My name is Zabdas: a son, father, commander and confidant. I am a man born of invasion, a warrior in a forgotten land. I speak of history, of Rome and Syria, and relay the story of Zenobia: wife to the King, sister to me, mother to her country, daughter of the gods …
Syria is finally at peace. The war against the Persians is won and a triumph held in honour of King Odenathus' victories. Whilst the east prospers, so the west crumbles as Emperor Gallienus struggles to maintain power.
With success comes opportunity. Peace never holds for long as rumours surrounding Odenathus' rising popularity abound and enemies approach on every frontier.
Zenobia must play the game of politics, forge alliances and press her advantage no matter what, if she is to secure the east. Zabdas discovers his past, and battles both conscience and heart as he chooses paths that will change everything.
It is the year of death. The gods are watching and no one is safe …
