12) See Delphi and Die, by Lindsey Davis
Latest (I think) in Davis’ successful series of novels about Marcus Didius Falco, a private eye in ancient Rome (this book set in 76 AD). Generally good stuff here, as he and his glamorous wife tag up with a tour group going around Greece to try and solve a couple of unexplained deaths. Not totally convinced by the plotting and reslution, but enjoyed the ride and the scenery.
Presumably Davis is building up to a big shocker for the eruption of Vesuvius in 79 AD? I can’t imagine her not wanting to tackle it. And she has killed off characters before, including in one case having our hero’s brother-in-law mauled to death by lions in the arena after a misunderstanding with the local authorities.
Yes, it’s a very nice and human piece. I found the statement about not wanting to offend the hardliners in the church telling – often people with more liberal tendencies (myself included) will not stand up for what we believe in.