Rome 1644 'A vividly written story of power, politics and love ... a thoroughly captivating read' - - The Wishing Shelf ★★★★★ In the heart of Rome, the conclave is choosing a new Pope, and the man elected will determine the fate of the Eternal City. Astrologer Mia and her fiancé Jacopo, a physician at the Santo Spirito Hospital, plan to marry, but the election result is a shock and changes everything. As Pope Innocent X takes the throne, he brings along his sister-in-law, the formidable Donna Olimpia Maidalchini, known as La Papessa – the female Pope. When Mia is offered a position as her personal astrologer, she and Jacopo find themselves on opposite sides of the most powerful family in Rome. Mia is determined to protect her mother, Giulia Tofana , a renowned poisoner. But with La Papessa obsessed with bringing Giulia to justice, Mia and Jacopo's love is put to the ultimate test. For fans of "The Borgias" and "The Crown," this is a gripping and atmospheric historical novel of poison and healing, of power and love. 'historical fiction that is brisk, fresh and bristling with intrigue' – Bookmarked Reviews ★★★★★ Coffee Pot Book Club Gold Medal Winner.