Evelyn Waugh’s novel explores the life of Empress Helena, mother of Constantine the Great, during a pivotal moment in history when Christianity was recognized as the Roman Empire’s religion. Helena’s pilgrimage to Palestine, where she discovered fragments of the true Cross and established churches in Bethlehem and Olivet, unfolds against the backdrop of Imperial Rome’s turmoil, marked by corruption, betrayal, and madness.

Why You Should Read?

• Delve into the central conflict of religious transformation and political intrigue in the Roman Empire.
• Appreciate the novel’s historical significance, capturing a crucial turning point in Christianity’s rise.
• Ideal for readers interested in historical fiction and the complex interplay of faith and power.
• Standout edition for its vivid portrayal of Helena’s journey and the era’s dramatic events.