March AD 80. In Rome, the Emperor Titus has announced that there will be a hundred days of games to open his new Flavian amphitheatre (now known as the Colosseum). Suspecting that their friend Jonathan is not dead, as they had thought, Flavia, Nubia and Lupus organise an invitation to Rome on the pretence of witnessing this historic event. Their search for Jonathan leads them straight to the games, where they must face wild beasts, criminals, conspirators and gladiators. It is Nubia's turn to employ all her courage and talents, and before the end of the story she is called upon to make the most terrible choice. A heart-pounding behind-the-scenes account of gladiator fights, executions and beast fights makes this one of the most exciting Roman Mysteries yet.

About the Author

Caroline Lawrence is American. She won a scholarship to Cambridge to read Classical Archaeology, then did a degree in Hebrew and Jewish Studies at University College, London. She lives with her husband, a graphic designer, by the river in London and in addition to writing her books is very active as a speaker in schools and at book festivals.

Prizes

Book 8 in a series which has sold over 900,000 copies since first publication in September 2001. No comparable series exists and we have 16 titles contracted. The Romans are part of National Curriculum Key Stages 1 and 2. Terrific storytelling combined with authentic historical detail. Series described as 'immensely readable' by the Times Educational Supplement. On 'Secrets of Vesuvius' - 'an interesting and exciting read that is extremely well researched. It is packed with accurate detail of everyday Roman life. The story is so well paced and involving that you don't realise just how much information you are absorbing.' School Librarian. Inspiration for the prime time BBC TV series.

Reviews

Gr 5-8-This addition to the series occurs in A.D. 80, during the 100 days of games that celebrated the opening of the Flavian amphitheater, now called the Colosseum. Jonathan, one of four mystery-solving friends, is missing and feared dead in the fires that rage through Rome. When word reaches his friends that he may actually be alive but under arrest for arson, the search begins. Their hunt leads them to the Colosseum, where they fear he will be found among the prisoners who serve as gladiators. The author does not shy away from the gory facts of life there, and the myriad forms of torture, attack, and death are described in great and overworked detail. As in previous titles, Lawrence includes a wealth of information about ancient Roman life. This installment stands well on its own, though new readers may need to sort out the group dynamic. Fans of the series will be happy with the fast-paced plot and plucky young sleuths.-Pat Leach, Lincoln City Libraries, NE Copyright 2006 Reed Business Information.

'As always with Caroline Lawrence, the research is impeccable and the ancient Rome she depicts is very real.' -- Elizabeth Hawksley HISTORICAL NOVELS REVIEW