Livia’s marriage to Gaius is compromised when she learns that she can’t bear him any children.

Gaius’ illness causes a political crisis and reveals the weakness of Livia’s position without him, a problem she must solve.

As Gaius’ rivals taste blood in the water, Livia must outwit both them and her husband if the family is to be kept together.

Eleven years on, Livia is married to the powerful Gaius, and is pregnant again. Yet, she does not feel entirely secure.