Set against the tempestuous backdrop of Ancient Rome in the final days of Caesar...comes the stunning love story of a man and a woman who defy destiny to follow their hearts—only to be swept up in a forbidden and all-consuming passion.
She is Julia Casca, a young noblewoman pledged against her will to the sacred order of Vestal Virgins...dedicated to a life of eternal chastity. He is Marcus Demeter, the powerful centurion and war hero sworn to protect Julius Caesar...betrayed by his own desperate desires.
As a land seething with intrigue and treachery erupts in murder—turning honorable allies into deadly enemies—Julia and Marcus become lovers in an explosive liaison that rocks Rome and could destroy them both...
This title is published by Gypsy Autumn Publications and distributed worldwide by Untreed Reads Publishing.
EXCERPT:
As Lovers Reunite
It seemed an eternity to Julia before the outside door opened and Marcus came through it, his eyes locking with hers as he closed it behind him.
Her feet barely touched the floor as she ran to him; he folded her into his arms and said, concerned, “Tears? Why are you crying?”
I was just thinking about the chance we’re both taking. This is so dangerous,” she murmured against his chest.
“Say the word and I’ll let go,” he replied, holding her off to look at her.
Julia dropped her eyes. “I can never say that word, Marcus. Why?”
“I think there’s a good reason.”
“What is it?”
“Fatum nos coegisse credo,” he replied. “I believe that fate brought us together.”
She looked up at him and nodded.
“Then why question what we both sense to be the work of the gods?” he said. “Accept it as a gift.”
Julia buried her face against his hard shoulder. “It’s difficult to live so much of my life without seeing you. When I’m not with you I think––oh, terrible things.”
“And when you are with me?”
“Then I forget the rest of the world.”
He bent his head to kiss the side of her neck. “I’ll make you forget it completely, “ he said softly, his lips soft and caressing. “All of it. Just give me the chance…”
