A PATTERN OF BLOOD

When Quintus Upius, a wealthy Roman, is found fatally stabbed in his own home, Libertus, a pavement-maker and esteemed solver of mysteries, is ordered by his wealthy benefactor to look into the matter. Suspects are numerous, and there is no lack of political intrigue. Without the benefit of modern investigative techniques, this second-century mystery must be solved with old-fashioned detective work and deduction. Ric Jerrom's clipped British accent and crisp delivery aptly suit the time and place of this story. Class distinctions are clear among the characters, with several high-ranking characters portrayed with an accelerated pitch and a haughty, impatient manner. This is the second in a series but stands on its own. F.L.F. (c) AudioFile 2003, Portland, Maine [Published: JUN/JUL 03]