The first impressions of this book, normal length, short chapters. There is a list of important characters, its organization is interesting, with headings such as ‘hindered by’, ‘assisted by’, ‘endangered by’, ‘not missed by’, and such. Some of the characters have odd names such as Ingenuus, Postumus and Innocens, although if there was some hidden meaning there, I missed it.
Terra Incognita is the second book in the Medicus Ruso series. Gaius Petreius Ruso is a doctor in the Roman military service. The book is set in 118 C.E. Britannia. Ruso has an inquisitive personality and is observant of details. Although not involved in a murder investigation, even asked to keep his distance, he is compelled to study the matter and to seek answers to his questions, especially when they lead where others choose not to look.
The victim, a Roman Centurion, was beheaded, and his head is missing. An antlered man is seen about and hints that the gods are involved abound. The Roman unit’s doctor has claimed to have done it, but it doesn’t fit Ruso’s understanding of events, the military wants to punish one of the locals. Plenty is at stake.
The book is enjoyable and seems well-researched. Bits of culture and history abound through the story making it easy to become immersed. The mystery is good and well as the solution. This is a fun read.
