The Thieves Of Ostia (The Roman Mysteries)

A mysterious adventure of four friends à la The Famous Five/ The Secret Seven. The only distinguishing factor : The story is set in 79 A.D. Rome

The first book in “The Roman Mysteries” series, 'The Thieves of Ostia' is more of an introduction to the four main characters. Flavia Gemina, daughter of sea captain Marcus Flavius Geminus. Nubia, the pretty little slave girl who is saved by Flavia and now lives with her. Jonathan ben Mordecai, Flavia’s new Jewish neighbour. And Lupus, the mute beggar boy, who is sly and cunning…but a big help nevertheless.

Ostia , a seaport in Rome provides the setting for their first adventure. Someone is killing the neighbourhood dogs and lopping their heads off. One of the unfortunate victims is Jonathan's own watchdog, Bobas. Whodunnit, that's basically the premise of this book.

But what really appeals is the glimpse into ancient Rome.....the life and times, the settings, the beliefs, the culture and quaintly enough the manner in which the author has stuck to the whole theme. Dutifully provided with a reference scroll at the end of the story, the book is an interesting lesson in history.