Between writing her bestselling novels, Caroline Lawrence has penned several short stories, covering incidents alluded to in the novels, but not dramatised at length. This book brings together mini-mysteries to provide even more coverage of events in the lives of our four detectives during the dangerous, exciting reign of Emperor Titus. Each of these short and sharp stories is as compelling and exciting as the novels, full of the sights and sounds of ancient Rome. Caroline Lawrence has written exclusive notes on each story, providing background on the inspiration and relevance to the series.

Mystery and adventure in Ancient Roman times for Flavia Gemina and her friends . . . Sacred chickens, a jellyfish and a Roman mystery set in Britannia - this collection of mini-mysteries is the perfect recipe for a gripping read! Includes an exclusive interview with Caroline Lawrence on the secrets of writing mystery stories!

A ragged stranger and the prospect of losing her family's fortune lead Flavia Gemina and her friends, Jonathan, Lupus, and Nubia to a seaside villa where possible danger and treasure are close at hand.

At the end of book 17 of the Roman Mysteries, Caroline Lawrence introduced us to Threptus - a young beggar boy who is inspired to learn to read, write and lead an honest life by Lupus's example. Threptus needs to earn money to be schooled and as he seeks employment he meets many fascinating residents of the Port of Ostia ... all of whom have a mystery which needs to be solved. Each of the Threptus books will be a mini mystery.

When a Roman widow shows unusual interest in Flavia's father, Flavia decides to discover Cartila's true motives by performing twelve tasks, just like the Greek hero Hercules.

Floridius, freelance soothsayer, is afraid that he has lost his talent for seeing the future. Threptus wants to find some titbits of information that his mentor can use to convince people he still has the gift, but will a poisoned honey cake lead to disaster along the way? Join Threptus and Floridius on their hilarious and action-packed adventures among Rome's superstitious underclass, and don't miss this ruder, funnier and still historically accurate companion to The Roman Mysteries.

Floridius the Soothsayer has been asked to read the omens for a wealthy man whose villa appears to be haunted. The pay is good but it means studying a sheep's liver and poor Floridius faints at the sight of blood! Can Threptus solve the mystery and save his friend from embarrassment? Join Threptus and Floridius on their hilarious and action-packed adventures among Rome's superstitious underclass, and don't miss this ruder, funnier and still historically accurate companion to The Roman Mysteries.