I wanted to love this, but it was unfortunately a DNF for me at around 30%.

I found the book very "dry" for a work of fiction. I appreciate this is based on history and so "facts" will of course be a huge part of the narrative, but I felt quite removed from it all some how. I very much felt I was reading a book about Cleopatra's life, not about Cleopatra as a living, breathing, person.

I also felt I didn't really warm to the characters. Cleopatra was not really very likeable to me, but I think this was to do with the "factual" feeling the book had.

The writing was also very tell not show. I wanted more dialogue, more relationship, more inner thoughts and feelings. It felt more like a re-enactment for a documentary than a deep work of fiction somehow.

I seem to be in the minority with this one, so perhaps this is a personal taste issue, but I just wanted more from this.

Cleopatra is an evocative and compelling reimagining of the life of Egypt’s most famous queen, Cleopatra VII. Through lyrical prose, Natasha Solomons gives Cleopatra a voice, portraying her as a scholar, a strategist, and a woman grappling with the consolidation of her power as Egypt’s queen and ruler. “I know that one day, power and Egypt will come to me and not to the others. It will come, or I'll take it.” More than a historical retelling, Cleopatra is an intimate exploration of identity, legacy, survival, and love. Unlike many historical fiction novels, its strength lies in weaving historical facts with a lyrical, personal narrative, prioritising atmosphere over meticulous detail. From the very opening, the novel establishes the weight of names and ownership.

“I gave her a name when my tongue was able to speak. Until then, she had none at all. For every part of her belonged to me—even her name. Charmian, giver of joy. She says the joy I saw in her was my own delight reflected back, pure and bright. She is my slave, and yet for a long time she never wished to be free. For when we love, are we not all slaves content in our subjugation? And so, in my own way, I belong to her too, chained by love.”

The characterisation is exceptional. Cleopatra’s portrayal as calculating and ruthless is particularly striking, with her voice commanding yet poetic, making every aspect of her character compelling. She does not ask to be remembered for her beauty, jewels, or titles but for her intellect. “I hope that you see me instead in the library seated on a low cushion, a scroll tucked in one hand, my finger twisting in my hair as I read, lips moving, a concentrated furrow on my brow.” The famous moment when Cleopatra enters the palace to meet Caesar for the first time is particularly exciting and brilliantly executed. The author is careful not to reduce her to a seductress or a weak, tragic figure—as she is often misrepresented in history—and does not romanticise her relationships but instead portrays them through the lens of political necessity. Her entanglement with Caesar is filled with both calculation and fleeting moments of tenderness and playful banter. “I realise that it is comfortable to lie in silence beside a man for whom, if I do not feel love, I harbour the tenderest of affection.”

At first, Servilia’s role in the novel is unclear, seemingly a distant antagonist to Cleopatra. However, as the story unfolds, her chapters become essential interludes, transforming the reading experience into something almost theatrical, as though it were being performed. The time jumps are well-executed, and each character’s voice is distinct, ensuring a clear separation between narratives.

One could argue that the absence of dates, technical minutiae, and minor alterations of historical events are weak points of the novel. However, these choices feel intentional and do not detract from the reading experience, nor do they affect the core story. On the other hand, Arsinoe’s story feels underdeveloped, and the changes made to her arc seem rushed and almost like an afterthought. Unexpectedly, only half of Cleopatra’s life is explored, perhaps suggesting a deliberate choice rather than a constraint. There is no mention of a duology, yet the novel feels complete and remains well-executed. That said, the occasional use of modern vernacular—such as party and joking—momentarily breaks immersion and pulls the reader out of the narrative.

Ultimately, Cleopatra is a beautiful portrayal of this fascinating historical figure. It is a reclamation of power, history, and legacy. Solomons does not merely present Cleopatra as a historical figure but as a woman whose presence still resonates centuries later. I recommend this novel to lovers of retellings and historical fiction—especially those not used to the genre—as well as readers drawn to powerful female figures.

Thank you, Bonnier Books UK | Manilla Press and Natasha Solomons for this ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.

Thank you to Natasha Solomons, Bonnier Books UK | Manilla Press, and NetGalley for the e-arc in exchange for an honest review.

A quick and easy read weighed down with narration and pacing issues. The novel is named for Cleopatra but really should be ‘Caesar’. The chapters from Servilia’s POV could be boring at times, and really only served to build a picture of Caesar. Dual first-person POV doesn’t always work well.

I went into reading this assuming that it would include Antony and Cleopatra but it didn’t. I had the feeling the book couldn’t quite make up its mind on what it wanted to do. It felt like it could’ve been easily replaced with a textbook at times and I wouldn’t have minded never picking it up again. Some events were covered in painful detail and others were brushed over.

I enjoyed her friendship with Charmian and Apollodorus but felt it was a little ‘tell’ not ‘show’ sometimes. The characterisation felt a little flat and the overall pacing / plot of the book didn’t work as well as it could have. I don’t regret reading it though.

I received this book as an advance reader copy, and I eagerly anticipated reading it. This was my first introduction to the life of Cleopatra, and it exceeded my expectations. The story of the Queen of Ancient Egypt is filled with both struggle and loss, as well as love and friendship. Natasha Solomons has masterfully brought a version of Cleopatra's life to life. One cannot help but be captivated by the journey this story provides.

Cleopatra is an enigmatic, complex and powerful historical figure.

Cleopatra VII, a shrewd and ambitious ruler, navigated the turbulent late Roman Republic through strategic alliances with Caesar and Antony. She aimed to solidify her power and maintain Egypt's independence but ultimately faced defeat by Octavian. Her reign, and subsequent death, ended the Ptolemaic dynasty and ushered in Roman rule over Egypt.

Solomon captures the richness of Cleopatra’s Egypt, bringing to life the wealth, the heady scents and the glinting gold. She also presents a complex figure in her protagonist, Cleopatra. Cleopatra is shown as a young woman who harnesses a brilliant mind, able to play along with other strategic players. She is shown to be human, fiercely loyal to those around her and terrifying to those who oppose her.

Servilia also tells her story. She was a prominent Roman woman, mistress to Caesar and mother to Brutus. Now, you may or may not know of the role he played in Caesar’s downfall, but it was a big one. Known for her brains and not the allure of Cleopatra, Servilla presents a different story.
Although the novel heavily focuses on the subject of its title, Servilla’s voice doesn’t feature as much. Whilst I respect the story is about Cleopatra, I felt there was more to Servilla and her complex relationships that could have been explored. However, we are introduced to another powerful woman connected to Caeser, and for me, was a new woman I learnt about.

Overall though, this was a decadent novel, rich in politics and the astuteness of women that I enjoyed.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.

I have read plenty of books that feature Cleopatra, but this was the first one I've ever read from her perspective, and it did not disappoint!
The story focuses on the first years of her turbulent reign, and her relationship with Julius Caesar. It shows her not so much as the beautiful seductress we see in other stories but clever and young ruler, and later mother. I liked seeing her grow as a person and ruler, but what I enjoyed most was her relationship with her slave and companion, it added a vulnerable side to her character that we rarely see. I hope that the author writes more stories from this era, as this is easily a 5 star read for me.
Thank you to Bonnier Books and NetGalley for the eARC

I loved Fair Rosaline and its clever interweaving for of Shakespeare’s tale with a fresh story angle so (as an English and Classics teacher) I could not wait to delve into Cleopatra. Solomon’s gift is to immerse you in an immediately believable world and to connect you with character from the start. I found myself constantly wanting to check details reading Cleopatra, fascinated by the woman coming alive before me. The blending of narrative with Servilia made me determined to know more about this woman in the historical shadows and all she had done. The subtle allusions to Shakespeare’s Julius Caesar (and one to Antony and Cleopatra) were inspired. - I raced through the final section, heart wrung for the women whose story is forgotten in the plays. Just brilliant! Natasha Solomons is fast becoming my new favourite author!

4.25☆

This is a historical fiction and retelling of Cleopatra's story, centering the Egyptian Queen as she accends to the throne after her father's death, and all the way through to Ceaser's end. It's told mainly from Cleopatra's perspective, but there's also a second voice throughout; Servilia, Ceaser's long-term Mistress. I enjoyed both perspectives and the change of POV dotted throughout kept the story moving well.

The main thing I enjoyed was the voice the author was able to give to Cleopatra; I felt she really captured the intelligence, strength, and political ambition and determination of the Queen. She also wrote the complexities of her relationships superbly; from the tense mistrust of her Brother Ptolemy, her affection (but not love) for Ceaser, and her devotion to her life-long companion Charmian.

Natasha Solomons' research for this book shone through in the story, and I went away learning a little more about this period of history. I also liked the inclusion of Egyptian and Greek/Roman mythology - as someone with an interest in mythology that was nice little surprise extra!

The first half of the book was fantastic, centering Cleopatra's early life and her first years as Queen of Egypt, but it lost a bit of momentum for me when Ceaser entered the scene. Whilst her connection to him was a significant part of her history, it felt like I lost her voice a little and their relationship, and subsequently Ceaser, took the main stage for a while.

On the whole, another great read from Natasha Solomons and a well-written retelling of Cleopatra's story. I'd definitely recommend it, especially if you enjoy strong female characters and historical fiction!

A well researched account of the story of Cleopatra. I struggled with the narrative as it was written in first person, present tense which always irritates me when reading historical novels about real people. However, the author has a real love for her subject and Cleopatra was brought to life in the writing.

A fantastically engaging read that will stay with me for a while. I couldn't put it down, although I love history ancient Egypt isn't a topic i know much about or read much about which I think will change after reading this, I was absolutely bewitched.

🏛️📚🗡️🐈‍⬛

A review of “Cleopatra” by Natasha Solomons

Cleopatra releases on the 8th of May! Thank you so much to @manilla_press for this proof copy, I am forever honoured 🥹✨

I want to start by stating how exciting this book is! I have always longed to hear a modern reinterpretation of Cleopatra’s life and this book does just that. The author both beautifully reconstructs Cleopatra from the ancient sources that hate her so strongly, and accepts that this is a story - not a history - and creates a new Cleopatra that we have never seen before.

This book was enchanting, I find books that retell ancient lives have the danger of slipping into tedium - retelling the famous events as we have all heard them before. Not this book.

We begin in Alexandria, with Cleopatra and her father - they travel to Rome and she sheds her childhood out of necessity for her people. Already we can glimpse the might of the woman she will become.

“I want you to see me as I am”, the book opens, and see Cleopatra we do.

The book focuses on her relationship with Caesar, both political and romantic, interspersed with chapters from the perspective of Servilia. I found this thrilling! Servilia was a fascinating woman, the long-time lover of Caesar, and the mother of Brutus - one of his assassins.

This book was both intimate and refreshing, vivid. I felt both the sticky heat of Egypt, and the cool breeze of the Queens apartments at night.

Cleopatra reclaims her story, “I know what they’re saying about me in Rome” she pronounces. She argues back, “Don’t listen to them, for who knows the truth better than me?”.

If you like Cleopatra, historical retellings, or just a good story, I highly recommend preordering this book!

10/10 a much needed exploration into one of the most infamous women in ancient history.

Now… can we get a sequel? I’m joking! But not really….

Cleopatra. Who could not fail to be mesmerised by the woman, the legend, the beauty, the lover! So I entered the book with high expectations, and to begin with was not disappointed.

Then came the lengthy, and for me, heavy middle part of the book. The writing was less engaging for me, the details and story seemed to lose their way. But I persisted and by the end was very glad to have done so as the final part is very well done. Sadly the story ends with the death of Caesar, so the rest of Cleopatra's travels with Anthony are not relayed. Maybe that is for the next volume!

The book is mostly told from Cleopatra's point of view, trying to understand how this ruler of the Ptolemic dynasty would have thought and felt and been. She is a queen, a woman hoping to rule alone with great power and prestige, inspite of her father's will stipulating that she rule jointly with her brother/husband. Her companion, Charmian (the name means bringer or giver of joy) is well portrayed as is Apollonius, Charmian's Sicilian's lover. Servilia, another of Ceasar's lovers, narrates part of the story too, and is an interesting person.

As the narrative proceeds, I felt both annoyance and sympathy for Cleopatra, placed in a difficult position and very much a woman of her time and culture. Was she really smuggled into Caesar's presence in a laundry bag? And of course, how did she die - but the book does not go that far in her life-story.

Recommended - but with the provision that if you find the middle part hard going, skim through it and read the last part!

With thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for the ARC

I love learning about ancient and classical history, so I couldn't wait to read Natasha Solomons' take on the life of Cleopatra.

Like many books I've read recently, the story is told from different points of view - in particular, Cleopatra herself and Servilia, Roman mistress of Julius Caesar. I'm not a big fan of this as I feel that the constant switching of perspectives takes me out of the story. This is, of course, an entirely subjective matter of taste but it did detract from my enjoyment of this book.

While we're introduced to Cleopatra at the time of her birth, I was disappointed to find that the narrative didn't span her entire life up to her untimely death, but instead ended shortly after the death of Caesar. While he was undoubtedly an enormous part of Cleopatra's life, I would've liked to have seen less Caesar and instead covered the aftermath of his assassination and its impact on Egypt and Cleopatra.

With that said, I did enjoy the book overall. A great deal of research has clearly gone into it and I was fascinated by so many of the incredible details included which turned out to be true, as well as learning a lot as I read.

Thank you to #Netgalley for a free ARC ebook of #Cleopatra

This book does an excellent job portraying Cleopatra in her shrewd intelligence and ambition. I thoroughly enjoyed the first half of the novel that explored her childhood and early adolescence, but I found that this book fell into the trap of most Cleopatra retellings in the second half: focusing almost exclusively on her relationship with Julius Caesar.

I think the book was well written and researched, and overall, I enjoyed it. Despite focusing heavily on Cleopatra's relationship with Caesar, the author does a good job of portraying it not as a romance but a political alliance. Although Cleopatra is portrayed as being fond of Caesar, it is clear that it is not a love story between them. For most of the book, I found myself feeling pity for Cleopatra: she is impressive, intelligent, and intimidating, but she is lonely and deprived of the simple luxuries of friendship and genuine love. Overall, I'd recommend this book to anyone with an interest in historical fiction.

Thank you Netgalley and Bonnier Books UK for the chance to read an advanced copy of this book.

This is a wonderful new addition from Natasha Solomons! A fully immersive story from Cleopatra's viewpoint from her early years until she escapes to Egypt after Caesar. Egypt leaps off the page at you - you feel the searing heat, the smell of the dung, blood and sweat. Cleopatra is an interesting character - not wholly likeable at first but I warmed to her. The narrative centres on the women, the Queen, the servant girl and Casear's Roman mistress and swirls over the events of their courtship, political intrigue and wars.
It certainly keeps you gripped and gives you a great experience of seeing Roman from the eyes of a beloved Egyptian Queen - a great read!
Thank you Netgalley for an advance copy.

The voice the author gives to Cleopatra really brings her shrewd intelligence and superiority to life.
This book follows right up until Caesar's death, and is primarily Cleopatra narrating events and describing her own emotions and thoughts as she navigates the politics of her relationship with Caesar whilst vying for power over Egypt with her siblings and Rome itself. There is also another POV from Roman matron, Servilia: one of Caesar's lovers. You don't get any deep sense of any character other than Cleopatra (and Servilia by the end), which really highlights how isolated Cleopatra feels she is, and how vulnerable to betrayal she is. I appreciate it's written as Cleopatra's historical account of events, but I would have liked more dialogue to get a deeper, more involved sense of the character dynamics. The poison foreshadowing throughout was dark and well done. The story starts quite fast-paced, then slows for the middle, punctuated by scenes of betrayal and action, then speeds up again at the end. In terms of writing style, I felt there was a slight over-reliance on commas rather than other more appropriate punctuation marks, which sometimes disrupted the flow, but other parts were beautifully poetic.
I would recommend this to readers who enjoy historical fiction and historical retellings, and particularly those fascinated by Cleopatra, of course.

I really loved this book! The writing was very evocative and I loved the setting of ancient egypt / rome. I found the theme of power struggles really interesting and also the focus on female friendship that Chariman and Cleopatra share. I thought the character of Semilina had a lot of depth and I'd like to have heard more from her in this. I didn't know too much about Cleopatra going into this so it was fascinating to see the woman behind the icon and get a peak into her thoughts / motivations. Similar with Julius Caesar. I rated this 4.75 stars on Storygraph and would highly recommend!

(This book is an Arc and is being published on the 8th of May) 📖 ⭐️⭐️ 2.5/5

If this wasn’t an arc I think I would have DNFd it, BUT I am very glad I didn’t.

This book follows Cleopatra, Queen and Pharaoh of Egypt, and her bought woman who has been by her side since birth. This story is told through the eyes of Cleopatra and Servilia, the Roman woman who Cleopatra also shares a lover with, Caesar. Following both women we see the battles they face, the heart break and loss, and their ever changing relationship with Caesar. But who will heed the warning that hangs over all of their heads.

It is clear that Natasha is a very established researcher, there is no doubt about it. Although this is suggested to be a story of Cleopatra’s life, it only covers her life to the point of her relationship ending with Caesar.

I loved learning about how strong and intelligent she was as a person and the Pharaoh of Egypt but it was a lot of background info which made it feel like it dragged.

The first 10% good, 11% to 80% not badly written but not interesting. The last 20% amazing!

The ending was brilliant! The way the POV changes picked up made you feel the urgency.

If this book was about 50-75 pages shorter and the middle condensed it would have been a 4 star

She was born a goddess. Destined to be a queen yet always the dark shadow of Rome hid the light from Egypt.

Intertwining within Cleopatra's story are that of two other strong women, Charmian her slave from childhood, also her friend. And Servilia, sister of senator Cato who first meets Cleopatra on her first visit to Rome with the Pharaoh, her father. Though Cleopatra was a mere child, Servilia saw in her what others didn't. She knew she was clever, strong and deadly. A kindred.
Servilia's first husband was killed by Pompey, after he had surrendered, fostering her hatred for him.

For me, it felt rushed and matter of fact. I like to savour the stories I read, enjoy the development of the characters and the plot, but I felt I was being hurried, pushed through the story.
Thank you so much to @netgalley for the opportunity to read this book before it's publication on 8th May 2025. But sadly it's a dnf from me.

Suse

An interesting retelling of the Cleopatra story narrated by the woman herself and by her rival for Caesar’s love, Servilia.

It spans the time between and including her two visits to Rome, and describes their meeting and her contribution to his downfall.