Have you ever wondered what happened to Cleopatra’s children after her after her death? Michelle Moran tells us in her new engrossing novel.
Twins, Selene and Alexander were taken to Rome by Octavian after he took over Egypt. Rather than turning them into slaves, like he has with most of his other conquests, he takes them to his sister, Octavia’s house. Where they receive a warm welcome by Octavia and her son, Marcellus. They are treated much like Marcellus and even go to school and activities with him and his betrothed, Octavian’s daughter, Julia.
Rome is quite different than Egypt and it takes some time for the twins to adapt to the Roman way of life. Sometimes beautiful but equally brutal. Alexander loves to have fun and so does Marcellus. They enjoy carefree days of placing bets on chariot races and attending the theatre. While Selene cares more about architecture, learning, and dreaming of the day she can return to Egypt.
On their 15th birthday, the twins know things are about to change for them. They are to find out who Octavian has chosen for them to marry. Will he be cruel and make bad matches for them or will they find happiness?
Michelle Moran writes a sweeping novel of some of the beauty and severe brutality of Rome. It is apparent to me that she spent a lot of time researching for this book. She writes about famous Roman trials in the corrupt justice system and slavery, the Pantheon and other architectural wonders. Throughout the story she stays true to Rome. This is a book not to be missed by historical fiction fans!
5/5
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Thanks to Michelle Moran for sending me book.
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I am so out of it, I didn’t even know that Cleopatra had children. I’m really looking forward to reading this book.
So glad you loved this one, Teddy! I can’t wait for her next novel 🙂
I knew Cleopatra had a son, but not a daughter. Looking forward to this book.
I’ve heard so many great things about both the book and the author. I’m looking forward to reading it!
Kathy, Stephanie, and Bookshelf, I think you will really enjoy this one. Michelle Moran is such a strong writer. I couldn’t find fault with this book at all.
Wendy, I can’t wait for her next one either!
Sounds like top-notch historical reading. Glad to hear you enjoyed this one, Teddy!
Such a great book, huh? Have to love Michelle Moran. 🙂
Wanda, I think that you would really enjoy this one!
Kailana, Ya have ta!
Michelle just sent me this book as a bonus to winning a giveaway copy of The Heretic Queen after the first package I received. The package had been torn open, the book removed, and replaced with rocks wrapped carefully in foam. Very strange, right? But I am way excited that I got this book, too! Michelle Moran rocks. 🙂
Rebecca, Michelle does rock! Big time! I am sure you will enjoy the book.
I’m glad you loved this one as much as I did. I’ve loved all 3 of Moran’s books, and she’s now one of my favorite writers.
–Anna
Diary of an Eccentric
Anna, I have both of her other books but haven’t found the time to read them yet. I am hoping to get to them next year.
A favourite author, but I must read this one still.
Pinned this one. I’m a Cleopatra fan!