From New York Times bestselling author Barbara Wood: A riveting, historical tale set in first-century Rome, The Divining chronicles one young woman’s spiritual quest to discover her destiny through the powerful gift of second sight—and save entire future generations.
Ancient Rome: 54 C.E. Nineteen-year-old Ulrika is plagued with strange visions and dreams. In order to discover the truth behind her past and her unusual powers, Ulrika embarks on a dangerous journey to her father’s homeland, Germania. There, she discovers her calling, a rare gift known as the Divining.
Sent on a quest to find her destiny, she travels far and wide, from ancient Germania to the vast and exotic countries of Syria, Babylon, and Persia. Along the way she meets wise spiritual guides—men, women, and spirits alike—who teach her to harness her ability to heal and protect others. Ulrika’s journey also brings her close to the handsome trader Sebastianus Gallus, who must depart for his own quest to the Far East to gain riches for the powerful emperor Nero. But can Ulrika reunite with the man she loves, fulfill her profound destiny, and usher in a new era in Rome under the threatening rule of Nero?
A powerful, spiritual story of romance, betrayal, faith, and courage, The Divining stunningly brings to life one young woman’s daring role in shaping the entire ancient empire of Rome.
Praise for The Divining:
“An accomplished storyteller.” —John Jakes, New York Times bestselling author
“Wood shows herself a wizard at juggling action and romance, maintaining the momentum and sparkle of both.” —Kirkus Reviews
“Wood makes her fiction come alive with authentic detailing and highly memorable characters.” —Booklist
“Barbara Wood is an entertainer.” —Washington Post Book World
“Wood crafts vivid sketches of women who triumph over destiny.” —Publishers Weekly
“Entertainment fiction at its best.” —Booklist
“Absolutely splendid.” —Cynthia Freeman, New York Times bestselling author
“Wood creates genuine, engaging characters whose stories are fascinating.” —Library Journal
“A master storyteller.” —Tulsa World
“[Wood] never fails to leave the reader enthralled.” —Elizabeth Forsythe Hailey, author of A Woman of Independent Means