The Ides of April (Ray, Mary, Roman Empire Sequence.)

Hylas is a young Greek slave in the household of Caius Pomponius, a Roman Senator involved in political schemes. When the senator is found mysteriously murdered, the household slaves (including Hylas and his mother) fall under suspicion. Hylas escapes capture long enough to enlist the aid of a young tribune, Camillus Rufus. The desparate attempt to unravel the threads of the political intrigue carries Camillus into the very presence of Nero and brings Hylas into contact with the new secret sect of Christians. English author Mary Ray presents an unique historical mystery for teenagers. (See also the sequel, Beyond the Desert Gate.)