Call to Juno is the third book in a fascinating series set in ancient Rome, as well as in the Etruscan city of Veii. The first book introduces the main characters, Roman Caecilia Aemilius and the Etruscan warrior, Vel Mastarna, who are forced into a marriage as part of a peace treaty between their cities. As we approach the finale in the third book, Caecelia, now the mother of four, has denounced her homeland and become the queen of Veii. The story primarily follows the lives and loves of three women: Caecilia, Pinna, a former prostitute involved in a relationship with Roman general Camillus; and Semni, a servant in the royal household who has several secrets

I really loved that the story is narrated from both the Roman and Etruscan point of view. The author is incredibly skillful at recreating the lost culture of Etruscan world, which we know will crumble eventually under Rome. Another of the strengths of this final book is the emotional force we experience, knowing we are seeing these characters for the final time. The men are warriors and the battle scenes are vivid and realistic.

When I started this series in 2014, I knew nothing about Etruria or how powerful their empire was. I would consider it even more advanced than Rome. If you love historical fiction set in ancient times, I recommend you to read this trilogy. It's great storytelling that appears to be very well researched historically. Even though these books work fine as stand alones, I highly recommend reading the three books in the right order to fully understand the entire story (The Wedding Shroud, The Golden Dice and Call to Juno). I can't wait to see what this author has for us in the future. ( )

Elisabeth Storrs brought her Tale of Ancient Rome trilogy to a satisfying close in Call to Juno. All the loose threads were knit up and plot lines resolved. I've enjoyed this journey through a nearly mythic time in Rome's early history starting with The Wedding Shroud and continuing through The Golden Dice to this final volume. Storrs obviously did her homework in this meticulously researched series. The level of detail about everyday life in Rome and among the Etruscan's is extraordinary. Having visited these ancients sites, it was fun to have them brought to life so vividly with Storrs' storytelling. The author developed interesting characters and compelling stories. I'll be looking forward to her next venture.

Note: I received a copy of the book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. ( )