Babylonia

Babylonia by Costanza Casati, published by Penguin Books Limited in April 2025, is a 400-page work that delves into the complexities of power and destiny in ancient Assyria during the 9th century BC. The narrative follows Semiramis, an orphan raised on the fringes of a harsh empire, who is burdened by a tragic prophecy and yearns for control over her fate. Meanwhile, Ninus, a prince disinterested in conquest, finds himself drawn to Onnes, a warrior marked by pain and beauty, setting the stage for a tumultuous love triangle.

Readers will encounter themes of ambition, love, and the struggle against fate as the characters navigate their intertwined lives. The story explores the dynamics of power and desire, revealing how Semiramis’s arrival ignites a fierce passion among the trio. As they confront the harsh realities of their world, they must learn that in Babylonia, bending the world to one’s will is essential, and the consequences of failure can be dire. This edition presents a rich tapestry of historical and mythical elements, inviting readers into a narrative steeped in the complexities of human emotion and ambition.