Cleopatra’s Daughter
by Michelle Moran
(Horizon books, R124)
Cleopatra is one of history’s best known figures. Of her daughter, Selene, however, there is little information.
In Cleopatra’s Daughter, a voiceless piece of history is brought to life.
It is 30BC and Princess Kleopatra Selene of Egypt is left an orphan and a prisoner of the conquering Roman leader, Octavian.
Her mother, Queen Cleopatra of Egypt and her father, Mark Antony, have taken their own lives.
Living with Octavian’s family, Selene finds love and friendship, but despite this, Octavian remains a threat to their safety.
Michelle Moran writes in such a style that this story is alive to the senses. The readers can smell the sewers of ancient Rome, touch the silks bought by the wealthy and feel the emotions of the characters.
The 2 000-year gap between ancient Rome and the present does not affect the very human aspect of this book.
It is clear Moran knows her material well; this shows in her vivid descriptions and her ability to combine history and imagination. – Daily News