The Silver Pigs
The Silver Pigs
Book Brief
352
Novel • Fiction
Rome • 70s CE
1989
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
In Lindsey Davis's historical mystery The Silver Pigs, set in 70 A.D., detective Marcus Didius Falco rescues a young woman named Sosia Camillina from attackers in Rome's Forum and is subsequently drawn into a complex investigation involving her murder, silver theft in Britannia, and a conspiracy against Emperor Vespasian, ultimately facing moral dilemmas and burgeoning romance with Helena Justina. The book contains depictions of violence and the brutal realities of slavery.
Mysterious
Suspenseful
Humorous
Adventurous
Gritty
Reviews & Readership
17,048 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Lindsey Davis's The Silver Pigs has been praised for its engaging blend of historical fiction and detective elements. Set in ancient Rome, readers commend the witty, complex protagonist and vivid setting. However, some find the plot slow at times and certain historical details questionable. Overall, Davis skillfully balances humor, mystery, and history.
Who Should Read The Silver Pigs?
Fans of engaging historical mysteries set in ancient Rome, akin to Steven Saylor’s Roma Sub Rosa series, will relish The Silver Pigs by Lindsey Davis. Ideal for readers who appreciate a mix of detective work, humor, and rich historical detail, this novel is perfect for those who enjoy discovering intriguing plots woven into real historical settings.
17,048 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
The Silver Pigs is the first book in Lindsey Davis's acclaimed series featuring Marcus Didius Falco, an informer in ancient Rome, blending historical fiction with elements of mystery and humor.
The novel introduces readers to Falco’s love interest, Helena Justina, marking the beginning of an iconic and enduring romantic relationship throughout the series.
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Published in 1989, The Silver Pigs won the Authors' Club Best First Novel Award, setting the stage for Lindsey Davis’s successful writing career.
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352
Novel • Fiction
Rome • 70s CE
1989
Adult
18+ years
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