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Fulvia
She was a woman who took no interest in spinning or housekeeping. She wanted to rule a ruler and command a commander -- Plutarch
Fulvia is the daughter of a wealthy but unimportant Roman family. Raised in the countryside, she longs for a life of intrigue and influence. When her father dies and her inheritance is threatened, Fulvia makes her way to the city of Rome to secure her future.
There she marries a young aristocrat named Clodius, who is more interested in partying with his hedonistic friends than politics. Fulvia is drawn into their world of debauchery, and learns just how precarious the balance of power in the Republic is. Her ambition drives them both to political power that draws the attention of the senate, and more seedy underworld opponents. But Rome is a dangerous place, and power can become notoriety overnight. Fulvia soon learns just how high the stakes really are, and that her ambitions may come at a terrible cost.
Fulvia is the daughter of a wealthy but unimportant Roman family. Raised in the countryside, she longs for a life of intrigue and influence. When her father dies and her inheritance is threatened, Fulvia makes her way to the city of Rome to secure her future.
There she marries a young aristocrat named Clodius, who is more interested in partying with his hedonistic friends than politics. Fulvia is drawn into their world of debauchery, and learns just how precarious the balance of power in the Republic is. Her ambition drives them both to political power that draws the attention of the senate, and more seedy underworld opponents. But Rome is a dangerous place, and power can become notoriety overnight. Fulvia soon learns just how high the stakes really are, and that her ambitions may come at a terrible cost.
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First published July 15, 2025
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 87 reviews
May 23, 2025
Writing this book was one of the great privileges of my life. I hope everyone enjoys reading about Fulvia’s journey as much as I enjoyed bringing it to life 🤍🏛️
July 6, 2025
⭐️3.5 Stars⭐️
I enjoyed how this debut novel Fulvia: A spellbinding story of female ambition set in the world of Ancient Rome brought to life the journey of a powerful and influential woman from Roman history and I loved the immersive descriptions of famous settings in Rome.
Fulvia is born into a wealthy but politically unimportant Roman family living in the Etruscan countryside on a farming estate. Fulvia longs for a life with power and influence so when her father dies and her family fortune is under threat she travels to Rome to secure her future in marriage.
In Rome Fulvia at eighteen marries Clodius and as a determined and strong young woman and wife of a senator she aspires to gain power and influence behind the scenes in supporting her husband’s political role and defeating their dangerous enemies. I loved the way Fulvia challenged traditional gender roles by participating in politics.
An educational, atmospheric and entertaining read about a fascinating woman.
Publication Date 01 July 2025
Publisher Echo Publishing
Thank you so much Echo Publishing for a copy of the book.
I enjoyed how this debut novel Fulvia: A spellbinding story of female ambition set in the world of Ancient Rome brought to life the journey of a powerful and influential woman from Roman history and I loved the immersive descriptions of famous settings in Rome.
Fulvia is born into a wealthy but politically unimportant Roman family living in the Etruscan countryside on a farming estate. Fulvia longs for a life with power and influence so when her father dies and her family fortune is under threat she travels to Rome to secure her future in marriage.
In Rome Fulvia at eighteen marries Clodius and as a determined and strong young woman and wife of a senator she aspires to gain power and influence behind the scenes in supporting her husband’s political role and defeating their dangerous enemies. I loved the way Fulvia challenged traditional gender roles by participating in politics.
An educational, atmospheric and entertaining read about a fascinating woman.
Publication Date 01 July 2025
Publisher Echo Publishing
Thank you so much Echo Publishing for a copy of the book.
March 25, 2025
If there is one thing I am guaranteed to read, it’s a book that tells the story of an ancient woman. I was so happy to get an eARC of Fulvia from Bonnier Books - usually my reading of the ancients skews Greek, but I love the Romans too. I knew very little about Fulvia, and mostly about her part in Cleopatra’s story, so this was a very education and entertaining read. We follow the life of Fulvia from her arrival in Rome through her first marriage, seeing events unfold through her eyes as she aspires for power and influence. While typically these stories focus on the powerful men - Caesar, Clodius, etc - it’s interesting to see things from the female point of view, especially through their social activities and events.
If, like me, you love books that focus on untold women’s perspectives, the ancient world, or just powerful women - this is a great book to pick up.
If, like me, you love books that focus on untold women’s perspectives, the ancient world, or just powerful women - this is a great book to pick up.
June 8, 2025
Writing this book was one of the great privileges of my life. I hope everyone enjoys reading about Fulvia’s journey as much as I enjoyed bringing it to life 🤍🏛️
June 27, 2025
Fulvia knew she was different. Her destiny was in her own hands, not that of some fate or god. She would not wait for some divine intervention to happen. No, she would craft the destiny she craved herself.
The daughter of a wealthy but rather unimportant Roman family, Fulvia was raised alongside cattle and sheep in the countryside, longing for a life of influence and power.
Upon her father’s death, she discovers her inheritance is threatened, and without another option makes her way to Rome to secure what is rightfully hers.
It is there Fulvia meets and marries young aristocrat Clodius, far from interested in politics and more aligned with his hedonistic tendencies for partying and harmless debauchery and it is this world Fulvia is drawn into like that of the sweetest lyre plucking its strings where she learns just how precarious the power of balance is in the Republic…
Ambition drives herself and her loving husband and soon they have the heavy eyes of the senate watching their every move, along with much seedier denizens who would be only too happy to see them fail in their endeavours.
Yet Rome is a dangerous place for many, power can shift to notoriety with a mere day passing from Sol to Nyx and Fulvia soon learns a harsh lesson in just how high the stakes really are, and that her ambitions may just be too lofty a cost to make even Juno Moneta blush….
Will she succeed in what she has been chasing her whole life or will those who oppose her cut Fulvia down before she has a chance to fulfil those dreams?
Wholly original in its delivery, Fulvia gives voice to one of history’s greatest women that will hold you in its thrall from beginning to end!
A huge thank you to the publisher for this beautiful proof and congratulations to the author for this incredible novel!
The daughter of a wealthy but rather unimportant Roman family, Fulvia was raised alongside cattle and sheep in the countryside, longing for a life of influence and power.
Upon her father’s death, she discovers her inheritance is threatened, and without another option makes her way to Rome to secure what is rightfully hers.
It is there Fulvia meets and marries young aristocrat Clodius, far from interested in politics and more aligned with his hedonistic tendencies for partying and harmless debauchery and it is this world Fulvia is drawn into like that of the sweetest lyre plucking its strings where she learns just how precarious the power of balance is in the Republic…
Ambition drives herself and her loving husband and soon they have the heavy eyes of the senate watching their every move, along with much seedier denizens who would be only too happy to see them fail in their endeavours.
Yet Rome is a dangerous place for many, power can shift to notoriety with a mere day passing from Sol to Nyx and Fulvia soon learns a harsh lesson in just how high the stakes really are, and that her ambitions may just be too lofty a cost to make even Juno Moneta blush….
Will she succeed in what she has been chasing her whole life or will those who oppose her cut Fulvia down before she has a chance to fulfil those dreams?
Wholly original in its delivery, Fulvia gives voice to one of history’s greatest women that will hold you in its thrall from beginning to end!
A huge thank you to the publisher for this beautiful proof and congratulations to the author for this incredible novel!
June 16, 2025
Enjoyable historical fiction set in Rome during the late republic. Fulvia is an ambitious young woman but of course her ambition can only be behind the scenes and for the advancement of her husband. There’s intrigue and power plays along with extravagance and violence. An engaging read.
July 14, 2025
Thank you @manilla_press for the ARC!
I really really enjoyed this, but to give context to this review (which will be very positive, so keep reading), I'll open with my biggest criticism, and it's not even about the book but the way it's marketed: I had no idea this wasn't going to be a standalone. Therefore I was looking forward to reading about her whole life, including, as you can guess if you've been following me a while, her marriage to Antonius. When I reached the halfway point and she was still in the early days of her marriage to Clodius, I realised there was no way this would cover her whole life and I was disappointed. In the end, it's fine; Parker did a fantastic job painting this first part of her life and I'm sure she'll do the same with the next book(s?). I just wish I'd known; I'd have read it anyway, but without the anticipation of events that would not happen in this book, which led to completely unnecessary disappointment.
Now that's out of the way, let's get into what IS in this book, and that's a fantastic story! Parker did a phenomenal job at recreating ancient Rome with its vivid atmosphere, ruthless politics and quietly ambitious women. Fulvia's relationship with first husband Clodius is beautifully written. We also see her relationships with other Roman women, so that she's not the only overlooked character getting her chance to shine. This is a young Fulvia, who's not yet the masterful politician we know she became, but we see her grow towards it. And I loved that the book is narrated by the experienced Fulvia looking back on her life rather than telling it as she lives it: it created a wonderful sense of anticipation.
Plus, if you are anything like me and weirdly obsessed with Rome circa 1st century BCE/1st century CE, this is a delight. Every time a new major player was mentioned for the first time it was like unlocking a new level in a game. Here's Marcus Antonius! Here's Julius Caesar! Here's Servilia!
Now, I didn't necessarily like the inclusion of some gossip as fact, the relationship between Curio and Antonius for example. I understand why it made for a compelling plotline but slander was very much a political tool in Rome as Parker shows admirably so giving some of it credit rubbed me the wrong way a bit. Not that it couldn't conceivably have been true, but we have no proof. Also, boo to using the word triumvirate, a fairly modern term and not one that was used at the time to describe what we now know as the First Triumvirate, although many scholars are moving away from calling it that and rightly so. No I'm kidding we're not booing of course but I simply must live up to my reputation as an extremely picky reviewer 😬 But! Antonius is called Antonius!! And that alone made my heart happy (if you're a recent follower: I hate seeing him called Mark Antony with every fiber of my being).
Overall, setting aside these minor points I wasn't a fan of, I had a great time reading Fulvia and I'm so excited to see her story continue through Parker's words. I absolutely recommend it to anyone who loves historical fiction and ambitious women! ❤️
I really really enjoyed this, but to give context to this review (which will be very positive, so keep reading), I'll open with my biggest criticism, and it's not even about the book but the way it's marketed: I had no idea this wasn't going to be a standalone. Therefore I was looking forward to reading about her whole life, including, as you can guess if you've been following me a while, her marriage to Antonius. When I reached the halfway point and she was still in the early days of her marriage to Clodius, I realised there was no way this would cover her whole life and I was disappointed. In the end, it's fine; Parker did a fantastic job painting this first part of her life and I'm sure she'll do the same with the next book(s?). I just wish I'd known; I'd have read it anyway, but without the anticipation of events that would not happen in this book, which led to completely unnecessary disappointment.
Now that's out of the way, let's get into what IS in this book, and that's a fantastic story! Parker did a phenomenal job at recreating ancient Rome with its vivid atmosphere, ruthless politics and quietly ambitious women. Fulvia's relationship with first husband Clodius is beautifully written. We also see her relationships with other Roman women, so that she's not the only overlooked character getting her chance to shine. This is a young Fulvia, who's not yet the masterful politician we know she became, but we see her grow towards it. And I loved that the book is narrated by the experienced Fulvia looking back on her life rather than telling it as she lives it: it created a wonderful sense of anticipation.
Plus, if you are anything like me and weirdly obsessed with Rome circa 1st century BCE/1st century CE, this is a delight. Every time a new major player was mentioned for the first time it was like unlocking a new level in a game. Here's Marcus Antonius! Here's Julius Caesar! Here's Servilia!
Now, I didn't necessarily like the inclusion of some gossip as fact, the relationship between Curio and Antonius for example. I understand why it made for a compelling plotline but slander was very much a political tool in Rome as Parker shows admirably so giving some of it credit rubbed me the wrong way a bit. Not that it couldn't conceivably have been true, but we have no proof. Also, boo to using the word triumvirate, a fairly modern term and not one that was used at the time to describe what we now know as the First Triumvirate, although many scholars are moving away from calling it that and rightly so. No I'm kidding we're not booing of course but I simply must live up to my reputation as an extremely picky reviewer 😬 But! Antonius is called Antonius!! And that alone made my heart happy (if you're a recent follower: I hate seeing him called Mark Antony with every fiber of my being).
Overall, setting aside these minor points I wasn't a fan of, I had a great time reading Fulvia and I'm so excited to see her story continue through Parker's words. I absolutely recommend it to anyone who loves historical fiction and ambitious women! ❤️
June 23, 2025
I thought I was sick of ancient retellings but Fulvia brought something so new and refreshing to the genre that I was blown away. A very relevant book for the current political moment too - a scary number of parallels between the end of the Roman Republic and the United States right now. I’ll be recommending it to everyone as soon as it hits shelves!
July 16, 2025
The second I finished this book, I immediately googled what else I could read and learn about Fulvia, which for me, is the absolute highest compliment I can give to a historical fiction novel. Kaarina Parker's well-anticipated novel about one of Ancient Rome's most powerful women was one of my most anticipated reads of the year and it did not disappoint!
I wish I had known from the start that there will be two books in this series, because I kept panicking that I wouldn't learn enough in this one book. Luckily, there will be..!
This was such an intriguing and exhilarating journey into Ancient Rome - and though it only covers the early part of Fulvia's life, it really sets the tone for the political challenges during that period in Ancient Rome's history and really brings that era to life through the lens of a woman who rejected all the roles bestowed to her by Ancient Roman society, and instead learnt how to carefully pull the strings of Roman politics.
Parker's writing style is eloquent, descriptive and keeps a captive audience throughout, all the while remaining true to the historic period.
Thank you to Bonnier Books and NetGalley for the e-arc in exchange for a review.
I wish I had known from the start that there will be two books in this series, because I kept panicking that I wouldn't learn enough in this one book. Luckily, there will be..!
This was such an intriguing and exhilarating journey into Ancient Rome - and though it only covers the early part of Fulvia's life, it really sets the tone for the political challenges during that period in Ancient Rome's history and really brings that era to life through the lens of a woman who rejected all the roles bestowed to her by Ancient Roman society, and instead learnt how to carefully pull the strings of Roman politics.
Parker's writing style is eloquent, descriptive and keeps a captive audience throughout, all the while remaining true to the historic period.
Thank you to Bonnier Books and NetGalley for the e-arc in exchange for a review.
June 4, 2025
The best historical fiction brings the past to life. Names become people, striding out of the past and into the reader’s present. In her debut novel, Ms Parker brings aspects of the late Roman Republic to life through Fulvia, (possible) descendant of the Gracchi. Fulvia, raised in the Etruscan countryside, the daughter of a wealthy but politically unimportant family, moves to Rome after her father’s death. Fulvia is ambitious and believes that Rome will provide a better future than a marriage within Etruria.
In Rome, Fulvia marries Publius Clodius Pulcher, heir to a leading aristocratic family. Clodius, critical of the rules of the aristocracy, finds his way to power through the Roman Senate. He is well supported by Fulvia. But ambition begets enemies, and Rome is a dangerous place.
It is over half a century since I studied this period of history. Some of the characters are known to me, but few women appear in the conventional histories written. I can imagine the potential influence of this Fulvia, wielding power behind the scenes.
An enjoyable, thought-provoking work of historical fiction. Highly recommended.
Jennifer Cameron-Smith
In Rome, Fulvia marries Publius Clodius Pulcher, heir to a leading aristocratic family. Clodius, critical of the rules of the aristocracy, finds his way to power through the Roman Senate. He is well supported by Fulvia. But ambition begets enemies, and Rome is a dangerous place.
It is over half a century since I studied this period of history. Some of the characters are known to me, but few women appear in the conventional histories written. I can imagine the potential influence of this Fulvia, wielding power behind the scenes.
An enjoyable, thought-provoking work of historical fiction. Highly recommended.
Jennifer Cameron-Smith
August 30, 2025
I thought this was a well written and thoughtful interpretation of the life of Fulvia. Clodius Pulcher is one of my all time favourite Romans and my passion for the stories of ancient women was met by this lovely book. The detail of the city and the society were so immersive. the characters were rich and interesting.
November 8, 2025
I thought this was a cool and fun book! I really raced through it. Love a Roman history moment and great to have a story focussed on a woman
November 30, 2025
Dear Kaarina Parker, I finished this book, Googled everything Fulvia, and now I absolutely need a sequel. Please! Thank you!
July 15, 2025
(3) ARC from Manilla Press in exchange for a review!
FULVIA is a spark of a debut, brimming with promise for a powerful perspective of the civil wars. Following the life of Fulvia, arguably the most important female politician of her time, Parker traces her emergence in Rome with her marriage to Clodius Pulcher.
Parker's research is immaculate, tying the complicated and messy politics of Rome with a careful knot. She successfully characterised her main players: the resourceful Fulvia, the clever Curio, the affable Clodius. I truly didn't believe that I would grow to love Clodius so much. Parker places his feud with Cicero in such an entertaining manner, and I lived for the drama in this book.
Additionally, Parker remains grounded in her female centred narrative. While Fulvia is dominated by men, she is surrounded by women. I enjoyed the character of Clodia, and liked how Parker depicted the influence of women in politics, particularly through religion and culture.
However, I didn't feel like Fulvia had a very distinctive voice, nor did her ideas seem particularly clever. There are some base cases put forward by her ideas, but we are yet to truly experience her manipulative and dominant side (perhaps in the next book?). There are some lapses in writing style that I believe should have been amended by further editing. Notably, the style dips from academic to formal to casual, and does not maintain consistency, though for a debut, is still very impressive.
3.5/5 stars. I look forward to seeing how Fulvia's story progresses through Parker's tender care.
FULVIA is a spark of a debut, brimming with promise for a powerful perspective of the civil wars. Following the life of Fulvia, arguably the most important female politician of her time, Parker traces her emergence in Rome with her marriage to Clodius Pulcher.
Parker's research is immaculate, tying the complicated and messy politics of Rome with a careful knot. She successfully characterised her main players: the resourceful Fulvia, the clever Curio, the affable Clodius. I truly didn't believe that I would grow to love Clodius so much. Parker places his feud with Cicero in such an entertaining manner, and I lived for the drama in this book.
Additionally, Parker remains grounded in her female centred narrative. While Fulvia is dominated by men, she is surrounded by women. I enjoyed the character of Clodia, and liked how Parker depicted the influence of women in politics, particularly through religion and culture.
However, I didn't feel like Fulvia had a very distinctive voice, nor did her ideas seem particularly clever. There are some base cases put forward by her ideas, but we are yet to truly experience her manipulative and dominant side (perhaps in the next book?). There are some lapses in writing style that I believe should have been amended by further editing. Notably, the style dips from academic to formal to casual, and does not maintain consistency, though for a debut, is still very impressive.
3.5/5 stars. I look forward to seeing how Fulvia's story progresses through Parker's tender care.
December 29, 2025
Sadly, this book wasn’t for me.
I absolutely loved the author’s writing style—so engaging and masterfully crafted. The political intrigue and historical detail were compelling, and I can see why so many readers would be drawn in.
However, I personally struggled with some of the content. The use of the F-bomb, sexualised scenes, and ritualistic elements tied to the “gods” were true to Roman culture, yes—but they were more than I was comfortable with. I picked this up at an airport bookstore without thinking it through, and wanted to post this in case others, like me, hadn’t considered just how much of ancient Roman life would be depicted so vividly.
Around 100 pages in, I made the tough decision to move on. I didn’t want to stop—because the storytelling really is excellent—but in the end, the themes just weren’t a good fit for me.
I absolutely loved the author’s writing style—so engaging and masterfully crafted. The political intrigue and historical detail were compelling, and I can see why so many readers would be drawn in.
However, I personally struggled with some of the content. The use of the F-bomb, sexualised scenes, and ritualistic elements tied to the “gods” were true to Roman culture, yes—but they were more than I was comfortable with. I picked this up at an airport bookstore without thinking it through, and wanted to post this in case others, like me, hadn’t considered just how much of ancient Roman life would be depicted so vividly.
Around 100 pages in, I made the tough decision to move on. I didn’t want to stop—because the storytelling really is excellent—but in the end, the themes just weren’t a good fit for me.
July 13, 2025
“𝐼 𝓌𝒶𝓈 𝑅𝑜𝓂𝒶𝓃. 𝒲𝒽𝑒𝓃 𝐼 𝓌𝒶𝓃𝓉𝑒𝒹 𝓈𝑜𝓂𝑒𝓉𝒽𝒾𝓃𝑔, 𝐼 𝓉𝑜𝑜𝓀 𝒾𝓉.”
Fulvia certainly lives up to that and has taken her place as one of the most compelling women I’ve read about in historical fiction.
This was one of my most anticipated reads of the year, and wow, did it deliver. From the very first chapters, I knew I was in for something special. Kaarina Parker’s debut is powerful, immersive, and sent me into a full-on spiral Googling everything I could about Fulvia.
Set during the earlier part of Fulvia’s life, the book paints a vivid portrait of a woman full of ambition, strength, and resilience. She goes through so much, and yet you can’t help but root for her at every turn.
I especially loved the relationship between Fulvia and Clodius. I fully expected him to be awful (Ancient Rome doesn’t exactly have the best track record with men), but I was genuinely surprised by the connection they shared.
The pacing was spot on. There’s always something happening, always a reason to keep reading. I also really liked the structure. It feels almost like Fulvia is writing her own memoir, with asides from her older self that add so much depth. It’s a clever and engaging way to tell her story, and it made her voice feel incredibly real.
Parker’s ability to evoke the atmosphere of Ancient Rome is next level. As someone with aphantasia, I usually struggle to visualise scenes, but this book truly transported me.
Honestly, I didn’t want this book to end. I stretched out the final chapters just to spend more time in Fulvia’s world. Kaarina Parker is now firmly on my auto-buy list.
If you love fierce women, immersive historical fiction, and stories that bring lesser-known figures to life, Fulvia is a must-read.
Huge thanks to the publisher for the eARC, it was an absolute privilege to read this book early.
Fulvia certainly lives up to that and has taken her place as one of the most compelling women I’ve read about in historical fiction.
This was one of my most anticipated reads of the year, and wow, did it deliver. From the very first chapters, I knew I was in for something special. Kaarina Parker’s debut is powerful, immersive, and sent me into a full-on spiral Googling everything I could about Fulvia.
Set during the earlier part of Fulvia’s life, the book paints a vivid portrait of a woman full of ambition, strength, and resilience. She goes through so much, and yet you can’t help but root for her at every turn.
I especially loved the relationship between Fulvia and Clodius. I fully expected him to be awful (Ancient Rome doesn’t exactly have the best track record with men), but I was genuinely surprised by the connection they shared.
The pacing was spot on. There’s always something happening, always a reason to keep reading. I also really liked the structure. It feels almost like Fulvia is writing her own memoir, with asides from her older self that add so much depth. It’s a clever and engaging way to tell her story, and it made her voice feel incredibly real.
Parker’s ability to evoke the atmosphere of Ancient Rome is next level. As someone with aphantasia, I usually struggle to visualise scenes, but this book truly transported me.
Honestly, I didn’t want this book to end. I stretched out the final chapters just to spend more time in Fulvia’s world. Kaarina Parker is now firmly on my auto-buy list.
If you love fierce women, immersive historical fiction, and stories that bring lesser-known figures to life, Fulvia is a must-read.
Huge thanks to the publisher for the eARC, it was an absolute privilege to read this book early.
August 30, 2025
Ever wonder what it takes to rise in a world ruled by men? Fulvia was born into wealth but no status, and she refuses a quiet life in the countryside. When her father dies and her inheritance is threatened, she heads to Rome, determined to carve her own destiny.
Her marriage to the young aristocrat Clodius is far from a fairy tale; he’s more interested in hedonistic parties than politics. But Fulvia sees opportunity everywhere. Through ambition, intellect, and calculated risk, she navigates the treacherous world of Roman politics, drawing the attention of senators and the dangerous figures of the city’s underworld. In a society where favour can turn to condemnation overnight, every move comes at a cost.
What I loved most was seeing Rome through Fulvia’s eyes. Parker captures the sights, sounds, and social games of the Republic in vivid detail, from the glamour of elite gatherings to the precarious positions of women behind closed doors. As someone more familiar with ancient Greece, I found this perspective refreshingly immersive. It’s not just political intrigue, it’s a portrait of a woman daring to define her own power, and the sacrifices that come with it.
A heads-up: this is book one of a duology, but knowing there’s more to come, I’m eagerly awaiting part two, To Rule a Ruler, in 2026.
If you enjoyed Elodie Harper’s The Wolf Den trilogy with its sharp focus on overlooked women and the underbelly of the ancient world, you’ll love Fulvia. And if you want to follow that thread into nonfiction, Honor Cargill-Martin’s Messalina is the perfect companion: a scholarly yet accessible look at how one of Rome’s most infamous empresses was written into scandal by the men who recorded her life. Together, these books show how women were central to Rome’s story – whether remembered fairly or not.
If you enjoy stories about ambitious women, forgotten figures of history, or richly detailed ancient worlds, Fulvia is a compelling read.
Huge thanks to the publisher for the review copy; all views my own.
Her marriage to the young aristocrat Clodius is far from a fairy tale; he’s more interested in hedonistic parties than politics. But Fulvia sees opportunity everywhere. Through ambition, intellect, and calculated risk, she navigates the treacherous world of Roman politics, drawing the attention of senators and the dangerous figures of the city’s underworld. In a society where favour can turn to condemnation overnight, every move comes at a cost.
What I loved most was seeing Rome through Fulvia’s eyes. Parker captures the sights, sounds, and social games of the Republic in vivid detail, from the glamour of elite gatherings to the precarious positions of women behind closed doors. As someone more familiar with ancient Greece, I found this perspective refreshingly immersive. It’s not just political intrigue, it’s a portrait of a woman daring to define her own power, and the sacrifices that come with it.
A heads-up: this is book one of a duology, but knowing there’s more to come, I’m eagerly awaiting part two, To Rule a Ruler, in 2026.
If you enjoyed Elodie Harper’s The Wolf Den trilogy with its sharp focus on overlooked women and the underbelly of the ancient world, you’ll love Fulvia. And if you want to follow that thread into nonfiction, Honor Cargill-Martin’s Messalina is the perfect companion: a scholarly yet accessible look at how one of Rome’s most infamous empresses was written into scandal by the men who recorded her life. Together, these books show how women were central to Rome’s story – whether remembered fairly or not.
If you enjoy stories about ambitious women, forgotten figures of history, or richly detailed ancient worlds, Fulvia is a compelling read.
Huge thanks to the publisher for the review copy; all views my own.
April 21, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Fulvia tells the story of the arrival of a young woman in Rome and her journey of securing her future. Marrying a young aristocrat names Clodius provides the sense of stability Fulvia wanted, but her ambitions may lead her to some dangerous situations.
Look, if it’s a story written about ancient civilisation I’m gonna want to read it. But when I received a copy of Fulvia, I knew I wanted to read it asap. This story was different from what you would learn in school (like how my interest in all this started!) as it is from a woman’s point of view rather than just focusing on the male presence, power and dominance of the era.
Thank you to Bonnier books for sending me an ARC of this book. I leave this review honestly and voluntarily.
Fulvia tells the story of the arrival of a young woman in Rome and her journey of securing her future. Marrying a young aristocrat names Clodius provides the sense of stability Fulvia wanted, but her ambitions may lead her to some dangerous situations.
Look, if it’s a story written about ancient civilisation I’m gonna want to read it. But when I received a copy of Fulvia, I knew I wanted to read it asap. This story was different from what you would learn in school (like how my interest in all this started!) as it is from a woman’s point of view rather than just focusing on the male presence, power and dominance of the era.
Thank you to Bonnier books for sending me an ARC of this book. I leave this review honestly and voluntarily.
August 18, 2025
A very enjoyable retelling of the story of Fulvia, best known as the wife of Publius Clodius Pulcher, this tells the well known story from her point of view.
What happens will be well known to anyone who has studied the Roman Revolution, or read Colleen McCullough’s First Man in Rome series, but I think this book may bring many new readers to the period. There have been a lot of feminist re-tellings of stories from myth and ancient history in recent years—some work and some don’t; this one works well and the author manages to capture a reasonably convincing voice for Fulvia and more importantly captures her spirit as it would have been on her terms, not with our contemporary mores and morality overlaid.
I am looking forward to reading, hopefully, Part 2!
Recommended.
What happens will be well known to anyone who has studied the Roman Revolution, or read Colleen McCullough’s First Man in Rome series, but I think this book may bring many new readers to the period. There have been a lot of feminist re-tellings of stories from myth and ancient history in recent years—some work and some don’t; this one works well and the author manages to capture a reasonably convincing voice for Fulvia and more importantly captures her spirit as it would have been on her terms, not with our contemporary mores and morality overlaid.
I am looking forward to reading, hopefully, Part 2!
Recommended.
August 15, 2025
This was such a vibrant, enthralling book, from start to finish. Fulvia is an immensely interesting figure Kaarina Parker gives her the voice that she deserves. This book is a reminder of the powerful women that existed in the ancient world.
March 27, 2025
Lite väl mycket historia lol
September 5, 2025
A bit too YA fiction.
October 19, 2025
I’m always up for a novel set in Ancient Rome & centering on the women whom we know little about, and this was a good one! Looking forward to the sequel.
July 16, 2025
4.5/5 ❤️
October 30, 2025
I took my time to consider this book.
From the moment I began reading I was hooked. I'd just watched Domina and I was obsessed. So discovering this book was amazing.
Fulvia deep dives you into Ancient Rome and honestly having just watched the other show and researching a bit, I could picture everything so clearly it was fascinating (yes, I'm like in elementary going through my Ancient Rome phase, it's my Roman Empire duh).
I didn't know what to expect or what was coming and it was fascinating. The story was fun and exciting with a super strong woman on the lead.
Turns out it's based on a real story! I'm super excited to know more about Fulvia. This book is the perfect first taste as a novel to get into more, or leave it there but have the knowledge.
Kaarina does a perfect job in portraying the story for fiction.
I highly recommend this book to anyone looking to learn more, to just read historical fiction, to read something different in the romance section... anything really.
From the moment I began reading I was hooked. I'd just watched Domina and I was obsessed. So discovering this book was amazing.
Fulvia deep dives you into Ancient Rome and honestly having just watched the other show and researching a bit, I could picture everything so clearly it was fascinating (yes, I'm like in elementary going through my Ancient Rome phase, it's my Roman Empire duh).
I didn't know what to expect or what was coming and it was fascinating. The story was fun and exciting with a super strong woman on the lead.
Turns out it's based on a real story! I'm super excited to know more about Fulvia. This book is the perfect first taste as a novel to get into more, or leave it there but have the knowledge.
Kaarina does a perfect job in portraying the story for fiction.
I highly recommend this book to anyone looking to learn more, to just read historical fiction, to read something different in the romance section... anything really.
June 19, 2025
Ancient Rome through Fulvia’s eyes. As the Roman Empire comes to an end Fulvia steps forward and brings the events around her from her eyes. Raised in the upper class but not of a notable family she steps forward to make her way. She married Clodius and takes the risks with him. From attacks to creating a family Fulvia takes the journey and steps up and out. A very unheard of role in Ancient Rome. Rarely you find a story like this.
July 29, 2025
"I was born Fulvia Flacca Bambula, though I had other names throughout my life. I was a daughter, a wife, a sister, a mother, a leader, a politician, a general."
Thank you to Bonnier Books for providing me with a review copy of this novel! You can also find my review of FULVIA on LOST ART magazine's Substack.
Roman history has its heroes and villains. In the standard tellings, the monumentally influential statesman Cicero was a hero, opposing villainous populists like the scandal-ridden politician Clodius Pulcher, fictionalised in last year’s movie MEGALOPOLIS as a degenerate playboy who has sex with his aunt.
Of course, Cicero’s own writings define our knowledge of this era, whereas we know far less about his rivals. Kaarina Parker’s debut novel FULVIA fills in the blanks imaginatively, following the titular woman’s first marriage to Clodius Pulcher. As glamorous as it is seedy, Parker’s depiction of Rome is a morally ambiguous world governed by gossip, with Cicero’s actions being no less corrupt than Clodius’ and Fulvia’s schemes.
Fulvia is an engaging story of its protagonist’s transformation from a provincial ingenue into an unlikely political mastermind and opponent of Cicero. While it’s occasionally unevenly paced—some major political developments are dealt with surprisingly briefly—historical-fiction fans will find plenty to love in this twisty story and its delightfully unscrupulous protagonist.
Thank you to Bonnier Books for providing me with a review copy of this novel! You can also find my review of FULVIA on LOST ART magazine's Substack.
Roman history has its heroes and villains. In the standard tellings, the monumentally influential statesman Cicero was a hero, opposing villainous populists like the scandal-ridden politician Clodius Pulcher, fictionalised in last year’s movie MEGALOPOLIS as a degenerate playboy who has sex with his aunt.
Of course, Cicero’s own writings define our knowledge of this era, whereas we know far less about his rivals. Kaarina Parker’s debut novel FULVIA fills in the blanks imaginatively, following the titular woman’s first marriage to Clodius Pulcher. As glamorous as it is seedy, Parker’s depiction of Rome is a morally ambiguous world governed by gossip, with Cicero’s actions being no less corrupt than Clodius’ and Fulvia’s schemes.
Fulvia is an engaging story of its protagonist’s transformation from a provincial ingenue into an unlikely political mastermind and opponent of Cicero. While it’s occasionally unevenly paced—some major political developments are dealt with surprisingly briefly—historical-fiction fans will find plenty to love in this twisty story and its delightfully unscrupulous protagonist.
August 31, 2025
„Fulvia - Power. At Any Cost.“ von Kaarina Parker ist ein historischer Roman über Fulvia, eine ehrgeizige Frau mit unbedingtem Willen zur Macht. Erschienen ist der Roman im Juli 2025 bei Manilla Press.
Fulvia ist die Tochter einer reichen, aber unbedeutenden Familie aus Rom. Aufgewachsen auf dem Land, sehnt sie sich nach Einfluss und Macht. Als ihr Vater stirbt, beschließt sie daher nach Rom zu gehen und ihr Schicksal in die Hand zu nehmen. Sie heiratet einen jungen Aristokraten namen Clodius, der sich bisher eher wenig für Politik interessiert und lieber sein Leben genießt. Ihr Ehrgeiz wird beide in die hohen Sphären des Senates bringen und die Aufmerksamkeit mächtiger Feinde auf sich ziehen. Fulvia muss schnell lernen, das Macht einen Preis hat und die Gunst der Menge sich auch schnell gegen einen wenden kann.
Das war eine Empfehlung von histolicious und diese hat nicht enttäuscht. Mein Wissen über die Römische Republik ist sehr begrenzt. Eigentlich kenne ich da nur Namen und kleine Informationsschnipsel und so habe ich noch nie vorher von Fulvia gehört.
Fulvia erzählt die Geschichte aus ihrer Sicht und ihr Charakter spricht aus ihrer Erzählweise. Gerade der Anfang hat mich neugierig auf ihr Leben und ihre Person gemacht und so bin ich erst einmal gut gestartet. Ich hatte währenddessen auch ein bisschen einen Hänger. Es war mir ein bisschen zu sehr Bericht und mir fehlte etwas die Spannung. Das Buch ist allerdings sehr politisch und da brauchen die Dinge manchmal ein wenig Zeit. Das Finale dieses Buches konnte mich sehr überzeugen.
Es sind sehr viele Informationen über das Leben in Rom enthalten und wie die politische Welt funktioniert. Einiges wirkt nach heutigen Maßstäben sehr modern, anderes wiederum altmodisch. Dieser Kontrast hat mich sehr fasziniert, weil manche Dinge auch nicht so recht zusammenzupassen schienen.
Fulvia war eine würdige Repräsentantin ihrer Zeit. Ich mochte ihren Ehrgeiz und ihren unbedingten Willen zur Macht. Die gesellschaftlichen Konventionen hat sie geschickt genutzt oder eben auch kalkuliert gebrochen und so gezeigt, was trotz der schwächeren Stellung der Frau alles möglich ist. Bei der Wahl ihres Ehemannes hat sie ein glückliches Händchen bewiesen, denn dieser hat sich gerne auf sie und ihre Ambitionen eingelassen.
Ich war ein wenig überrascht, welche großen Namen in diesem Buch vorkommen, z.B. Cicero, Cäsar und Marcus Antonius. Im Gegensatz zu Fulvia habe ich von diesen Personen bereits gehört und das zeigt mir, dass ich mich noch mehr mit den Geschichten von Frauen beschäftigen sollte, denn auch diese haben Spannendes zu erzählen.
In einem Nachwort trennt die Autorin Fiktion und Wahrheit. Die Balance ist ihr meiner Meinung nach gut gelungen. Die Autorin hat es geschafft ein lebendiges und glaubwürdiges Rom zu erschaffen. Wie es wirklich war, werden wir nie genau wissen, aber dieses Buch fühlte sich nach einer guten Annäherung an.
Fazit: „Fulvia - Power At Any Cost“ erzählt die Geschichte einer Frau mit viel Ehrgeiz und einem unbedingten Willen zur Macht. Das politische Rom ist glaubwürdig dargestellt und wird lebendig. Empfehlenswert für alle, die sich für starke Frauengeschichten und Rom vor 2000 Jahren interessieren.
Fulvia ist die Tochter einer reichen, aber unbedeutenden Familie aus Rom. Aufgewachsen auf dem Land, sehnt sie sich nach Einfluss und Macht. Als ihr Vater stirbt, beschließt sie daher nach Rom zu gehen und ihr Schicksal in die Hand zu nehmen. Sie heiratet einen jungen Aristokraten namen Clodius, der sich bisher eher wenig für Politik interessiert und lieber sein Leben genießt. Ihr Ehrgeiz wird beide in die hohen Sphären des Senates bringen und die Aufmerksamkeit mächtiger Feinde auf sich ziehen. Fulvia muss schnell lernen, das Macht einen Preis hat und die Gunst der Menge sich auch schnell gegen einen wenden kann.
Das war eine Empfehlung von histolicious und diese hat nicht enttäuscht. Mein Wissen über die Römische Republik ist sehr begrenzt. Eigentlich kenne ich da nur Namen und kleine Informationsschnipsel und so habe ich noch nie vorher von Fulvia gehört.
Fulvia erzählt die Geschichte aus ihrer Sicht und ihr Charakter spricht aus ihrer Erzählweise. Gerade der Anfang hat mich neugierig auf ihr Leben und ihre Person gemacht und so bin ich erst einmal gut gestartet. Ich hatte währenddessen auch ein bisschen einen Hänger. Es war mir ein bisschen zu sehr Bericht und mir fehlte etwas die Spannung. Das Buch ist allerdings sehr politisch und da brauchen die Dinge manchmal ein wenig Zeit. Das Finale dieses Buches konnte mich sehr überzeugen.
Es sind sehr viele Informationen über das Leben in Rom enthalten und wie die politische Welt funktioniert. Einiges wirkt nach heutigen Maßstäben sehr modern, anderes wiederum altmodisch. Dieser Kontrast hat mich sehr fasziniert, weil manche Dinge auch nicht so recht zusammenzupassen schienen.
Fulvia war eine würdige Repräsentantin ihrer Zeit. Ich mochte ihren Ehrgeiz und ihren unbedingten Willen zur Macht. Die gesellschaftlichen Konventionen hat sie geschickt genutzt oder eben auch kalkuliert gebrochen und so gezeigt, was trotz der schwächeren Stellung der Frau alles möglich ist. Bei der Wahl ihres Ehemannes hat sie ein glückliches Händchen bewiesen, denn dieser hat sich gerne auf sie und ihre Ambitionen eingelassen.
Ich war ein wenig überrascht, welche großen Namen in diesem Buch vorkommen, z.B. Cicero, Cäsar und Marcus Antonius. Im Gegensatz zu Fulvia habe ich von diesen Personen bereits gehört und das zeigt mir, dass ich mich noch mehr mit den Geschichten von Frauen beschäftigen sollte, denn auch diese haben Spannendes zu erzählen.
In einem Nachwort trennt die Autorin Fiktion und Wahrheit. Die Balance ist ihr meiner Meinung nach gut gelungen. Die Autorin hat es geschafft ein lebendiges und glaubwürdiges Rom zu erschaffen. Wie es wirklich war, werden wir nie genau wissen, aber dieses Buch fühlte sich nach einer guten Annäherung an.
Fazit: „Fulvia - Power At Any Cost“ erzählt die Geschichte einer Frau mit viel Ehrgeiz und einem unbedingten Willen zur Macht. Das politische Rom ist glaubwürdig dargestellt und wird lebendig. Empfehlenswert für alle, die sich für starke Frauengeschichten und Rom vor 2000 Jahren interessieren.
May 20, 2025
Fulvia is a fascinating woman who lived during the period at the end of the Roman Republic. She married three times, each husband being a major player in the military and political events of the times. These husbands were Clodius Pulcher, the aristocratic champion of the People, Scribonius Curio, supporter of Julius Caesar and most famously, Mark Antony, Caesar's general, and later married to Cleopatra of Egypt. She nursed a personal hatred for one of the most famous Roman politicians and writers, Marcus Tullius Cicero, and exacted an exultant revenge on him after many years of plotting. Her actions throughout her life were passionate and intelligent. She scarcely needs a novel written about her as in her case, the truth is more dramatic than fiction.
I approached Kaarina Parker's novel with interest and some trepidation. The reader should understand, as I did not, that this novel only deals with the first part of Fulvia's life. Mark Antony does not appear, although clearly at least one sequel is intended. (There is material enough for two.) The novel finishes with the death of Clodius and his inflammatory funeral with Fulvia planning her revenge.
That much is fine. What is less so, are the very many liberties the author takes with the historical record, most of which given the dramatic life Fulvia actually led, are entirely unnecessary. Some examples: the novel tells us that neither Fulvia nor Clodius had ever heard of a member of her family who had been a leader of the people. In 122 BC a member of her family, Fulvius Flaccus, an ex-consul, was elected Tribune of the Plebs and supported the great reformer, Gaius Gracchus, and died along with him. Knowledge of this would actually have helped the narrative. Other problems: Terentia did not divorce Cicero during his exile; she looked after his interests in Rome with some courage. Curio did 'touch' Fulvia during their marriage; they had a son, later a supporter of his step-father, Mark Antony, and executed by Augustus Caesar. Titus Milo, Clodius' enemy, was not lynched after his trial for murder, but went into exile in Marseilles, where he lived a comfortable life for many years.
Alright, most readers will not care about all of these errors. I find them a great pity, though, as most of the narrative does keep to the historical record. I would have given the book a higher rating if there had not been such an accumulation of inaccuracies in the final section.
I approached Kaarina Parker's novel with interest and some trepidation. The reader should understand, as I did not, that this novel only deals with the first part of Fulvia's life. Mark Antony does not appear, although clearly at least one sequel is intended. (There is material enough for two.) The novel finishes with the death of Clodius and his inflammatory funeral with Fulvia planning her revenge.
That much is fine. What is less so, are the very many liberties the author takes with the historical record, most of which given the dramatic life Fulvia actually led, are entirely unnecessary. Some examples: the novel tells us that neither Fulvia nor Clodius had ever heard of a member of her family who had been a leader of the people. In 122 BC a member of her family, Fulvius Flaccus, an ex-consul, was elected Tribune of the Plebs and supported the great reformer, Gaius Gracchus, and died along with him. Knowledge of this would actually have helped the narrative. Other problems: Terentia did not divorce Cicero during his exile; she looked after his interests in Rome with some courage. Curio did 'touch' Fulvia during their marriage; they had a son, later a supporter of his step-father, Mark Antony, and executed by Augustus Caesar. Titus Milo, Clodius' enemy, was not lynched after his trial for murder, but went into exile in Marseilles, where he lived a comfortable life for many years.
Alright, most readers will not care about all of these errors. I find them a great pity, though, as most of the narrative does keep to the historical record. I would have given the book a higher rating if there had not been such an accumulation of inaccuracies in the final section.
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