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Empress Theodora #2
The Purple Shroud
* A sequel to the hugely acclaimed, award-winning historical novel THEODORA.
Once, Theodora was little more than a slave, the daughter of a bear-keeper, running barefoot through the streets of Constantinople. Now she is Theoudoron, 'the Gift of God', Empress of Byzantine Rome and the most powerful woman in the world.
'Hard-nosed, cruel, imaginative, kind, frustrated, generous, Theodora is, in Duffy's hands, a richly paradoxical character from whom the light of life shines brightly' GUARDIAN
In Stella Duffy's compelling new novel, the beguiling and extraordinary Empress Theodora emerges from the shadow of history into brilliant light. Clever, courageous and ruthless when betrayed, Theodora rules alongside her husband, the Emperor Justinian - a true love match in a world of political marriages. But while wars rage on the borders of the Empire, Theodora discovers that the greatest danger to her reign - and her life - lies much closer to home.
'Highly enjoyable' SUNDAY TIMES
'A writer who never lets you down' ALI SMITH
Once, Theodora was little more than a slave, the daughter of a bear-keeper, running barefoot through the streets of Constantinople. Now she is Theoudoron, 'the Gift of God', Empress of Byzantine Rome and the most powerful woman in the world.
'Hard-nosed, cruel, imaginative, kind, frustrated, generous, Theodora is, in Duffy's hands, a richly paradoxical character from whom the light of life shines brightly' GUARDIAN
In Stella Duffy's compelling new novel, the beguiling and extraordinary Empress Theodora emerges from the shadow of history into brilliant light. Clever, courageous and ruthless when betrayed, Theodora rules alongside her husband, the Emperor Justinian - a true love match in a world of political marriages. But while wars rage on the borders of the Empire, Theodora discovers that the greatest danger to her reign - and her life - lies much closer to home.
'Highly enjoyable' SUNDAY TIMES
'A writer who never lets you down' ALI SMITH
416 pages, Paperback
First published June 5, 2012
18 people are currently reading
894 people want to read
About the author
Stella Duffy
65 books185 followersStella Duffy was born in London and grew up in New Zealand. She has lived and worked in London since the mid-1980s. She has written seventeen novels, over seventy short stories, and devised and/or written fourteen plays. The Room of Lost Things and State of Happiness were both longlisted for the Orange Prize, and she has twice won Stonewall Writer of the Year. She has twice won the CWA Short Story Dagger. Stella is the co-founder of the Fun Palaces campaign for cultural democracy. Her latest novel is Lullaby Beach (Virago).
She is also a yoga teacher, teaching workshops in yoga for writing, and a trainee Existential Psychotherapist, her ongoing doctoral research is in the embodied experience of being postmenopausal.
She is also a yoga teacher, teaching workshops in yoga for writing, and a trainee Existential Psychotherapist, her ongoing doctoral research is in the embodied experience of being postmenopausal.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
March 4, 2019
The sequel to the early years of Theodora: Actress, Empress, Whore, continues the biographical, fictional account as the married royals have sat on the throne for a couple of years before this tale begins. Storyline brings to life the Byzantine Empire during the early reign of Justinian and Theodora as they learn governance while dealing with threats to their kingdom and their rule. The Purple Shroud is a fabulous ancient historical tale.
October 19, 2012
I reviewed this book for www.luxuryreading.com.
The Purple Shroud, the follow up to Stella Duffy’s Theodora: Actress, Empress, Whore, begins five years into Justinian I’s reign as Emperor. It has been eleven years since Theodora was brought to the palace and her life irrevocably changed. She is now Empress, with all the riches, security and power that the title entails. She is greatly loved and respected by her husband and marginally so by the others that surround them, always seeking the ear and good wishes of the Augusts. Even though she finds the restrictions on her freedom stifling, she knows that her place beside her husband, a man she has grown to love greatly, is far more important than her ability to walk outside the palace's walls undetected. She now has the ability to make a difference in the world, an ability she does not take lightly.
Through destruction and plague, through growth and rebirth, Theodora stays by Justinian’s side and works tirelessly to align her husband’s goals with that of his people’s. Through it all she learns to open herself up and love those who care for her and distance herself from those that try to bring her down, those that can’t believe that a dancing whore from the streets – Theodora-from-the-brothel – could care for anything more than her own greed. Proving them wrong, Theodora not only improves life for the citizens of Constantinople during her lifetime but sets into motion changes for the future, such as the succession after Justinian, that firmly place her as one of the most influential women in the history of the Roman Empire.
While I enjoyed reading Theodora: Actress, Empress, Whore, I loved The Purple Shroud. The older, more mature Theodora is so much more compelling a character than the cynical, conniving young Theodora in the first book. She has learned to better control her temper and to use her sharp mind to make the changes necessary for the good of all, not just for her own survival. She shows real remorse for abandoning her daughter to be raised by her sister and seeks out a friendship with her. She tries to make amends for her previous selfishness with a good marriage that will secure her daughter’s place long after she is gone. Above all the love and respect between Justinian and Theodora comes across as truly genuine and Theodora herself comes across as a caring, humane person that I never would have expected after reading the first book.
The beginning of The Purple Shroud gives a short synopsis of Theodora’s early life, allowing the reader to pick it up without having to read Theodora: Actress, Empress, Whore first. While the first book is entertaining and will give the reader a firmer sense of where Theodora comes from, The Purple Shroud is by far the better book and can easily be read as a stand-alone. My only complaint is that there are no author notes guiding me towards what are the facts of Theodora’s life and what liberties the author took. That being said, any lover of historical fiction would be remiss to not read more about this incredibly dynamic woman, and The Purple Shroud is a great place to start.
The Purple Shroud, the follow up to Stella Duffy’s Theodora: Actress, Empress, Whore, begins five years into Justinian I’s reign as Emperor. It has been eleven years since Theodora was brought to the palace and her life irrevocably changed. She is now Empress, with all the riches, security and power that the title entails. She is greatly loved and respected by her husband and marginally so by the others that surround them, always seeking the ear and good wishes of the Augusts. Even though she finds the restrictions on her freedom stifling, she knows that her place beside her husband, a man she has grown to love greatly, is far more important than her ability to walk outside the palace's walls undetected. She now has the ability to make a difference in the world, an ability she does not take lightly.
Through destruction and plague, through growth and rebirth, Theodora stays by Justinian’s side and works tirelessly to align her husband’s goals with that of his people’s. Through it all she learns to open herself up and love those who care for her and distance herself from those that try to bring her down, those that can’t believe that a dancing whore from the streets – Theodora-from-the-brothel – could care for anything more than her own greed. Proving them wrong, Theodora not only improves life for the citizens of Constantinople during her lifetime but sets into motion changes for the future, such as the succession after Justinian, that firmly place her as one of the most influential women in the history of the Roman Empire.
While I enjoyed reading Theodora: Actress, Empress, Whore, I loved The Purple Shroud. The older, more mature Theodora is so much more compelling a character than the cynical, conniving young Theodora in the first book. She has learned to better control her temper and to use her sharp mind to make the changes necessary for the good of all, not just for her own survival. She shows real remorse for abandoning her daughter to be raised by her sister and seeks out a friendship with her. She tries to make amends for her previous selfishness with a good marriage that will secure her daughter’s place long after she is gone. Above all the love and respect between Justinian and Theodora comes across as truly genuine and Theodora herself comes across as a caring, humane person that I never would have expected after reading the first book.
The beginning of The Purple Shroud gives a short synopsis of Theodora’s early life, allowing the reader to pick it up without having to read Theodora: Actress, Empress, Whore first. While the first book is entertaining and will give the reader a firmer sense of where Theodora comes from, The Purple Shroud is by far the better book and can easily be read as a stand-alone. My only complaint is that there are no author notes guiding me towards what are the facts of Theodora’s life and what liberties the author took. That being said, any lover of historical fiction would be remiss to not read more about this incredibly dynamic woman, and The Purple Shroud is a great place to start.
February 1, 2014
3.5 stars. There aren't a lot of books set in the sixth century, period, let alone one set in what we'd now call the Middle East but was then considered part of Rome, Byzantium/Constantinople. Nor books where the heroine is past her youth. Realizing, now, that the author had written an earlier book about Empress Theodora's earlier life, but since I haven't yet read that, I come to this one as if it was a stand-alone.
For the most part, I liked it very much, and it did work as a stand-alone. For some readers, the portrayal of a heroine as unfaithful to a husband she loved is a deal-breaker; IMO, it made her more human and flawed. Sometimes she was a sympathetic character; other times she did some really cruel things, or turned her back while they were done on her behalf. She would've been a loyal friend but a deadly enemy. The depiction of the Nika riots, the construction of the Hagia Sophia church, and especially the bubonic plague and dealing with the dead bodies... all horrifying and very real.
Other parts felt more like telling than showing; while most of it was told from Theodora's POV, there were occasionally slips into other characters' POV's. That's something that slowed me at the beginning but either they went away or I got so wrapped up in the tale they became invisible.
My biggest gripe is there wasn't any one thing I could identify that Theodora wanted and was trying to get throughout the book. It's more of a historical biography, hitting all the known facts in the real woman's life, with some embellishment. There were many little goals, but no big overriding one. I read on because I wanted to discover what happened next in Theodora's life, and I don't mind character-driven novels, but if you prefer strong plots, you might not care for this.
I loved the allegory of the Purple Shroud, which in many ways Theodora wore throughout her time as Empress, the real, living woman being "buried" beneath the demands of wearing the purple. I also really liked the way there was real love between Theodora and Justinian, despite the difference in age; it makes for a very unconventional love story.
For the most part, I liked it very much, and it did work as a stand-alone. For some readers, the portrayal of a heroine as unfaithful to a husband she loved is a deal-breaker; IMO, it made her more human and flawed. Sometimes she was a sympathetic character; other times she did some really cruel things, or turned her back while they were done on her behalf. She would've been a loyal friend but a deadly enemy. The depiction of the Nika riots, the construction of the Hagia Sophia church, and especially the bubonic plague and dealing with the dead bodies... all horrifying and very real.
Other parts felt more like telling than showing; while most of it was told from Theodora's POV, there were occasionally slips into other characters' POV's. That's something that slowed me at the beginning but either they went away or I got so wrapped up in the tale they became invisible.
My biggest gripe is there wasn't any one thing I could identify that Theodora wanted and was trying to get throughout the book. It's more of a historical biography, hitting all the known facts in the real woman's life, with some embellishment. There were many little goals, but no big overriding one. I read on because I wanted to discover what happened next in Theodora's life, and I don't mind character-driven novels, but if you prefer strong plots, you might not care for this.
I loved the allegory of the Purple Shroud, which in many ways Theodora wore throughout her time as Empress, the real, living woman being "buried" beneath the demands of wearing the purple. I also really liked the way there was real love between Theodora and Justinian, despite the difference in age; it makes for a very unconventional love story.
January 17, 2013
I love this era of history--I mean really, how much do you know about Emperor Justinian and his wife Theodora of Constantinople? However, this book was waaaay too dry. It should have grabbed my attention from the getgo, and I've gotten 75% done with it, and it's been a struggle. I cannot empathize with Theodora, partially because I don't believe she's a well drawn character. But I understand the struggle of recreating a pre-medieval empress that people can think, "Wow, she's so relatable! Under so much pressure to be an empress--I feel like that at my job every day." Um, no. Hard to make empathetic, to be sure. Anyway. I tried.
September 3, 2015
As seems to be a habit of mine lately I came across and read the last half of Empress Theodora's life but even so this book was amazingly written. By the end I wanted to run out and get the first book "Theodora: Actress, Empress, Whore" just to have Theodora back. Politics, the dream of one nation, conspiracy, war, betrothals, secrets, and torture what is not to love?!
January 7, 2013
Fictional account of Empress Theodora of Byzantium. This is the second part of the re-telling of the life of a notorious figure in Byzantine history. I had not read the first book - but was already familiar with Theodora so could easily pick up the story
June 9, 2024
While I liked this book and it was good to see the continuation of Theodora's story, I didn't think this one was as good as her early years. I think partly that is because her early years are more interesting to read about in a lot of ways as during that time we are surrounded by regular citizens instead of the wealthy. I did still enjoy the political scheming and the decisions being made that helped shape the Roman world.
Theodora with all her riches and the prestige of being Empress, of being a true consort to Justinian, feels the walls like a gilded cage. She misses the ability to be wild, the chances to climb and dance. But she knows the Purple comes with a power that cannot be taken for granted. It gives the ability to make changes and she works hard to bring her husbands visions to life. She also fights to make things easier on women like who she was, giving them a place to go and be pious instead of a bad marriage, or remaining a whore. Also during this time there were major reforms on divorce laws that helped women retain some wealth.
The Empress was a flawed character which makes her so much more real. She had desires and wants separate from those of her husband. Sometimes she acts on the ones she shouldn't have. She could be cruel, but she was also sympathetic to others. Above all, from all accounts and how strange of a match it was, it really does seem like Theodora and Justinian truly loved each other flaws and all. That is beautiful truth that so few get, particularly those in power.
The end of the story, the end of her life, was done in a perfect heartbreaking manner.
I would have appreciated author notes at the end. Knowing what was taken from what kinds of sources and what was fabricated for the story is something I want from a good historical fiction book. Still, an interesting book about a fascinating woman of history.
Theodora with all her riches and the prestige of being Empress, of being a true consort to Justinian, feels the walls like a gilded cage. She misses the ability to be wild, the chances to climb and dance. But she knows the Purple comes with a power that cannot be taken for granted. It gives the ability to make changes and she works hard to bring her husbands visions to life. She also fights to make things easier on women like who she was, giving them a place to go and be pious instead of a bad marriage, or remaining a whore. Also during this time there were major reforms on divorce laws that helped women retain some wealth.
The Empress was a flawed character which makes her so much more real. She had desires and wants separate from those of her husband. Sometimes she acts on the ones she shouldn't have. She could be cruel, but she was also sympathetic to others. Above all, from all accounts and how strange of a match it was, it really does seem like Theodora and Justinian truly loved each other flaws and all. That is beautiful truth that so few get, particularly those in power.
The end of the story, the end of her life, was done in a perfect heartbreaking manner.
I would have appreciated author notes at the end. Knowing what was taken from what kinds of sources and what was fabricated for the story is something I want from a good historical fiction book. Still, an interesting book about a fascinating woman of history.
October 10, 2022
This book works well as a standalone. Now, I regret not reading the first in this two book historical fiction biography. I would appreciated a bibliography from which Stella Duffy drew the inspiration from. When a person lived so long ago, I am squemish about accepting what they said. It is fictional but I add that caution.
I remember reading about her in college World History 101. Much of what was written in that textbook goes along with her basic portrait. I did enjoy the book but I wish I had read the other book first. She must have been incredibly intellent and wise woman and I admire her courage for looking out for other women. I do not doubt that Theodora respected and loved Justiniam deeply and that encouraged him to change the law forbad him to marry an actress with known past.
I encourage you to read the books in order and be amazed at how Theodora adapted to her new role.
I remember reading about her in college World History 101. Much of what was written in that textbook goes along with her basic portrait. I did enjoy the book but I wish I had read the other book first. She must have been incredibly intellent and wise woman and I admire her courage for looking out for other women. I do not doubt that Theodora respected and loved Justiniam deeply and that encouraged him to change the law forbad him to marry an actress with known past.
I encourage you to read the books in order and be amazed at how Theodora adapted to her new role.
November 26, 2020
Wow! This two book series about the Byzantine Empress Theodora was a brilliant read for me. I knew nothing of this period prior, indeed I'd never heard of Theodora but what a character! If you like to get to know the characters in the tale you are reading these two books should satisfy you. Obviously it's mostly Theodora, but many people had important roles in her life and through her you get to know them, or at least at good portion of them.
I highly recommend this for historical fiction fans but if you are only interested in the fighting you will be disappointed. A fair amount of gore but little to no actual fighting (At least I can't remember any! )
I highly recommend this for historical fiction fans but if you are only interested in the fighting you will be disappointed. A fair amount of gore but little to no actual fighting (At least I can't remember any! )
June 23, 2023
It would be unfair to judge the sequel to a book I haven't read — I won't do so too harshly.
It was intended as a palate cleanser and fulfilled its role in this regard. With a rewarding (but sad) ending, all the narratives and sub-plots tied themselves in a way that did not feel forced or rushed. It felt complete, something I cannot say for a lot of books.
However, the language was a little unnatural for historical fiction. Maybe I am too used to the overly fastidious ways of classics, but I found the modern language and profane tone was really at odds with the ancient setting the book was trying to create.
Regardless, I did enjoy it: it was an enjoyable read.
It was intended as a palate cleanser and fulfilled its role in this regard. With a rewarding (but sad) ending, all the narratives and sub-plots tied themselves in a way that did not feel forced or rushed. It felt complete, something I cannot say for a lot of books.
However, the language was a little unnatural for historical fiction. Maybe I am too used to the overly fastidious ways of classics, but I found the modern language and profane tone was really at odds with the ancient setting the book was trying to create.
Regardless, I did enjoy it: it was an enjoyable read.
August 28, 2014
Rated 4.5 out of 5 Stars. Also posted at TBR MOUNTAIN RANGE.
If you love straight historical fiction, which isn't always happy, then I think you'll love THE PURPLE SHROUD. It's an excellent example of how history can be fun to learn if presented by the right author. Theodora was captivating and her life unusual as well as full of intrigue and adventure. She was also a woman of faith who often contradicted what that meant by her actions.
Theodora is an unusual character in history and not someone you'd expect to become an Empress. In this novel, we meet her when she's already married to Justinian, the Catholic Roman Emperor at Constantinople in the sixth century. Theodora grew up in a life on the stage as a dancer and acrobat. She was also a courtesan. Even the idea that this type of character can be presented as a suitable mate for an Emperor makes you take pause. But Theodora was a woman of the people and she was the perfect choice to rule beside Justinian, to guide him when things took a turn for the worse so that he could be a successful ruler.
Theirs is a love story of the ages — they're perfectly matched yet completely different in backgrounds and as people. Their story plays out beautifully within these pages, allowing the reader a glimpse at what their life may have been like through the sorrows and the joy. I couldn't help but be horrified at the scope of what Theodora did sometimes for the success of their rule. She was as vindictive as she was kind, exemplifying a contradiction. Her faith ran deep and sometimes her ambition ran deeper. Even so, I was enthralled by her accomplishments and audacity, as well as saddened in the end.
Although this book is a sequel to THEODORA, I didn't read the first book and felt that this one reads fine as a standalone.
THE PURPLE SHROUD is a great love story within an imperfect world. I recommend this unusual story for any hardcore historical reader who wants to envision a time period so seldom written about, highlighted by a formidable, modern businesswoman before her time. For me, the sign of a great historical author is one who encourages me to research the time period myself with her subtle details that make me curious, but are not overdone, keeping the story center stage. Author Stella Duffy makes the Byzantine Empire come alive!
Reviewed by Dorine, courtesy of Romance Junkies.
If you love straight historical fiction, which isn't always happy, then I think you'll love THE PURPLE SHROUD. It's an excellent example of how history can be fun to learn if presented by the right author. Theodora was captivating and her life unusual as well as full of intrigue and adventure. She was also a woman of faith who often contradicted what that meant by her actions.
Theodora is an unusual character in history and not someone you'd expect to become an Empress. In this novel, we meet her when she's already married to Justinian, the Catholic Roman Emperor at Constantinople in the sixth century. Theodora grew up in a life on the stage as a dancer and acrobat. She was also a courtesan. Even the idea that this type of character can be presented as a suitable mate for an Emperor makes you take pause. But Theodora was a woman of the people and she was the perfect choice to rule beside Justinian, to guide him when things took a turn for the worse so that he could be a successful ruler.
Theirs is a love story of the ages — they're perfectly matched yet completely different in backgrounds and as people. Their story plays out beautifully within these pages, allowing the reader a glimpse at what their life may have been like through the sorrows and the joy. I couldn't help but be horrified at the scope of what Theodora did sometimes for the success of their rule. She was as vindictive as she was kind, exemplifying a contradiction. Her faith ran deep and sometimes her ambition ran deeper. Even so, I was enthralled by her accomplishments and audacity, as well as saddened in the end.
Although this book is a sequel to THEODORA, I didn't read the first book and felt that this one reads fine as a standalone.
THE PURPLE SHROUD is a great love story within an imperfect world. I recommend this unusual story for any hardcore historical reader who wants to envision a time period so seldom written about, highlighted by a formidable, modern businesswoman before her time. For me, the sign of a great historical author is one who encourages me to research the time period myself with her subtle details that make me curious, but are not overdone, keeping the story center stage. Author Stella Duffy makes the Byzantine Empire come alive!
Reviewed by Dorine, courtesy of Romance Junkies.
November 17, 2013
This is the sequel to Duffy's Theodora: Actress, Empress, Whore and continues Theodora's story in the aftermath of her coronation as Empress beside her husband Justinian. Although she now wears the purple, Theodora's struggles are far from over: she must face a world in which religious dissension threatens to weaken the Byzantine Empire, and where she is surrounded by those who believe that the purple would look better on their shoulders. Facing political intrigue and popular unrest, Theodora discovers that her skills as an actress and woman of the people will become more crucial than ever as she fights to defend and maintain Justinian's rule.
I felt that this sequel resolved some of the issues I had with the first book: the colloquialisms have gone, for example, and yet the writing still flows very easily. For me Theodora still remains just that bit too modern to be entirely believable, and Constantinople itself lacks the shimmering exoticism of its medieval reality - but the story's heart is in the right place. Theodora's relationship with Justinian is beautifully handled and I found the closing chapters to be immensely powerful. When I read the first novel, I kept being reminded of parallels between Theodora and Evita, and that became even more striking in this sequel. As I said of the first book, this series is a great way to be introduced to one of the most remarkable and ambitious figures in early medieval history, told in an accessible and easy fashion.
For a longer review, please see my blog:
http://theidlewoman.blogspot.co.uk/20...
I felt that this sequel resolved some of the issues I had with the first book: the colloquialisms have gone, for example, and yet the writing still flows very easily. For me Theodora still remains just that bit too modern to be entirely believable, and Constantinople itself lacks the shimmering exoticism of its medieval reality - but the story's heart is in the right place. Theodora's relationship with Justinian is beautifully handled and I found the closing chapters to be immensely powerful. When I read the first novel, I kept being reminded of parallels between Theodora and Evita, and that became even more striking in this sequel. As I said of the first book, this series is a great way to be introduced to one of the most remarkable and ambitious figures in early medieval history, told in an accessible and easy fashion.
For a longer review, please see my blog:
http://theidlewoman.blogspot.co.uk/20...
February 5, 2015
The sequel to Theodora: Actress, Empress, Whore, The Purple Shroud picks up ten years into the reign of Emperor Justinian and Theodora. As the tale continues, readers are given a glimpse into the constant rivalries within the political factions of Constantinople and throughout the empire. Justinian and Theodora work tirelessly to hold their control but often find themselves on the very edge of seeing all their good works vanish.
What I treasured most in both this book and its predecessor was the author's determination to make Theodora more flesh and blood woman full of faults rather than somebody that is too perfect.
Don't overlook this book or the author.
What I treasured most in both this book and its predecessor was the author's determination to make Theodora more flesh and blood woman full of faults rather than somebody that is too perfect.
Don't overlook this book or the author.
July 10, 2015
This novel took me FOREVER to read -- OK, maybe it was only three days but it felt SO much longer.
I kept waiting for the portrayal of Theodora to become sympathetic -- that never happened. Instead we are reminded at every turn that she used to be a prostitute. And an actress-prostitute. And an acrobat-prostitute. And now she is an empress (who used to be a prostitute), who wears purple and makes people kiss her feet. And, in case you missed it, she used to be a prostitute. Honestly, Wikipedia gives a more sympathetic portrayal of Theodora than this book gives.
I kept waiting for the portrayal of Theodora to become sympathetic -- that never happened. Instead we are reminded at every turn that she used to be a prostitute. And an actress-prostitute. And an acrobat-prostitute. And now she is an empress (who used to be a prostitute), who wears purple and makes people kiss her feet. And, in case you missed it, she used to be a prostitute. Honestly, Wikipedia gives a more sympathetic portrayal of Theodora than this book gives.
July 23, 2013
It is better than the first one which I thought didn't really do justice to its subject. Still, you often wonder what Duffy's literary editor was doing as there are many pages in this book which are badly in need of improvement. It reads quite well because you are taken by the story, but the end just takes too long. Did Duffy decided how many pages she wanted to write independently to what she has to write and then run out of things to say before reaching her goal?
March 18, 2016
Just as enjoyable to read as the first one; soapy retelling of the rise and reign of one of the first and most powerful feminists.
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October 17, 2012Stella Duffy’s initial introduction to Theodora of Constantinople highlights her life prior to her rise to the most powerful woman in the land. In The Purple Shroud readers are taken on the next stage of her journey, showcasing the adaptations this remarkable woman had to make in order to be the empress her beloved city needed her to be. Theodora’s growth from the selfish actress trying to improve her lot in life to an empress who puts the needs of her people ahead of her own is as amazing as it is fascinating to explore, and Ms. Duffy puts to good use as many historical documents to allow readers to do just that.
Gone are the more salacious elements of the first novel, as Theodora’s machinations no longer involve working on her back as the means to her desired ends. Their absence allows the story to focus on her intelligence, determination, and overall passion for her beliefs. When scenes do take place within the intimate confines of her bedroom, they are all the more poignant for occurring for love and not for political maneuverings or necessity. As many other historic royal couples can attest, royal marriage and love are not necessarily synonymous, making Theodora’s and Justinian’s symbiotic relationship moving and special. Theirs was a true partnership based on mutual respect and an emotional connection that very few upper-class marriages had, and Theodora was one of the few empresses in ancient history who truly ruled jointly with her husband. Ms. Duffy does an outstanding job capturing the rarity of this as well as its importance to their rule.
The one drawback to The Purple Shroud is the religious element. It's not a bad thing but is a very complicated thing. Justinian’s rule was defined by the early Christian theological battle between two distinct beliefs regarding the divinity of Jesus. Much of the book dwells on these verbal skirmishes, which become confusing if one does not have a clear understanding of the theological differences. Making the situation even worse is the fact that even though Justinian and Theodora held opposing viewpoints on this crucial issue, they presented a united front to the people. This means that even while Theodora is scheming to try to bring her “people” to positions of power, she has to support her husband’s choices as well. In other words, keeping track of which character is on which side of the debate becomes somewhat impossible. Unfortunately, it was one of the fundamental issues at stake during Justinian’s reign, so ignoring the details leaves huge gaps in the narrative.
Similarly, as with life at any royal court, politicking is a prominent feature of The Purple Shroud Much like the issue regarding Theodora’s theological struggles, this is one area that requires foreknowledge, or at least a modicum of Internet research, to be able to understand the details and the stakes involved. For fans of historical fiction, these scenes are a fantastic opportunity to learn more about this fairly obscure period in time. For the average reader though, the political and religious machinations can become tedious. This is not through any fault of Ms. Duffy’s though. In fact, Ms. Duffy does all in her power to explain as much as she can without creating pages-long details. While unfamiliarity with the time period and issues of the era does not in any way harm one’s ability to enjoy the novel, to have even the smallest amounts of knowledge do much to enhance Ms. Duffy’s creation.
Living in a time where woman had virtually no rights, in an era that was defined by religious and political upheaval, Theodora’s ideas are about as modern as they could get. Documented through her husband’s policy changes, Theodora was able to usher in an era of women’s rights that allowed the women of Constantinople more freedoms and privileges than those from any other era. From the creation of a sanctuary/nunnery for penitent prostitutes to laws allowing women to hold property, maintain custody, and others providing absolution to those forced into servitude through necessity, much of her reign focuses on helping those who need it most. What she was able to accomplish, either directly or through her relationship with her husband, is simply noteworthy. Ms. Duffy does an excellent job steering the reader through the more mundane but necessary elements of life to focus on the pre-feminist ideas held and changes she wrought.
For those who have ever complained about lack of character development in novels, The Purple Shroud is a must-read because no one evolves as much as Theodora of Constantinople. Her natural ambition and drive, coupled with her background in acting, allowed her to adapt to the necessary changes that becoming Augusta meant. However, as The Purple Shroud shows, she did not accomplish those changes in a day nor without more than a few tears shed. By the end of the novel, the cruel and selfish young woman she was in the first book is gone, and in her place is a formidable, cunning, and yet compassionate woman still driven to succeed but driven to help others and much softer around the edges. Her statement that royalty makes a good (death) shroud is excellent foreshadowing of the lengths she would go to protect her people and an example of the redirection of her ambitions.
The Purple Shroud is a welcome addition to Ms. Duffy’s repertoire as it allows readers to get to know Theodora the ruler as well as they got to know Theodora the courtesan. Her descriptions are vivid and exacting and do much to allow the reader to visual a complete picture of Theodora, her surroundings, and her life. Ms. Duffy manages to weave together the complex politics and theology of the era into an enjoyable fictional history of one of the most extraordinary female leaders ever.
Acknowledgments: Thank you to NetGalley and to Penguin Group for my review copy!
Gone are the more salacious elements of the first novel, as Theodora’s machinations no longer involve working on her back as the means to her desired ends. Their absence allows the story to focus on her intelligence, determination, and overall passion for her beliefs. When scenes do take place within the intimate confines of her bedroom, they are all the more poignant for occurring for love and not for political maneuverings or necessity. As many other historic royal couples can attest, royal marriage and love are not necessarily synonymous, making Theodora’s and Justinian’s symbiotic relationship moving and special. Theirs was a true partnership based on mutual respect and an emotional connection that very few upper-class marriages had, and Theodora was one of the few empresses in ancient history who truly ruled jointly with her husband. Ms. Duffy does an outstanding job capturing the rarity of this as well as its importance to their rule.
The one drawback to The Purple Shroud is the religious element. It's not a bad thing but is a very complicated thing. Justinian’s rule was defined by the early Christian theological battle between two distinct beliefs regarding the divinity of Jesus. Much of the book dwells on these verbal skirmishes, which become confusing if one does not have a clear understanding of the theological differences. Making the situation even worse is the fact that even though Justinian and Theodora held opposing viewpoints on this crucial issue, they presented a united front to the people. This means that even while Theodora is scheming to try to bring her “people” to positions of power, she has to support her husband’s choices as well. In other words, keeping track of which character is on which side of the debate becomes somewhat impossible. Unfortunately, it was one of the fundamental issues at stake during Justinian’s reign, so ignoring the details leaves huge gaps in the narrative.
Similarly, as with life at any royal court, politicking is a prominent feature of The Purple Shroud Much like the issue regarding Theodora’s theological struggles, this is one area that requires foreknowledge, or at least a modicum of Internet research, to be able to understand the details and the stakes involved. For fans of historical fiction, these scenes are a fantastic opportunity to learn more about this fairly obscure period in time. For the average reader though, the political and religious machinations can become tedious. This is not through any fault of Ms. Duffy’s though. In fact, Ms. Duffy does all in her power to explain as much as she can without creating pages-long details. While unfamiliarity with the time period and issues of the era does not in any way harm one’s ability to enjoy the novel, to have even the smallest amounts of knowledge do much to enhance Ms. Duffy’s creation.
Living in a time where woman had virtually no rights, in an era that was defined by religious and political upheaval, Theodora’s ideas are about as modern as they could get. Documented through her husband’s policy changes, Theodora was able to usher in an era of women’s rights that allowed the women of Constantinople more freedoms and privileges than those from any other era. From the creation of a sanctuary/nunnery for penitent prostitutes to laws allowing women to hold property, maintain custody, and others providing absolution to those forced into servitude through necessity, much of her reign focuses on helping those who need it most. What she was able to accomplish, either directly or through her relationship with her husband, is simply noteworthy. Ms. Duffy does an excellent job steering the reader through the more mundane but necessary elements of life to focus on the pre-feminist ideas held and changes she wrought.
For those who have ever complained about lack of character development in novels, The Purple Shroud is a must-read because no one evolves as much as Theodora of Constantinople. Her natural ambition and drive, coupled with her background in acting, allowed her to adapt to the necessary changes that becoming Augusta meant. However, as The Purple Shroud shows, she did not accomplish those changes in a day nor without more than a few tears shed. By the end of the novel, the cruel and selfish young woman she was in the first book is gone, and in her place is a formidable, cunning, and yet compassionate woman still driven to succeed but driven to help others and much softer around the edges. Her statement that royalty makes a good (death) shroud is excellent foreshadowing of the lengths she would go to protect her people and an example of the redirection of her ambitions.
The Purple Shroud is a welcome addition to Ms. Duffy’s repertoire as it allows readers to get to know Theodora the ruler as well as they got to know Theodora the courtesan. Her descriptions are vivid and exacting and do much to allow the reader to visual a complete picture of Theodora, her surroundings, and her life. Ms. Duffy manages to weave together the complex politics and theology of the era into an enjoyable fictional history of one of the most extraordinary female leaders ever.
Acknowledgments: Thank you to NetGalley and to Penguin Group for my review copy!
July 2, 2018
I found a love for history after taking AP World History my sophomore year in highschool and for some reason I became really attached to Theodora. I couldn’t really tell you why, but I loved her story (the little I knew at the time). I would constantly as my teacher about her (and basically Byzantine history as whole as it became one of my favorite points in history to read about). I decided I had to do more research on my own and that is how I found this book/series. I absolutely loved it. It was well written with a good blend of entertaining and dramatic without being unbelievably unbearable. I recommend this to anyone who is interested in learning more about Theodora or who is simply a history buff. I found the first one to be a bit better, but I still really enjoyed the purple shroud. 3.5 stars!
December 31, 2018
I enjoyed this duology. It's well written overall. My main complaint is that I never quite felt that I could hang onto a narrative thread with it. I think the author is trying to be historically accurate, but it means there isn't quite a trajectory. Theodora was a complex person, and this attempt to portray her in fiction means that she never quite comes into focus as a character, either. Still, a solid and entertaining story.
July 2, 2021
Doesn't work as well as the first one, took me a long time to work through. Theodora's early life had more scope for a novelist's imagination. This one is too close to reality to tell a good story. It feels hemmed in by the details. I'm left feeling I'd rather have read non-fiction about her real life. There's no afterward or bibliography etc so I don't know how close the book is to history but I'd like to read more.
May 30, 2017
The Purple Shroud chronicles Theodora at the height of her power.
I didn't enjoy this as the first in the series. There's a lot of politics and it get's a little dreary after a while. Theodora is quite unlikable and becomes insufferable towards the end. She becomes a little one note and loses what made her great.
A disappointment
I didn't enjoy this as the first in the series. There's a lot of politics and it get's a little dreary after a while. Theodora is quite unlikable and becomes insufferable towards the end. She becomes a little one note and loses what made her great.
A disappointment
February 17, 2019
It was a tough choice between four and five stars but ended up with four. I liked this more than the first one (4* book as well) because I loved Justinian and Theodora together. Sometimes I just wanted more of them and less plotting about marriages of the minor characters. The end was heartbreaking. Would recommend to anyone who likes historical fiction, political intrigue and bit of romance.
November 8, 2018
A genuine and heartfelt attempt to reimagine the life of one of history's most iconic women. Some parts fell short for me, and it definitely felt like some parts were skimmed rather than examined, but it's a beautiful book regardless.
May 27, 2020
Hard to care when most problems get solved within a chapter or two. I feel like this should've been the book where we zoom in on Theodora's personality, or her husband's, but instead we are given roadblock upon roadblock that are cleared quickly. A shame!
March 13, 2018
Dużo lepsza od pierwszej części. Książka jest w końcu o kimś, i to jest jej największy plus.
September 16, 2018
Exceptional!
July 24, 2023
Zmarnowany potencjał
July 4, 2025
told too much, showed too little.
November 8, 2012
Quote:
Justinian went on, ‘I will not lose you, Theodora.’
She whispered, ‘No.’
‘Nor,’ he added, loosening his grip just a little, stroking his thumb along her fingers, ‘do I want to lose you to Narses’ idea of what a good wife should be.’
‘The eunuch likes his ladies to be quiet.’
‘It was the eunuch who brought me a grown woman in the first place. We had no call for a malleable girl. Perhaps he has forgotten that. The dutiful Theodora is too placid for our Palace and, I admit, less useful. I miss my adversary, my cohort. I need your mind and your energy more than I need your wifely obedience.’
Theodora smiled then. ‘But you do require wifely obedience?’
Justinian was not smiling when he answered, ‘Yes. A little.’
Just as the blurb says, the first book was a marvelous blend of storytelling and historical fiction. Historical fiction is not my usual genre but the title and blurb caught my eye so I gave it a try. I was glad that I did; I didn’t want the story to end and knew I wanted more; I was delighted to hear Duffy was working on a sequel.
The Purple Shroud picks up about ten years after the first book. Justinian and Theodora’s marriage is still strong but there are problems in the empire. The religious schisms are not lessening, there are political problems internally and externally, and even their closest advisers are a source of conflict. Theodora is less trusting than Justinian, which sometimes creates problems but Justinian is always Theodora’s first priority. Justinian values Theodora’s viewpoint and encourages her to think for herself even, and especially, when they disagree.
The first book focused on Theodora, her life, her struggles, and her emotions; this book is focused on Justinian and Theodora as a ruling couple. The story is told from Theodora’s point of view except for the very end. There’s a stronger emphasis on the religious and political struggles and oh, the political intrigue! I’m not usually a fan of books high in politics but Duffy has an engaging style and I was captivated the whole way through. Duffy doesn’t forget the personal side of Theodora’s story and she succeeds in making her real. Theodora wasn’t always likable, she made personal and political decisions that I found to swallow. In some respects, she is no longer that little girl who was an acrobat and actress, no longer the teenager who whored to provide for her family; she converted to Christianity, not out convenience but out of strong belief and those beliefs and her passion for her Church drive her actions. However, like many rulers, sometimes her religious morals are subjugated to her political beliefs and political necessity as well as her intense desire to protect Justinian. She does what she believes is necessary and believes that the end justifies the means. Her acting skills are useful as a ruler and she often thinks of her job as a role, a belief that sometimes creates problems for her.
Since this is fiction, Theodora’s emotions, motivations and behavior are a mix of fact and Duffy’s invention. Duffy does an excellent job of bringing Theodora to life and shining a light on this little known ruler. The writing is complex and the story captivating. “The Purple Shroud” is a fascinating and enjoyable blend of love story, political intrigue, and a look at early Christianity.
This review first appeared at BookTrib.
I received this book for review from the publisher.
Justinian went on, ‘I will not lose you, Theodora.’
She whispered, ‘No.’
‘Nor,’ he added, loosening his grip just a little, stroking his thumb along her fingers, ‘do I want to lose you to Narses’ idea of what a good wife should be.’
‘The eunuch likes his ladies to be quiet.’
‘It was the eunuch who brought me a grown woman in the first place. We had no call for a malleable girl. Perhaps he has forgotten that. The dutiful Theodora is too placid for our Palace and, I admit, less useful. I miss my adversary, my cohort. I need your mind and your energy more than I need your wifely obedience.’
Theodora smiled then. ‘But you do require wifely obedience?’
Justinian was not smiling when he answered, ‘Yes. A little.’
Just as the blurb says, the first book was a marvelous blend of storytelling and historical fiction. Historical fiction is not my usual genre but the title and blurb caught my eye so I gave it a try. I was glad that I did; I didn’t want the story to end and knew I wanted more; I was delighted to hear Duffy was working on a sequel.
The Purple Shroud picks up about ten years after the first book. Justinian and Theodora’s marriage is still strong but there are problems in the empire. The religious schisms are not lessening, there are political problems internally and externally, and even their closest advisers are a source of conflict. Theodora is less trusting than Justinian, which sometimes creates problems but Justinian is always Theodora’s first priority. Justinian values Theodora’s viewpoint and encourages her to think for herself even, and especially, when they disagree.
The first book focused on Theodora, her life, her struggles, and her emotions; this book is focused on Justinian and Theodora as a ruling couple. The story is told from Theodora’s point of view except for the very end. There’s a stronger emphasis on the religious and political struggles and oh, the political intrigue! I’m not usually a fan of books high in politics but Duffy has an engaging style and I was captivated the whole way through. Duffy doesn’t forget the personal side of Theodora’s story and she succeeds in making her real. Theodora wasn’t always likable, she made personal and political decisions that I found to swallow. In some respects, she is no longer that little girl who was an acrobat and actress, no longer the teenager who whored to provide for her family; she converted to Christianity, not out convenience but out of strong belief and those beliefs and her passion for her Church drive her actions. However, like many rulers, sometimes her religious morals are subjugated to her political beliefs and political necessity as well as her intense desire to protect Justinian. She does what she believes is necessary and believes that the end justifies the means. Her acting skills are useful as a ruler and she often thinks of her job as a role, a belief that sometimes creates problems for her.
Since this is fiction, Theodora’s emotions, motivations and behavior are a mix of fact and Duffy’s invention. Duffy does an excellent job of bringing Theodora to life and shining a light on this little known ruler. The writing is complex and the story captivating. “The Purple Shroud” is a fascinating and enjoyable blend of love story, political intrigue, and a look at early Christianity.
This review first appeared at BookTrib.
I received this book for review from the publisher.
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