A History of the Roman Empire in 21 Women

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Experience Rome like never before—boldly unconventional, mischievous, and unapologetically feminine. This history offers a refreshing departure from the typical narrative of the Roman Empire, which often begins with Romulus's fratricide and meanders through a tedious chronology of battles and political intrigue, culminating in the rise of Christianity and the chaos that follows. Instead, Emma Southon presents an alternative history that highlights the lives of Vestal Virgins, sex workers, entrepreneurs, poets, empresses, and saints. Meet Hispala Faecenia, an entrepreneurial sex worker who uncovers a conspiracy involving treason and wild Bacchic orgies, emerging as one of Rome's most unlikely heroes. Dine at the House of Julia Felix in Pompeii, where the savvy businesswoman serves locally sourced delicacies against the stunning backdrop of Mount Vesuvius. Join the remarkable Septimia Zenobia, who, fed up with a string of incompetent emperors, boldly declared herself Empress and took control of half the Roman Empire. This narrative reveals the vibrant, often overlooked stories of women and marginalized figures who shaped Rome's history, showcasing a rich tapestry of experiences beyond the traditional accounts.