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Roma Nova #0A
Julia Prima
"You should have trusted me. You should have given me a choice."
AD 370, Roman frontier province of Noricum. Staying faithful to the Roman gods in a Christian empire can be lethal. Half-divorced Julia Bacausa is condemned to an emotional desert and a forced marriage, Lucius Apulius barely clings onto his posting in a military backwater. Strongly drawn to each other, they are soon separated, but Julia is determined not to lose the only man she will love.
Neither wholly married nor wholly divorced, Julia is trapped in the power struggle between the Christian church and her pagan ruler father.
Tribune Lucius Apulius’s life is blighted by his determination not to convert to Christianity even to save his cherished career. Stripped of his command in Britannia, he’s demoted to the backwater of Noricum – and encounters Julia.
Unwittingly, he takes her for a whore. When confronted by who she is, he is overcome with remorse and fear. Despite this disaster, Julia and Lucius are drawn to one another by an irresistible attraction.
But their intensifying bond is broken when Lucius is banished to Rome. Distraught, Julia gambles everything to join him. But a vengeful presence from the past overshadows her perilous journey. Following her heart’s desire brings danger she could never have envisaged…
Part of the foundation story of Roma Nova and prequel to the award-winning Roma Nova Thriller Series
AD 370, Roman frontier province of Noricum. Staying faithful to the Roman gods in a Christian empire can be lethal. Half-divorced Julia Bacausa is condemned to an emotional desert and a forced marriage, Lucius Apulius barely clings onto his posting in a military backwater. Strongly drawn to each other, they are soon separated, but Julia is determined not to lose the only man she will love.
Neither wholly married nor wholly divorced, Julia is trapped in the power struggle between the Christian church and her pagan ruler father.
Tribune Lucius Apulius’s life is blighted by his determination not to convert to Christianity even to save his cherished career. Stripped of his command in Britannia, he’s demoted to the backwater of Noricum – and encounters Julia.
Unwittingly, he takes her for a whore. When confronted by who she is, he is overcome with remorse and fear. Despite this disaster, Julia and Lucius are drawn to one another by an irresistible attraction.
But their intensifying bond is broken when Lucius is banished to Rome. Distraught, Julia gambles everything to join him. But a vengeful presence from the past overshadows her perilous journey. Following her heart’s desire brings danger she could never have envisaged…
Part of the foundation story of Roma Nova and prequel to the award-winning Roma Nova Thriller Series
336 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 23, 2022
4 people are currently reading
42 people want to read
About the author
Alison Morton
37 books150 followersAlison Morton's award-winning thrillers feature tough but compassionate heroines. She lives in Poitou in France, the home of Mélisende, the heroine of her contemporary thrillers, Double Identity, Double Pursuit and Double Stakes.
Her eleven-book Roma Nova thriller series is set in an imaginary European country where part of the ancient Roman Empire has survived and is now ruled by women who face conspiracy, revolution and heartache with courage and a sharp line in dialogue.
Six years’ military service, a fascinating with Ancient Rome and a life of reading crime, historical and thriller fiction have inspired her writing. On the way, she collected a BA in modern languages and an MA in history.
Subscribe to her newsletter at https://www.alison-morton.com/newslet... and receive two short stories as a thank you gift.
Her eleven-book Roma Nova thriller series is set in an imaginary European country where part of the ancient Roman Empire has survived and is now ruled by women who face conspiracy, revolution and heartache with courage and a sharp line in dialogue.
Six years’ military service, a fascinating with Ancient Rome and a life of reading crime, historical and thriller fiction have inspired her writing. On the way, she collected a BA in modern languages and an MA in history.
Subscribe to her newsletter at https://www.alison-morton.com/newslet... and receive two short stories as a thank you gift.
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
July 13, 2022
This is an engrossing tale of love, adventure and treachery, within an authentic historical setting filled with fascinating details of Roman life. The author has done an amazing job researching this period and her knowledge shines through at every turn. I really felt as though as was there, first in the little backwater town of Virunum in Noricum, then travelling through the mountains and down the coast towards Rome. The heroine is the spoiled only daughter of a prince to begin with, but when it matters, she’s incredibly strong and fights for what she wants. I was rooting for her all the way and loved the fact that she knows how to wield a knife or sword to defend herself and takes no prisoners, always standing up for herself. The secondary characters, her companions Aegius and Asella, both had some surprises up their sleeves, and the hero Lucius is the perfect love interest. The story also gives the reader a wonderful insight into the difficulties of the times, pitting those who cling to the old gods against the increasingly stronger Christians who give no quarter. It all makes for a truly exciting adventure and epic romance that kept me on the edge of my seat. I absolutely loved this addition to the Roma Nova series and hope there is much more to come!
September 2, 2022
Ms Morton knows her stuff about Rome and the Romans. The cliché saying is 'what she doesn't know is not worth knowing' and in this case it is perfectly true. If Ms Morton doesn't know it - then it isn't worth knowing. Or, if you really want to put things into context: if she doesn't know it and it's worth knowing - then she finds out!
The idea behind the Roma Nova series is an inspired one: take the known facts of Roman history and turn them sideways into alternative fiction. What if pre-Christian Rome had survived until 'today'? What if its leaders and organisers were women, not men?
By subtly changing history, so well written where the background details are included that the reader doesn't quite notice, Ms Morton has created a series that is, historically, entirely believable. By developing an edge-of-the-seat adventure thriller, combined with a large splash of romance between characters that are so real you would recognise them if you bumped into them in the street, you have a series that is exciting, engrossing, enjoyable and entertaining. Readers (I include myself) are left eager for the next installment - and while we wait we go off to search for Roma Nova on Google Maps. (Which, sadly, we can't find, but I blame that on Google, not Miss Morton!)
Cleverly also, Ms Morton has not restricted herself to setting her books as contemporary, but taken her characters into the range of 'what happened before that' ... and with Julia Prima has gone even further back into Roma Nova history, to the beginning of the beginning in fact.
We meet Julia Bacausa when she herself is about to meet Tribune Lucius Apulius, the man who is to become the most important person in her life. I will give away no spoilers, but what is to follow is a page-turner adventure of misunderstandings, determination, passion and thrilling action.
The physical journey Julia undertakes in Julia Prima is written with such skilful flare that you feel you are riding with her and her companions along every mile, wary of what might be looming ahead, or following behind. We travel with her by sea, and stand with her, awed, by that first sight of Rome.
There also with Julia's mental journey - you could strangle her at times for her ill-thought impulses, but cheer when she finds the courage to keep going on her quest, despite the many difficulties thrown at her. The supporting cast of believable friends (and enemies) are as just well written.
So, good writing, intriguing plot, superb research, realistic characters and an engrossing story. What more could readers want?
The idea behind the Roma Nova series is an inspired one: take the known facts of Roman history and turn them sideways into alternative fiction. What if pre-Christian Rome had survived until 'today'? What if its leaders and organisers were women, not men?
By subtly changing history, so well written where the background details are included that the reader doesn't quite notice, Ms Morton has created a series that is, historically, entirely believable. By developing an edge-of-the-seat adventure thriller, combined with a large splash of romance between characters that are so real you would recognise them if you bumped into them in the street, you have a series that is exciting, engrossing, enjoyable and entertaining. Readers (I include myself) are left eager for the next installment - and while we wait we go off to search for Roma Nova on Google Maps. (Which, sadly, we can't find, but I blame that on Google, not Miss Morton!)
Cleverly also, Ms Morton has not restricted herself to setting her books as contemporary, but taken her characters into the range of 'what happened before that' ... and with Julia Prima has gone even further back into Roma Nova history, to the beginning of the beginning in fact.
We meet Julia Bacausa when she herself is about to meet Tribune Lucius Apulius, the man who is to become the most important person in her life. I will give away no spoilers, but what is to follow is a page-turner adventure of misunderstandings, determination, passion and thrilling action.
The physical journey Julia undertakes in Julia Prima is written with such skilful flare that you feel you are riding with her and her companions along every mile, wary of what might be looming ahead, or following behind. We travel with her by sea, and stand with her, awed, by that first sight of Rome.
There also with Julia's mental journey - you could strangle her at times for her ill-thought impulses, but cheer when she finds the courage to keep going on her quest, despite the many difficulties thrown at her. The supporting cast of believable friends (and enemies) are as just well written.
So, good writing, intriguing plot, superb research, realistic characters and an engrossing story. What more could readers want?
January 2, 2023
Julia Prima is a prequel to the alternative history Roma Nova series. Roma Nova is a small European enclave where descendants of Ancient Rome live in a modern day setting.
This prequel is set in AD 370 and begins in the Roman frontier province of Noricum which in today’s world straddles parts of Austria and Slovenia.
Julia is the daughter of a local Prince, but she is in a complex situation as she is ‘half divorced’: in the transitional period between religious rivalry of pagan gods and Christianity, Julia has divorced her current husband in one religion but not the other.
She falls in love with Tribune Lucius Apulius, who has lost his prestigious posting in Britannia after he refused to convert to Christianity, but local religious leaders have enough influence to send him further away, this time to Rome. Refusing to be parted from her love, Julia sets out on an epic journey from Noricum to Rome hoping to reunite with Lucius.
I enjoyed this book for a couple of reasons: firstly all the details of the era including ancient Roman and pagan worlds, and secondly as a tantalising glimpse into the families who will go on to create the Roma Nova world. I would love the author to write about the demise of the Roman Empire and how those who fled journeyed north to their final resting spot and how they created Roma Nova.
This prequel is set in AD 370 and begins in the Roman frontier province of Noricum which in today’s world straddles parts of Austria and Slovenia.
Julia is the daughter of a local Prince, but she is in a complex situation as she is ‘half divorced’: in the transitional period between religious rivalry of pagan gods and Christianity, Julia has divorced her current husband in one religion but not the other.
She falls in love with Tribune Lucius Apulius, who has lost his prestigious posting in Britannia after he refused to convert to Christianity, but local religious leaders have enough influence to send him further away, this time to Rome. Refusing to be parted from her love, Julia sets out on an epic journey from Noricum to Rome hoping to reunite with Lucius.
I enjoyed this book for a couple of reasons: firstly all the details of the era including ancient Roman and pagan worlds, and secondly as a tantalising glimpse into the families who will go on to create the Roma Nova world. I would love the author to write about the demise of the Roman Empire and how those who fled journeyed north to their final resting spot and how they created Roma Nova.
October 12, 2022
Blurb:
“You should have trusted me. You should have given me a choice.”
AD 370, Roman frontier province of Noricum. Neither wholly married nor wholly divorced, Julia Bacausa is trapped in the power struggle between the Christian church and her pagan ruler father.
Tribune Lucius Apulius’s career is blighted by his determination to stay faithful to the Roman gods in a Christian empire. Stripped of his command in Britannia, he’s demoted to the backwater of Noricum – and encounters Julia.
Unwittingly, he takes her for a whore. When confronted by who she is, he is overcome with remorse and fear. Despite this disaster, Julia and Lucius are drawn to one another by an irresistible attraction.
But their intensifying bond is broken when Lucius is banished to Rome. Distraught, Julia gambles everything to join him. But a vengeful presence from the past overshadows her perilous journey. Following her heart’s desire brings danger she could never have envisaged…
REVIEW
Having followed the Roma Nova series from the beginning, I was hoping that the author would go back to the roots of the portentous move away from Rome. Julia Prima is just what I hoped for; a tale that takes us to the very beginning. Oh, and not just any old tale, my fellow readers. Tightly wound, and full of tense action from another one of the author's trademark female characters who defies the status quo. A tale of survival and searching, of a love that cannot be denied, of the progeny who will bring in the new age. It is also one of those page turners that keeps the reader guessing as to what's going to happen next. I'm certainly looking forward to the next episode. 5⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“You should have trusted me. You should have given me a choice.”
AD 370, Roman frontier province of Noricum. Neither wholly married nor wholly divorced, Julia Bacausa is trapped in the power struggle between the Christian church and her pagan ruler father.
Tribune Lucius Apulius’s career is blighted by his determination to stay faithful to the Roman gods in a Christian empire. Stripped of his command in Britannia, he’s demoted to the backwater of Noricum – and encounters Julia.
Unwittingly, he takes her for a whore. When confronted by who she is, he is overcome with remorse and fear. Despite this disaster, Julia and Lucius are drawn to one another by an irresistible attraction.
But their intensifying bond is broken when Lucius is banished to Rome. Distraught, Julia gambles everything to join him. But a vengeful presence from the past overshadows her perilous journey. Following her heart’s desire brings danger she could never have envisaged…
REVIEW
Having followed the Roma Nova series from the beginning, I was hoping that the author would go back to the roots of the portentous move away from Rome. Julia Prima is just what I hoped for; a tale that takes us to the very beginning. Oh, and not just any old tale, my fellow readers. Tightly wound, and full of tense action from another one of the author's trademark female characters who defies the status quo. A tale of survival and searching, of a love that cannot be denied, of the progeny who will bring in the new age. It is also one of those page turners that keeps the reader guessing as to what's going to happen next. I'm certainly looking forward to the next episode. 5⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
October 11, 2022
Set in the Roman frontier province of Noricum in 370 AD, JULIA PRIMA by Alison Morton is an ancient historical fiction novel with elements of suspense and romance. The prologue immediately hooked me when an unnamed character tells the backstory from the first-person point of view. The tale begins when Julia Bacausa, the daughter of a powerful pagan ruler, encounters a Roman tribune, Lucius Apulius, in the marketplace. He mistakes her for a whore, but she does not resist his advances. After learning about Julia's noble status at a banquet held by her father, he confronts her about their initial encounter. They both admit their irresistible attraction for each other and begin to form a strong bond.
However, they are caught in the midst of a political struggle between the Christian church and the pagan religion. By Roman law, Julia considers herself divorced from her first Christian husband, the son of a powerful bishop. The Christian religion does not recognize her divorce because she made the mistake of being baptized to help her marriage work. Lucius's determination to stay faithful to the Roman gods in a Christian Roman empire blights his reputation. He is first stripped of his command in Britannia and then banished to Rome for his pagan beliefs. She gambles everything to reunite with Lucius in Rome. Risking their lives, her body servant, Asella, and household fresco painter, Aegius, accompany her on a journey full of danger, unexpected twists, and dark secrets that will haunt her.
Author Alison Morton has masterfully written a captivating story that immediately draws you in and keeps you turning the pages to find out what happens next. The tale vividly describes a decaying Roman empire caught in a political whirlwind of Christian leaders striving to counter Roman law and culture established during the time when pagan beliefs were accepted. Though Julia is a Roman citizen, she embraces her Celtic heritage. Fiery and independent, she is an engaging character who is determined to choose her own way. Still, she recognizes the tightrope that her father is walking to appease a power-hungry Christian bishop, the Roman governor, and the needs of his own people. Unexpected twists, keeping me on the edge of my seat, ultimately tied back to the prologue.
Surprisingly, I was most engaged with the secondary characters of Aegius and Asella. As the story unfolds, their backstory connects directly with the dangers they encounter on their journey with Julia. Throughout Julia's life, they have influenced the decisions she has made. The relationship between Julia and Lucius is not as well developed as her friendship with Aegius and Asella. The story emphasizes Julia's pathway to independence and not romance.
JULIA PRIMA is a captivating, suspenseful tale of a young Celtic woman striving for independence to follow her heart in the constraints of the Christian Roman empire.
However, they are caught in the midst of a political struggle between the Christian church and the pagan religion. By Roman law, Julia considers herself divorced from her first Christian husband, the son of a powerful bishop. The Christian religion does not recognize her divorce because she made the mistake of being baptized to help her marriage work. Lucius's determination to stay faithful to the Roman gods in a Christian Roman empire blights his reputation. He is first stripped of his command in Britannia and then banished to Rome for his pagan beliefs. She gambles everything to reunite with Lucius in Rome. Risking their lives, her body servant, Asella, and household fresco painter, Aegius, accompany her on a journey full of danger, unexpected twists, and dark secrets that will haunt her.
Author Alison Morton has masterfully written a captivating story that immediately draws you in and keeps you turning the pages to find out what happens next. The tale vividly describes a decaying Roman empire caught in a political whirlwind of Christian leaders striving to counter Roman law and culture established during the time when pagan beliefs were accepted. Though Julia is a Roman citizen, she embraces her Celtic heritage. Fiery and independent, she is an engaging character who is determined to choose her own way. Still, she recognizes the tightrope that her father is walking to appease a power-hungry Christian bishop, the Roman governor, and the needs of his own people. Unexpected twists, keeping me on the edge of my seat, ultimately tied back to the prologue.
Surprisingly, I was most engaged with the secondary characters of Aegius and Asella. As the story unfolds, their backstory connects directly with the dangers they encounter on their journey with Julia. Throughout Julia's life, they have influenced the decisions she has made. The relationship between Julia and Lucius is not as well developed as her friendship with Aegius and Asella. The story emphasizes Julia's pathway to independence and not romance.
JULIA PRIMA is a captivating, suspenseful tale of a young Celtic woman striving for independence to follow her heart in the constraints of the Christian Roman empire.
September 2, 2022
It’s AD 370 and Julia Bacausa lives with her father in the Roman province of Noricum, neither married nor divorced, Julia has a modicum of freedom which is unusual for a woman of her noble status. However, it is this very freedom which leads her to an unexpected meeting with the tribune Lucius Apulius and a connection that will alter the course of their lives forever. As the cherished daughter of a local prince Julia is used to a life of power and privilege but when danger and intrigue beckon she has no hesitation in following her heart.
Beautifully recreating the dying days of the Roman Empire, the rise of emerging Christianity and the role of women in Roman society we follow Julia as she embarks on an eventful journey from Noricum to Rome with only a couple of servants to protect her from harm. Thanks to impeccable research the Roman world, with all its faults, foibles and failings comes to vibrant life, add into the mix a vengeful enemy who is determined to track Julia down and you have the perfect ingredients necessary for an exciting historical adventure.
Those who are familiar with the Roma Nova world, which this author has so lovingly created, will be just as excited as I was to go back to the very foundations of this dynasty to discover an ancient world which smoulders with passion and is alive with intrigue and danger.
Beautifully recreating the dying days of the Roman Empire, the rise of emerging Christianity and the role of women in Roman society we follow Julia as she embarks on an eventful journey from Noricum to Rome with only a couple of servants to protect her from harm. Thanks to impeccable research the Roman world, with all its faults, foibles and failings comes to vibrant life, add into the mix a vengeful enemy who is determined to track Julia down and you have the perfect ingredients necessary for an exciting historical adventure.
Those who are familiar with the Roma Nova world, which this author has so lovingly created, will be just as excited as I was to go back to the very foundations of this dynasty to discover an ancient world which smoulders with passion and is alive with intrigue and danger.
August 25, 2022
How far are you willing to go to be with the person you love? That's the dilemma Julia Bacausa faces on top of dealing with her ex husband, a selfish man riding on his bishop uncle's coat tails. Julia Prima is a compelling, and excellently researched story that really celebrates the strength of women, whether they're badass action girls, steadfast former nursemaids, confident business owners, or calculative matriarchs. Moreover, Morton captures both the setting of the slowly falling apart Roman Empire, and the clash between the Christians and Pagans very well. There is a bit of mysticism with Julia's former nursemaid Asella, but it fits the setting and isn't really focused on enough to classify the novel as fantasy. The ending felt satisfying while hinting at a sequel, not an easy feat to accomplish.
October 6, 2022
I love a good historical set during Roman times. They just so happen to be pet favorites of mine when I'm not exploring other ancient historical fiction works. JULIA PRIMA is the first book I've read by this author. I have to say, I'm impressed. Captivated from the first page, I hung on every step of Julia's journey to reunite with Lucius, and held my breath with each passing threat. I really enjoyed the supporting characters, especially Aegius and Asella, as well as the description blended into the action. I'm curious to explore the Roma Nova series further!
September 7, 2022
I've been a fan of Alison Morton's alternate history and thrillers for years, and this book continues a winning streak! This novel begins the story of the establishment of the Roma Nova country with Julia Prima, a young woman staunch in her pagan beliefs trying to disentangle from her failing marriage to the nephew of a local bishop. An intimate encounter with a Roman soldier, Lucius Apulius, from an ancient noble family in Rome sets her on an adventure where she begins to live her true destiny.
The author's portrayal of the Roman Empire in this era shows how it had deteriorated from its glorious time 200 years earlier. Julia's journey from the empire's hinterlands into Rome, down through the mountains of central Europe, to the Adriatic, by horseback, ship and foot allows Morton to describe in vivid detail the failing systems of governing that had once ruled a vast part of the world. The kind of storytelling that enlightens like Morton does is the best part of historical fiction.
Highly recommended.
The author's portrayal of the Roman Empire in this era shows how it had deteriorated from its glorious time 200 years earlier. Julia's journey from the empire's hinterlands into Rome, down through the mountains of central Europe, to the Adriatic, by horseback, ship and foot allows Morton to describe in vivid detail the failing systems of governing that had once ruled a vast part of the world. The kind of storytelling that enlightens like Morton does is the best part of historical fiction.
Highly recommended.
October 13, 2022
I've been familiar with the Roma Nova novels for a while, and several are awaiting my attention on my Kindle. I must set aside time to read them.
But back to JULIA PRIMA. Julia Bacausa is the daughter of a semi-autonomous prince in the province of Noricum, which roughly straddles parts of today's Austria and Slovenia. She is opinionated, haughty, and well aware of her status. But she is also a little rebel, enjoying a great deal of independence.
Julia and her father, Prince Bacausus, are believers of the old gods, so his position in particular is precarious as he has to tread a careful line between his religion and the new, official, Christian faith of the Empire. In the midst of this is Julia, divorced in the Pagan manner from her Christian husband, who nonetheless refuses to grant her a divorce. In the eyes of his Church, they are still husband and wife. This throws up many complications for her independence, and for her father.
When a new Roman tribune, Lucius Apulius, arrives in Noricum, Julia finds herself falling head over heels in love. During their first encounter, he considers her a cheap whore, as she was dressed down for the market, to mingle with ordinary people. She doesn't correct his opinion, until he discovers her real identity. But Lucius has to be careful, as he is also a believer in the old gods – something frowned upon by now in the Roman army.
Does their love story go too fast? Perhaps. I found the speed with which both soon discovered that their lust was turning into a great love a little unrealistic at times. It has the drama of Romeo and Juliet, but there is nothing chaste about their relationship.
With her ex-husband and his uncle, ambitious Bishop Eligius, scheming to get her back, she and Lucius Apulius plan to get married. When she finds herself pregnant, Bacausus arranges for Lucius to be sent back to Rome, almost under house arrest, and a marriage for her to join her cousin, away from home. He turns out cold fish, and with the help of two trusted allies, she plans a daring escape before the gates close on her.
But her journey across Italy is fraught with danger, not only from her cousin, but also from another person who bears a grudge – and who wants to see her dead. Will she make it to Rome alive?
JULIA PRIMA is an exciting, fast-paced romantic adventure. Our heroine is feisty, doesn't mince her words, and nearly falls into several traps laid out for her due to her daring nature. She is used to taking what she wants, and so has to learn a few lessons on her journey. Her companions have their own secrets, which come out during their quest to find Lucius.
The characters are well-formed, genuine, and flawed. I warmed to her companions, and, in time, to her. She is not a likeable character to start with, but as her experience grows, and she discovers some home truths, she turns into a determined young woman, loyal but still headstrong. There is none of the meekness of a Roman woman about her.
Lucius is portrayed as a rather sensitive young soldier, arrogant at first, but then we see the man behind the mask. Would he really not dare to cross the country to see her again? I don't know.
The setting is exquisite. Julia's trek from the north to Rome is well described, and the author provides us with the original Latin name of the places they pass. I was easily able to click on the Wikipedia link to see which modern towns these were, so I could follow her trail easily. The description of everyday tasks and items, of the Roman way of life in both city and countryside, is realistic and adds a strong sense of ’being there’.
The plot is fast-paced and gripping. As she travels, you sense the dangers, and you shake your head at her impetuousness at times. But she has guts, and as a young woman in love, her actions are believable. You can easily believe that 'Julia the First’ will be the founder of a new dynasty.
My only gripe would be the rather modern language used by Julia in particular. She swears like an old soldier, so reviewers who don't like swear words, should perhaps be aware of this. It doesn't bother me. But it's the use of some modern English expressions that threw me out of the story early on. Once I got over this, I thoroughly enjoyed it.
JULIA PRIMA is an engaging historical novel with strong romantic undertones, but also with an accurate sense of place and time. It is very well researched, and the author's deep knowledge of the Roman era, with all its politics, rites, and habits, shines through.
A highly recommended read.
Note: I received a free ebook in exchange for an honest review. All views expressed are my own.
But back to JULIA PRIMA. Julia Bacausa is the daughter of a semi-autonomous prince in the province of Noricum, which roughly straddles parts of today's Austria and Slovenia. She is opinionated, haughty, and well aware of her status. But she is also a little rebel, enjoying a great deal of independence.
Julia and her father, Prince Bacausus, are believers of the old gods, so his position in particular is precarious as he has to tread a careful line between his religion and the new, official, Christian faith of the Empire. In the midst of this is Julia, divorced in the Pagan manner from her Christian husband, who nonetheless refuses to grant her a divorce. In the eyes of his Church, they are still husband and wife. This throws up many complications for her independence, and for her father.
When a new Roman tribune, Lucius Apulius, arrives in Noricum, Julia finds herself falling head over heels in love. During their first encounter, he considers her a cheap whore, as she was dressed down for the market, to mingle with ordinary people. She doesn't correct his opinion, until he discovers her real identity. But Lucius has to be careful, as he is also a believer in the old gods – something frowned upon by now in the Roman army.
Does their love story go too fast? Perhaps. I found the speed with which both soon discovered that their lust was turning into a great love a little unrealistic at times. It has the drama of Romeo and Juliet, but there is nothing chaste about their relationship.
With her ex-husband and his uncle, ambitious Bishop Eligius, scheming to get her back, she and Lucius Apulius plan to get married. When she finds herself pregnant, Bacausus arranges for Lucius to be sent back to Rome, almost under house arrest, and a marriage for her to join her cousin, away from home. He turns out cold fish, and with the help of two trusted allies, she plans a daring escape before the gates close on her.
But her journey across Italy is fraught with danger, not only from her cousin, but also from another person who bears a grudge – and who wants to see her dead. Will she make it to Rome alive?
JULIA PRIMA is an exciting, fast-paced romantic adventure. Our heroine is feisty, doesn't mince her words, and nearly falls into several traps laid out for her due to her daring nature. She is used to taking what she wants, and so has to learn a few lessons on her journey. Her companions have their own secrets, which come out during their quest to find Lucius.
The characters are well-formed, genuine, and flawed. I warmed to her companions, and, in time, to her. She is not a likeable character to start with, but as her experience grows, and she discovers some home truths, she turns into a determined young woman, loyal but still headstrong. There is none of the meekness of a Roman woman about her.
Lucius is portrayed as a rather sensitive young soldier, arrogant at first, but then we see the man behind the mask. Would he really not dare to cross the country to see her again? I don't know.
The setting is exquisite. Julia's trek from the north to Rome is well described, and the author provides us with the original Latin name of the places they pass. I was easily able to click on the Wikipedia link to see which modern towns these were, so I could follow her trail easily. The description of everyday tasks and items, of the Roman way of life in both city and countryside, is realistic and adds a strong sense of ’being there’.
The plot is fast-paced and gripping. As she travels, you sense the dangers, and you shake your head at her impetuousness at times. But she has guts, and as a young woman in love, her actions are believable. You can easily believe that 'Julia the First’ will be the founder of a new dynasty.
My only gripe would be the rather modern language used by Julia in particular. She swears like an old soldier, so reviewers who don't like swear words, should perhaps be aware of this. It doesn't bother me. But it's the use of some modern English expressions that threw me out of the story early on. Once I got over this, I thoroughly enjoyed it.
JULIA PRIMA is an engaging historical novel with strong romantic undertones, but also with an accurate sense of place and time. It is very well researched, and the author's deep knowledge of the Roman era, with all its politics, rites, and habits, shines through.
A highly recommended read.
Note: I received a free ebook in exchange for an honest review. All views expressed are my own.
October 19, 2022
Julia Prima is book 10 in the wonderful Roma Nova series by Alison Morton. It’s a foundation story so you don’t need to have read the previous books in the series to enjoy it but it could hurt to get them all if you haven’t already 🙂 .
We meet Julia, trapped in a system that allows a female little independence, and at a time when family honour was held above all.
Julia is legally divorced but stuck in an environment with battling religious system.
When the eye-catching Lucius arrives Julia finally finds what she’s been after, a natural attraction that builds, emotions, the kind that will make you do anything.
Word soon spreads and as Julia’s ex husband holds some sway Lucius soon has his orders to pack his bags.. he has to follow orders even if he doesn’t want to but does he really know how Julia feels?
Now, Julia’s father is clever.. he knows she can’t be a spinster for the rest of her life and he finds her a match he hopes will work.. it’s not for love.. it would be convenience for both.. but Julia isn’t one for letting a man tell her what she can and can’t do in life and she sets out to find Lucius.. a long and hard journey.
Along the way religious beliefs at the time play a big part.. she’s a young woman.. while she’s not alone she really needs to be careful and story is soon thought of to keep her identify unknown but how long can they last without someone finding her…. Or have they already found her?
Now to the nitty-gritty.. plot.. FANTASTIC. I’ve read a lot of the authors work and I really felt this one just packed an extra punch.. it’s more emotional.. a desperate journey which I found more intense and gritty.. LOVED IT!
Development wise everything is paced well and as always the author manages to mix plot and romance seamlessly. If you are a follower of my reviews you’ll know I’m not a fan of romance when it feels forced into a story but Alison Morton adds these aspects naturally allowing the story to feel real… you feel the connections between the characters.
While I loved the character of Julia and her shear strength & determination I also fell in love with Aegius and Asella who accompany Julia on her journey. I’m not one for spoilers but these 3 together are what makes this book work.
Wonderful writing with an easy flowing exciting plot. What more could I ask for!
A spectacular 5*
We meet Julia, trapped in a system that allows a female little independence, and at a time when family honour was held above all.
Julia is legally divorced but stuck in an environment with battling religious system.
When the eye-catching Lucius arrives Julia finally finds what she’s been after, a natural attraction that builds, emotions, the kind that will make you do anything.
Word soon spreads and as Julia’s ex husband holds some sway Lucius soon has his orders to pack his bags.. he has to follow orders even if he doesn’t want to but does he really know how Julia feels?
Now, Julia’s father is clever.. he knows she can’t be a spinster for the rest of her life and he finds her a match he hopes will work.. it’s not for love.. it would be convenience for both.. but Julia isn’t one for letting a man tell her what she can and can’t do in life and she sets out to find Lucius.. a long and hard journey.
Along the way religious beliefs at the time play a big part.. she’s a young woman.. while she’s not alone she really needs to be careful and story is soon thought of to keep her identify unknown but how long can they last without someone finding her…. Or have they already found her?
Now to the nitty-gritty.. plot.. FANTASTIC. I’ve read a lot of the authors work and I really felt this one just packed an extra punch.. it’s more emotional.. a desperate journey which I found more intense and gritty.. LOVED IT!
Development wise everything is paced well and as always the author manages to mix plot and romance seamlessly. If you are a follower of my reviews you’ll know I’m not a fan of romance when it feels forced into a story but Alison Morton adds these aspects naturally allowing the story to feel real… you feel the connections between the characters.
While I loved the character of Julia and her shear strength & determination I also fell in love with Aegius and Asella who accompany Julia on her journey. I’m not one for spoilers but these 3 together are what makes this book work.
Wonderful writing with an easy flowing exciting plot. What more could I ask for!
A spectacular 5*
August 29, 2022
From the very first page I was hooked by Alison Morton’s exceptional new novel. The heroine, Julia Bacausa, is captivating: an impulsive and charismatic woman who indiscriminately wields her power and follows her heart, often with disastrous consequences for herself and others around her.
We follow Julia’s journey from a privileged upbringing as the daughter of a pagan ruler to a passionate woman who has divorced her husband and is determined to never be ruled by a man again. And yet, as soon as she encounters Lucius Apulius, Julia takes him as her lover and is swiftly entrapped by her heart. The resulting conflict threatens to break both of them as they are torn apart and must fight authority—and their own emotions—to reunite and find happiness together.
Ms Morton powers us through the fascinating world of Ancient Rome, revealing passion, intrigue and power struggles that feel all too reminiscent of our own times. What I enjoy most about Ms Morton’s novels is her expert writing of Roman history, the enjoyable evidence of her deep knowledge of the period, combined with her creative talent for introducing compelling characters and gripping political situations. The result is a page-turning, exciting immersion into a world long gone but revealed in this novel as real and as tangible as our own. Highly recommend.
We follow Julia’s journey from a privileged upbringing as the daughter of a pagan ruler to a passionate woman who has divorced her husband and is determined to never be ruled by a man again. And yet, as soon as she encounters Lucius Apulius, Julia takes him as her lover and is swiftly entrapped by her heart. The resulting conflict threatens to break both of them as they are torn apart and must fight authority—and their own emotions—to reunite and find happiness together.
Ms Morton powers us through the fascinating world of Ancient Rome, revealing passion, intrigue and power struggles that feel all too reminiscent of our own times. What I enjoy most about Ms Morton’s novels is her expert writing of Roman history, the enjoyable evidence of her deep knowledge of the period, combined with her creative talent for introducing compelling characters and gripping political situations. The result is a page-turning, exciting immersion into a world long gone but revealed in this novel as real and as tangible as our own. Highly recommend.
March 26, 2024
Julia Bacausa's story had me gripped from the very start! The daughter of the prince of Noricum in the late 4th century Roman empire, she finds herself trapped between the disgrace of her dissolved marriage to the nephew of a Christian bishop and the love she shares with a like-minded pagan tribune, Lucius Apulius. Julia is intelligent, brave, and able to defend herself - but she can't fight her battles alone. I very much enjoyed her companions, nurse Asella and painter Aegis, who accompany her along every step of her journey.
I really appreciated the maps included along with the front matter, as it gave me a visual reference during Julia's long and arduous trek to Rome, as well as the historical notes included in the back matter. The late Roman empire is difficult to learn/know much about precisely because it was crumbling and records become spotty. The story is meticulously researched and I had a nice giggle at Morton's confession regarding the use of Narni/Narnia. Very understandable!
This was a fun, thrilling read set in ancient Rome and I am already starting the second in this foundation series!
I really appreciated the maps included along with the front matter, as it gave me a visual reference during Julia's long and arduous trek to Rome, as well as the historical notes included in the back matter. The late Roman empire is difficult to learn/know much about precisely because it was crumbling and records become spotty. The story is meticulously researched and I had a nice giggle at Morton's confession regarding the use of Narni/Narnia. Very understandable!
This was a fun, thrilling read set in ancient Rome and I am already starting the second in this foundation series!
December 2, 2022
I love this series! Any book by Alison Morton will have strong and memorable characters; the Roma Nova series also has a wonderful blend of ancient Roman tradition with modern technology and universal themes. Captivating, engaging and thoroughly enjoyable, always! Highly recommended.
If you have not read any of this series, this novel would be a good place to start, as it is the earliest chronologically. These events take place prior to the founding of Roma Nova, and introduce some of the people who will go on to build that nation. Each novel in the series is capable of standing alone, but you will want to read all of them! I can't wait for the next!
If you have not read any of this series, this novel would be a good place to start, as it is the earliest chronologically. These events take place prior to the founding of Roma Nova, and introduce some of the people who will go on to build that nation. Each novel in the series is capable of standing alone, but you will want to read all of them! I can't wait for the next!
August 30, 2022
A fascinating story set against the backdrop of religious and social upheaval in the Roman Empire. The premise is intriguing, the characters well drawn, and the setting very well realised indeed. I really felt as if I was on Julia's journey to Rome with her and her two faithful servants – both appealing characters in their own right – experiencing the heat and the dust, the dangers, the horrible food, the adrenalin rush of the fights. A perfect read for us armchair adventurers who wouldn’t know one end of a gladius from the other!
November 26, 2022
2.5 Stars
Hhmm how to review this book. I'm definitely in the minority here but I can't say I enjoyed it. I didn't particularly hate it either - it was just a bit meh for me and I didn't particularly like Julia. Aegius and Asella however, I did like. Julia Prima is a very descriptive book and to the best of my knowledge, very well researched. One point, I realise that it was prevalent back then, but the animal sacrifices in this book really put me off.
Hhmm how to review this book. I'm definitely in the minority here but I can't say I enjoyed it. I didn't particularly hate it either - it was just a bit meh for me and I didn't particularly like Julia. Aegius and Asella however, I did like. Julia Prima is a very descriptive book and to the best of my knowledge, very well researched. One point, I realise that it was prevalent back then, but the animal sacrifices in this book really put me off.
January 25, 2023
Julia Bacausa falls in love with Lucius Apulius and risks everything to follow him when he is banished to Rome. But there's more than one person trying to stop her from achieving her goal. I've always enjoyed the Roma Nova books and in this one, Alison Morton takes us right back to the beginning. Well-researched, as ever, and full of authentic details. And fascinating to see the new religion of Christianity shown in a different light. A most enjoyable read.
September 2, 2024
Prequel
This a delightful prequel to the Roma Nova series. However, at the risk of sending potential readers over, I'd recommend starting with the first Roma Nova story.
So what do i love? World building. Authentic history and customs. A female character to care about, although the author has written heroines with more agency. Which comment I cannot explain without spoilers.
This a delightful prequel to the Roma Nova series. However, at the risk of sending potential readers over, I'd recommend starting with the first Roma Nova story.
So what do i love? World building. Authentic history and customs. A female character to care about, although the author has written heroines with more agency. Which comment I cannot explain without spoilers.
December 28, 2023
Interesting ideas and engaging characters, but a bit too simplistic, while the prose was ok but not the turn the pages to see what happens asap kind
September 5, 2024
This is a fast-paced adventure with a strong and determined heroine set during the latter stages of the Western Roman Empire. Plenty of action and romance.
December 9, 2025
A prequel to Roma nova - this features some of the original members of the Roma nova families, a fascinating historical read 4* from me
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