A review by books_n_colours
Neferura by Malayna Evans

adventurous challenging emotional hopeful inspiring fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

 I just loved the book. It took me some time getting into it but once I was past the 50 page mark, I was hooked. The story was fast paced, and kept me intrigued enough that I had to finish it in one sitting. I was not wholly satisfied with the ending and felt it was a bit rushed but I wanted more of this world and to read more about the FMC. I was fascinated by how well the author pulled the Egyptian setting and the way she demonstrated the sense of feminism and female friendships throughout the novel.

Trigger Warnings- death, forced marriage, incest, rape, abuse

Read it if you like-
-Egyptian Mythology and ancient culture
-Female driven stories
-Political intrigue and power dynamics
-Women in powerful role
-very little spice 

Synopsis- Neferura, princess and high priestess of Kemet has always put the people first and under the constant critique of her mother, the Pharaoh, she is trying her best to live the life that is laid out for her. Peace, however, never lasts for women who wield power in the open. Especially when they cross a vengeful man. When Neferura overhears her half brother’s plot to end her mother's rule, she knows he must be stopped, no matter the cost. Hence starts the story of betrayal, power dynamics, friendships and womanhood while she figures out how to keep herself and her people safe from the ensuing chaos of the situation.

Things I like- I loved the story. The author has put so much thought and care in this story that it's hard not to. I really like how she introduced a glossary of ancient Egyptian terms to make the transition smoother. The book was fast paced and I loved to see the women in powerful roles and also the solidarity between them. Especially in times when women were treated no better than the broodmare in the family. I loved the story more when I realized that the main characters were actual historical figures and though very little is known about Princess Neferura in real life, the rituals and some scenes are inspired by the actual history. The romance was very little to my liking but I loved the crumbs the author provided more because it seems logical. The female characters in the story were awe-inspiring to say the least. The bravery and strength they showed was just amazing. Also I got to know more about ancient culture which was expected. 

Things I didn't like- The starting was a bit slow and felt like an info dump. But given how much the author has to introduce us readers to continue the story it felt logical. There was less mythology than I like in my mythological fiction. I would have loved to read more about some gods and a short version of their stories. Also the ending felt a bit rushed and forced. I would have loved to read a little more between the ending and the epilogue.

Overall I loved it. The small flaws were all manageable considering the justice the author did to the story. I would definitely recommend it to anyone who has an interest in mythological fiction or Egyptian culture.

Thank you NetGalley and Sourcebooks Landmark  for providing me with an ARC of the book in exchange for an honest review.

I am posting this review to my Goodreads and Storygraph accounts immediately and will post it to my Instagram account upon publication on 13 Feb, 2024.

 
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