The Sacred Flame

"Get swept away in this story of forbidden passion that unfolds against an immersive historical setting." The BookLife Prize.

A reluctant virgin. A married man desperate for freedom. A wife who will stop at nothing to save her marriage. The fate of an empire lies within their hands.

Ancient Rome, 216 BC
For thirty years, Livia has belonged to Rome. As a priestess of Vesta, she has guarded the eternal flame—prisoner of her own unchosen vows. Now, nearing the end of her service, she longs for the simple life denied her: a husband, a home, and peace.

Instead, fate crowns her High Priestess when her superior falls gravely ill. The safety of Rome rests in her hands, and the sacred fire becomes her burden. As long as it burns, the city stands.

Then Gaius enters her life—an ambitious equestrian trapped in a crumbling marriage. He offers tenderness where she has known only duty, passion where she has known only restraint. For the first time, Livia dares to imagine life beyond the temple walls. But desire is a dangerous spark. Gaius's cunning wife sees everything—and will destroy anyone who threatens her place.

As summer blazes and Hannibal's army marches toward Rome, whispers spread through the city like smoke. If the sacred flame falters, Rome will fall.

Torn between divine duty and forbidden love, Livia must choose: betray her vows to follow her heart or sacrifice everything she has ever wanted to save an empire.

One woman. One flame. One impossible choice.

Read The Sacred Flame today, then continue with the contemporary sequel Bella Toscana. Perfect for fans of Tessa Afshar, Kate Quinn, and Elizabeth Storrs.