‘In my life I walked among titans, emperors, generals - men whose feuds and desires shaped the landscape of Rome… Some were my friends, some of them I loved, others loathed me, and others still grew to fear me.’

In the dying days of the Roman republic, a remarkable woman steps out of the shadows and beyond the boundaries imposed on her sex, driven by an unstoppable ambition. Kaarina Parker's stunning debut novel, told in the compelling voice of this brilliant woman from history, brings Fulvia and the society in which she lived vividly to life.

Born into a wealthy but unimportant family, Fulvia is raised in the peace of the Etruscan countryside but longs for a life of excitement and influence. When her father dies and her inheritance is threatened, she makes her way to the city of Rome to secure her future.

Motivated by both passion and opportunism, Fulvia marries Clodius, a hedonistic young senator. They are perfect partners - risk takers, scornful of convention and eager for change. Although Clodius is heir to a leading aristocratic family, he has spent his life criticising the rules of his class and championing the common people. As a wife and mother, Fulvia fulfils her role in a society that denies women any influence outside the home - but she is also a ruthless political strategist, intent on seeing her husband rise through the ranks of Rome's governing body, the senate. And, through him, wielding her own authority.

But Rome is a dangerous place, and power can become notoriety overnight. Fulvia soon learns just how high the stakes really are, and that her ambitions may come at a terrible cost.

PRAISE FOR FULVIA:

‘A triumph! Parker deftly draws the reader into a whirlpool of politics and intrigue, bringing the sights and sounds of ancient Rome to life in lush detail. A timely meditation on the power of the people versus a small cadre of conservative elites, and an engaging tale about a woman who refuses to play by any rules except her own.’ LUNA McNAMARA, author of Psyche and Eros

‘A dramatic tale from an exciting new storyteller, Fulvia shines a light on the women behind the forces and factions in ancient Rome. Taking us on a turbulent ride, Kaarina Parker delves into the personal and political world of a strong-minded woman who shapes the fortunes of the men around her – and perhaps even the future of Rome itself. Beneath Fulvia's veneer of machinations, a push for social change beats a steady and dangerous drum. This bold novel grabbed me with its tale of power-play, political hope, and women's inner strength.’ ELYSE JOHN, author of Orphia and Eurydicius 

‘Compelling, relatable characters and a brilliant voice. Fulvia is a fascinating insight into an extraordinary woman of ancient Rome. Some stories, some lives, cry out to be told. This is one of them.’ CONN IGGULDEN, author of the Emperor and Conqueror series

‘Fulvia is meticulously researched, and the writing grabs you and doesn’t let go with its pace, but Kaarina Parker also expertly brings this era and location to life. Fulvia is an unforgettable heroine, rightfully centre-stage in this exceptional novel. I am delighted to learn the author is working on the sequel.’ KAREN MCMILLAN, NZ Booklovers