Death Ex Machina: An Athenian Mystery    by Gary Corby Order:  USA  Can Soho, 2015 (2015) Hardcover, e-Book     Reviewed by Bob Walch Someone seems to be trying to sabotage the Great Dionysia, the largest arts festival of the ancient world. This festival brings thousands of visitors to Athens and is the showcase of the celebration honoring Dionysus, the god of wine. A series of accidents has been plaguing the festival theater. One actor has been seriously injured while another is found dead, hanging from one of the devices used to stage the plays. Amateur Greek sleuth Nicolaos and his lovely wife, the priestess Diotima, have been asked by Pericles to investigate the situation so that the festival can go on as scheduled. Under the pressure of a tight deadline, the couple will have to cast their net wide to figure who is behind the actor's death. This is a case that involves not only competing religious sects but also some of Athens' most prominent citizens. The story's a bit convoluted but it is an entertaining read, especially if you enjoy historical mysteries, so you won't mind the pace which can be a bit slow at times. The fact Corby spices his tale up with a few naughty bits relieves some of the tedium, so most readers won't object to a few lapses! Note: Opinions expressed in reviews and articles on this site are those of the author(s) and not necessarily those of BookLoons. Find more Mystery books on our Shelves or in our book Reviews