Can’t-Wait Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted at Wishful Endings, to spotlight the books we’re excited about that we have yet to read.
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Clodia of Rome: Champion of the Republic by Douglas BoinExpected publication: August 12, 2025 by W. W. Norton & Company
A thrilling new history of the late Roman Republic, told through one woman’s quest for justice.
A pioneering political voice, with charisma and power that rivaled many of her male contemporaries, Clodia of Rome was a pivotal figure in the late Roman Republic until a murder trial, rife with corruption, catalyzed her fall from grace. Taking readers inside the courtroom to follow the trial and Clodia’s family’s tumultuous political history, Douglas Boin brings a modern perspective to a long-buried story, full of juicy details and fascinating anecdotes. With countless examples of the surprising roles that Roman women played, followed by the attempts of powerful men to erase their stories, Boin challenges the male-dominated narrative of classical antiquity. Clodia of Rome offers a new understanding of the radical modernity of first-century Rome—one that mirrors our own in its volatile conflicts between forces of change and those of reaction.
I found out about this book when the ladies from Ancient History Fangirl had Douglas Boin on their podcast as guest to talk about Alaric of the Visigoths and Douglas mentioned that in August he had a book coming up about Clodia from ancient Rome so of course I added it to my TBR right away. I can’t wait to read it. If only the publication date was closer!
Are you also looking forward to this book? What do you think of it?
Leave links to your Can’t-Wait Wednesday post so I can stop by!
You always find the best books with female historical figures. This sounds perfect for you, and I hope you love it!
A murder trial?? This sounds fascinating!
I sure hope you love this one.
This sounds fascinating. I want to know more about Clodia. Adding this to my wish list.
Oooh a woman of power in the Roman Empire!!!
Hope you’ll love this one!