Neferura by Malayna Evans

 Neferura offers an intimate look into her world of being Egyptian priestess with great Pharaoh mother, and half-brother trying to overrule them.

The story begins with introduction of the most powerful priestess of Kemet – Neferura. Her mother is the most powerful Pharaoh – Hatshepsut. Their surroundings are threatened by arrival of Neferura’s half-brother – Thutmose. At the palace, he is plotting to accuse his step-mother of murder of their father. Neferura tries to stop Thutmose’s lies.

The story is woven with beautiful prose and the characters are interestingly presented. I enjoyed how their backstories were revealed. The first third of the book is more character driven, building up to action. The remaining part is more plot-driven.

There is no proof that Neferura married her half-brother. This story imagines it. Alliances among the trio shift. There is one who pays the price for the truce between two others. There are spies, murders, revenges, scheming and more in this intriguing story.

The richly imagined characters and their situations with impressive prose stand out in this story.

Release date: February 13, 2024

Source: Sourcebooks Landmark