For my online bookclub, we read for November Michelle Moran’s The Heretic Queen. I had received this book free in an online giveaway, and was thrilled since I loved Moran’s Nefertiti (reviewed on Aug. 18) . This novel centers on the story of Nefertiti’s supposed niece, Nefertari, as she marries Ramses the Great and seeks to become chief wife. She is a strong and intelligent young woman (and by young I mean in her teens). It was fascinating to read of her collaboration with Ramses in running the kingdom, her ideas on policies, and her accompanying Ramses to war (an event based in fact). At the end of the book, Ramses has created for Nefertari her tomb at Abu Simbel, one of the greatest tombs still standing today.

I loved this book! I really enjoy reading of Ancient Egypt, and Moran makes it come alive with vivid details of daily life and strong and varied characters. I highly recommend this book to readers who like reading historical fiction of this era.

I give it 5 Stars!