Mother of Rome by Lauren J. A. Bear

 

Summary (from the publisher): A powerful and fierce reimagining of the founding of the Roman empire and the legend of Romulus and Remus—and the mother whose sacrifice made it all possible.

The twins Romulus and Remus may be known as the mythical founders of Rome, but history is silent in regards to their mother, Rhea Silvia. If she is remembered at all, it is as a preface to her sons' journey, the princess turned priestess—and a victim of rape—condemned to death alongside her children.

But that is not the full story.

Though born into royalty, when Rhea's family is beset by tragedies and her father loses his kingdom in a treacherous coup, she is sent to the order of the Vestal Virgins, to ensure she will never produce an heir. Except when mortals scheme, gods laugh.

Rhea becomes pregnant, and human society turns against her. Alone, ostracized, and facing the gravest punishment, Rhea forges a dangerous deal with the divine to protect what she loves, one that will forever change the trajectory of her life…and her land.

All roads may lead to Rome, but they began with Rhea Silvia.

A powerful and fierce reimagining of the founding of the Roman empire and the legend of Romulus and Remus—and the mother whose sacrifice made it all possible.

Review: This was a striking reimagining of the legend of Roman legend of Romulus and Remus, the mythical founders of Rome. Their mother, Rhea Silvia, also known as Ilia, is the former daughter of King Numitor, who was displaced by his brother Amulius. The former princess Rhea is sent to the order of the Vestal Virgins to ensure she will never produce an heir and a threat to her uncles' rule. But despite her isolation, she becomes pregnant with twin boys. And in this imagining, she isn't put to death but survives the pregnancy.

I love myth/legend retellings, and this one was an incredibly powerful story of a mother's love. Rhea literally defies all the odds to care for her children and remain close to them. It was also fun having a god as the main love interest and I love how the author skillfully wove this supernatural element into the book in a way that felt natural. 

This was also a powerful story of sisterhood! A major storyline in this book is about Rhea's cousin Antho, who essentially takes over her place as princess when Rhea's uncle assumes the throne. The girls grew up incredibly close, almost like sisters. Both are thwarted in love and both make extreme sacrifices and choices just to have some small piece of the ones they love. Antho is forced to marry a much older man that she doesn't love even though she is deeply in love with a Greek soldier. She is the other main character in this novel and her story is equally heartbreaking. Antho was a good balance for this book since most of Rhea's story is one of waiting in the wings, biding her time as her sons grow. I did feel like the plot lagged some in the middle of this book as little seems to happen. 

I listened to the audiobook version, which was beautifully narrated. I did struggle a tad to get into this at the beginning, which is likely my own fault. I was not familiar with the Romulus and Remus legend at all (probably should have at least googled it) and the Latin names were tripping me up since I couldn't visualize many of them in my head (again, should have googled the story). But I quickly became immersed in the story and really enjoyed it. 

Stars: 4