Book Review: Last Seen in Massillia

Reviewed By: Harriet Klausner

Last Seen in Massillia     Amazon US PB Amazon US HC Amazon Canada PB Amazon Canada HC
Steven Saylor
Class/Genre:   Mystery   Historical
Series: Gordianus the Finder # 8
St. Martin’s, Oct 2000, $23.95, 288 pp.

The last place any Julius Caesar supporter would want to visit in 49 BC is Massillia in Gaul. The residents seemingly support General Pompey in the civil war against Caesar. However, that is exactly the place Gordianus the Finder, accompanied by his son-in-law, needs to enter. Just because Caesar’s troops led by Trebonius have placed an airtight siege on the city for several months fails to deter Gordianus on his quest. He needs to learn what happened to his son Meto, a former lieutenant of Caesar, now condemned as a traitor and rumored dead.

After working his way into the city, Gordianus becomes embroiled in an investigation. A woman was either murdered or committed suicide. Was she pushed or did she jump from Sacrifice Rock. His son-in-law believes a soldier shoved the woman off the rock. His “host” Hieronymus disagrees saying the man tried to stop the woman from leaping from “Suicide” Rock. In any case, Gordianus begins seeking the truth if he is to stay alive in a dangerous city with much intrigue and backstabbing.

LAST SEEN IN MASSILLIA, the eighth novel in the Sub Rosa Ancient Rome mysteries, is a great entry in a great series. The story line is loaded with twists and turns as everyone knows neutrality is deadly but the wrong side at the wrong time is just as perilous. Gordianus remains a strong, thoughtful character and the support cast provides profundity and an insightful feel to the period. However, Steven Saylor’s tale belongs to Massillia (ancient Marseilles) as readers obtain an incredible perusal of the city at a critical moment in history.

Harriet Klausner

Reprinted with permission. Do Not repost without permission from the author, Harriet Klausner