Step into the bustling streets of ancient Rome with the SPQR series, where murder mysteries intertwine with the political intrigues of the late Roman Republic! John Maddox Roberts’ historical mystery novels follow Senator Decius Caecilius Metellus the Younger, a sharp-witted investigator navigating corruption, conspiracies, and Roman revelry. With vivid historical detail and a knack for thrilling detective work, SPQR invites readers to solve crimes alongside a charmingly irreverent hero in a world of togas and treachery.
From its Edgar Award-nominated debut to its cult following, SPQR blends the allure of historical fiction with the suspense of a classic whodunit. Whether you’re a history buff or a mystery lover, this series offers an immersive escape to a Rome teeming with danger and delight.
How SPQR Began
In 1989, John Maddox Roberts, a seasoned science fiction and fantasy author, turned his pen to ancient Rome, inspired by its complex politics and vibrant culture. The result was The King’s Gambit, the first SPQR novel, published in 1990. Roberts drew on his fascination with the Roman Republic’s final decades, a time of upheaval marked by figures like Julius Caesar and Pompey. His goal? To craft a detective series grounded in meticulous historical research but infused with humor and accessibility, making Rome’s past feel alive and relatable.
The Heart of SPQR
The SPQR series, named after the Latin Senatus Populusque Romanus (“The Senate and People of Rome”), spans 13 novels and several short stories, each a standalone mystery. In The King’s Gambit (70 BC), Decius investigates murders in Rome’s gritty Subura district, uncovering a plot threatening the Republic. The Catiline Conspiracy (63–62 BC) sees him thwarting a coup, while The Sacrilege (62–61 BC) tackles a scandalous violation of sacred rites. In The Year of Confusion (46 BC), Decius navigates Caesar’s controversial calendar reform amid a string of astronomer murders.
The series shines through its blend of historical accuracy and lively storytelling. Roberts weaves real events and figures—like Cicero and Clodia—into Decius’ investigations, exploring themes of corruption, loyalty, and the clash between tradition and ambition. The first-person narrative, told by an older Decius reflecting on his youth, adds wit and perspective, while the vivid setting—from Rome’s forums to Alexandria’s libraries—immerses readers in a world of chariot races, lavish feasts, and deadly plots.
Decius himself is the series’ heart: a nobleman with a playboy streak, yet fiercely dedicated to justice. His companions, including his clever wife Julia and the gangster-politician Milo, enrich the stories with humor and camaraderie, making each mystery a delightful romp through Rome’s underbelly.
Why SPQR Resonates
SPQR has carved a niche in historical mystery fiction, earning praise for its authentic portrayal of Roman life and its engaging plots. Fans on platforms like Goodreads laud its “fast-paced” and “evocative” style, while critics, like those at Publishers Weekly, highlight Roberts’ “deftness” in bringing the Republic to life. The series’ influence lies in its ability to make ancient Rome accessible, blending education with entertainment. Its cult status, especially in Europe, reflects its appeal to readers craving smart, character-driven mysteries.
Though Roberts passed away in 2024, SPQR’s legacy endures, offering a timeless window into a pivotal era. Its mix of humor, history, and suspense continues to captivate, proving that a good mystery transcends centuries.
- Publication Years: 1990–2010
- Number of Books: 13 novels, plus short stories
- Awards: Edgar Award nominee for The King’s Gambit
- Setting: Roman Republic, 70–20 BC
Grab The King’s Gambit and dive into SPQR’s world of Roman intrigue and mystery! Whether you’re solving crimes with Decius or savoring the chaos of ancient Rome, this series promises an unforgettable adventure.