The Raven and the Rose — Doreen Owens Malek

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...