The Heretic Queen
by Michelle Moran
Published by Crown Publishers, a division of Random House
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Reviewed by: Barbara L. Fielder
Set in Egypt, c.1285 BC, this well-crafted novel is a gift to the senses. At every turn of the page, the author describes in detail Princess Nefertari’s life. You enter into her life, during her early childhood. As an orphan, she is shunned by many in the royal family because of her heretic ancestors. Until Woserit, The High Priestess of Hathor, takes her under her care and tutelage, her future is uncertain.
As the story moves forward, you discover her true loves, her vile enemies, her heartbreaking disappointments, and wildly successful triumphs. Nefertari’s story would be incomplete without the vivid and the colorful history of Ramesses II, her childhood confidant and friend, who ultimately becomes her husband and father to her children.
As you read, you’ll discover the luxuries of living in a palace. Receiving the royal treatment, is an understatement, as Pharaoh Seti and his Queen, Ramesses’ parents, live in one of many palaces with their opulence and breathtaking views. As lavish and spectacular as the surroundings and trappings of royalty, it proves to be equally dark with intrigue, disloyalty, and greed.
If you are seeking a novel that closely follows history, you’ll find the storyline supports the characters, their families, their gods, their battles and wars. While the author has taken literary license in developing her story, she keeps the historical focus realistic.
If this is your first novel, of this genre, the author has created a glossary of terms. In addition, a map of the region, the family tree for the Nineteenth Dynasty and Egyptian calendar add to your ease in settling into a colorful, highly intriguing, compelling, and enjoyable must read.
Armchair Interviews says: A strong book to follow up Moran’s earlier Nefertiti.
Author’s Web site: http://www.MichelleMoran.com