Author Description

Rome, 53 AD. Amidst the glittering halls of Emperor Claudius's palace, eighteen-year-old Acte dances, and catches the eye of the young Nero. United by their love of theatre and music, the bond between them deepens, even as destiny prepares to thrust Nero onto the imperial throne at only sixteen. But in the shadow of power, tender love cannot easily survive. Court intrigues, rigid Roman traditions, and the iron grip of politics force them apart, until tragedy brings them together again. When fire consumes Rome and whispers of tyranny spread, Acte must confront the man Nero has become: emperor, lover, outcast. Was he truly the monster history remembers: the mad arsonist, the persecutor, the Antichrist? Or something far more human, and far more tragic? Irresistible Fate: A Roman Tale brings to life the forgotten voice of Claudia Acte, the woman who dared to love Nero, and to preserve his legacy against the judgement of history.