Pearl-Maiden by H. Rider Haggard Fiction Fantasy Historical Action & Adventure Fairy Tales Folk Tales Legends & Mythology

<p><strong>Miriam is a Christian during a time when the Romans are feeding Christians to the lions.</strong> She is brought up by the Essenes for her parents died before she was a year old. There she hides from the Romans learning what the Essenes taught her in language and in arts. It turns out that she has a great talent for sculpture. And when a Roman named Marcus comes to investigate a murder in the Essenes' village Miriam creates a sculpture of him as a gift. It is because they have a great affection for each other. Unfortunately Marcus is a pagan which means that Miriam cannot marry him. Amongst plots to overthrow Rome assassinations and revolt will their love survive it all? And can they overcome their differences to live happily ever after?</p>