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Betsy R. (Gig Harbor, WA)
Cleopatra's Daughter
If you selected this book because you love reading about ancient Egypt, you might be a little disappointed because it is primarily about ancient Rome during the time of Octavian Caesar. The story is so engaging, however, that you will soon not be able to put it down. All of the details of life in ancient Rome are woven into a fascinating story told from the point of view of Selene, Cleopatra's daughter. As a high school librarian, I will recommend this book to my students who love Phillipa Gregory and other historical novelists.
Alice W. (Sacramento, CA)
Cleopatra's Daughter
Michele Moran brings us a wonderfully colorful picture of Rome through Cleopatra's daughter's eyes. Serena and her twin brother were taken by Octavian from Egypt to the Roman Empire shortly after their mother Cleopatra's suicide. His motives were clearly not in the children's best interest. The children now have no living parents and are confronted with adapting to a strange country that they perceive as far less genteel than their own. One of their biggest dilemmas was determining whom they could trust.
While all the descriptions from the mouth of Serena were fascinating, I found it difficult to imagine that a
…more twelve year old girl could be so articulate. I tossed that reading difficulty aside and let myself enjoy her story. It was clear that no one could really know the facts of her life, however Michelle brought enough substance to the pages I am convinced that the young girl was very bright and clever.
The cast of characters was a bit overwhelming and I found myself referring often to the list of names and their relationships to one another. Believe me this is complicated.
This book was not quite up to Nefertiti, but with Nefertiti there was more documented fact for Moran to work with.
The best part of the book may be the Afterward where we are given an update on the rest of Selene's life....this bit of information was no doubt well documented and included a happy ending to her troubled younger years.
Alice (less)Michelle Moran tells a good story even though it slowed down for awhile. I was going to give it a 3 star, but the last 50 pages kept your interest. The historical research was done well but it definitely fits into the "entertainment" category. It is not Book Club material. Joyce
Irene M. (Ashland, OR)
Ancient Era
Cleopatra's Daughter was an enjoyable book. Selene's story was new to me and most interesting. As she adjusts to a new life in Rome, the reader is drawn into the lives of the elite, the common man and the many slaves who live, or just exist, in this historical city. This would be an excellent book for a young adult who is interested in history and literature.
Pamela F. (Grants Pass, OR)
Cleopatra's Daughter
The only reason I did not give this 5 stars is because it took me 100 pages to get into the book. I don't know why...but it did. I loved this book. I always enjoy a historical novel that teaches me something and this one does and has a compelling story as well. I had a hard time leaving the characters and I would advise going to the author's website to read more about the book so that you get some further insight to the time & the characters. She also has pictures of ancient Rome that connect you more to the people and the times. This book has made me interested in reading about the times ..and I will re-
…more view "I, Claudius" as a result...to me THAT is a good read, one that makes me thirstier for more information of the times. (less)This book is the story of the lives of Cleopatra's children after her death. Being a fan of historical fiction, especially this time period, I was really looking forward to reading this book and was not disappointed. I have already recommended it to friends and look forward to reading this author's other books.
Christine S. (Highland, UT)
Great Read!
I enjoyed this historical novel very much. I had little knowledge about Cleopatra's children and each page was an education. Entertaining throughout, the story it told was never boring. The list of characters in the front was a big help, along with the glossary of Greek/Roman terms. I would have had a very different review without these most valuable help guides. The author thought of everything - including getting me very interested in learning more about this ancient time period. Loved the ending!
Martha L. (Warner, NH)
Selene, the princess of Egpt
This is a great read if you enjoy historical fiction from ancient times or if you have ever wondered about living in Rome.The main character, Selene was Cleopatra's daughter. MIchelle Moran used actual facts woven into the story seamlessly.
Cleopatra and Marc Anthony had children together. After Egypt was invaded two of those children, Selene and her twin brother Alexander were captured and brought back to Rome. The story revolves around the years 30-25 BC and is told from Selene's viewpoint.
Selene's life as a captive in a foreign court is fascinating.The story line was mixed with with facts and incredible
…more details from research on that time period. The lives of the senators and the ruler Octavian was filled with intrigue and constantly changing loyalties. The plot and subplots and twists were one of the strong features of the book. The book read easily. (less)
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