Best book I read in ages' Sophie van Llewyn, author of Bottled Goods 'What a book! Utterly compelling, unflinching in describing Amara’s life as a slave-prostitute in Pompeii and so incredibly transporting. 'Set in the seedy yet complex milieu of Pompeii's brothels, Harper's masterful first historical novel follows Amara and her fellow 'she-wolves' through a city where opportunity is rife for even the lowest born slave.' Waterstones It’s a vivacious piece of work, and all underpinned by a woman’s longing for freedom' .uk You smell the oil lamps and temple incense, taste sticky figs, feel physical blows, and the dialogue packs a powerful punch too.

'Harper’s style is exhilaratingly direct, with images lingering long in the mind’s eye. 'Hope and humour runs through this powerful, moving story – I loved it!' - Jennifer Saint, author of Ariadne It humanises the men and women who had their humanity taken away from them, and helps to remind us that the brothels of Pompeii were far more than seedy tourist attractions' - Daisy Dunn, author of In the Shadow of Vesuvius Beautiful, brutal & compelling' - Caroline Lea, author of The Glass Woman A heart-wrenching portrayal of female solidarity in male-dominated Pompeii. 'A gripping historical story' - The Independent

'Elodie Harper's vibrant and thrilling story is steeped in historical detail while remaining contemporary in its concerns.' The Observer It is a mesmerising, richly detailed tale of sisterhood and courage that fans of Circe will love.' - Red Magazine Amara and her fellow she-wolves are vividly drawn in a fascinating depiction of women at the time. 'A compelling story of survival, friendship and courage. Vivid, wise and unflinching, this is a triumph.' 'Harper has that rare knack of making the reader believe she was there, stylus in hand, chronicling what she witnessed. Set in Pompeii's Lupanar, The Wolf Den reimagines the lives of women who have long been overlooked. But how much is her freedom going to cost her? Amara has learnt that everything in this city has its price. Out here, even the lowest slave can secure a reversal in fortune. For the streets of Pompeii are alive with opportunity. By day, she walks the streets with the other women, finding comfort in the laughter and dreams they share.

For now her only value lies in the desire she can stir in others.īut Amara's spirit is far from broken. Sharp, clever and resourceful, Amara is forced to hide her talents. Now she is a slave in Pompeii's infamous brothel, owned by a man she despises. Welcome to the Wolf Den.Īmara was once a beloved daughter, until her father's death plunged her family into penury.

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