I loved this book. Did I mention that I loved it? Because I really loved it I was absolutely engrossed and then it was finished before I’d noticed I was near the end

A very easy read, but also fascinating and giving us a side of cleopatra I think people have not considered before. It humanises her story and allows you to empathise with her as a young girl and then as a mother fighting to protect her child.

My only annoyance is that it was over too soon I had expected it to move on to the mark anthony story - hut he seemed like an annoying person so actually I prefer to think of the story ending here

How great to get away from the patriarchal narrative, and read a book looking at Cleopatra's transition from girl to Pharaoh. Good pace and characterisation, this was an easy read, which left me wanting to find out more about Cleopatra's. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC in return for an honest review of the book.

Natasha Solomons’ Cleopatra offers a fresh and intimate look at one of history’s most iconic figures. Solomons brings Cleopatra to life as a complex, ambitious woman balancing love, power, and survival in a male-dominated world. The writing is immersive and vivid, making ancient Alexandria feel real and alive, while the story keeps you hooked with its mix of drama, politics, and personal struggles. It’s an engaging and approachable read for anyone who loves historical fiction or wants to see Cleopatra as more than just a legend.

Cleopatra’s power is her mind not her face.
I’m a sucker for stories involving Cleopatra so this title immediately caught my attention. Before reading Ms Solomon’s novel I debated whether it was fair to review the book, because the gold standard novel has to be Margaret George’s ‘Cleopatra’, (a stellar standard to live up to) however I’m so pleased I went ahead and this ‘Cleopatra’ is equally as enthralling but in a different wa.
The novel focuses on Cleopatra growing from a mischievous girl into a young woman with the mind of a general. She is Egypt and Egypt is her, and she prepared to do whatever it takes, no matter how distasteful to her personally, to protect her country. When Cleopatra’s father, the ruling Phaoroah dies, not only is she bereft of a father but she must rule with her brother/husband Ptolemy.
And so the problems begin.
Ptolemy is that dangerous combination of self-indulgent, arrogant, and stupid. His advisors sideline Cleopatra, trying to manoeuvre her out of power so they can step reign. Cleopatra doesn’t seek power for the sake of power, but can see how Egypt will be lost to the Romans if Ptolemy and his advisors continues down that path. The book then follows the twisting machinations of Cleopatra’s rise to supremacy in the face of death threats, betrayal, personal danger, and self-sacrifice.
One of many things that excelled about Solomon’s ‘Cleopatra’ is the personal relationships between Cleopatra and her lifelong companion Charmian, Caesar’s mistress Servilia, along with loyal acolytes. The book cover description of “Know her, love her, fear her” gives me chills having now read the book and is indeed apt. A full 5 stars for this great read.

Natasha Solomons’ Cleopatra offers a compelling and thought-provoking retelling of one of history’s most enigmatic figures. Stripping away centuries of patriarchal narratives, Solomons dares to imagine the woman behind the myth—a pharaoh, a queen, and a force to be reckoned with.

Cleopatra has long been portrayed as the ultimate seductress, wielding her beauty to gain power. But what if this image was merely a construct of men who sought to undermine her legacy? Solomons masterfully unravels Shakespeare’s Roman plays and peels back the layers of historical bias to deliver a fresh and richly nuanced portrayal of Cleopatra.

In this captivating tale, we meet a ruler who is as strategic as she is vulnerable, as fiercely loyal as she is heartbreakingly betrayed. Through exquisite prose, Solomons paints a vivid portrait of a woman navigating the treacherous waters of love, friendship, and power in a world designed to see her fail.

Cleopatra is more than a historical reimagining; it is a celebration of female strength, complexity, and resilience. Fans of Fair Rosaline will find Solomons’ signature blend of literary elegance and emotional depth in full force here. This is a must-read for anyone ready to meet Cleopatra—not as a legend, but as a woman.

Read more at The Secret Book Review.

Cleopatra by Natasha Solomons

Cleopatra, Egyptian Princess, grows up the favoured daughter of the Pharoah, hiding amongst the scrolls in the great library of Alexandria with her beloved slave Charmian, longing for the chance one day to write her own story.
Then when her father dies, willing that Cleopatra rule with her selfish brother Ptolemy, danger stirs. As the young Egyptian Queen sails the Nile to greet her people, he plots to destroy her and take the throne for himself.
I really enjoyed this book , it was fascinating to read about the life of Cleopatra and the relationship,she had with her brother Ptolemy and her servant Charmian.
A quick check online shows that Charmian was as trusted servant of her and she held an important position within her circle.

A beautifully researched historical novel, well written as well with attention to sights and smells. The characters are well drawn especially Cleopatra and Charmian, Cleopatra's love for Charmian is expressed when she is upset when Charmian is punished in her stead. All an all a brilliant read.