From primitive first-century Germany to sophisticated ancient Rome, fourteen-year-old Pepin and his guide, counsellor, and friend Aurina, adventure in search of Pepin's father enslaved by the Romans. A three-month walk during which they endure hardship and adversity brings them to Rome where Aurina sets up her practice as a healer, the description she prefers to doctor or the Latin medicus. Aurina uses herbs, natural remedies, and life-style advice to help patients, among whom is Emperor Tiberius. Tiberius has been poisoned as part of a plot by revolting slaves to overthrow the Roman rulers. The revolt is put down but Tiberius, a despotic capricious man, comes to believe Aurina and Pepin are conspiring against him. Aurina is imprisoned and Pepin is forced into the Roman army. Publisher's website: http: //sbpra.com/JohnDoherty