face, like nothing can disturb her. And a lion at her feet, although I’ve never seen a lion in the flesh.”
“You’ve seen lions at the games, surely,” asked Ovid but Baucis shook her head.
“I don’t like the games, sir,” she said. “I never go.”
Ovid was learning a lot about his servants in Tomis. He looked at Philemon.
“What about you?” he asked.
“Oh, I go to the games,” said Philemon. “I like the gladiators. But the animal hunts are boring, so I go and get food while they’re on.”
“Cybele would approve I’m sure,” said Avitius. “She is a protector of wild animals.” “She is a goddess who disturbs people,” said Ovid and Avitius looked at him to make sure that he wasn’t being flippant. He wasn’t.
They were already too late to find a good place at the harbour itself and Avitius said that a viewpoint from farther up the hill was better anyway. So, they stood on the steps of the Temple of Neptune and were in time to see the ship enter the harbour between the two embracing headlands.
Well-written dialogue propels the story forward, also giving us insight into the personalities of the characters, along with details of what is happening in each scene. Many powerful moments or revelations are made throughout some of the dialogue parts of the story.
Character development is Forsyth's strong suit, especially in her portrayal of Ovid. His convincing and realistic transition from a dejected poet to a reluctant detective is beautiful to read. The supporting cast, which includes Marcus Avitius, the governor's advisor, is likewise well-developed and gives the narrative more nuance and intrigue.
"Poetic Justice" is distinguished from similar books in this genre by its distinct blend of murder mystery and historical fiction, with a real-life historical person as the focal point. Forsyth does a unique and compelling job of capturing Ovid in a fictitious setting.
It’s a good, old-fashioned who-done-it murder mystery, Ancient Rome edition. "Poetic Justice" has a masterfully written plot arc that builds suspense gradually and culminates in a dramatic completion. Forsyth skillfully strikes a balance between the developing mystery and the historical context, making sure that both aspects complement and strengthen one another.
The authenticity of the Ancient Rome setting and traditions, which are skillfully woven into the story in a way that feels natural and heightens the story's plausibility, are clear examples of Forsyth's diligent research and background in the subject matter. It will pull you back to the Roman Empire with it.
“I’m sure you’re right, though I shall check with my unfriendly silversmith,” said Avitius. He put the silver sword away and picked up his wine-cup.
“And a lot of water in there first, if you please,” said his sister sharply. “I don’t want any mess here thank you.”
***
A death and a wedding – the goddess is pleased.
It was an easy sacrifice, easier than the horse, and we were gone within a few heartbeats.
The baby did not even stir.
Without giving anything away, "Poetic Justice" has a gratifying and unexpected finale. The story's deeper themes are left unexplored, yet the reader is left feeling both emotionally and logically satisfied by the way it weaves together the many plot lines.
Forsyth’s writing is sophisticated yet approachable. Her writing is full of punchy dialogue and haunting imagery that really bring the characters and the old world to life. The pace is well-balanced, with quieter, more reflective sections that enhance the reader's comprehension of the people and their surroundings mixed in with tense parts.
To conclude, Fiona Forsyth's "Poetic Justice" is a historical mystery genre masterpiece. With its fascinating plot, well-rounded characters, and rich historical context, it's an entertaining read that teaches as much as it entertains. This book is a must-read for lovers of mystery and historical fiction alike.
*****
“Poetic Justice” by Fiona Forsyth receives five stars and the “Highly Recommended” award of excellence from The Historical Fiction Company
Award:
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