Nefertiti: A Novel by Michelle Moran
Nefertiti and her younger sister, Mutnodjmet, have been raised in a powerful family that has provided wives to the rulers of Egypt for centuries. Ambitious, charismatic, and beautiful, Nefertiti is destined to marry Amunhotep, an unstable young pharaoh. It is hoped by all that her strong personality will temper the young Amunhotep’s heretical desire to forsake Egypt’s ancient gods, overthrow the priests of Amun, and introduce a new sun god for all to worship.
From the moment of her arrival in Thebes, Nefertiti is beloved by the people. Her charisma is matched only by her husband’s perceived generosity: Amunhotep showers his subjects with lofty promises. The love of the commoners will not be enough, however, if the royal couple is not able to conceive an heir, and as Nefertiti turns her attention to producing a son, she fails to see that the powerful priests, along with the military, are plotting against her husband’s rule. The only person wise enough to recognize the shift in political winds—and brave enough to tell the queen—is her younger sister, Mutnodjmet.
Observant and contemplative, Mutnodjmet has never shared her sister’s desire for power. She yearns for a quiet existence away from family duty and the intrigues of court. Her greatest hope is to share her life with the general who has won her heart. But as Nefertiti learns of the precariousness of her reign, she declares that her sister must remain at court and marry for political gain, not love. To achieve her independence, Mutnodjmet must defy her sister, the most powerful woman in Egypt—while also remaining loyal to the needs of her family.
Love, betrayal, political unrest, plague, and religious conflict—Nefertiti brings ancient Egypt to life in vivid detail. Fast-paced and historically accurate, it is the dramatic story of two unforgettable women living through a remarkable period in history.
My review
rating: 4 of 5 stars
This was a really good read. I thoroughly enjoyed it. The title is misleading because the book really is about the sister of Nefertiti and not herself, but she does have a good place in it. I remember learning things about Egypt and Mummies in elementary school, but not much since then and this book was a good little history lesson as well as a good novel. Mutny, the main character and narrator goes through so much and the way that this novel is written you (the reader) go right with her. You feel her pain, her anger, and her ignorance at times right with her. This is an incredible accomplishment for a first time author. I strongly suggest the read as worthwhile.
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I could have sworn that I posted this review on my blog, but in searching for my link, I apparently did not. So here you go!
Click here to find out about all three of Michelle's books.
Click here, to go back and read my review of The Heretic Queen.
Q&A with Michelle Moran, bestselling author of "Nefertiti" and "The Heretic Queen"
6 comments and creative thoughts:
I loved Nefertiti. I was surprised that it was narrated by her sister, but I think that worked really well. Nefertiti would have made an interesting but unreliable narrator.
Also, I love ancient Egypt, but this is the first book that ever really made it come alive for me. I can't wait to read The Heretic Queen and Cleopatra's Daughter.
I think you're right.
THQ was more enjoyable than even Nefertiti, although I loved both! I'm really getting excited for CD. I just hope I can read it before baby's born...
I loved this book and the sequel The Heretic Queen. I think Nefertiti's sister was the narrator because with the story told through her eyes, you get to know Nefertiti from the point of view of someone who loved her. I don't think you could feel sympathy toward her otherwise.
--Anna
Diary of an Eccentric
This sounds really interesting. A fascinating period in history, and fascinating characters and story. One to look out for - several to look out for. Thanks.
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