After spending a couple books on the history of Rome, Steven Saylor is back to Gordianus the Finder. But the newest book, The Seven Wonders, is not a novel. It’s a linked collection of short stories with the common theme being, The Seven Wonders of the World. This is actually Saylor’s second collection of Gordianus short stories (A Gladiator Dies Only Once is the other one) and it’s nice to get some more Gordianus. So let’s see what Gordianus is up to.

This book is set early in Gordianus’ life when he has just turned 18 and is going on an adventure with his tutor Antipater of Sidon (who has just officially died) on a journey to see all the seven wonders of the world. Saylor uses Antipater of Sidon as the guide because he is one of the historical figures who is responsible for the Seven Wonders of the World list.

The stories start with Antipater’s death. He’s not really dead, but wants to wander without being recognized. Gordianus’ father (who is also a Finder) is present as he handles the funeral arrangements (which Antipater complicates) and then the pair is off on their adventures. Gordianus is 18 (as the book is set in 92 BC) at the time of the novel and isn’t known as a Finder yet. This is his first major travels and his first real experience outside of the Roman Empire. As the duo travel from wonder to wonder, there are mysteries to be found and solved as Gordianus leans on the training from his father and Antipater to help solve mysteries.

Overall it’s a decent book. The collection of stories don’t work as well as a novel because the mysteries and the supporting characters really don’t get room to breathe. Most, if not all, of the mysteries are solved within a few pages of them being introduced because of the format. But decent Gordianus is better than no Gordianus. If you’re Roman Sub Rosa fan, then this is a must read book. For others, it’s a nice introduction to the character. Mildly recommended.