313 AD. Under the rule of Emperor Constantine, Rome finally appears to be emerging from its turbulent past. In order to consolidate his control and under the guidance of his mother Helena, Constantine plans to harness the power of the increasingly influential Christian Church. But his loyalties are brought into question when three courtesans from the Guild of Aphrodite - a guild Constantine himself frequents - are found dead. All three bodies have crosses etched on their foreheads and each cheek. Aiming to protect her son's future, Helena calls upon the service of an 'agente in rebus politicis' - or spy. Claudia is the niece of a tavern-owner and is placed as a wine-server in Constantine's household. But Claudia has secret motives of her own...

The gripping first novel of political intrigue in the series set in Ancient Rome and featuring the imperial spy Claudia

About the Author
Paul Doherty was born in Middlesbrough. He studied History at Liverpool and Oxford Universities and obtained a doctorate for his thesis on Edward II and Queen Isabella. He is now headmaster of a school in north-east London and lives with his family in Essex.

Reviews
Praise for Paul Doherty's other novels: 'I really like these medieval whodunnits * Bookseller *
A romping good read * Time Out *
Historically informative, excellently plotted and, as ever, superbly entertaining * CADS 20 *
This rich tale ... seeps authenticity and is written with wonderfully efficient style. A gem of an historical thriller * Huddersfield Daily Examiner *



Book Information
ISBN 9780747260776
Author Paul Doherty
Format Paperback
Page Count 320
Imprint Headline Book Publishing
Publisher Headline Publishing Group
Weight(grams) 175g
Dimensions(mm) 178mm * 118mm * 20mm