Saturnalia

One of the Roman novels from the bestselling historical fiction Falco series

In Saturnalia, the festive atmosphere of ancient Rome takes a dark turn as a mysterious illness afflicts a captive woman. Amidst the revelry of the Saturnalia holiday, a young man is brutally murdered, prompting a frantic escape from house arrest. The story unfolds against the backdrop of wild parties and public celebrations, where the stakes are raised when the general, who has captured a notable enemy of Rome, plans to use her as a ritual sacrifice in his grand Triumph. The tension escalates as Falco, the protagonist, finds himself racing against time to locate the fugitive before her presence incites public outrage and embarrassment for the government.

As Falco navigates the chaos of the season, he must also contend with his old rival, the Chief Spy Anacrites. Their competition intensifies, as both men seek to uncover the truth behind the murder and the mysterious illness that seems to plague the city. With the holiday spirit in full swing, Falco's personal stakes rise when he discovers that Helena’s brother, Justinus, has also gone missing. The combination of political intrigue and personal dilemmas adds layers to the narrative, making Falco's quest increasingly complex.

Saturnalia masterfully blends historical fiction with mystery, creating a captivating tale that explores themes of loyalty, rivalry, and the darker sides of human nature. As the streets of Rome become a backdrop for both celebration and danger, readers are drawn into a world where every decision could lead to dire consequences.