♡ Thank you for the free ARC, author Lauren J.A. Bear, Berkley Publishing Group | Ace Books, and NetGalley.
♡ Publication Date: 1.7.25
Synopsis
The names Romulus and Remus may be immortalized in map and stone and chronicle, but their mother exists only as a preface to her sons’ journey, the princess turned oath-breaking priestess, condemned to death alongside her children.
But she did not die; she survived. And so does her story.
Beautiful, royal, rich: Rhea has it all—until her father loses his kingdom in a treacherous coup, and she is sent to the order of the Vestal Virgins to ensure she will never produce an heir.
Except when mortals scheme, gods laugh.
Rhea becomes pregnant, and human society turns against her. Abandoned, ostracized, and facing the gravest punishment, Rhea forges a dangerous deal with the divine, one that will forever change the trajectory of her life…and her beloved land.
To save her sons and reclaim their birthright, Rhea must summon nature’s mightiest force – a mother’s love – and fight.
Thoughts
Due to my love of both the Latin language and Roman culture, which I studied in high school, I requested this ARC so fast when it hit NetGalley. The story of Romulus and Remus is one of my favorites, so I was keen to read Bear’s retelling.
Did I tell Berkley about seeing the resting place of Rome’s mythical founders in person as part of my appeal for this ARC? You bet I did. Carpe diem, my friends!
Bear gave Rhea Silvia the story she deserved in this epic retelling of a brave woman with fierce love for her sons. An intoxicating blend of magic, mythology feminism, and history, this is an unforgettable reimagining of a beloved tale.
The cover is brilliant, and I will be adding a finished copy of this book to my shelf once it is released.