Review of Fulvia by Kaarina Parker

We meet our ambitious female lead, Fulvia, born into a wealthy but unimportant Roman family. When the patriarchy of her family dies, Fulvia convinces her mother to allow her to go to Rome where she will meet a man who will be worthy of becoming her husband (*cough* guardian)

When in Rome, as they say, she becomes acquainted with young aristocrat, Clodius, who loves his party boy lifestyle but has no political drive. Fulvia immediately knows that she wants him. After their marriage, Fulvia ups the gear and drives both herself and Clodius to a powerful position on the Republic, where she learns about high stakes and their steep costs. We are swept away to Ancient Rome, where the women are see as the men's accessories. Where women pay the price for men's crimes, yet they are unable to appear as witnesses for themselves.

I was immediately intoxicated by Kaarina's writing, utterly swept away in time to a place where you can hear the loud scandalous whispers, feel the scorching dust of Rome's streets settle on your skin and the smell of political power charging the air. I loved Fulvia, how she navigated the patriarchy of old Rome, with her head held high with self belief and ambition, while also holding her cards close to her chest. What a bookish role model.

Highly recommend!

Reviewed by Danielle

Published on 15/07/25 by Manilla Press

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