In this episode we present the first chapter of The Exiled Queen, a Roman era historical fantasy written by Roxana Arama and narrated by Calliope.Love this chapter? Buy the full audiobook here.Want to know more about the author? Check out their website here.Rome is marching. Cities and temples are falling. On the outskirts of the empire, Princess Andrada convinces her father to tutor her as his heir despite a taboo against women rulers. But her lifelong battle against entrenched customs shatters when she fails the King's Challenge and is sentenced to death.To save Andrada from execution, her father marries her off to a neighboring king who doesn't care much about governing. Devastated, the new queen resolves to watch over her country from exile, preparing for the inevitable Roman attack. Although the crystal bell she risked everything to claim during the challenge grants odd wishes, she's dangerously unarmed against an unloving husband who needs a son from her. Meanwhile, her worst enemy is plotting to kill her once and for all.Can this brave queen unite all the warring factions to stand strong before the mighty Roman Empire?The Exiled Queen is a gritty and grounded historical fantasy. Pulling together threads from the past of her native Eastern Europe, Roxana Arama reimagines a people on the brink of drastic change. If you like fierce female protagonists, speculative sagas, and dramatic twists, you'll love this sweeping adventure.The Exiled Queen by Roxana AramaNarrated by CalliopePublished By Dhawosia PublishingRelease date: March 1, 2024Hosted by George Turner, First in Fantasy is brought to you ad-free by In Shambles Productions.