4.15 AVERAGE


I had just finished a course about Romans that ended with Julius Caesar. I was excited to start this book because it left off where I finished this university course.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book; it is lengthy but I couldn't put it down. The length was daunting at first, but I loved the way it was written. It's interesting to hear a historical standpoint from another point of view. The historical events are quite accurate, and I think Margaret George's enthusiasm about cleopatra made this book even more interesting. I've always been intrigued by the topic and it did not let me down.

I read this on my kobo ereader. I'm not sure if it was just my kobo but the amount of spelling mistakes was ridiculous. I just blamed it on my technology - I'm not sure if it goes the same for the book. I powered through them but I saw on another review that said "this book needs a good editor" - I must agree with this point.

All in all I gave it 5 stars because I really loved this book. I was so upset when it was over... And now I don't know what to read next that will top this.

I first read this book when I was 17. I loved it. By far Cleopatra is my fave historical figure of all time since I was in 7 grade. Through out the years I read this book three time. It is one of my fave book and will always be one of my faves

3.5 stars - It was really good.

Very well written and well researched. The author's note at the end was greatly appreciated as she discussed what was factual vs what was speculation (wish all historical fiction authors would do this).

On the other hand, this is not my favorite time in history to read about. The greediness of men and their incessant wars also became repetitive and monotonous over almost 1100 pages.

Folks with a keen interest in this time period and/or Cleopatra should move this to the top of their "must read" list.
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Favorite Quote: The strong look for more strength, the weak for excuses.

First Sentences: Warmth. Wind. Dancing blue waters, and the sound of waves. I see, hear, feel them all still.
adventurous informative inspiring mysterious relaxing medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Character
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: Complicated

Wow! Like another read said, I do feel a sense of accomplishment for even having finished this 900+ page book. My attention and focus did go in and out and times due to the length, but this is historical fiction at its finest, and I am kind of sad that the journey is over. What a ride!

I found myself bored while reading it, but thinking about it and wondering what would happen next when I wasn't reading it. I mostly enjoyed the personal descriptions, the relationships between Cleopatra and her children, lovers, servants, even her political rivals. But as usual, I did not enjoy the battle planning and description.

This book was so interesting to me! I knew only a teeny tiny bit about Cleopatra, I have to admit (history was not my strong subject in school). This was really well written, and I loved how the other character took over writing for her after her death. HIGHLY recommend!

I would really like to give this book 4.5 stars. It was great. It is a historical fiction novel that covers the life of Cleopatra in detail from childhood to her death. I felt as though I really knew her by the end of the book. While it is a very long book, it is worth the time if you're interested in her life and times.

3.5/5

Enjoyable historical fiction, for the history junkies out there. A very long fluff read, with an almost too perfect heroine.