I found it impossible to stop at Chapter 5.

But seriously, this is not the first Falco book I've read, This is, however, the first time for this book. Many of the questions I had about later books' references are answered in this one. Hope I don't throw in any unintentional spoilers.

As for characters....I just love Marcus Didius Falco. His wry humor is a delight. He reminds me a bit of an avocado...tough and a little rough on the outside, but scratch a bit and you find soft and luscious interior. He likes to project a macho attitude. He would be appalled if he thought others saw through this disguise.

It was actually Falco's actions with Sosia that made me see Him as a big soft marshmallow. His first thought at seeing this lovely young thing running through the Forum was typical. (He is, after all, a red blooded Roman male.) But after that first gut reaction he helps her escape her pursuers.

I think this whole thing is going to cost me. Now I've got to buy the rest of the series.