The Iron Hand of Mars

The Marcus Didius Falco Mysteries, Book 4

By: Lindsey Davis

Narrated by: Simon Prebble

When Germanic troops in the service of the empire begin to rebel and a Roman general disappears, Emperor Vespasian turns to the one man he can trust: Marcus Didius Falco, a private informer whose rates are low enough that even the stingy Vespasian is willing to pay them.

To Falco, an undercover tour of Germany is an assignment from Hades. On a journey that only a stoic could survive, Falco meets with disarray, torture, and murder. His one hope: In the northern forest lives a powerful Druid priestess who perhaps can be persuaded to cease her anti-Rome activities and work for peace—which Falco is eagerly hoping for as, back in Rome, Titus Caesar is busy trying to make time with Helena Justina, a senator's daughter and Falco's girlfriend.

Lindsey Davis' historical mystery The Iron Hand of Mars is a "seamless blending of humor, history, and adventure" (Publishers Weekly).

©1992 Lindsey Davis (P)2015 Blackstone Audio, Inc.

second read

Just as good as the first time.
I love the series and I like audiobooks.

Way better than the dramatized audio book!

Simon Prebble is a class act & makes a good story a joy to hear.

clever historical mystery

i love the details of life on the frontiers of the ancient roman empire. she is a great writer at putting you in the scene.

Another great adventure in ancient Rome/Germany

Great fun, lots of action, lots of history, the same wonderful stuff we've come to expect from Davis, with really excellent narration. Highly recommended.

Lindsey does it again.

I was introduced to the first 3 books in this series a number of years ago and thought that was it. It is a pleasure to read the next in the series. Ms Davis was kind enough to respond to my inquiry to let me know how far this adventure series had come. This is my first venture to audio books. I will do this again.

The Neat Plot and Twists

Loves the story enough to keep listening to the series. Some mild anachronism as usual but love it. Will eventually have to purchase the BBC performance.

another great performance of a great story

I read the series back in the 90's and must admit did not remember the details of them so for me it is like being reaquainted with an old friend from your youth that you forgot how just much you missed ... add on that the great narration and it makes for a wonderful time spent.

I love these novels - they really bring Ancient Rome to life.

I have read every one of the series. They are great mysteries, presented in an interesting and engaging way with the setting in Ancient Rome. I highly recommend the whole series.

Fantastic

Where does The Iron Hand of Mars rank among all the audiobooks you’ve listened to so far?

Top Ten List. Love this series.

What other book might you compare The Iron Hand of Mars to and why?

Bruce Macbain Series, SPQR, Steven Saylor Series, Roma Sub Rosa. They all have history, mystery and a romance along with delightful humor.

Have you listened to any of Simon Prebble’s other performances before? How does this one compare?

Yes

Another great story

This author has the talent to put you in the daily life of Marcus Didius Falco, ancient Rome's private eye, and is the furthest thing from dry and boring. The stories are full of emotion and action while painting you right into the problems of high and very low society, inside and wildly outside of the Eternal City. You will never look at life the same way again, don't miss this author!