• Semper Fidelis

  • A Novel of the Roman Empire

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Publisher's summary

Back at his post as a doctor in the 20th legion in Roman-occupied Britain, Ruso uncovers a new danger even closer to home than the neighboring barbarians.

As mysterious injuries, and even deaths, begin to appear in the medical ledgers, it's clear that all is not well amongst the native recruits to Britannia's imperial army. Is the much-decorated centurion Geminus preying on his weaker soldiers? And could this be related to the appearance of Emperor Hadrian?

Bound by his sense of duty and ill-advised curiosity, Ruso begins to ask questions nobody wants to hear. Meanwhile his barbarian wife Tilla is finding out some of the answers -and is marked as a security risk by the very officers Ruso is interrogating.

With Hadrian's visit looming large, the fates of the legion, Tilla, and Ruso himself hang in the balance.
©2013 Ruth Downie (P)2013 Tantor
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Historical Fiction Mystery Witty Funny
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Critic reviews

"Downie injects a modern who-done-it twist into the imperial action." ( Kirkus)
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What listeners say about Semper Fidelis

Overall ratings

  • 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • 5 Stars
    459
  • 4 Stars
    264
  • 3 Stars
    65
  • 2 Stars
    7
  • 1 Stars
    3
Audible.com reviews

Customer reviews

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5 out of 5 stars
By Jessica on 06-19-13

This series is great

whats odd is I never like the new one when it comes out. Its never as good as the last one, which I always come to love. And I love this one now. These stories are a lovely weave of historical fiction, muder mystery, fantasy heroism, and postcolonial politics. For some listeners it may just be a murder mystery with an exotic backdrop, and is certainly enjoyable on that level, but there is a lot more to the narrative if you are open to it. Thats the difference between good and great. These are great. Can't wait for the next one. Do we get to go to Rome ? is Justinus still alive? Will they ever have children? Oh I cannot wait

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3 people found this helpful

5 out of 5 stars
By Librarian on 11-19-20

Better than the prior book

I really enjoyed this book better than the earlier. This keeps moving. More action and twists. If liked earlier stories then you’ll enjoy it.



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1 person found this helpful

5 out of 5 stars
By TINA R on 11-18-23

I love these stories

Russo and Tilla are a fun duo. They are very committed to each other and fun

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