The Song of the Gladiator

Though I'm sure I have read other books by Paul Doherty, I do not recall them. I will be looking for some in the future. "The Song Of The Gladiator" was a captivating mystery with several subplots, thoroughly enjoyable characters, both heroes and villains, and a reasonably satisfactory conclusion.

This book is better than its slightly corny title. A murder mystery set in ancient Rome, it brings to life historical and fictional characters during a very interesting time - the transformation of Christianity from a "subversive" sect to the official religion of the Empire. Into this turmoil is injected a healthy mix of politics, theft, murder, and revenge. Gladiators do form part of the book's basis but no more than does the Imperial Court of Constantine the Great served by the agile and inquisitive spy Claudia for the Empress Helena. I can't wait for Claudia to appear in a future installment. Personally I prefer reading historical fact or historical novels that bring the characters to live. This book fits the bill very well.

As the reader can deduce from the title this novel is about Ancient Rome. Is is set at the time of the Emperor Constantine and his manipulative mother Helena, who is the power behind his "reign". Claudia the leading character is Helena's spy. She is heavily involved with one of the foremost gladiators in the city and he has become the subject of a heavy betting syndicate who are attempting to manipulate his fights in the arena to their advantage. The book is full of the savagery and violence that is well documented for that period of history. Paul Doherty seems to be able to turn his hand to any period of history, be it Rome, Ancient Egypt or Medieval England. This is as good as any of his recent books.