The Arms of Nemesis - Tapa blanda

With his mute adopted son in tow, Gordianus the Finder travels south of Rome to solve the murder of Marcus Crassus, Rome's wealthiest citizen, and prevent the execution of Crassus's entire household of slaves. Reprint.

aining...Saylor's sense of style and elegantly witty writing make the most of this genre transference."
THE BOSTON GLOBE
South of Rome on the Gulf of Puteoli stands the splendid villa of Marcus Crassus, Rome's wealthiest citizen. When the estate overseer is murdered, Crassus concludes that the deed was done by two missing slaves, who have probably run off to join the Spartacan Slave Revolt. Unless they are found within five days, Crassus vows to massacre his remaining ninety-nine slaves.
To Gordianus the Finder falls the fateful task of resolving this riddle from Hades. In a house filled with secrets, the truth is slow to emerge. And as the hour of the massacre approaches, Gordianus realizes that the labyrinthine path he has chosen just may lead to his own destruction...
AN ALTERNATE SELECTION OF THE BOOK-OF-THE-MONTH CLUB