Those acts of self-exploration

“All writing is an act of self-exploration. Even a grocery list says something about you; how much more does a novel say?” – Steven Saylor

My move into historical fiction led me to explore other writers in the genre, and one of the more interesting is Steven Saylor, the native Texan who has mostly made his writing name by delving into Ancient Rome.  And, in a unique twist, he has created a very memorable early historical detective, Gordianus the Finder, who solves crimes while giving us a very palatable taste of Roman history and culture on the side. 

   
Born in Port Lavaca, Texas on this day in 1956, Saylor studied both history and the Classics at the University of Texas before deciding to combine the two with a love of writing and mysteries.   Among Saylor's best-known works is his Roma Sub Rosa historical mystery series set the time of Sulla, Cicero, Julius Caesar, and Cleopatra.  He also has also authored two epic-length historical novels about the city of Rome, Roma and Empire.   His work has been published in 21 languages.

Saylor has also written several novels set in Texas including the 1880s[ A Twist at the End, featuring the great short story writer O. Henry, and the contemporary thriller Have You Seen Dawn?   

Honored with the Mystery Writers of America’s prestigious Robert L. Fish Award, Saylor is noted for his attention to even the smallest details             which, in turn, create delightful “discoveries” for readers to enjoy. 

“I'm like the painter with his nose to the canvas, fussing over details,” Saylor said.   “Gazing from a distance, the reader gets to see the big picture.”

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