AD 53 - Strong-willed, impetuous, and naive, Theodosia Varro inherits the family estate after her brother is murdered on the streets of Rome. With no preparation, she goes from poverty and isolation to great wealth and a prestigious position in society. Only by identifying her brother's killer can she feel safe, yet her efforts take her in quite the opposite direction. After her own actions and the scheming of others lead to catastrophe, Theodosia struggles to survive and recover what matters most in her life.REVIEWS: "Powerful, evocative visit to ancient Rome. Martha Marks takes us there with this superb novel and leaves us eager for the next installment! -Grady Harp, Top 100 Reviewer, Amazon Vine Voice"If I were to select a book of the year to read, RUBIES OF THE VIPER would be in the running for top choice. Yes, it is that good." -Rhonda Esakov for Story Circle Book Reviews"I ordered this book after seeing all the five star reviews. Now I see they are well deserved. Impossible to put this book down. I HIGHLY recommend this book." -Patricia Goodspeed, Amazon Vine Voice"This was a great read with many enjoyable characters (or deplorable characters, as appropriate) and a good deal of vivid historical detail. I am eager to read the sequel, The Viper Amulet." -Kristen McQuinn for Discovery Diamonds Book Reviews"A gem, not in the rough as one might expect from a new author, but polished enough to reflect the seemingly effortless combination of scholarship and storytelling ability. Despite being set during the ubiquitous Julio-Claudian line of emperors, it is a very fresh, unique voice among the crowd... I am so glad I didn't miss this and urge you to give it a try. Oh- even if you aren't a fan of historical mysteries set in the ancient world, I would still bet you would enjoy it- all you need is an appreciation of good writing and an ability to handle plot." -Goodreads reviewer Sheri Humble"Martha Marks' writing is beautiful. Her lifelong love of ancient Rome shines through in this novel. She gives us details about life at all levels of Roman society, from patricians to slaves, and she takes us to a great variety of locations, from Theodosia's estate to an underground prison cell, to a musical competition at Nero's palace. The scenes set in Greece and Syria are beautifully written, as well. I highly recommend RUBIES OF THE VIPER, and I am looking forward to the other two volumes in the trilogy." --Vicki Kondelik, librarian, University of Michigan