History from a Woman's Perspective- A Book Blog

Pharaoh Author: Karen Essex Genre: Historical Fiction Publisher: Grand Central Publishing Release Date: 2009 Pages: 416 Source: My State Public Library Synopsis: Following on from ' Kleopatra ', the glittering epic of Egypt's queen continues as she allies herself with Anthony and begins a love story that immortalizes her as one of history's greatest political players and most tragic heroines.       My Review: Pharaoh picks up where Kleopatra left off. The story follows Kleopatra's exile to her death. Kleopatra realizes that she must befriend the Romans in order to regain her throne and arranges a meeting with Julius Caesar. The two form an alliance to help strengthen ties between Egypt and Rome. The novel shows Kleopatra not as a great seducer to two powerful Roman men, but also a strong and capable ruler.     I loved Kleopatra’s portrayal in this novel. She sacrifices love for her duty as a queen. She is confident and ambitious. She dreams of a Gr...

Kleopatra Author: Karen Essex Genre: Historical Fiction Publisher: Grand Central Publishing Release Date: 2009 Pages: 402 Source: My State Public Library Synopsis: High drama and ancient history combine in this novel of the early life of Egypt's infamous queen, at once a beautiful seductress, brilliant politician, and the most powerful ruler of her time.      My Review: Kleopatra tells the story of Kleopatra VII’s earlier years. The story begins when Kleopatra is three years old and she cannot speak Greek. Over time, Kleopatra learns many languages. The story also tells Kleopatra’s life as a child who roam’s Alexandria’s streets. She is shown to be clever and has a respect for the Egyptian culture. She also learns Roman alliances as the only way to ensure her family’s dynasty. One day, Alexandria’s mob are furious with her father, and he runs away to Rome taking Kleopatra along with him. He learns that his wife, Kleopatra VI and his daughter, Berenice IV betray...