69 AD: Troubled times in Rome. Nero has died and rivals fight for the succession of the throne. Within one year four emperors have succeeded one another. Within a single year Antonia has been affianced four times!

Endowed with a rich inheritance, descended from one of the oldest families of Rome, Antonia is a much-coveted partner. A reward for one who loyally serves the emperor. The feelings of the young woman are not taken into account. SHe is forced to accept!

Nevertheless two of the suitors know how to touch the indomitable Antonia. Camerinus, to whom she offers herself one evening in madness and despair. Valens, the warrior, who teaches her the nature of love. And while the endangered city of Rome is carried along in a whirl of pleasures, Antonia discovers passion, violence, and the tragedy of power...but might she herself some day become empress?