Step into the shadowy streets of ancient Roman Britain with the Libertus Mystery of Roman Britain series, where a clever mosaicist turned sleuth unravels crimes in a world of togas, treachery, and triumphs! Written by Rosemary Rowe, this captivating blend of historical fiction and crime mystery follows Libertus, a freed slave with a knack for solving puzzles, as he navigates the gritty realities of 2nd-century Glevum (modern-day Gloucester). With 20 novels packed with intrigue and rich historical detail, this series is a must-read for fans of whodunits and Roman history alike.
From murderous feasts to vanishing vestal virgins, Libertus’s adventures offer a thrilling glimpse into a time when Roman rule clashed with Celtic unrest. Whether you’re a history buff or a mystery lover, the series’ vivid settings and clever plots will keep you hooked. Let’s dive into the origins, stories, and lasting charm of this hidden gem!
How Libertus Mystery of Roman Britain Began
Rosemary Rowe, the pseudonym of English author Rosemary Aitken, crafted the Libertus series after a career teaching English and writing academic textbooks. Born in Cornwall and inspired by her love for history, Rowe turned to fiction after an industrial accident ended her academic career. Her fascination with Roman Britain and its complex social dynamics led to the creation of Libertus, a Celtic freedman whose mosaic-making skills mirror his talent for piecing together clues. The series debuted in 1999 with The Germanicus Mosaic, setting the stage for a decades-long journey through Roman intrigue.
Rowe’s meticulous research into Roman customs, from slavery to chariot races, grounds the series in authenticity. Her goal was to blend the intellectual thrill of detective stories with the immersive detail of historical fiction, making Libertus a unique figure in the genre. The series grew steadily, fueled by Rowe’s passion for storytelling and readers’ enthusiasm for her vivid portrayal of ancient Britain.
The Heart of Libertus Mystery of Roman Britain
The series spans 20 books, each a standalone mystery tied together by Libertus’s sharp mind and his patron, Marcus Septimus. In The Germanicus Mosaic (1999), Libertus investigates the murder of a retired centurion, uncovering a trail of betrayal in Glevum. Murder in the Forum (2001) sees him probing the suspicious death of an imperial favorite during a grand feast, revealing sinister motives. The Chariots of Calyx (2002) takes Libertus to Londinium, where a strangled corn officer sparks a high-stakes investigation. Later, The Rewards of Treachery (2023), the final book, wraps up Libertus’s saga with a complex conspiracy.
Themes of power, loyalty, and cultural tension run deep. Libertus, a former slave navigating a rigid Roman hierarchy, embodies resilience and ingenuity. The clash between Roman conquerors and Celtic locals adds grit, with social unrest and rebellion simmering in books like Enemies of the Empire. Rowe’s style is intellectual yet accessible, with plots that twist like a Roman road and settings that transport readers to bustling forums and misty forests. Her forewords often explain Roman customs, making the series both educational and entertaining.
Libertus himself is the series’ heart—a humble yet brilliant sleuth whose outsider status gives him a sharp perspective. His relationships, from his patron Marcus to his adopted son Junio, add warmth, while the ever-present threat of danger keeps the stakes high. Fans praise the balance of historical accuracy and page-turning suspense, making each book a satisfying puzzle.
Why Libertus Mystery of Roman Britain Resonates
The Libertus series has carved a niche among historical mystery fans, offering a fresh take on Roman Britain compared to more Rome-centric series like Lindsey Davis’s Falco novels. Its focus on ordinary lives—slaves, freedmen, and local Britons—brings a human touch to a distant era. Rowe’s ability to weave historical detail into gripping mysteries has earned praise from readers and critics, with reviews lauding her “vivid depictions” and “clever plotting.” The series’ longevity, spanning over two decades, speaks to its enduring appeal.
Though not a household name, the series has a loyal following, particularly among those who love niche historical fiction. Its influence lies in its ability to make Roman Britain feel alive and relatable, inspiring readers to explore the era further. For fans, Libertus is a guide through a world both alien and familiar, where human nature remains timeless.
- Publication Years: 1999–2023
- Number of Books: 20
- Setting: Roman Britain, primarily Glevum (Gloucester)
- Genre: Historical Mystery
Ready to unravel ancient secrets with a sharp-witted mosaicist? Grab The Germanicus Mosaic and dive into the Libertus Mystery of Roman Britain’s thrilling world of crime and history!