What began as the year of the Five Emperors, 193AD, following the assassination of the Roman Emperor Commodus, a dynasty rose, Severan by name. It’s roots, the Roman African Empire. The founder of the dynasty, Septimius Severus, was to rule the empire from Eboracum (York), England and lead two successful campaigns to fortify the boundaries of the north against the Scots and the Caledonian chief Argentocoxos. The line ended with his grandson Alexander Severus.

Three women become the power behind the throne and one of them, through her wealth, influence and Machiavellian skills emerges as the real power.

She is Julia Maesa, sister in law to Septimius and the elder sister of his wife Julia Domna; aunt of the emperors Caracalla and Geta; wife of Julius Avitas, mother of Julia Soaemias and Julia Mamaea and grandmother of the emperors Elagabalus and Alexander Severus.

Through her determination to safeguard her family and keep them safe whatever the cost and to survive the web of intrigue, political assassinations, and corruption, she totally owns the title Black Augusta.