One Virgin Too Many

One Virgin Too Many is a crime novel by Lindsey Davis. Set in Rome between 27 May and 7 June AD 74, One Virgin Too Many features Marcus Didius Falco, Informer and Imperial Agent. It is the eleventh in her Falco series. The title is a reference to the Vestal Virgins lottery that is a key plot device. When a frightened child approaches Marcus Didius Falco with a plea for help, he does not believe her. One quarrel with the family does not mean that a relation is trying to kill her. Beset by his own family troubles, his new responsibilities as Procurator of the Sacred Poultry, and the continuing... search for a new partner, he decides to send her home. However, he almost immediately regrets it. Gaia Laelia comes from a pre-eminent Roman family with a long history of key religious positions. Gaia, herself, is considered the most likely candidate for election to the office of Vestal Virgin. When she disappears, Falco is officially asked to investigate. Meanwhile, Helena's brother Aelianus has problems of his own. In an attempt to restart his political career - stalled by his younger brother's elopement with his wealthy fiancee - he tries to gain election to the Arval Brethren.
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