sentences:  In this novel, Flavia Gemina is even more headstrong and imperious than usual, but shows signs of learning from her errors in judgement; Lupus shows his cunning in dice games, his love of trailing people and his skill at art; Nubia shows her courage in helping to capture the lion and a quiet patience which encourages people to talk more than Flavia's questions; Jonathan shows his loyalty in supporting Flavia even when he thinks she is wrong, and surprises himself at his boldness in going to some of the odd places she sends him.The main themes are love and marriage.The book opens on the lefa day of Miriam's betrothal feast and ends on her wedding day.