A review by marciabrilhante
Neferura by Malayna Evans

tense slow-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? It's complicated
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.0

Neferura is a feminist retelling of Hatshepsut – a woman that become a pharaoh - daughter that focus around politics and winning back power to her family. This is a great book for those who, as me, enjoys an Egyptian history with female empowerment. 

 

We follow Neferura’s life, traveling through an intricate network of secrets and conspiracies after the return of her half brother Thutmose. They both wanted to be the pharaoh that rule over Egypt. The premise of this book was very interesting, and it was the thing that made me want to read it, however, I felt like something was missing. 

 

The writing style was not for me, and I wish there’re more character development in the story. I did like the authors notes that provided historical context to this story. Overall, it was a good retelling of a historical figure, the intrigue and the politics in this book was quite good. I wish the pacing was a bit faster than it was, but I recommend it to Egyptian mythology fans and historical retellings. 

 

Thank you, NetGalley & the publisher, for approving me to read this arc and write this review.