Genre:
Historical Fiction
Themes:
Butch / Femme
Coming of Age
Disaster
Disguised as a Man
Girl Next Door
Return to Hometown
Rich Girl / Poor Girl
Heat Level:
Fade to Black (sex scenes are mostly implied and use euphemistic language)
Archetypes:
Brewer / Distiller / Vineyard Owner
Celebrity / Socialite / Model
Farmer
Homemaker
Sailor
Geographic Location:
Continental Europe
Setting:
Brothel / Sex Club
Castle / Manor / Estate
Farm / Ranch
Seaside / Beach
Vineyard
Sexual / Gender Identity:
Queer
Femme
Androgynous
Tomboy
Trigger/Content Warning:
sword fight, references to mild physical child abuse
Promises in Pompeii
The Ancient Ash Series, Book 1
By Violet Morley
What if all you've been looking for has been your best friend all along?
Spanning twenty years, this story explores life, love, and loss in Ancient Rome.
Helvia doesn’t want for anything, but being wealthy can come at a cost. Navigating through her papa’s disinterest and trying to dodge her bully of a brother, Helvia is already learning how lonely life can be—until Octavia comes bursting on the scene, ready to help provide support, laughter, and companionship that Helvia desperately needs.
Octavia’s family doesn’t have wealth, but they certainly aren’t short on love. She is taught early to stick up for what is right and work hard for those she cares about.
As Helvia and Octavia grow, so does their friendship. Moving from childhood to adulthood while navigating the expectations of women in Ancient Rome, their connection navigates unexpected bumps and turns. Life has a way of shaking up even the most solid foundations.
With promises of their future shattered and secrets held tight to the chest, Helvia and Octavia have to ask themselves how their connection can equal a happy ending.