Genre: Historical Fiction
Published: July 2009
Pages: 432
Book Source: Own Purchase
Synopsis: The marriage of Marc Antony and Cleopatra is one of the greatest love stories of all time, a tale of unbridled passion with earth-shaking political consequences. Feared and hunted by the powers in Rome, the lovers choose to die by their own hands as the triumphant armies of Antony’s vengeful rival, Octavian, sweep into Egypt. Their three orphaned children are taken in chains to Rome, but only two—the ten-year-old twins Selene and Alexander—survive the journey. Delivered to the household of Octavian’s sister, the siblings cling to each other and to the hope that they will return one day to their rightful place on the throne of Egypt. As they come of age, they are buffeted by the personal ambitions of Octavian’s family and court, by the ever-present threat of slave rebellion, and by the longings and desires deep within their own hearts. www.michellemoran.com
Michelle Moran has been one of my favourite authors since reading Nefertiti and The Heretic Queen. I had no qualms about whether Michelle would deliver with Cleopatra's Daughter so I ordered the early release UK edition (patience is not my virtue) and Loved It.
If you've enjoyed Michelle Moran's previous works then I guarantee Cleopatra's Daughter will not disappoint and if you haven't tried one of her novels then what are you waiting for ... this is an absolute must-read!
We are swept from Alexandria in Egypt to Imperial Rome, with twins Selene and Alexander & I was utterly captivated by the view through young Selene's eyes. The friendships, romance, betrayals, political machinations, slave rebellions, architecture, entertainment, the so-called justice system, the Columna Lactaria for abandoned babies, the building of the Pantheon; I was completely immersed in the world of Ancient Rome.
The vivid imagery, the meticulous research & captivating characters; Michelle Moran has a gift, combining rich historical detail in a fascinating story that transports the reader in time and place ... no boring history class here.
I could have read on and on about many of the intriguing characters and historical figures but the author's afterword & historical notes went some way towards slaking my thirst for further knowledge. Now that's historical fiction at its best!
That's so funny! I bought mine from England, too, because I couldn't wait! :-) Unfortunately, other books have to come first. I'm so glad it will be worth the wait!!
ReplyDeleteLezlie
Sounds great. I am drawn to this book, I so have to find it
ReplyDeleteI actually haven't bought this yet, but plan to. I love Moran's writing.
ReplyDeleteGlad to see you do too. Great write-up. Thanks for the You Tube clip too.
Teddyree,
ReplyDeleteMy daughter loves historicals - it started with the Royal Diaries. She has not read any books by Michelle Moran - but I will put her on my list. :) Thanks for introducing me to a new author I'm sure my daughter will love.
M
I haven't read any of her books yet but they do sound pretty terrific!
ReplyDeleteI have yet to read any of her books but have had the first two on my To-Read list for awhile.
ReplyDeleteI have never read any by this author. I get the impression she must be English then, if you had to order it from England. I do struggle with historical fiction that goes back past both World Wars. I really need to try and read more ot them.
ReplyDeleteOh I really want to read this one! I've heard nothing but good things about this author. Thanks for the great review.
ReplyDeleteI haven't read any of Michelle Moran's novels but I would love to!
ReplyDeleteI'm ashamed to admit that I didn't know that Cleopatra had any children =O
Thanks for the great review!
I've been seeing this one around quite a bit, I look forward to checking it out. I've nominated you for an award, you can pick it up here http://bookwormkristen.blogspot.com/2009/08/awards-time.html
ReplyDeleteI ordered it from the UK as well and loved it!
ReplyDeleteI can't wait to get mine! Great Review!
ReplyDeleteGreat review. I'm waiting for mine to arrive.
ReplyDeletethis author seems to have the most beautiful covers. i keep hearing good things and meaning to try one of her titles, but so far, the TBR has allowed no such opportunity...
ReplyDeleteI cannot wait to read this book
ReplyDeleteThanks for your comments everyone :-)
ReplyDeleteMichelle G ~ this book is actually being marketed to YA as well as adults and I think both would enjoy.
Viv ~ no Michelle Moran is American but the UK release date was earlier than the US and I just couldn't wait lol
I am definitely getting this one. But I think I have to start with her earlier works and Nefertiti is already waiting for me at the library. I'm excited to read it.
ReplyDeleteI just found out Michelle is sending me this book, and I admit I did a happy dance after reading her email. I can't wait to read this one.
ReplyDelete--Anna
Diary of an Eccentric