Ashley Gardner Book order

Set in March 1820, this narrative explores the lives of characters navigating the complexities of their time. The story delves into themes of social change, personal struggles, and the impact of historical events on individual lives. Through rich character development and vivid settings, it captures the essence of a pivotal moment in history, highlighting the tensions and aspirations of the era. The interplay of personal and societal challenges creates a compelling backdrop for the unfolding drama.

Leonidas is coerced into a dice game at his local popina, with a stranger who turns out to not be such a stranger after all. His presence puts all around him in danger, and Leonidas struggles to keep the man's identity secret. Leonidas has no wish to be caught up in this trouble-he's about to begin working as a builder, his ticket out of life as a gladiator and bodyguard. The next morning at the building site, Leonidas almost immediately stumbles across a valuable ring buried in the mud, a ring that has the potential to change the destiny of Rome. Nero commands Leonidas and Cassia to uncover everything about this ring, including who owned it and how it had come to be where it was found. They will not be allowed to fail. The ring proves to be only the tip of the troubles Leonidas uncovers, with danger from the Emporium to the Esquiline and some that visits Leonidas and Cassia very close to home.

The protagonist's visit to a villa near Rome quickly spirals into a whirlwind of intrigue. Tasked with purchasing an antique from Conte de Luca, he finds himself entangled in a rescue mission for a Roman man's daughter and investigating the murder of an Englishman, allegedly committed by a deceased individual. The narrative unfolds with unexpected twists, blending elements of mystery and adventure against the backdrop of Italian aristocracy.

Leonidas, champion gladiator or Rome, is set free from the games by a mysterious benefactor who grants him freedom, a place to live, and a servant--Cassia, a scribe--to look after him.But the benefactor is only so generous--Leonidas must pay his own way and Cassia's, which means hiring himself out. The sharp-witted Cassia quickly finds him a post as a bodyguard, escorting a retired senator to Ostia.The trip soon turns deadly, as Leonidas and Cassia finds themselves squarely in the middle of intrigue that reaches from the slums of the Subura to the Palatine Hill and the emperor Nero himself.

Featuring three intriguing mysteries from the Captain Lacey series, this anthology includes the novella "The Necklace Affair" and two short stories, "The Gentleman's Walking Stick" and "The Disappearance of Miss Sarah Oswald." Each tale showcases Lacey's keen detective skills as he navigates the complexities of crime and society in a richly detailed historical setting. Fans of classic mysteries will appreciate the blend of suspense and character development throughout these captivating narratives.

Explore captivating historical mysteries set in diverse eras, from the intrigue of Imperial Rome to the complexities of Victorian London. Each story offers a unique blend of suspense and rich historical detail, immersing readers in different cultures and time periods while unraveling enigmatic plots.

Set against the backdrop of 1817 London, a former cavalry officer, Captain Gabriel Lacey, is drawn into a chilling mystery after identifying the body of a young woman on the Thames. Deeply affected by her tragic fate, he becomes determined to uncover the truth behind her untimely death and bring her murderer to justice. The story promises a blend of historical intrigue and a quest for resolution in a society rife with secrets.

Set in Imperial Rome, the story follows Leonidas, a former gladiator wrongly accused of murder. As he navigates the dangers of the city to prove his innocence, he receives unexpected support from Cassia, the daughter of a Greek scribe. Despite her lack of traditional skills, Cassia excels in investigation and writing, using her talents to help Leonidas clear his name. Their partnership reveals Leonidas's true character, contrasting his brutal reputation with his protective nature, as both face the looming threat of the arena if they fail.