Reading Cleopatra felt like traveling back in time, yet with a contemporary perspective that made her story feel alive and relevant today. The book captures not only the grandeur of Cleopatra as a queen but also her struggles as a woman navigating the immense challenges of her era. Surviving, leading, and mastering the complicated world of politics and powerful men around her. The author’s description of Cleopatra was vivid and unforgettable. She comes across as brilliant, resilient, and deeply human. One detail that struck me: and still lingers in my memory: is the idea that queens don’t scratch their heads. Small touches like this reminded me constantly of the discipline, dignity, and strength it took for Cleopatra to maintain her place in history.

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.

I had little knowledge of the story of Cleopatra, and I was completely drawn in by the story Natasha told. From a young age, Cleopatra had to be the queen she was destined to be; assisting her father, the pharaoh, in gaining help from Rome to keep the people of Egypt alive and secure. We quickly learn of the difficulties she faced once her father died; having to marry her brother, putting her sister on trial and eventually, capturing the eye of Caesar. Natasha truly brought this remarkable historical figure to life through her evocative style of writing, making you feel as though you are there in the room with Cleopatra and her friends, whilst she makes her life altering decisions. A great read!

Wow, wow, wow. I was completely absorbed by the story of young Cleopatra and her complicated relationships with her family and Julius Caesar. Natasha Solomons brings her vividly to life — an intelligent, bold, and charismatic young woman cast into a dangerous world of politics, betrayal, and power. The novel paints Cleopatra not just as a queen, but as a strategist, a survivor, and a woman with a vision — far more complex than I’ve ever seen her portrayed on screen. I especially loved her relationships with Charmian and Apollodorus, who are so much more than servants to her. And Caesar’s mistress Servilia provides a brilliant counterpoint, adding another female voice to the turbulent clash of Egypt and Rome.

An impressive dual pov from two extraordinarily strong female characters living in an overwhelmingly male dominated, cut throat world. We all think we know Cleopatra’s story but I, for one, found this a true eye opener of a read. It was exceptional. I always find the author picks out a woman who we all believe we know, and turns everything on its head. It was a fascinating read and one I recommend to everyone.