The story follows the intertwined destinies of Thea, a slave girl turned chariot racer, and Lepida, a ruthless Roman aristocrat hungry for power and status.
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Thea, a captive from Judaea, is a clever and determined survivor hiding behind a slave’s docile mask. Purchased as a toy for the spoiled heiress Lepida Pollia, Thea evades her mistress’s spite and hones a secret passion for music. But when Thea wins the love of Rome’s newest and most savage gladiator and dares to dream of a better life, the jealous Lepida tears the lovers apart and casts Thea out.
Rome offers many ways for the resourceful to survive, and Thea remakes herself as a singer for the Eternal ’City’s glittering aristocrats. As she struggles for success and independence, her nightingale voice attracts a dangerous new admirer: the Emperor himself. But the passions of an all-powerful man come with a heavy price, and Thea finds herself fighting for both her soul and her destiny.
Many have tried to destroy the Emperor: a vengeful gladiator, an upright senator, a tormented soldier, a Vestal Virgin. But in the end, the life of Rome’s most powerful man lies in the hands of one woman: the Emperor’s mistress.
About the Author
Kate Quinn is a New York Times bestselling author of historical fiction. She holds a master’s degree in Classical Voice from Boston University and is a lifelong history buff.
Kate Quinn is a native of Southern California and has gained recognition for her expertise in crafting historical narratives set in various periods, often with strong female characters.
What to read next
I’d definitely suggest completing the Empress of Rome series if you haven’t already. The next book in the series is titled Daughters of Rome.
If you’ve already completed this series, I’d suggest reading more books by Kate Quinn such as the Borgia Chronicles. You can find a full list of Kate Quinn’s books on the link below.
