Have you ever wondered what happened to Cleopatra's twins when she died? Didn't even know she had twins? Me neither. That's the beauty of historical fiction, you learn things while engrossed in the depth of a beautiful story.Cleopatra's Daughter by Michelle Moran is the story of Cleopatra's twins, Alexander and Selene as they are taken to Rome after Egypt is conquered. The story is told from Selene's point of view and a fascinating look at Roman rule and Egyptian culture. It follows Selene and Alexander from the moment Egypt is overtaken to the time Selene becomes queen. Moran is an archeologist turned author that used her research to write this captivating work. The characters come across as real, relatable people rather than the rulers of Rome or the princess of Egypt. The boys go to the circus to gamble, the women worry about the jealousy of other women, and the slaves rebel against the Roman rule. Moran teaches you about Egyptian and Roman culture without even trying, and I just wanted to read more.
If you're a fan of historical fiction, or even if you're not, this is a book I would recommend to everyone. There were times I just forgot that the book was historical fiction and read it as a romance or a thriller. For me that's what makes good historical fiction, something that makes history real and relatable. One of the best books I've read in the past few months; I'll definitely be picking up her other books as well. 5 stars.
If you're interested in reading this book, I've got a copy to give away. Just leave a comment on this post (if you feel like telling me your favorite historical fiction novel that'd be even better), and I'll pick a winner from all of the comments on this post and my other blog. The book comes out tomorrow so the giveaway ends at midnight EST tonight. I'll announce the winner tomorrow.
This giveaway is closed. Cate is the lucky winner!
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I am very excited to read this book! I have a hard time choosing my favorite historical fiction but one of them was definitely "Fire of the Covenant" by Gerald Lund.
ReplyDeletePlease enter my name in your draw. Thanks.
ReplyDeleteMy favourite historical novel is Pride & Prejudice by Jane Austen.
wandanamgreb(at)gmail(dot)com
Please enter me. Thanks for the chance.
ReplyDeletelizzi0915 at aol dot com
I recently read People of the Book and it was fascinating.
ReplyDeletePlease count me in!
JHolden955(at)gmail(dot)com
I'm in the midst of what is becoming my favorite historical fiction ever..."The Agony and the Ecstasy." It's pretty amazing. meganmartin1 at gmail dot com
ReplyDeleteJane Eyre would have to be my favorite historical fiction book :) So dark and yet so poignant
ReplyDeletePlease count me in.
ReplyDeleteSnow Flower and the Secret Fan by Lisa See is my favourite.
I think I've missed the giveaway, but this looks like a great book. I had no idea Cleopatra had twins, and I am a fan of historical fiction. It is a great way to learn about history.
ReplyDeleteMy very favorite Historical Fiction book is Here be Dragons by Sharon Penman. It was one of the first HF books I ever read, and even today very few books can hold a candle to it.
ReplyDeleteFantastic Giveaway!
*sighs* I really want a copy of this book, it sounds so good. :) I suspect this is in a whole different subgenre of historical fiction (as it's very light/escapist), but my favourite historical fiction author is Georgette Heyer - my favourite book of hers is probably COTILLION, possibly THE GRAND SOPHY. It takes a little while to get used to the language, but once you do, they're just nice fun novels - and I love learning all the details about Regency England as well.
ReplyDeleteI'd love to tell you my favorite HF book, but, alas, I haven't read any in a long time. Please accept my entry, thanks.
ReplyDeletegevin13{at]gmail{dot}com
I loved Outlander by Diana Gabaldon.
ReplyDeletesimplystacieblog at gmail dot com
I would so love to read this book, thanks for a chance to win a copy!
ReplyDeleteGone with the Wind has always been one of my favs=)
Luvdaylilies at Bellsouth dot net
I honestly haven't read a lot of historical fiction but since I started my blog I've been able to read several blogs that focus on historical fiction. Being able to do this has given me the opportunity to find out more about it and I'm interested in reading some.
ReplyDeleteI read and loved The Girl with the Pearl Earring.
Please enter me in your giveaway as I'd love to win this book
Aimala127@gmail.com