''Fans of Philippa Gregory will be entranced. Kate Quinn''s unforgettable third novel is a mesmerising story of passion, ambition and betrayal.'' ELLE

Under its beloved Emperor Trajan, the Roman Eagle spreads its wings, advancing ever further into the untamed world. But neither Trajan nor his reign can last for ever. Gladiator turned soldier Vix is back in Rome to make his fortune. Sabina, the wayward daughter of a senator, craves adventure. United by their devotion to the Emperor, Vix and Sabina are unaware that the wolves are gathering. Trajan''s enigmatic Empress has her own plans for Sabina. And the aristocratic Hadrian, the Empress''s protégé, conceals dark ambitions rooted in a secret prophecy. When Trajan falls, the hardened warrior, the adventurous girl, the shadowy empress and the scheming politician are caught in a deadly whirlwind that threatens to seal all their fates - and that of the Roman Empire itself...

From New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of THE ALICE NETWORK and THE HUNTRESS comes a powerful Roman epic, perfect for those who loved the HBO mini-series ROME.

Readers LOVE Kate Quinn:

''One of my absolute all-time favourite books ever!! Read it four times now and I still can''t get enough of it.'' ***** Reader Review

''I would recommend it to anyone.'' ***** Reader Review

''One of my favourites!!! I highly recommend to anyone who enjoys Roman history.'' ***** Reader Review

''Wow! What a book! This is the best book I have read for a really long time. I couldn''t put it down. WOW WOW WOW!!'' ***** Reader Review

''A spellbinding novel that gripped me from the start and I really can''t wait to read the sequel.'' ***** Reader Review

''I love reading novels set in Roman times and this was certainly one of the best I have read in a very long time.'' ***** Reader Review