In the dying days of the Roman republic, a remarkable woman steps out of the shadows and beyond the boundaries imposed on her sex, driven by an unstoppable ambition. Kaarina Parker’s stunning debut novel, told in the compelling voice of this brilliant woman from history, brings Fulvia and the society in which she lived vividly to life.
Born into a wealthy but unimportant family, Fulvia is raised in the peace of the Etruscan countryside but longs for a life of excitement and influence. When her father dies and her inheritance is threatened, she makes her way to the city of Rome to secure her future.
Motivated by both passion and opportunism, Fulvia marries Clodius, a hedonistic young senator. They are perfect partners – risk takers, scornful of convention and eager for change. Although Clodius is heir to a leading aristocratic family, he has spent his life criticising the rules of his class and championing the common people. As a wife and mother, Fulvia fulfils her role in a society that denies women any influence outside the home – but she is also a ruthless political strategist, intent on seeing her husband rise through the ranks of Rome’s governing body, the senate. And, through him, wielding her own authority.
But Rome is a dangerous place, and power can become notoriety overnight. Fulvia soon learns just how high the stakes really are, and that her ambitions may come at a terrible cost.
Read some great reviews from our Preview readers here:
Fulvia is a very interesting story that mix history and real characters with fiction. Showing us woman’s influence in political events at the shadows. Cintia, VIC, 5 stars
Fascinating to learn how women who did not have any real status in Ancient Rome, were still able to exercise power through vicarious and clever means. The book was an easy read and thoroughly enjoyable. Debbie, VIC, 5 stars
This is a great read with a well written story and with good descriptions able to transpose the reader back in times of ancient Rome, yet without detracting too much from the pace of the story line. In this story, though, the reader does not discover Rome through the usual heroic quests of men. Instead, we get to see what it was like to be a woman who refused to just accept the expectations put on her through her traditional role. The narrative contains just the right hint at feminism that forces you to reconsider history as we know it – was it really written by the great men, or has the history erased those greater women who influenced the events more than we will ever know? I liked how the book made me want to discover more about life in the Roman Republic without lingering too much on well known events in the history. Margareta, SA, 5 stars
I really enjoyed this book ‘Fulvia’ by the emerging author Kaarina Parker. The reader follows the story of Fulvia as she leaves her home on the farming estate where she grew up in Etruria and then to Rome after her inheritance was in doubt. She then marries Clodius, an aristocrat who rather than engaging in politics, parties with acquaintances. Fulvia becomes caught up in their world. She learns how high the stakes can eventuate with the realisation that her desires and ambitions could come at a great expense. Catherine, QLD, 5 stars
Beautifully worded to transport you back in time, smelling the rancid streets, the lavender and incense and the salts of the bath house. The story flows with details of the characters of names known and new. Look out for this author, she is talented story teller. Valesha, SA, 5 stars
I thoroughly enjoyed this novel. It tells the story of a time in history not often depicted with female leads. In fact I can not even recall one. Fulvia is written with strength, drive and determination. I reconmend this novel to anyone wanting to be transported to ancient Rome. Dianne, SA, 5 stars
Set near the end of the Roman republic, this book tells the story of Fulvia, a wealthy young woman who moves from the countryside to Rome following her father’s death. She enjoys the city and its politics and soon married Clodius, a patrician senator who champions the common people. Together they alter the course of Rome, but not without making enemies along the way. This is a wonderful book which evokes the setting well – you can almost smell and taste the city. A great debut. I’m looking forward to the second novel! Denise, QLD, 5 stars
Fulvia is interesting, well written and fast paced. I read it in a single night. It’s historical fiction based in the Roman republic, soon to become the Romen Empire. It follows Fulvia from an innocent girl to a seasoned politician, following the highs and lows of her life and the intricacies of her marriage to Clodis. It also gives an insight into the Roman republic, mixing the right amount of history and details around the function of the republic into the story. The character of Fulvia was well written and felt like you were really in her head. However, some of the minor characters were a little rough or inconsistent. The dialog was good and the relationships well fleshed out. I don’t read a lot of historical fiction, but I’m looking forward to the sequel. Katie, NSW, 5 stars
Wow, what a brilliant debut novel that was for Kaarina Parker. I was gripped right from the start and having been through this amazing journey I want to learn more about Fulvia, the woman this story was based on. I’ve always been fascinated by Ancient Rome so I will certainly be doing my own research about Fulvia. What an amazing woman she was, not content to sit in the background keeping house and raising children. She wanted to have a say in shaping the world around her, and the only way she could do that was through her husband or carefully spread gossip at parties or in the bath house. I absolutely loved the relationship Fulvia had with her husband Clodius. They adored one another and treated each other as equals. Theirs was certainly a great match. Maree, QLD, 5 stars
Fulvia is a book I absolutely loved—it is a journey into the heart of Ancient Rome, told through the eyes of a woman, which is refreshingly unusual. Fulvia refuses to sit quietly in the corner of history. Kaarina Parker has crafted a spellbinding, sharp tale of political ambition, personal sacrifice, and female defiance in a world built by—and for—men. From the moment Fulvia leaves her rural upbringing and steps into the intriguing and sometimes dangerous streets of Rome, we witness an intelligent, unapologetic, and complex character who does not just want a seat at the table, she wants to set the agenda. Her evolution from outsider to power broker is enthralling, especially as she navigates her marriage to Clodius, whose reckless charm and political aspirations both empower and endanger her. Parker’s writing is rich with historical detail, but it never feels heavy. Rome comes alive—its grime, its grandeur, its ever-shifting alliances, and the political machinations are as gripping as any modern-day thriller. Yet at its heart, Fulvia is a deeply personal story: of a woman who dared to want more, and the cost of reaching too far. A must-read for fans of Ancient Rome and its many stories—or for anyone who has ever wondered what history would look like if the women finally got to tell their side. Fulvia takes the spotlight and kept me reading and wanting more. I am really hoping there is a sequel! Donne, NSW, 5 stars
This book was a pleasant surprise and far outside of my usual reading choices—but I’m so glad I got the opportunity to review it. From the very first chapter, I found myself drawn in by the author’s engaging style and the strong emotional depth of the story. The characters were incredibly well written, with each one having a unique voice and believable motivations. The main character, in particular, stood out as a confident and powerful woman. Her strength and resilience were inspiring, and I admired how she held her ground through every challenge, even in the face of some terrible events in her life. The story moved smoothly from scene to scene, and I appreciated how easy it was to follow, even as the themes became deeper and more emotional. The shifts in tone and setting were handled with care, which made the experience immersive without ever becoming confusing. I found myself fully invested in her journey and cheering for her through all the ups and downs. Overall, this was a moving and empowering read. It reminded me of the importance of stepping outside of my comfort zone when choosing books—because sometimes, that’s where you find the most powerful stories. Angela, QLD, 5 stars
Many women in history are not mentioned or their role recognized. Thanks to Kaarina Parker for bringing this fascinating woman to life. it was a wonderful insight into the Roman republic. It is to be hoped there will be a sequel to gain further insight into Fulvia’s life. Judy, QLD, 5 stars
The best historical fiction brings the past to life. Names become people, striding out of the past and into the reader’s present. In her debut novel, Ms Parker brings aspects of the late Roman Republic to life through Fulvia, (possible) descendant of the Gracchi. Fulvia, raised in the Etruscan countryside, the daughter of a wealthy but politically unimportant family, moves to Rome after her father’s death. Fulvia is ambitious and believes that Rome will provide a better future than a marriage within Etruria. In Rome, Fulvia marries Publius Clodius Pulcher, heir to a leading aristocratic family. Clodius, critical of the rules of the aristocracy, finds his way to power through the Roman Senate. He is well supported by Fulvia. But ambition begets enemies, and Rome is a dangerous place. It is over half a century since I studied this period of history. Some of the characters are known to me, but few women appear in the conventional histories written. I can imagine the potential influence of this Fulvia, wielding power behind the scenes. An enjoyable, thought-provoking work of historical fiction. Highly recommended. Jennifer, ACT, 5 stars
There are not many Roman women whose names are remembered in the 21st Century but Fulvia is one of them and this novel from Kaarina Parker tells her story in an engaging way, through Fulvia’s eyes. The writing is clever and very descriptive; we are transported to the sounds and smells of ancient Rome. It was easy to envisage the women as they gossip while soaking in the baths or visualise the decadent soirees organised by Fulvia’s aunt, Sempronia. I could feel the heat as Fulvia walked around the streets of Rome. The novel is very graphic at times, after all life in ancient Rome involved a lot of violence, not just between men but also the killing of animals as sacrifices to the Gods was commonplace. So be prepared for explicit descriptions of sacrifices and incredibly sad stories of loss of life. Fulvia’s story has always intrigued me, so I thoroughly enjoyed this debut novel, and I’m inspired to research more about Fulvia and her life and perhaps to look out for a follow up novel to continue the family story. Jacky, QLD, 5 stars
This is not a genre I would typically pick up to read, however I was pleasantly surprised once I really got into the book. The story flowed consistently and all the characters had such great personalities, for me I could picture them in the settings which was quite exciting. I would be really interested to try more books from Kaarina Parker. If you want something from a historical timeframe, with interesting characters and a great storyline – high recommend Fulvia Jodi C, QLD, 4 stars
Fulvia is full of life, determined and curious, like many adolescents today, she can’t wait to get to the city! Rome was bustling, busy and full of new experiences, social and political intrigue. As part of the nobility, of marriageable age, Fulvia had a passport into the ‘high life’, meeting Clodius, who like her was a risktaker and rule breaker. They were not only a passionate pair but also a formidable political team; adept at intrigue, masters of manipulation and strategy, fuelling Clodius’ populist rise in importance with the plebian mobs, amid the increasing power games that typified the unsettled last years of Republican Rome. Walking with Fulvia through the day-to-day of her life, the reader witnesses the rituals, and streets of Rome. The narrative is an informative introduction into the lives of women, and events of this time. The author frees Fulvia from being hidden the folds of Clodius’ toga and reputation, to reveal a woman to be taken notice of, to be credited with more than being just an accessory to her husband, a wife and mother. Knowing Fulvia married more than once, perhaps there is a series in the offering? Nell, NSW, 4 stars
This was a pretty gripping tale of a woman coming to political power in ancient Rome. Fulvia was a great character, unafraid to challenge the social norms of her period and to use them in service of her own goals. I read this in a day, powered through it over breakfast, the commute to work and home again and a sneaky read in a quiet spot in my day, I really couldn’t put it down! My only complaint is that it’s too short! There were a few instances where Flavia would mention something that had happened and I thought it would have been interesting to actually let it play out in the pages rather than a quick reference. I could feel the end looming all too quickly and found myself wishing for a sequel! I don’t know anything about the historical Fulvia, (though I was familiar with Marcus Tullius Cicero) so maybe the story ends here? Richard, VIC, 4 stars
What a great first novel by New Zealand author Kaarina Parker. It is set in Rome towards the end of the Roman empire and tells the story of Fulvia, from her youth to her mid 20’s. She spent her childhood in the countryside but always yearned for a more exciting life. After the death of her father she moves to Rome hoping for such a life – and her wishes are fulfilled. Not long after arriving in Rome she married Clodius, a young senator who prefers change to the status quo and is willing to take risks and break conventions to satisfy his desires. They are well matched and we are taken along through their busy, ambitious and often turbulent, dangerous lives. The author paints a very believable picture of long ago Rome and the reader can easily visualize the characters and the settings. I wonder if the ending (though not entirely unsurprising), has left the way open for an equally enjoyable sequence. I, for one would like to read the next “chapter” of Fulvia’s life! Elva, QLD, 4 stars
This story had me engaged from the beginning, as I have always loved the history of Ancient Rome. The female perspective of Fulvia, a woman who had ambitions of her own, pursuing them from behind the veil of her aristocratic husband, the young senator Clodius. The portrayal of Ancient Rome in all its splendour and glory, depicted the ruling classes and their many extravagances in vivid detail. The civilization was captured with a subtlety that transported you back in time as if you were present in the lavish feasts or listening to the hushed tones of gossip in the bath houses. The author has weaved fact and fiction together to allow the imagination to understand the intricacies of the Roman state and the male rulers that supposedly held the power of the city. Both the ruling classes and plebian classes were delved into, as well as the life of the slaves and scribes that tended to these wealthier families. Overall, I found this to be an interesting read if you enjoy history of the Roman civilization. Gillian, QLD, 4 stars
Kaarina Parker’s debut novel fully immerses the reader in the life of ancient Rome through the perspective of Fulvia, a young woman born into a wealthy plebeian family and married at any early age to Clodius who is the son of a political dynasty. The descriptive writing successfully creates the atmosphere of this time in history and brings to life some known and (to me) not so well known key figures. The book focuses only on a relatively short but eventful time in Fulvia’s life and felt as if it was a build-up preparing for a sequel. There is a feeling that the circumstances she finds herself in at the end of the book are going to lead to some opportunities for Fulvia to further demonstrate more of the courage and strength that was described throughout the unfolding of this novel. Regina, NSW, 4 stars
Enjoyable historical fiction set in Rome during the late republic. Fulvia is an ambitious young woman but of course her ambition can only be behind the scenes and for the advancement of her husband. There’s intrigue and power plays along with extravagance and violence. An engaging read. Janelle, NSW, 4 stars
A fascinating read Rowena, TAS, 4 stars
It is always so pleasing to hear the hidden voices of historical women, particularly women of the ancient world who have travelled silently down through history. Fulvia is a fascinating character and her depiction in this novel seems genuine and true to the times. This novel focusses primarily on her marriage to Clodius Pulcher, the popular young Roman senator. It is a tumultuous and often violent time and the political machinations are complex but researched and incorporated well. The depictions of life in Rome evoke all the senses and paint a vivid picture of this ancient culture. Fulvia is seen as ambitious and intelligent and uses her wiles to lead her husband in a direction that places him at the best advantage among Rome’s leaders. It is an interesting and satisfying position to place this woman since it is a society that generally does not encourage strong women. The pacing of most of the novel is pleasing though the end felt a little rushed. The author has set up the possibility of follow-up novels that trace the later life of Fulvia and it is a tantalising idea to see how the story progresses. Heidi, SA, 4 stars
A fantastic read that offers a compelling glimpse into life from a woman’s perspective in Ancient Rome. Perfect for fans of historical fiction, this novel brings the era to life with vivid descriptions and well-researched details about the city and its people. The author’s deep understanding of Roman history shines through, and I’m eager to read more of their books. Mel, NSW, 4 stars
An engaging and immersive narrative that transports the reader into the heart of Ancient Rome. It captivates not only through its vivid storytelling but also through its rich historical insight, as if guided by a knowledgeable historian. Told through the eyes of a female protagonist – a perspective often overlooked due to historical attitudes towards women – it offers a refreshing and powerful lens on the political upheaval of the era. This unique viewpoint breathes new life into a well-trodden period, blending literary depth with educational value. Mikayla Ten Dam, QLD, 4 stars
I love reading historical fiction, giving me an insight into what life may have been like in times past. This telling of the early part of the life of Fulvia, an ambitious woman living in the Roman republic, has been fascinating. I feel there may be a sequel coming though, as we haven’t yet seen her full life. The book deals with the time of her first marriage, to Publius Clodius Pulcher, a man who was also ambitious, and paints a picture of Fulvia assisting and encouraging him to increase his influence. This fictionalised view of Fulvia is certainly interesting, and well worth a read. Karen, VIC, 4 stars
Kaarina Parkers debut historical novel Fuliva delivered an insight into one of Ancient Romes’ most fascinating and powerful women. I knew very little about Fulvia, and her influence over the military and political landscape of Rome. Her influence is undeniable and this book highlights the often overlooked role women play in history. The book felt like a memoir with Fulvia taking us on her journey, from her arrival in Rome, her marriage and the bloodbath of the political landscape. It is here we see how she develops her political acumen and shapes the men around her. The political drama, lovers and feuds reads like a modern-day reality TV show. I enjoyed hearing from Fuliva and her take on what was happening in Rome and how she as a women decided to be strong in this moment. Kaarina Parker has a delivered a well-researched book from the women’s point of view rather than focusing on the dominance of men in this time. The book does take a while to get going but once you are in the web of Roman politics it is un-put-downable. Anyone looking for a book filled with history, female power and plenty of drama then this book is for you. Tanya, QLD, 4 stars
Fulvia is a glimpse into the gilded atriums of ancient Rome’s elite. A world where women who do not otherwise have a voice, influence their husbands like master puppeteers. Fulvia is a woman who knows her own mind and is determined to choose the future that she wants and will not settle for less. Against odds that are settled against her, she travels to Rome from her provincial town and marries into a well connected and wealthy family as both a political and love match. From her precarious social throne, Fulvia orchestrates her rise to greater things and controls her destiny. I thoroughly enjoyed this fascinating read and the vivid characters depicted. Readers who love history won’t be disappointed here! Sarah, TAS, 4 stars
I really enjoyed this novel set in Ancient Rome. The author brought Ancient Rome to life through her illuminating descriptions. I enjoyed the retelling of a real woman’s life. The relationship between Fulvia and her mercurial husband was fascinating and quite touching in places. The factional political battles were well described. I enjoyed all the various insights into women’s lives- from childbirth to the bathhouses and the women’s -only temple. This novel shows that while women weren’t allowed to take part in politics, many of the wives of the powerful men wielded their own power and influence. Fulvia was particularly adept and would have made an incredible leader if she had had the chance. Very enjoyable! Kecia, NSW, 4 stars
I know very little about the historic accuracy of the work but as a story, I was intrigued from the start at how a woman if this time might rise and become more than she thought she might. A captivating read, I’m keen to hear more of Fulvia’s story. Row, TAS, 4 stars
Right from the stirring prologue, you can feel the ambitious pulse of Fulvia Flacca Bambula, brought to life so vividly in Kaarina Parker’s debut novel. ‘I was Roman. When I wanted something, I took it.’ This work of historical fiction will make you marvel at the modernity and sophistication of the society of Ancient Rome. It was lavish, sensual and fragrant. Politics were everything, yet women couldn’t go into politics. That didn’t mean that they didn’t have power or presence. Women existed in a parallel universe and lived for gossip, long before social media, and bath houses provided the perfect place for sharing and scheming, along with day spa and gym facilities. Women, especially those with a name or money, had a certain amount of influence which they wielded through their husbands or extravagant entertaining. The key relationship between Fulvia and Clodius is a beautiful thing, the true heartbeat of this novel. Along with greed and politics, love is an enduring theme throughout history and Fulvia and Clodius were blessed to find each other for ‘there is no greater burden than loneliness.’ Be transported back in time, but don’t be surprised if you want to draw parallels with society today. Michelle, VIC, 4 stars
Fulvia was a quick read about a young Roman girl who is fortunate to marry into a wealthy, important family. She finds love with her new husband, Clodius. Life is good for them but these are hard times for most Roman citizens. I found this novel very interesting and mostly, easy to read. I loved the way Kaarina drew her characters, surroundings and life in early Rome. She seemed to have researched life then and it all seemed authentic to me. She told a good story which had everything you look for(marriage, love, birth, life, murder, betrayal) but I stumbled over the names of most of her characters and places which hindered the flow of my reading. I also wasn’t sure whether some of the language she used was authentic to the times. Overall, I enjoyed this novel. Thank you Kaarina. I’ll keep and eye out for you next book. Sharon, ACT, 4 stars
I am not familiar with Roman history but enjoyed reading Fulvia, a strong woman born into wealthy plebeian family. In her 18th year, after her father’s death, she begged her mother to send her to Rome. She finally agreed and sent her to live with her younger sister younger Sempronia. Fulvia meets her first husband Clodius Pulcher, a young senator, at a banquet. This tells the story of their life together and how his political aspirations empower her and brings danger. Fulvia dreamed to have more and didn’t let anything get in her way to get there. She always got what she wanted!! The first half of the novel was a bit slow but it got better as it went along. I found some of the parts were slow going and I was wanting it to pick up, but then I came to parts where I felt it was rushed. The was a good debut novel by Kaarina Parker. Renae, QLD, 3 stars
I was intrigued by the premise of this book, which I expected would put a feminist spin on Ancient Roman politics. Kaarina Parker appears to have done a lot of serious research in preparing to write this novel. Unfortunately, I felt more connection to Fulvia’s Egyptian slave, Donata, than to Fulvia herself, despite some excellently written escapades. The excess of Fulvia’s lifestyle was both intriguing and a little offensive, although I suspect it was an accurate portrayal of someone from her station and time. She just wasn’t likeable. On the other hand, some events seemed surprisingly familiar to 2025, like the court process. Recommended to those who enjoyed Colleen McCullough’s “Masters of Rome” series. Heidi, VIC, 3 stars
Plutarch Fulvia, the daughter of a wealthy but unimportant Roman family wanted to rule a ruler and command a commander. She longs for more, a life of intrigue and influence. She moves to Rome, marries and falls into their world of debauchery. But Rome is a dangerous place and Fulvia soon learns just how high the stakes really are and her ambitions may come at a terrible cost. I found this an engaging read set in a very different time to the now. Fulvia’s ambitious but can only be seen from behind the scenes and for the advancement of her husband. It was a refreshing take, to read a book on Ancient Rome, and told from the woman’s perspective. Nadine, NSW, 3 stars
A refreshingly different read and an enjoyable delve into the history of the Roman Republic. Although fiction, the author’s knowledge of this time in history and her great descriptions of places and people puts you right there amongst the gossip, scandals and the importance of power. A wonderful snapshot of a tumultuous time bringing forth changes to society through the power of the women quietly influencing the leaders of the time. Jonathan, NSW, 3 stars
“I was Roman. When I wanted something, I took it.” The ancient Roman society is displayed with a modern and intellectual insight in this story of Fulvia and Clodius – a married couple deeply ingrained in the political world. A bit slow for my liking, but I’m sure others may be intrigued. Kylie, QLD, 3 stars
This is an interesting historical novel, but the narrative is so evenly paced that it feels as though it has no climax or moments with smaller peaks. It’s an enjoyable but not memorable read. The novel is not emotionally engaging although events are interesting. Fulvia narrates in a very calm, even tone. The novel felt incomplete. Fulvia often refers to her future life, but many of these references aren’t fulfilled in the novel. I found it particularly frustrating that there was no historical afterword to describe what is known about the rest of her life. The author clearly understands her setting and the politics that would have been at play. She conveys clearly, subtly weaving the explanations into the narrative. The women are the strongest characters, those who come to life most easily and are the most well rounded. This makes sense; they would have been the people Fulvia knew best. I enjoyed reading this, but the sense that it’s incomplete means I doubt I’ll find it memorable. It’s worth reading, though, if you want a bit of insight into the politics of ancient Rome. Lorraine, ACT, 3 stars
Fulvia, born into wealth in Roman times, was young and ambitious and felt unfulfilled and isolated from what she considered was her destiny. She moved from home to Rome where she married quickly and well. Although the story is set in the time of Julius Caesar the attitudes towards power, greed, envy and wealth have not changed as political priorities. I didn’t really enjoy reading it but maybe because it wasn’t my preference of setting and I thought it lacked depth. It seemed to be a bit like a soap opera. Gloria, SA, 2 stars
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