Release Date: September 27, 2011
Format: E-book
Pages: 352
Source: Publisher via NetGalley
From Goodreads: Roman historian Procopius publicly praised Theodora of Constantinople for her piety-while secretly detailing her salacious stage act and maligning her as ruthless and power hungry. So who was this woman who rose from humble beginnings as a dancer to become the empress of Rome and a saint in the Orthodox Church? Award-winning novelist Stella Duffy vividly recreates the life and times of a woman who left her mark on one of the ancient world's most powerful empires. Theodora: Actress, Empress, Whore is a sexy, captivating novel that resurrects an extraordinary, little-known figure from the dusty pages of history.
My review: This book was a fascinating tale of poor girl on the rough side of town who rises to the top of the Royal family. I enjoyed reading along her life’s story. Her years as an actress and whore were colorful with descriptions and darkened with the roughness of her teacher. Her brains kept her thinking ahead, understanding her profession was short-lived as she aged.
As her life took the new turn towards monogamy I was hopeful for her future, but cautious for her. Even so when what I expected to happen came to be, I was still saddened for her. The next chapter in her life took her towards religion and a more reserved life – yet she never quite left her fiery personality behind. For this I was glad because that is what I liked most about her.
The later portion of the book was my favorite. There were fights between the Royal’s and her lowly beginnings, but also true friendships blossoming. The romance between her and Justinian is written beautifully, full of heart and real companionship. Her hopefulness in life grew as their relationship grew for he truly cared for her and not just what she could bring him or do for his career.
As much as I enjoyed the story there was a major drawback for me – I didn’t feel that I was in the past while reading the story. The writing was beautiful and included the appropriate historical lingo and labels, but the feel of the text was too modern for me. I kept having to remind myself this story was set in the long ago past. Overall, this book provided a glimpse into a time I have not ever read about, with a deep romance included.
I've never heard of Theodora before! This sounds like a pretty interesting read! Great review:)
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