The novel sweeps through the splendors of Egypt, travels to Rome, Ephesus, Antioch, and Judea in the recreation of the years before the current era. It highlights her relationship, not only with Caesar and Anthony, but also the other famous men and women of the day. Cleopatra's gallant attempts to secure independence for Egypt and a safe future for her children makes for a moving portrayal of her life with the two stylistically-different men who ruled the world.