Debra May Macleod's Books

Brides of Rome

A compelling novel of ancient Rome

By: Debra May Macleod

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Brides of Rome

A compelling novel of ancient Rome

By: Debra May Macleod

When passion is punishable by death, can one priestess keep her emotions concealed and help steer the course of history? Ancient Rome is a world of power and privilege, secrets and sacred duty. The esteemed priestesses of Vesta – the Vestal Virgins – are charged with ensuring the Eternal Flame in their temple never goes out. While it burns, Rome cannot fall. They are known as the Brides of Rome. Dedicated to a thirty-year vow of chaste service, Priestess Pomponia finds herself swept up in the intrigue, violence, wars and bedroom politics of Rome’s elite – Julius Caesar, Marc Antony and Cleopatra, Octavian and Livia – all the while guarding the secret affection she has in her heart. But when a charge of incestum – a broken vow of chastity – is made against the Vestal order, the ultimate punishment looms: death by being buried alive. Debra May Macleod skilfully recreates the world of ancient Rome with all its brutality and brilliance, all its rich history and even richer legend. A true page-turner that is as smart as it is compelling, this must-read novel brings the Vestal order to life like never before. Perfect for fans of Kate Quinn and Margaret George. Praise for Brides of Rome 'A fascinating look inside the lives of the enigmatic Vestal Virgins of Rome, who tended the sacred flame of Vesta in her temple in the Forum. But they were at the heart of Roman politics as well, true 'brides of Rome' who had a ringside seat in events of Roman history, and had a hand in them as well. Macleod lets us enter their forbidden and mysterious lives in a page-turning story of the birth of the Roman empire' Margaret George, New York Times bestselling author of The Confessions of Young Nero 'In an age of murderous warlords and ruthless politicians (often indistinguishable from one another) the seemingly benign Vestals could hold the balance of power. Debra May Macleod has written a fascinating mystery set within the relentlessly masculine world of Roman power politics, but seen through the lens of a unique, all-female institution. The Vestals did not just tend Rome's sacred flame. They guarded Rome's secrets' John Maddox Roberts, author of the Edgar-nominated SPQR Roman Mystery series 'Riveting... This smart repartee captivates in every way' Steve Berry, New York Times bestselling author of The Warsaw Protocol 'Macleod gives readers a very rich picture of what the day-to-day life of the Vestal Virgins was like. This is very intelligent and well-researched Roman historical fiction, populated with very strong female lead characters (including a scene-stealing rendition of Livia). A fine start to a promising series' Historical Novel Society The Vesta Shadows series The Vesta Shadows trilogy spans decades, from 45 BCE to 14 CE. It follows the life of the Vestal priestess Pomponia Occia, who is inspired by the real Vestal Occia who lived during this time, serving in the Temple of Vesta for more than fifty years. Set during the tumultuous years that saw the fall of the Roman Republic and the rise of the Roman Empire under Augustus - and beyond - it dramatises some of the major historical events that occurred during her lifetime while simultaneously bringing ancient Rome to life with fast-paced, engrossing and visceral storylines played out by a striking cast of characters.

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368

Publisher

Canelo

Published Date

ISBN 10

1800326750

ISBN 13

9781800326750

To Be Wolves

A Novel of the Vestal Virgins

By: Debra May Macleod

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To Be Wolves

A Novel of the Vestal Virgins

By: Debra May Macleod

In the stratified world of ancient Rome, there are citizens and slaves, soldiers and senators, priests and priestesses—and Caesar Augustus rules them all. Yet his authority holds only as long as the people believe the gods of Rome support him, particularly the beloved goddess of the home and hearth, Vesta. As chief Vestal Virgin, Pomponia continues to devote her life to protecting her order and the eternal flame of Vesta. She has risen to a position of esteem in Rome and is a valued member of Caesar’s inner circle. But now a contagion ravages the city and tension rises among Rome’s inhabitants. While she struggles to manage the Vestal order and maintain the favor of the goddess, Pomponia must now face a malevolent nobleman, Soren, whose machinations against her threaten not just her friendship with Caesar, but everything she loves. In To Be Wolves, Book Two in the Vesta Shadows series, Debra May Macleod takes us back to her richly crafted and meticulously researched vision of ancient Rome, artfully re-created with both historical and all-new characters, from conniving elites to celebrity slaves. An even bolder offering than its predecessor, this gripping sequel to Brides of Rome explores an even darker side of Rome. The Vesta Shadows trilogy spans decades, from 45 BCE to 14 CE. It follows the life of the Vestal priestess Pomponia Occia, who is inspired by the real Vestal Occia who lived during this time, serving in the Temple of Vesta for more than fifty years. Set during the tumultuous years that saw the fall of the Roman Republic and the rise of the Roman Empire under Augustus—and beyond—it dramatizes some of the major historical events that occurred during her lifetime while simultaneously bringing ancient Rome to life with fast-paced, engrossing, and visceral storylines played out by a striking cast of characters.

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Page Count

290

Publisher

Blackstone Publishing

Published Date

ISBN 10

1094000299

ISBN 13

9781094000299

Empire of Iron

A Novel of the Vestal Virgins

By: Debra May Macleod

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Empire of Iron

A Novel of the Vestal Virgins

By: Debra May Macleod

For the heroes of Rome, and its enemies, it is a time of reckoning. There is a saying in Rome: the Tarpeian Rock is near the Capitoline—meaning that even at the height of power, one is never far from a fall. As the Vestalis Maxima, Pomponia has guided her order through the collapse of Rome’s Republic and the rise of the Empire. Her wit and piety have elevated the Vestals to a position of unprecedented prestige—and her friendship with Caesar Augustus has personally afforded her a life of political influence and privilege. She has been adored and untouchable. Yet that illusion of safety has been shattered by a ruthless enemy who continues to menace her from the shadows, his vengeful nature escalating to terrifying new heights that threaten not just Pomponia, but all those she cares for—including the emperor himself. Worse, it seems that the gods are also turning against her when the Vestal order suffers an unparalleled crisis that Pomponia must answer for. Struggling to maintain her position, Pomponia looks to her slaves and a renegade charioteer for support as her complex relationship with her protégé, Quintina, brings painful secrets to light. Faced with threats from all directions, Pomponia must be willing to sacrifice everything—even her own morality—to protect her status, the Vestal order, and the lives of those around her. In Empire of Iron, the unflinching conclusion to the Vesta Shadows trilogy, Pomponia realizes that, like Rome itself, she must become even more ruthless than her enemies if she is to survive. The Vesta Shadows trilogy spans decades, from 45 BCE to 14 CE. It follows the life of the Vestal priestess Pomponia Occia, who is inspired by the real Vestal Occia who lived during this time, serving in the Temple of Vesta for more than fifty years. Set during the tumultuous years that saw the fall of the Roman Republic and the rise of the Roman Empire under Augustus—and beyond—it dramatizes some of the major historical events that occurred during her lifetime while simultaneously bringing ancient Rome to life with fast-paced, engrossing, and visceral storylines played out by a striking cast of characters.

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316

Publisher

Blackstone Publishing

Published Date

ISBN 10

1094000329

ISBN 13

9781094000329

Brides of Rome

A compelling novel of ancient Rome

By: Debra May Macleod

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Brides of Rome

A compelling novel of ancient Rome

By: Debra May Macleod

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Page Count

368

Publisher

Canelo

Published Date

ISBN 10

1800326750

ISBN 13

9781800326750

The Vesta Shadows Trilogy

Books 1–3

By: Debra May Macleod

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The Vesta Shadows Trilogy

Books 1–3

By: Debra May Macleod

It is a world of power and privilege, secrets and sacred duty. It is the world of ancient Rome. And it is the esteemed Vestal Virgins—priestesses of Vesta, goddess of the home and hearth—who protect the Eternal Flame that protects the Eternal City. Brides of Rome Dedicated to a thirty-year vow of chaste service, Priestess Pomponia finds herself swept up in the intrigue, violence, wars, and bedroom politics of Rome’s elite—Julius Caesar, Antony and Cleopatra, Octavian and his maneuvering wife, Livia—all the while guarding the secret affection in her heart. To Be Wolves As chief Vestal Virgin, Pomponia devotes her life to protecting her order and the eternal flame of Vesta. In a position of esteem in Rome, she is a valued member of Caesar’s circle. But as a contagion ravages the city, she struggles to manage the Vestal order, while facing a malevolent nobleman whose machinations threaten everything she loves. Empire of Iron Pomponia has elevated the Vestals to a position of unprecedented prestige—and her friendship with Caesar Augustus has afforded her a life of political influence and privilege. But a ruthless enemy threatens Pomponia and all those she cares for—including the emperor himself. Faced with threats from all directions, Pomponia must be willing to sacrifice everything to protect her status, the Vestal order, and the lives of those around her.

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Page Count

1030

Publisher

Blackstone Publishing

Published Date

ISBN 13

9798212613170

The New Vesta Secret

Finding the Flame of Faith, Home & Happiness

By: Debra May Macleod

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The New Vesta Secret

Finding the Flame of Faith, Home & Happiness

By: Debra May Macleod

The New Vesta Secret: Finding the Flame of Faith, Home & Happiness If reading Debra May Macleod’s historical fiction novels on the Vestal Virgins of ancient Rome inspired you to light a candle and think of the eternal flame (why not? they say everything old is new again), this nonfiction offering may interest you. It shares the author’s personal experience with this ancient religion and offers ways - some lighthearted, others more meaningful - for those who are so inclined to incorporate it into their modern life. What if your home was more sacred than any church or temple? What if you could understand why looking into a flame makes you feel calm and reverential? What if you could find greater meaning and happiness in your home and life? If you've ever felt drawn to the "old ways," the New Vesta Secret may be for you.

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172

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Debra May Macleod

ISBN 10

177505859X

ISBN 13

9781775058595

Divining Your Life: Candle Readings with the Flame of Vesta

By: Debra May Macleod

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Divining Your Life: Candle Readings with the Flame of Vesta

By: Debra May Macleod

Divining Your Life: Candle Readings with the Flame of Vesta If reading Debra May Macleod’s historical fiction novels on the Vestals of ancient Rome made you feel like lighting a candle, this unique and spirited nonfiction offering might appeal to you. In Divining Your Life, the author blends elements of ancient divination practices with modern sensibilities to create a simple yet illuminating and intelligent method of “candle reading,” one inspired by her research and performed by the sacred flame of the goddess Vesta. By learning to read the flame, vapor and wax formations of a candle—and by tapping in to your own intuition as you do—you can gain insight into your own past and present, as well as what may lie ahead for you. After all, since the dawn of civilization, humankind has turned to divination practices—from ancient oracles to modern astrologers—to know the unknowable, and to discover the answers to life’s most pressing questions, from romance to finances. So whether you are seeking to discover meaningful answers to life’s big questions, or you just want to have some fun with friends as you peer into your respective futures, this fiery little book may be for you.

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164

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Debra May Macleod

ISBN 10

1999430069

ISBN 13

9781999430061

Empire of Iron

A Novel of the Vestal Virgins

By: Debra May Macleod

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Empire of Iron

A Novel of the Vestal Virgins

By: Debra May Macleod

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316

Publisher

Blackstone Publishing

Published Date

ISBN 10

1094000329

ISBN 13

9781094000329

To Be Wolves

A breathtaking novel of the Vestal Virgins

By: Debra May Macleod

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To Be Wolves

A breathtaking novel of the Vestal Virgins

By: Debra May Macleod

Peace is like a flame – easily extinguished. 21 BC. After the turbulence of civil war, Augustus Caesar now rules Rome. Yet his authority is fragile, holding only so long as the people believe Rome’s gods support him, particularly the beloved goddess of home and hearth, Vesta. Pomponia, now chief Vestal Virgin, continues to devote her life to the goddess. She has risen to a position of esteem in Rome and is a valued member of Caesar’s inner circle. But when a contagion starts to ravage the city, tensions rise among Rome’s inhabitants. Meanwhile, a malevolent nobleman called Soren starts plotting against her, threatening not just her friendship with Caesar, but everything she loves... Return to the meticulously researched world of Debra May Macleod’s ancient Rome in this gripping sequel to Brides of Rome. Perfect for fans of Colleen McCullough and Stephanie Dray. Praise for Brides of Rome 'A fascinating look inside the lives of the enigmatic Vestal Virgins of Rome, who tended the sacred flame of Vesta in her temple in the Forum. But they were at the heart of Roman politics as well, true 'brides of Rome' who had a ringside seat in events of Roman history, and had a hand in them as well. Macleod lets us enter their forbidden and mysterious lives in a page-turning story of the birth of the Roman empire' Margaret George, New York Times bestselling author of The Confessions of Young Nero 'In an age of murderous warlords and ruthless politicians (often indistinguishable from one another) the seemingly benign Vestals could hold the balance of power. Debra May Macleod has written a fascinating mystery set within the relentlessly masculine world of Roman power politics, but seen through the lens of a unique, all-female institution. The Vestals did not just tend Rome's sacred flame. They guarded Rome's secrets' John Maddox Roberts, author of the Edgar-nominated SPQR Roman Mystery series 'Riveting... This smart repartee captivates in every way' Steve Berry, New York Times bestselling author of The Warsaw Protocol 'Macleod gives readers a very rich picture of what the day-to-day life of the Vestal Virgins was like. This is very intelligent and well-researched Roman historical fiction, populated with very strong female lead characters (including a scene-stealing rendition of Livia). A fine start to a promising series' Historical Novel Society The Vesta Shadows series The Vesta Shadows trilogy spans decades, from 45 BCE to 14 CE. It follows the life of the Vestal priestess Pomponia Occia, who is inspired by the real Vestal Occia who lived during this time, serving in the Temple of Vesta for more than fifty years. Set during the tumultuous years that saw the fall of the Roman Republic and the rise of the Roman Empire under Augustus - and beyond - it dramatises some of the major historical events that occurred during her lifetime while simultaneously bringing ancient Rome to life with fast-paced, engrossing and visceral storylines played out by a striking cast of characters.

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Page Count

441

Publisher

Canelo

Published Date

ISBN 10

1800326777

ISBN 13

9781800326774

The New Vesta Secret

Finding the Flame of Faith, Home & Happiness

By: Debra May Macleod

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The New Vesta Secret

Finding the Flame of Faith, Home & Happiness

By: Debra May Macleod

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Page Count

172

Publisher

Debra May Macleod

ISBN 10

177505859X

ISBN 13

9781775058595

The Vesta Shadows Trilogy

Books 1–3

By: Debra May Macleod

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The Vesta Shadows Trilogy

Books 1–3

By: Debra May Macleod

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Page Count

1030

Publisher

Blackstone Publishing

Published Date

ISBN 13

9798212613170

The New Vesta Home

How a Renewed Tradition Can Keep Your Marriage and Family Together

By: Debra May Macleod,Don MacLeod

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The New Vesta Home

How a Renewed Tradition Can Keep Your Marriage and Family Together

By: Debra May Macleod,Don MacLeod

What if your home was more sacred than any church or temple? What if you could find spiritual comfort without abandoning your reason or values? What if you could understand why looking into a flame brings you ancient feelings of well-being? What if you could find greater meaning and happiness in your life and strengthen the bonds in your marriage and family? The true “spirituality of the home,” the faith and flame of Vesta burned in antiquity for centuries, providing a spiritual focus for the home and strengthening marital and family devotion. Today, this tradition has been reignited in the modern world and is being embraced by a new generation of “spiritual but not religious” women, men and families. In The New Vesta Home, the essential companion to The New Vesta Secret, marriage author-expert and leading Vestal proponent Debra May Macleod teaches women how this life-changing tradition can illuminate their lives, relationships and homes. From simple mealtime rituals to skills-based marriage and family-strengthening advice, The New Vesta Home is part spiritual treatise and part practical relationship manual. Use it to bring daily sparks of love, devotion, happiness and meaning to your life and home.Read with: THE NEW VESTA SECRET: FINDING THE FLAME OF FAITH, HOME & HAPPINESS

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Page Count

184

Publisher

CreateSpace

Published Date

ISBN 10

1503289974

ISBN 13

9781503289970

Book's by Debra May Macleod

Brides of Rome

Brides of Rome

To Be Wolves

To Be Wolves

Empire of Iron

Empire of Iron

Brides of Rome

Brides of Rome

The Vesta Shadows Trilogy

The Vesta Shadows Trilogy

The New Vesta Secret

The New Vesta Secret

Divining Your Life: Candle Readings with the Flame of Vesta

Divining Your Life: Candle Readings with the Flame of Vesta

Empire of Iron

Empire of Iron

To Be Wolves

To Be Wolves

The New Vesta Secret

The New Vesta Secret

The Vesta Shadows Trilogy

The Vesta Shadows Trilogy

The New Vesta Home

The New Vesta Home

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