This is the first major study of Cartimandua, queen of the Brigantes tribe in Northern Britain in the first century AD. Little is known about the tribal ruler, who fought off rebellion and civil war and managed to keep her lands when many other British leaders were forfeiting theirs in the aftermath of the Roman conquest of AD 43. Her story is one of power, intrigue, scandal and accusations of betrayal and yet surprisingly she is a figure who is often overlooked and marginalised in studies of British history.

Using historical and archaeological sources, Nicki Howarth re-examines the story of a queen who ruled independently in such unsettled times, where a strong leader adapted to circumstance in order to survive. Indeed with Roman support she held her position as queen until AD 69, whilst managing to prosper in the new Imperial world that was reluctant to acknowledge her role.

Written in an engaging style, with many references to popular culture, this book offers a unique insight into the life of this fascinating woman, the world in which she lived and the influences that shaped the turbulent events of her life.