From pre-colonial Nigeria to the rich plains of Rwanda, from the hills of Madagascar to apartheid South Africa, historian Akpan traces the lives of these powerful queens and takes you on a spellbinding, enrapturing and immersive journey that is nothing short of revelatory.

Beautifully researched and filled with fascinating stories of royalty, ancient civilisations, conquest and colonisation, When We Ruled is a gripping new history where women take centre stage.