Helpful Score: 3
This is the first of the Falco books I've read, so I might have missed something in the first book that detracted from my enjoyment of this one. But, I found the plot, while interesting, a bit drawn out and overly complicated with events that weren't truly needed. The story seems to be less about the actual mystery and more a soap opera type account of his life. And I had a hard time rooting for Falco, the main character. He's cynical, crass, self-centered, and has very low self esteem. Perhaps that appeals to some, but I found it hard to get into. Overall, it was an ok book, but a bit lackluster.
Barbara B. (GrannyGamer) - reviewed Shadows in Bronze (Marcus Didius Falco, Bk 2) on + 153 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
The second in Davis' Marcus Falco mystery series, this is every bit as good as the first. Falco is one of the most appealing "detectives" to come along in a long time. Although the plot is complex, the characters are well defined enough to make the action easy to follow. At times the writing appears anachronistic, but never in a jarring or annoying way. It's an easy read with a very sweet romance as a subplot.
I particularly like the fact that the book contains a list of the characters at the front (and there is even quite a bit of humor there!) as well as maps in the back of the book.
I particularly like the fact that the book contains a list of the characters at the front (and there is even quite a bit of humor there!) as well as maps in the back of the book.