ROMANITAS takes you into an amazing world which is recognisably contemporary and yet also far removed from our own. It combines the 'what if' magnetism of FATHERLAND and the epic scale of GLADIATOR. Will appeal to every age group from young adults upwards. Has the same cross-genre appeal of Philip Pullman's HIS DARK MATERIALS trilogy. This first-time author is only 24 and is extremely promotable. She also has a breadth of imagination beyond belief. Supported by a huge marketing/pr campaign - 'Romanitas.com' has already been registered. The ROMANITAS novels are destined to be a major series (and brand) for many years to come. 'A fast moving, compelling story, brilliantly imagined' Conn Iggulden. '[A] hugely imaginative debut' Mirror. 'A thoroughly good read ... vividly imagined ... elegant, lively writing' Sunday Telegraph. The second in the trilogy, ROME BURNING, is published in Orion trade, Autumn 06.

Sophia will be giving a talk at THE SOUTH FESTIVAL, part of the BRIGHTON ARTS FESTIVAL, on 17th May.

Sophia McDougall is twenty-four years old and studied English at Oxford. This is her first novel.