Egyptian queen Cleopatra VII's life reads like a thrilling novel. Her struggle to retain her throne led her to join forces with Roman ruler Julius Caesar and later Mark Anthony. The power struggles within Rome came to a head at the Battle of Actium in 31 BC. The victory of Octavian meant the tragic downfalls of both Cleopatra and Mark Anthony and the expansion of Roman influence. This in-depth look at two empires in turmoil is enhanced by beautiful illustrations and insightful quotation boxes. Readers will gain an appreciation for these ancient empires through this historical text.