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The Cleansing: a Novel of Ancient Rome - Based on a True Story
Based on a true story, this is not the enlightened Rome of myth. This is a city choking on fear, where blood flows on both the battlefield and altar, and where generals and politicians alike are desperate to appease rageful gods.
When 50,000 Romans fall in a single day at the Battle of Cannae, priests claim there can be only one reason the gods abandoned Rome: a Vestal Virgin has broken her vow of chastity. And they accuse Opimia (Mia), the strongest, most defiant of the six sacred Vestal priestesses.
Forced as a child into serving Vesta, the goddess of fire, Mia has always chafed against Rome's control of her every move-especially after being separated from her childhood love, Attius. Now, accused of a crime she did not commit, she must defend herself in a hostile court to avoid being buried alive for her "crime."
Betrayed by the high priestess, hunted by Rome's political and religious elite, Mia must either accept her fate - or join with the Sybil of Cumae to expose the truth behind a world built on superstition, fear, and lies.
A story of personal awakening amid public catastrophe, The Cleansing is a haunting journey through a city at war with itself - and a woman who risks everything to survive it.
When 50,000 Romans fall in a single day at the Battle of Cannae, priests claim there can be only one reason the gods abandoned Rome: a Vestal Virgin has broken her vow of chastity. And they accuse Opimia (Mia), the strongest, most defiant of the six sacred Vestal priestesses.
Forced as a child into serving Vesta, the goddess of fire, Mia has always chafed against Rome's control of her every move-especially after being separated from her childhood love, Attius. Now, accused of a crime she did not commit, she must defend herself in a hostile court to avoid being buried alive for her "crime."
Betrayed by the high priestess, hunted by Rome's political and religious elite, Mia must either accept her fate - or join with the Sybil of Cumae to expose the truth behind a world built on superstition, fear, and lies.
A story of personal awakening amid public catastrophe, The Cleansing is a haunting journey through a city at war with itself - and a woman who risks everything to survive it.
- GenresHistorical Fiction
318 pages, Paperback
Published January 20, 2026
About the author
Vicky Alvear Shecter
14 books270 followersVicky Alvear Shecter/Victoria Alvear writes about the ancient world and the often disturbing parallels with today's political unrest and misogynistic backlash. She writes as Victoria Alvear for adults. Her latest book is THE CLEANSING, based on the true story of an ancient Roman Vestal Virgin falsely accused of having sex and fighting in court to keep from being buried alive for her so-called "crime." Midwest Book Reviews called the book, "Original, exceptional, deftly crafted and a simply riveting read from cover to cover."
For nearly twenty years, she has served as a docent at the Michael C. Carlos Museum of Antiquities at Emory University, where she regularly engages the public on the fascinating aspects of ancient life and politics.
For nearly twenty years, she has served as a docent at the Michael C. Carlos Museum of Antiquities at Emory University, where she regularly engages the public on the fascinating aspects of ancient life and politics.
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Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews
March 13, 2026
In a Nutshell: A historical fiction set in Ancient Rome and inspired by true events. Gritty and disturbing. Slow but atmospheric. Good character development and build-up to the finale. Slightly repetitive. I’m somewhat undecided on my feelings about the ending. Recommended.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Plot Preview:
PSA: The GR blurb is too detailed.
I have hardly ever read a book set in Ancient Rome unless you count stories from Roman mythology (which isn't really the same thing.) So when I read the blurb of this indie novel, I was immediately intrigued. The fact that it was based on true events also added to its appeal. Barring a few minor areas where the book could have done better for me, it delivered well on its promise, though I must add I wasn’t mentally prepared for just how disturbing it would be.
Bookish Yays:
👏🏻 The prologue, which is set during the Battle of Cannae and comes from Attius’ third-person perspective. Such a nerve-wracking scene! I felt like I was right there next to Attius!
👏🏻 Mia, our young lead, who knows what she wants and also knows what is expected of her. I liked her courage and dedication, and how she constantly mulled over rights and wrongs while still performing her duties. Also appreciate that she (almost) always sounds her age, whether at six or sixteen.
👏🏻 The handling of the female rage trope. Mostly era-appropriate. Mia is portrayed as having doubts and yet not as too much of a modernistic rebel. Her emotions are more of uncertainty despite her strong belief in the gods. This is more realistic than ancient characters spouting 21st century ideas.
👏🏻 The role of women in the plot. Whether as supporters or betrayers, mentors or friends, enablers or dissuaders, the story highlights various complex roles women play in other women’s lives.
👏🏻 The various themes: patriarchy, consent, superstitions, manipulation by the powerful, sexual exploration, religion, female chastity… All powerful topics and woven in well. I wasn’t too sure about one of the inclusions as it felt unnecessary, but I later saw its relevance to the story.
👏🏻 The clear marking of the timelines, whether present or the flashbacks. I appreciate this even more as the author used relative time markers such as “Six Months Before” or “Ten Years Before”. I would have been so lost had she used absolute time indicators such as 226 BCE! BCE year calculations take time! 🤭
👏🏻 The depiction of Ancient Rome. Not the Rome we typically see in fiction. This is like the dark underbelly always hidden from us. Love how the writing brings so much realism to the place and era.
👏🏻 The author’s note at the end, along with an astounding detailed historical note about the facts vs. fiction of the book. As I am mostly ignorant of the era (the only thing I know about ancient Rome is from what I've seen in Hollywood movies, so it's as good as knowing nothing), I just went with the flow. But the author’s mindblowing research and her knowledge of the topic is evident in her parting content. It is so fascinating to read!
👏🏻 A separate Yay for linking this ancient story to the current abuse of women’s rights in certain countries, even the so-called developed ones.
Bookish Okays:
🤞🏻 The flashbacks become too frequent in the second half. While this is partly justifiable by the events of the *contemporary* timeline of 216 BCE, it still breaks the pacing of the intriguing trial Mia has to face to clear her name. Also, the flashbacks aren’t chronological, though the time indicators help to some extent.
🤞🏻 There’s a lot of telling in the novel. I guess this is needed because most readers would be as blank as I am about all the historical and religious intricacies of the era. But at times, I felt like it was becoming a bit too detail-oriented.
🤞🏻 The darker part of the era. So very disturbing! The author’s disclaimer at the start warned me about the brutality of the content and the necessity of including it in the narrative, but some scenes were still too much for me. The final quarter (before the finale) is especially harsh on the mind.
🤞🏻 The ending. I get why the story went the way it did, and the author also clarifies her point of view in her parting note. But without going into spoilers, all I can say is that the abrupt change in emotional tone was tough for me to accept.
Bookish Nays:
👎🏻 Mia’s inner monologues get somewhat repetitive at times, not just about the prevalent facts and beliefs but also about her emotions and reactions to the trial of her virtue.
👎🏻 The pacing is on the slower side, partly because of the flashbacks.
Overall, the book met many of my expectations and delivered mostly as promised. The writing might need a bit of finetuning to cull out the repetitions and the ’telling’, but these are relatively minor hurdles in what is otherwise a compelling story of a woman who stands against the system alone.
This story would make a great movie, though I don’t know if Hollywood should be the one in charge of the adaptation; they’ll surely mess up the emotions and focus only on voyeurism. And no, not Bollywood as well. Who wants to see Mia breaking into song and dance in between her trial?!
How much has changed from 216 BCE to 2026 ADE in terms of women’s rights? In some countries, it seems like we have returned to ancient times in every bad way possible, where war is still waged, women and minorities are still forcefully subdued, and religious bigots still wave the flag of moral superiority. I never expected to find so many parallels to our present world in a story set in Ancient Rome! The only difference is that today’s misogynistic pseudo-dictators cannot hide under the excuse of ignorance.
Recommended to readers of historical fiction and feminist narratives.
3.75 stars.
My thanks to author Vicky Alvear for providing me with a complimentary copy of “The Cleansing”. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
The digital version of this book is currently available on Kindle Unlimited.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
I follow the Goodreads rating policy:
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ - Lifelong favourite!
⭐⭐⭐⭐ - I loved the book.
⭐⭐⭐ - I liked the book.
⭐⭐ - I found the book average.
⭐ - I hated the book.
The decimals indicate the degree of the in-between feelings.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Connect with me through:
My Blog || The StoryGraph || Instagram || Facebook ||
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Plot Preview:
216 BCE. Sixteen-year-old Mia has been serving as one of the Vestal Virgins for more than a decade already. Though this wasn’t a decision she made by choice, she performs her role with diligence. When she hears of the huge defeat of the Roman Army at the Battle of Cannae, she is sad for the 50000 fallen soldiers, but more than that, she mourns the death of her childhood love Attius in that battle. The priests declare that the only reason the gods abandoned Rome at Cannae was the breaking of the vow of chastity by the youngest Vestal Virgin. Mia knows that it is up to her alone to save her life. But will she be able to prove her innocence and virtue in this era of blind adherence to gods and men?
The story comes to us mostly through Mia’s first-person perspective over two broad timelines: her present and some flashbacks from the past.
PSA: The GR blurb is too detailed.
I have hardly ever read a book set in Ancient Rome unless you count stories from Roman mythology (which isn't really the same thing.) So when I read the blurb of this indie novel, I was immediately intrigued. The fact that it was based on true events also added to its appeal. Barring a few minor areas where the book could have done better for me, it delivered well on its promise, though I must add I wasn’t mentally prepared for just how disturbing it would be.
Bookish Yays:
👏🏻 The prologue, which is set during the Battle of Cannae and comes from Attius’ third-person perspective. Such a nerve-wracking scene! I felt like I was right there next to Attius!
👏🏻 Mia, our young lead, who knows what she wants and also knows what is expected of her. I liked her courage and dedication, and how she constantly mulled over rights and wrongs while still performing her duties. Also appreciate that she (almost) always sounds her age, whether at six or sixteen.
👏🏻 The handling of the female rage trope. Mostly era-appropriate. Mia is portrayed as having doubts and yet not as too much of a modernistic rebel. Her emotions are more of uncertainty despite her strong belief in the gods. This is more realistic than ancient characters spouting 21st century ideas.
👏🏻 The role of women in the plot. Whether as supporters or betrayers, mentors or friends, enablers or dissuaders, the story highlights various complex roles women play in other women’s lives.
👏🏻 The various themes: patriarchy, consent, superstitions, manipulation by the powerful, sexual exploration, religion, female chastity… All powerful topics and woven in well. I wasn’t too sure about one of the inclusions as it felt unnecessary, but I later saw its relevance to the story.
👏🏻 The clear marking of the timelines, whether present or the flashbacks. I appreciate this even more as the author used relative time markers such as “Six Months Before” or “Ten Years Before”. I would have been so lost had she used absolute time indicators such as 226 BCE! BCE year calculations take time! 🤭
👏🏻 The depiction of Ancient Rome. Not the Rome we typically see in fiction. This is like the dark underbelly always hidden from us. Love how the writing brings so much realism to the place and era.
👏🏻 The author’s note at the end, along with an astounding detailed historical note about the facts vs. fiction of the book. As I am mostly ignorant of the era (the only thing I know about ancient Rome is from what I've seen in Hollywood movies, so it's as good as knowing nothing), I just went with the flow. But the author’s mindblowing research and her knowledge of the topic is evident in her parting content. It is so fascinating to read!
👏🏻 A separate Yay for linking this ancient story to the current abuse of women’s rights in certain countries, even the so-called developed ones.
Bookish Okays:
🤞🏻 The flashbacks become too frequent in the second half. While this is partly justifiable by the events of the *contemporary* timeline of 216 BCE, it still breaks the pacing of the intriguing trial Mia has to face to clear her name. Also, the flashbacks aren’t chronological, though the time indicators help to some extent.
🤞🏻 There’s a lot of telling in the novel. I guess this is needed because most readers would be as blank as I am about all the historical and religious intricacies of the era. But at times, I felt like it was becoming a bit too detail-oriented.
🤞🏻 The darker part of the era. So very disturbing! The author’s disclaimer at the start warned me about the brutality of the content and the necessity of including it in the narrative, but some scenes were still too much for me. The final quarter (before the finale) is especially harsh on the mind.
🤞🏻 The ending. I get why the story went the way it did, and the author also clarifies her point of view in her parting note. But without going into spoilers, all I can say is that the abrupt change in emotional tone was tough for me to accept.
Bookish Nays:
👎🏻 Mia’s inner monologues get somewhat repetitive at times, not just about the prevalent facts and beliefs but also about her emotions and reactions to the trial of her virtue.
👎🏻 The pacing is on the slower side, partly because of the flashbacks.
Overall, the book met many of my expectations and delivered mostly as promised. The writing might need a bit of finetuning to cull out the repetitions and the ’telling’, but these are relatively minor hurdles in what is otherwise a compelling story of a woman who stands against the system alone.
This story would make a great movie, though I don’t know if Hollywood should be the one in charge of the adaptation; they’ll surely mess up the emotions and focus only on voyeurism. And no, not Bollywood as well. Who wants to see Mia breaking into song and dance in between her trial?!
How much has changed from 216 BCE to 2026 ADE in terms of women’s rights? In some countries, it seems like we have returned to ancient times in every bad way possible, where war is still waged, women and minorities are still forcefully subdued, and religious bigots still wave the flag of moral superiority. I never expected to find so many parallels to our present world in a story set in Ancient Rome! The only difference is that today’s misogynistic pseudo-dictators cannot hide under the excuse of ignorance.
Recommended to readers of historical fiction and feminist narratives.
3.75 stars.
My thanks to author Vicky Alvear for providing me with a complimentary copy of “The Cleansing”. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
The digital version of this book is currently available on Kindle Unlimited.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
I follow the Goodreads rating policy:
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ - Lifelong favourite!
⭐⭐⭐⭐ - I loved the book.
⭐⭐⭐ - I liked the book.
⭐⭐ - I found the book average.
⭐ - I hated the book.
The decimals indicate the degree of the in-between feelings.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Connect with me through:
My Blog || The StoryGraph || Instagram || Facebook ||
May 23, 2026
4.5/5★
Set in ancient Rome and inspired by true events, The Cleansing by Victoria Alvear explores female resilience, religious control and the violence men justify in the name of fear.
After the catastrophic Battle of Cannae, where 50,000 Romans lost their lives fighting Hannibal, Rome’s priests condemn Opimia, a defiant Vestal Virgin they claim has angered the gods. Opimia a.k.a. Mia has been bound to temple of Vesta, goddess of the hearth and home as a Vestal Virgin since she was a young child. She has long rebelled against the temple's tight restrictions and the high priestess that dislikes her. After being falsely accused, Mia must face a hostile Roman court to escape the sentence of being burried alive.
I've never read a book featuring the Vestal Virgins (at least none that I can think of right now) so I absolutely love that Victoria Alvear chose to write one. Despite tackling heavy themes like patriarchy suppressing women’s power, sexual assault, slavery, and suicide (among other themes), Ireally enjoyed Mia’s story and watching her grow into her strength. Watching her reclaim her voice and agency was one of the most satisfying parts of the book.
I also can't end this review without mentioning how timely this novel also felt with what's happening in today's time and age. By this I mean the connection between declining women’s rights and religious purity culture. Victoria Alvear explains more about this in the author's note so definitely don't skip that, as it's written in a way I never could. I will quote this: "Why does this kind of Bronze Age thinking persist in an age when we are capable of sending robots into space and onto the surface of Mars?"
Overall, The Cleansing by Victoria Alvear was a gripping historical novel about female resilience, power, and one woman’s fight against a society determined to silence her. Obviously I would highly recommend it as it was a really amazing read!
Set in ancient Rome and inspired by true events, The Cleansing by Victoria Alvear explores female resilience, religious control and the violence men justify in the name of fear.
After the catastrophic Battle of Cannae, where 50,000 Romans lost their lives fighting Hannibal, Rome’s priests condemn Opimia, a defiant Vestal Virgin they claim has angered the gods. Opimia a.k.a. Mia has been bound to temple of Vesta, goddess of the hearth and home as a Vestal Virgin since she was a young child. She has long rebelled against the temple's tight restrictions and the high priestess that dislikes her. After being falsely accused, Mia must face a hostile Roman court to escape the sentence of being burried alive.
I've never read a book featuring the Vestal Virgins (at least none that I can think of right now) so I absolutely love that Victoria Alvear chose to write one. Despite tackling heavy themes like patriarchy suppressing women’s power, sexual assault, slavery, and suicide (among other themes), Ireally enjoyed Mia’s story and watching her grow into her strength. Watching her reclaim her voice and agency was one of the most satisfying parts of the book.
I also can't end this review without mentioning how timely this novel also felt with what's happening in today's time and age. By this I mean the connection between declining women’s rights and religious purity culture. Victoria Alvear explains more about this in the author's note so definitely don't skip that, as it's written in a way I never could. I will quote this: "Why does this kind of Bronze Age thinking persist in an age when we are capable of sending robots into space and onto the surface of Mars?"
Overall, The Cleansing by Victoria Alvear was a gripping historical novel about female resilience, power, and one woman’s fight against a society determined to silence her. Obviously I would highly recommend it as it was a really amazing read!
September 21, 2026
As one of Rome’s six Vestal Virgins serving Vesta, Goddess of the Hearth, Opimia “Mia” has always been the most spirited, though years of training have tempered her rebellion. Yet, resentment still flickers at being chosen and torn from her idyllic childhood with best friend Attius, along with disquieting doubts about the true nature of her role.
When Hannibal slaughters 50,000 Romans at the Battle of Cannae, sacrifices are needed to appease the gods and keep the people of Rome from mass panicking, and it has been decided that one of those sacrifices will be Mia…
Alvear’s powerfully compelling novel inspired by actual events opens in 216 BCE, plunging readers into the carnage of the Battle of Cannae, where Mia’s soulmate, Attius, fights before succumbing to a shield smash to the head and sinking beneath a pile of corpses.
It’s a brutal, immersive beginning, but Attius comes across as a man of quiet integrity even in this brief appearance. Despite the surrounding slaughter and his imminent demise, Attius's thoughts turn to his friend and fellow legionnaire Marcus, somewhere amid the battlefield butchery, and to Mia.
The narrative proper begins six weeks later, on the Ides of October, and unfolds from Mia’s first-person perspective. Her voice is immediately encompassing and emotionally rich, though she has not yet fully awakened to its depth, with occasional glimpses of playfulness.
She draws the reader in with her sharp social intelligence and keen awareness, which she keeps subdued beneath the mantle of a Vestal, together with the hints of an underlying maverick personality that subtly colors her observations and behavior.
It is not only Mia who is unconventional, Alvear’s Ancient Rome is not the usual depiction of togas and sandals but a seething cauldron of depravity, fearfulness, and performative religious theatre. The place is morally hollow, shaped by the patriarchy and steeped in sexual currency and charged with deceit. It’s an authentic, unfiltered, and meticulously detailed rendering. Indeed, Alvear’s historical precision, especially in relation to the rituals and rites, is fascinating and seamlessly woven into Mia’s narrative.
Notwithstanding the finely wrought classical texture, Alvear has a storyteller’s instinct. She has produced a captivating, thought-provoking tale that also feels fresh, echoing contemporary relevance in several respects, told through measured, sophisticated prose that is vividly absorbing to read.
Mia is accused of impropriety fairly early on, and most of the novel follows her trial, whose proceedings shift and twist dramatically, spiraling through gripping betrayals, reversals, and revelations.
Interleaved with the courtroom clamor and baying mobs are Mia’s reminiscences spanning her childhood, Attius, and life as a Vestal. It’s skilfully worked, not only building a beautifully layered picture of the main protagonist, her life, and desires, but also providing pause and contrast to the hostile tumult she faces in court, which makes for intense reading.
Her esoteric encounter with the Sibyl at Cumae is spine-tinglingly recounted, the old woman’s straightforward intuition both ironic and softly amusing, and Mia’s experiences with her friend Prisca are unexpectedly enlightening and add a dash of spice.
The majority of characters surrounding Mia are utterly duplicitous, if not outright malignant degenerates. The Virgo Maxima, the Pontiff, and the Pontiff’s nephew, Lucius Cantilius, are especially loathsome and nastily convincing. Her manumitted handmaiden, Ketet, one of the few trustworthy, is a complex, intriguing individual and a strong addition to the story.
The ending is warmly satisfying, the seeds of which have been faintly scattered throughout the narrative. It could be leveled as a touch convenient, but Alvear’s delicate conviction makes it beautifully moving and, personally, the absolutely right conclusion.
There are a few areas of repetition. Occasionally, the trial scenes are ever-so-slightly over-engineered, but overall, The Cleansing is an uncommonly good, spellbinding triumph of a novel, wonderfully enhanced by Alvear’s excellent Historical Notes. Highly recommended.
When Hannibal slaughters 50,000 Romans at the Battle of Cannae, sacrifices are needed to appease the gods and keep the people of Rome from mass panicking, and it has been decided that one of those sacrifices will be Mia…
Alvear’s powerfully compelling novel inspired by actual events opens in 216 BCE, plunging readers into the carnage of the Battle of Cannae, where Mia’s soulmate, Attius, fights before succumbing to a shield smash to the head and sinking beneath a pile of corpses.
It’s a brutal, immersive beginning, but Attius comes across as a man of quiet integrity even in this brief appearance. Despite the surrounding slaughter and his imminent demise, Attius's thoughts turn to his friend and fellow legionnaire Marcus, somewhere amid the battlefield butchery, and to Mia.
The narrative proper begins six weeks later, on the Ides of October, and unfolds from Mia’s first-person perspective. Her voice is immediately encompassing and emotionally rich, though she has not yet fully awakened to its depth, with occasional glimpses of playfulness.
She draws the reader in with her sharp social intelligence and keen awareness, which she keeps subdued beneath the mantle of a Vestal, together with the hints of an underlying maverick personality that subtly colors her observations and behavior.
It is not only Mia who is unconventional, Alvear’s Ancient Rome is not the usual depiction of togas and sandals but a seething cauldron of depravity, fearfulness, and performative religious theatre. The place is morally hollow, shaped by the patriarchy and steeped in sexual currency and charged with deceit. It’s an authentic, unfiltered, and meticulously detailed rendering. Indeed, Alvear’s historical precision, especially in relation to the rituals and rites, is fascinating and seamlessly woven into Mia’s narrative.
Notwithstanding the finely wrought classical texture, Alvear has a storyteller’s instinct. She has produced a captivating, thought-provoking tale that also feels fresh, echoing contemporary relevance in several respects, told through measured, sophisticated prose that is vividly absorbing to read.
Mia is accused of impropriety fairly early on, and most of the novel follows her trial, whose proceedings shift and twist dramatically, spiraling through gripping betrayals, reversals, and revelations.
Interleaved with the courtroom clamor and baying mobs are Mia’s reminiscences spanning her childhood, Attius, and life as a Vestal. It’s skilfully worked, not only building a beautifully layered picture of the main protagonist, her life, and desires, but also providing pause and contrast to the hostile tumult she faces in court, which makes for intense reading.
Her esoteric encounter with the Sibyl at Cumae is spine-tinglingly recounted, the old woman’s straightforward intuition both ironic and softly amusing, and Mia’s experiences with her friend Prisca are unexpectedly enlightening and add a dash of spice.
The majority of characters surrounding Mia are utterly duplicitous, if not outright malignant degenerates. The Virgo Maxima, the Pontiff, and the Pontiff’s nephew, Lucius Cantilius, are especially loathsome and nastily convincing. Her manumitted handmaiden, Ketet, one of the few trustworthy, is a complex, intriguing individual and a strong addition to the story.
The ending is warmly satisfying, the seeds of which have been faintly scattered throughout the narrative. It could be leveled as a touch convenient, but Alvear’s delicate conviction makes it beautifully moving and, personally, the absolutely right conclusion.
There are a few areas of repetition. Occasionally, the trial scenes are ever-so-slightly over-engineered, but overall, The Cleansing is an uncommonly good, spellbinding triumph of a novel, wonderfully enhanced by Alvear’s excellent Historical Notes. Highly recommended.
March 2, 2026
I absolutely loved this book. From the opening chapters, the Ancient Rome setting felt immersive and alive, yet the characters themselves felt incredibly relatable and modern. The novel does an excellent job of introducing unfamiliar terms, gods, and religious practices in a way that enhances the story rather than overwhelming it, and I genuinely felt like I was learning as I read.
One of the book’s greatest strengths is its exploration of female friendship and women’s strength. Despite being set over two thousand years ago, the emotional experiences of the women feel strikingly familiar. Themes of patriarchy, gender, sexuality, and power are woven throughout the story with care and intelligence. The question of why women must provide extraordinary proof to be believed, summed up so powerfully in the line “but why had it taken a miracle for men to believe she was innocent,” feels as relevant now as it would have been then.
The exploration of religion is particularly compelling, showing how belief can be both a source of comfort and a tool of control. The female dynamics are rich and nuanced, and I found myself deeply invested in the relationships between the women as much as the central plot. By the end, I had completely fallen in love with the characters.
This is a book that stays with you. It highlights how much we can learn from history, and how unsettling it is to realise how little has changed over such a long period of time. While I would strongly recommend checking trigger warnings, I also think this is an absolutely amazing read. The writing is beautiful, the themes are powerful, and the ending is deeply satisfying.
One of the book’s greatest strengths is its exploration of female friendship and women’s strength. Despite being set over two thousand years ago, the emotional experiences of the women feel strikingly familiar. Themes of patriarchy, gender, sexuality, and power are woven throughout the story with care and intelligence. The question of why women must provide extraordinary proof to be believed, summed up so powerfully in the line “but why had it taken a miracle for men to believe she was innocent,” feels as relevant now as it would have been then.
The exploration of religion is particularly compelling, showing how belief can be both a source of comfort and a tool of control. The female dynamics are rich and nuanced, and I found myself deeply invested in the relationships between the women as much as the central plot. By the end, I had completely fallen in love with the characters.
This is a book that stays with you. It highlights how much we can learn from history, and how unsettling it is to realise how little has changed over such a long period of time. While I would strongly recommend checking trigger warnings, I also think this is an absolutely amazing read. The writing is beautiful, the themes are powerful, and the ending is deeply satisfying.
June 27, 2026
The mighty Rome is crumbling from the inside. Chariots come to a standstill, victorious horses are sacrificed, and gifts to the gods are plentiful. Yet disasters still strike, armies continue to fall, and someone must be blamed. Someone must have upset the gods, done something to invoke their wrath upon Rome. They must be rooted out before Hannibal's approaching army reaches Rome's walls.
Mia has been a part of the Vestal Virgins since she was a little girl, but despite the many years she has spent in service, she has still yet to accept every aspect of her life. There are rules upon rules that she must follow, and it seems they can only be broken when it serves someone else's higher purpose. However, when she is wrongly accused of breaking her vow of chastity, it quickly becomes her word against Rome's. The city needs a reason to explain the gods' anger over the deaths of their sons, fathers, and brothers on the battlefield, and a Vestal Virgin committing such a crime provides the perfect explanation.
"The Cleansing" by Victoria Alvear is a thought-provoking novel that explores the dangers of herd mentality. Losing control would bring chaos, so decisions are made and paths are taken in an attempt to calm the many, with little thought given to how they may affect the innocent few.
Mia has lived under constant scrutiny since becoming a Vestal Virgin as a young girl. One wrong move could mean the difference between life and a long, drawn-out death. Her indoctrination was never her choice, but she had little option other than to accept it. Once her path had been chosen, refusal was no longer possible. Her life became a monotony of religious ceremonies, traditions, and rituals. Every slip was noticed, and every mistake punished.
Mia is portrayed as an incredibly headstrong individual. She was a wild and unruly child, and even under such strict tutelage, she has retained her rebellious spirit. Whenever the opportunity arose to disobey, particularly if she could do so without anyone realising, her life became just a little brighter. However, her reputation as someone who is difficult to manage has finally caught up with her. When she is accused, no one is eager to defend her. If anyone were likely to break their vows, surely it would be the wilful and disobedient young Vestal Virgin. Rumours spread quickly, and no one is willing to risk offending the gods any further by standing beside someone who may have brought about their wrath. Mia finds herself alone, backed into a corner, facing a long and painful death unless she can prove her innocence before her fate is sealed.
This novel portrays a society ruled through fear and submission. The loudest and most convincing voices shape the narrative, while the people follow, accepting every word as truth. Rumours carry more weight than facts, and it quickly becomes apparent just how dangerous such a society can be. Religion and belief become weapons, twisted and manipulated to serve those in positions of power. The people are told that the gods are angry and must be appeased, and through rituals and ceremonies they are reassured that the correct measures are being taken to secure Rome's future.
After the devastating losses at the Battle of Cannae, the people of Rome desperately needed someone to blame. Mia is thrown onto the metaphorical altar as a ritual sacrifice—not to appease the gods, but to appease a frightened population searching for answers. Reading this novel from a modern perspective, the concept of appeasing gods through sacrifice and elaborate religious ceremonies feels foreign. However, there are aspects of the story that resonate surprisingly well with the modern world, creating a direct link between past and present. Sacrificing the few for the supposed benefit of the many is a theme that runs throughout the novel, but because the story is told through the eyes of the oppressed, the cruelty of that belief shines through with heartbreaking clarity.
Mia is an incredibly strong character, and one who carries both the emotional and political weight of the novel with ease. Her accusation brings everything she has ever known crashing down around her as those she once trusted begin to turn their backs on her. Yet she refuses to accept a fate built upon lies. If the gods are truly angered by injustice, would they really demand the death of one of their own sacred priestesses based on a false accusation? Mia understands that her future depends not upon the gods, but upon whether she can convince others that her death is not what they truly desire. Her awareness of the impossible situation she faces creates an emotionally charged narrative, leaving the reader desperate to help despite knowing there is nothing they can do. Mia stands alone in a society where women held little power and must attempt to defend herself before a court that has already made up its mind.
Victoria Alvear has written a novel with a wonderfully authentic feel. The historical details stand out without ever overwhelming the story, and it is impossible to ignore the depth of research that has gone into bringing ancient Rome to life. Every aspect feels carefully considered, creating a world that is both believable and immersive. The tension remains high throughout as the sands of time continue to slip away from Mia, yet the pacing never feels rushed. Backstory is woven naturally into the narrative, giving the reader a fuller understanding of Mia's life and the events that have led to her standing trial for a crime she did not commit.
"The Cleansing" is an enthralling story of despair, hope, and the courage to hold onto your beliefs when the world tries to force you to abandon them. Through its emotionally gripping narrative and compelling heroine, Victoria Alvear has crafted a novel that inspires deep reflection on leadership, manipulation, justice, and the dangers of allowing fear to dictate truth. It is a story that shares an important message about humanity itself, one that lingers long after the final page has been turned.
Review by Ellie Yarde
Yarde Book Promotions
Mia has been a part of the Vestal Virgins since she was a little girl, but despite the many years she has spent in service, she has still yet to accept every aspect of her life. There are rules upon rules that she must follow, and it seems they can only be broken when it serves someone else's higher purpose. However, when she is wrongly accused of breaking her vow of chastity, it quickly becomes her word against Rome's. The city needs a reason to explain the gods' anger over the deaths of their sons, fathers, and brothers on the battlefield, and a Vestal Virgin committing such a crime provides the perfect explanation.
"The Cleansing" by Victoria Alvear is a thought-provoking novel that explores the dangers of herd mentality. Losing control would bring chaos, so decisions are made and paths are taken in an attempt to calm the many, with little thought given to how they may affect the innocent few.
Mia has lived under constant scrutiny since becoming a Vestal Virgin as a young girl. One wrong move could mean the difference between life and a long, drawn-out death. Her indoctrination was never her choice, but she had little option other than to accept it. Once her path had been chosen, refusal was no longer possible. Her life became a monotony of religious ceremonies, traditions, and rituals. Every slip was noticed, and every mistake punished.
Mia is portrayed as an incredibly headstrong individual. She was a wild and unruly child, and even under such strict tutelage, she has retained her rebellious spirit. Whenever the opportunity arose to disobey, particularly if she could do so without anyone realising, her life became just a little brighter. However, her reputation as someone who is difficult to manage has finally caught up with her. When she is accused, no one is eager to defend her. If anyone were likely to break their vows, surely it would be the wilful and disobedient young Vestal Virgin. Rumours spread quickly, and no one is willing to risk offending the gods any further by standing beside someone who may have brought about their wrath. Mia finds herself alone, backed into a corner, facing a long and painful death unless she can prove her innocence before her fate is sealed.
This novel portrays a society ruled through fear and submission. The loudest and most convincing voices shape the narrative, while the people follow, accepting every word as truth. Rumours carry more weight than facts, and it quickly becomes apparent just how dangerous such a society can be. Religion and belief become weapons, twisted and manipulated to serve those in positions of power. The people are told that the gods are angry and must be appeased, and through rituals and ceremonies they are reassured that the correct measures are being taken to secure Rome's future.
After the devastating losses at the Battle of Cannae, the people of Rome desperately needed someone to blame. Mia is thrown onto the metaphorical altar as a ritual sacrifice—not to appease the gods, but to appease a frightened population searching for answers. Reading this novel from a modern perspective, the concept of appeasing gods through sacrifice and elaborate religious ceremonies feels foreign. However, there are aspects of the story that resonate surprisingly well with the modern world, creating a direct link between past and present. Sacrificing the few for the supposed benefit of the many is a theme that runs throughout the novel, but because the story is told through the eyes of the oppressed, the cruelty of that belief shines through with heartbreaking clarity.
Mia is an incredibly strong character, and one who carries both the emotional and political weight of the novel with ease. Her accusation brings everything she has ever known crashing down around her as those she once trusted begin to turn their backs on her. Yet she refuses to accept a fate built upon lies. If the gods are truly angered by injustice, would they really demand the death of one of their own sacred priestesses based on a false accusation? Mia understands that her future depends not upon the gods, but upon whether she can convince others that her death is not what they truly desire. Her awareness of the impossible situation she faces creates an emotionally charged narrative, leaving the reader desperate to help despite knowing there is nothing they can do. Mia stands alone in a society where women held little power and must attempt to defend herself before a court that has already made up its mind.
Victoria Alvear has written a novel with a wonderfully authentic feel. The historical details stand out without ever overwhelming the story, and it is impossible to ignore the depth of research that has gone into bringing ancient Rome to life. Every aspect feels carefully considered, creating a world that is both believable and immersive. The tension remains high throughout as the sands of time continue to slip away from Mia, yet the pacing never feels rushed. Backstory is woven naturally into the narrative, giving the reader a fuller understanding of Mia's life and the events that have led to her standing trial for a crime she did not commit.
"The Cleansing" is an enthralling story of despair, hope, and the courage to hold onto your beliefs when the world tries to force you to abandon them. Through its emotionally gripping narrative and compelling heroine, Victoria Alvear has crafted a novel that inspires deep reflection on leadership, manipulation, justice, and the dangers of allowing fear to dictate truth. It is a story that shares an important message about humanity itself, one that lingers long after the final page has been turned.
Review by Ellie Yarde
Yarde Book Promotions
February 13, 2026
I like history, but only if it’s history told as a story. Most non-fiction history books are just insipid information dumps and if there is a story there, it is buried deep beneath somewhere. I don't care about dates; I care about people and their lives. So I am determined to read more historical fiction.
The Cleansing by Victoria Alvear is an excellent place to start. I think ancient Rome was a fascinating place, but it was also such a man’s world that I would never want to live in it. I don't think most women who know anything about ancient or medieval history would want to live in the so-called “good old days” anywhere. Intelligent men probably wouldn’t either but then intelligence among men is not that common. I mean, look at the idiots who are always ready to fight wars. 50,000 Roman soldiers apparently died in a single day at the Battle of Cannae.
Now this was a period of serious existential crisis for the Roman Empire. There is an actual Roman idiomatic expression, “Hannibal ad portas” (“Hannibal is at the gates!”), which would henceforth be used to indicate that there is a grave emergency.
This is the story of when Hannibal was actually at the gates. 50,000 men dead is no joke, even for the Roman Empire. And Roman citizens are realising how it feels when an army invades your city (something they never cared about doing to others). Romans are scared. And who is guilty for a war being fought and lost by generals who are all men? A woman. Of course. We are such a menace, right?
Apparently, Rome is losing because a Vestal Virgin priestess has broken her vow of chastity. I mean, this would be hilarious if it wasn't believed to be true at the time. Men and their obsession with the virginity of women knows no bounds. I guess some women end up internalizing this which is also quite unfortunate.
It was hard for me not to laugh whenever Mia was like, “If I had sex, the whole empire would come down.” Like girl, do it already and watch the world burn!
Apparently Rome was not built in a day, but it could be brought down by one well-placed thrust.
Yet of course she would be accused of no longer being a virgin and thus bringing the wrath of the gods upon Rome. Of course she must stand trial. To be fair, she did have lesbian sex. (Sidebar: sexual imagery was apparently rather common in ancient Rome. I need to learn more about that.)
However, this obsession with feminine virginity is something she learned because of Roman culture, probably the most important theme of the book too. On one hand, Roman men were openly having sex. On the other hand, God forbid women have a good time and that’s not just an expression here; apparently the gods do forbid Mia. The mystification of feminine virginity is a theme common in Indian cultures too. However, in the Roman example, the very gods are obsessed enough with ensuring a girl’s virginity to kill thousands of people.
The author does a good job of giving Mia a distinct voice, and the story grows increasingly more interesting as the court drama unfolds. The prose ensures the pace of the story. The author seems to have done her research and presents quite an accurate depiction of ancient Rome. There are some well-developed characters. Mia, of course, stands out among them as a strong female character.
All in all, a fantastic story told in an incredibly engaging way.
The Cleansing by Victoria Alvear is an excellent place to start. I think ancient Rome was a fascinating place, but it was also such a man’s world that I would never want to live in it. I don't think most women who know anything about ancient or medieval history would want to live in the so-called “good old days” anywhere. Intelligent men probably wouldn’t either but then intelligence among men is not that common. I mean, look at the idiots who are always ready to fight wars. 50,000 Roman soldiers apparently died in a single day at the Battle of Cannae.
Now this was a period of serious existential crisis for the Roman Empire. There is an actual Roman idiomatic expression, “Hannibal ad portas” (“Hannibal is at the gates!”), which would henceforth be used to indicate that there is a grave emergency.
This is the story of when Hannibal was actually at the gates. 50,000 men dead is no joke, even for the Roman Empire. And Roman citizens are realising how it feels when an army invades your city (something they never cared about doing to others). Romans are scared. And who is guilty for a war being fought and lost by generals who are all men? A woman. Of course. We are such a menace, right?
Apparently, Rome is losing because a Vestal Virgin priestess has broken her vow of chastity. I mean, this would be hilarious if it wasn't believed to be true at the time. Men and their obsession with the virginity of women knows no bounds. I guess some women end up internalizing this which is also quite unfortunate.
It was hard for me not to laugh whenever Mia was like, “If I had sex, the whole empire would come down.” Like girl, do it already and watch the world burn!
Apparently Rome was not built in a day, but it could be brought down by one well-placed thrust.
Yet of course she would be accused of no longer being a virgin and thus bringing the wrath of the gods upon Rome. Of course she must stand trial. To be fair, she did have lesbian sex. (Sidebar: sexual imagery was apparently rather common in ancient Rome. I need to learn more about that.)
However, this obsession with feminine virginity is something she learned because of Roman culture, probably the most important theme of the book too. On one hand, Roman men were openly having sex. On the other hand, God forbid women have a good time and that’s not just an expression here; apparently the gods do forbid Mia. The mystification of feminine virginity is a theme common in Indian cultures too. However, in the Roman example, the very gods are obsessed enough with ensuring a girl’s virginity to kill thousands of people.
The author does a good job of giving Mia a distinct voice, and the story grows increasingly more interesting as the court drama unfolds. The prose ensures the pace of the story. The author seems to have done her research and presents quite an accurate depiction of ancient Rome. There are some well-developed characters. Mia, of course, stands out among them as a strong female character.
All in all, a fantastic story told in an incredibly engaging way.
June 20, 2026
The Cleansing is a historical fiction novel that explores the turmoil experienced in the city of Rome in the wake of their defeat of the Battle of Cannae and the looming threat of Hannibal. We are guided through this time and place by Optimia (or Mia) a Vestal Virgin who is on trial for breaking her vows.
I enjoyed the structure of the story, it isn't linnear in its recollection of events, we move between the present day and all the events (both seemingly inconsequential moments from Mia's childhood, through to powerful moments, where she was aware of their significance) that would contribute to Mia's trial. The transition between the present, as well as significant days from Mia's past makes for a really compelling reading experience.
The novel is evidently well researched (the section at the end after the story itself has finished provides additional, really interesting information), its setting in the city of Rome itself is detailed and compelling. It engages many facts known to us about the Romans on how they conducted themselves societally in particular and how religion was intrinsically linked in all facets of daily life. In particular, I liked its use of terminology, I felt like concise descriptions were given for different religious and political positions, festivalss and places to provide appropriate context for the reader without patronising us. It was so pleasing to see the different layers of religion, with Mia mentioning the Lares or household gods of her youth, which were personal and familial. It is starkly contrasted against her position as a Vestal Virgin, not only is her position as a priestess in a public position, but it is one of the most visible positions in the city.
At its core, this story is a detailed commentary on how women were treated in the Ancient World and the abuses of patriarchal systems. We see it in Mia being a scapegoat and source of blame for a great military defeat, that, had nothing to do with her. The very real and genuine fears surrounding pregnancy and labour for Prisca and the treatment of enslaved women like Ketet whose virginity can be commodified in. There were so many points within the trial that I was internally screaming LET HER TALK! The commentary made when visiting the Sybil on women, religion and power transcended time, it is just as applicable to us now, as it was to Mia then.
Ultimately, this is not a happy story. But it is an important one to tell. I did enjoy the satisfying nature of the ending and it gave me a sense of closure.
I enjoyed the structure of the story, it isn't linnear in its recollection of events, we move between the present day and all the events (both seemingly inconsequential moments from Mia's childhood, through to powerful moments, where she was aware of their significance) that would contribute to Mia's trial. The transition between the present, as well as significant days from Mia's past makes for a really compelling reading experience.
The novel is evidently well researched (the section at the end after the story itself has finished provides additional, really interesting information), its setting in the city of Rome itself is detailed and compelling. It engages many facts known to us about the Romans on how they conducted themselves societally in particular and how religion was intrinsically linked in all facets of daily life. In particular, I liked its use of terminology, I felt like concise descriptions were given for different religious and political positions, festivalss and places to provide appropriate context for the reader without patronising us. It was so pleasing to see the different layers of religion, with Mia mentioning the Lares or household gods of her youth, which were personal and familial. It is starkly contrasted against her position as a Vestal Virgin, not only is her position as a priestess in a public position, but it is one of the most visible positions in the city.
At its core, this story is a detailed commentary on how women were treated in the Ancient World and the abuses of patriarchal systems. We see it in Mia being a scapegoat and source of blame for a great military defeat, that, had nothing to do with her. The very real and genuine fears surrounding pregnancy and labour for Prisca and the treatment of enslaved women like Ketet whose virginity can be commodified in. There were so many points within the trial that I was internally screaming LET HER TALK! The commentary made when visiting the Sybil on women, religion and power transcended time, it is just as applicable to us now, as it was to Mia then.
Ultimately, this is not a happy story. But it is an important one to tell. I did enjoy the satisfying nature of the ending and it gave me a sense of closure.
March 29, 2026
So Rome has just been absolutely wrecked at Cannae. More like the gods must be furious, what did we do wrong? sort of panic. And right in the middle of all this is Mia, a Vestal Virgin.
Ancient Rome? Been there, read that. Wars, emperors, politics—sure. But a story centered on Vestal Virgins? That’s rare. Control. Power. Fear. The way societies decide what’s “pure” and who gets punished.
Overall a very good read!
“Fear spreads faster than fire, and burns just as fiercely.”
Ancient Rome? Been there, read that. Wars, emperors, politics—sure. But a story centered on Vestal Virgins? That’s rare. Control. Power. Fear. The way societies decide what’s “pure” and who gets punished.
Overall a very good read!
April 29, 2026
Great historical details about the superstitious and backwards traditions that Rome religious leaders used to appease the population when suffering major military loses to Hannibal. The leaders of Rome used the abuse of vestal virgins as justification for any type of loss. Very interesting read along with storyline that made it a 5 star. Loved the ending!
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