Pharaoh is the second volume in the fascinating historical fiction series by Karen Essex. Kleopatra chronicled the early years of Egypt's great ruler. The first installment left readers breathless, as Kleopatra prepared to meet Julius Caesar. Part two details their complex relationship, their political union, and the battles waged to maintain their power.
After Caesar's death, Kleopatra joins Marcus Antonius intimately and politically. Essex follows their equally complicated pairing until their untimely deaths. Though these events have already occurred, the author paints a spellbinding, vivid historical portrait letting readers discover many developments for the first time.
A decade of research went into Kleopatra and Pharaoh and it clearly shows within the pages. Great attention is paid to life and society of the time period. Though writing fiction, Essex provides a noteworthy historical account of Kleopatra's life including her roles as wife and mother.
The end of Pharaoh is quite dramatic. Essex opts to show the dark side of the enemy Octavian. The author states, "I find it fascinating that historians inevitably overlook Octavian's extraordinary acts of cruelty and eagerly proclaim him a great and benevolent ruler." The author's exploration of undiscovered, unmentioned and denied facts make a standout novel that gives dry history texts a run for their money.
Kleopatra should be read before Pharaoh. The first volume provides extensive background information and family history. Understanding these events enhances the story featured in Pharaoh. Read both books in chronological order to fully experience the captivating world of Kleopatra provided by Karen Essex.
