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Cleopatra's Daughter

by Michelle Moran (Goodreads Author)

4.07 · rating details · 5,110 ratings · 1,009 reviews

The marriage of Marc Antony and Cleopatra is one of the greatest love stories of all time, a tale of unbridled passion with earth-shaking political consequences. Feared and hunted by the powers in Rome, the lovers choose to die by their own hands as the triumphant armies of Antony’s revengeful rival, Octavian, sweep into Egypt. Their three orphaned children are taken in ch...moreThe marriage of Marc Antony and Cleopatra is one of the greatest love stories of all time, a tale of unbridled passion with earth-shaking political consequences. Feared and hunted by the powers in Rome, the lovers choose to die by their own hands as the triumphant armies of Antony’s revengeful rival, Octavian, sweep into Egypt. Their three orphaned children are taken in chains to Rome; only two– the ten-year-old twins Selene and Alexander–survive the journey. Delivered to the household of Octavian’s sister, the siblings cling to each other and to the hope that they will return one day to their rightful place on the throne of Egypt. As they come of age, they are buffeted by the personal ambitions of Octavian’s family and court, by the ever-present threat of slave rebellion, and by the longings and desires deep within their own hearts.

The fateful tale of Selene and Alexander is brought brilliantly to life in Cleopatra’s Daughter. Recounted in Selene’s youthful and engaging voice, it introduces a compelling cast of historical characters: Octavia, the emperor Octavian’s kind and compassionate sister, abandoned by Marc Antony for Cleopatra; Livia, Octavian's bitter and jealous wife; Marcellus, Octavian’s handsome, flirtatious nephew and heir apparent; Tiberius, Livia’s sardonic son and Marcellus’s great rival for power; and Juba, Octavian’s watchful aide, whose honored position at court has far-reaching effects on the lives of the young Egyptian royals.

Selene’s narrative is animated by the concerns of a young girl in any time and place–the possibility of finding love, the pull of friendship and family, and the pursuit of her unique interests and talents. While coping with the loss of both her family and her ancestral kingdom, Selene must find a path around the dangers of a foreign land. Her accounts of life in Rome are filled with historical details that vividly capture both the glories and horrors of the times. She dines with the empire’s most illustrious poets and politicians, witnesses the creation of the Pantheon, and navigates the colorful, crowded marketplaces of the city where Roman-style justice is meted out with merciless authority.

Based on meticulous research, Cleopatra’s Daughter is a fascinating portrait of imperial Rome and of the people and events of this glorious and most tumultuous period in human history. Emerging from the shadows of the past, Selene, a young woman of irresistible charm and preternatural intelligence, will capture your heart.(less)

Hardcover, 431 pages

Published September 15th 2009 by Crown Publishing Group (NY) (first published 2009)

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Sep 25, 2009

Tara Chevrestt rated it

Shelves: women-that-really-existed-fiction, historical-fiction, ya, rome

Somebody finally wrote a historical novel about Romans and their lives without having them copulating in every other paragraph. Thumbs up to that. What has made this book less than enjoyable for me is the fact that the first three fourths of it is about a 12 year old. In the last few chapters, the heroine attains fifteen, but never grows older. Readers never meet Selene, the married woman or adult. Therefore, it felt like a young adult book.

To read full review and a Selene book ...more

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May 10, 2010

Becky rated it

Shelves: historical-fiction, library, 2010, political, reviewed, romance, to-buy, young-adult, blog_etb

This book was chosen for the May/June 2010 group read in the historical fiction group that I moderate here on Goodreads, and I couldn't wait to read it, so I started a teensy bit early. *blush* I'd been wanting to read one of Michelle Moran's books for a while, since I hear so much praise for them, and I'd planned on starting with "Nefertiti" with a friend, but that kind of fell apart due to other obligations. So I was thrilled when "Cleopatra's Daughter" was chosen, as it ga...moreThis book was chosen for the May/June 2010 group read in the historical fiction group that I moderate here on Goodreads, and I couldn't wait to read it, so I started a teensy bit early. *blush* I'd been wanting to read one of Michelle Moran's books for a while, since I hear so much praise for them, and I'd planned on starting with "Nefertiti" with a friend, but that kind of fell apart due to other obligations. So I was thrilled when "Cleopatra's Daughter" was chosen, as it gave me the perfect excuse to shove all of my obligations off to the side for a day and read this.

And it literally only took me a day to read it. I could not put it down. I've always been fascinated by Ancient Egypt and Rome, so this one was right up my alley. (All of Moran's books at this point are right up my alley, actually!) I was not disappointed. The book starts with a bang with Cleopatra's rule crumbling around her, and follows Selene (Cleopatra's daughter) as she's taken from her home and country to Rome, which is rife with danger, uncertainty, spies, cattiness and political roller-coasters. Selene and her twin brother, Alexander, are guest/prisoners of the royal family, and never know what the next day will bring - an unwanted and unhappy marriage, slavery, death?

It's fascinating. I would have gladly read another 400 pages. There was so much going on between these covers that even though it was not action-packed, it felt like it was, and I just had to know what would happen next. This is the kind of book that made me love historical fiction - books that can bring a name and date-range to life, and make me not only intrigued by their life, but care about them, and empathize with them. So much in history is distant and boring that unless you have a real interest and passion for it, we forget to keep it alive. And much of history was so brutal and harsh that we forget that people who lived it were really people, and had hopes and dreams and fears that were probably cut short by the brutality and upheaval. It's easy to distance ourselves from that brutality, so that 30,000 deaths in such and such battle becomes just a number, and not a staggering atrocity.

But this book brought these ancient people to life, and I crossed my fingers for them, and mourned with them, and was angry on their behalf even though they've all been dead for 2000 years. I loved Selene's character. I admired her courage to do the right thing even when it could have cost her her life at any time. Her life was one thread away from forfeited as soon as she stepped foot off of Egyptian soil, but she still spoke up for those who could not speak for themselves. And this, in a time when callousness and bloodlust seemed to be an artform, is admirable.

I also loved the way that Octavian Caesar's loyal men were humanized, rather than just being expressionless moving statues which do the Caesar's bidding, they were men who were able to think and feel and hope themselves.

I also loved the political and societal issues depicted. Octavian's fear of any potential threat, his genius political maneuvering and manipulation, his ruthlessness all gave me chills. Livia's too, and her pure maliciousness made me want to slap her. I couldn't imagine living under the thumb of people like that. But then to counter them, Octavia, his sister, was kind and compassionate and charitable, even when she had cause not to be, and when it was almost pointless given the attitudes of the time.

Moran pulls no punches with this book, and shows the harshness of living in Rome at this time. Slaves were everywhere and harshly ruled and even more harshly punished at their owners' and/or corrupt judges' whims. Babies are cast out for being born the wrong sex, or for having a deformity, or for no reason at all other than that they are unwanted and are left to die of starvation or by the elements if not for charitable wet-nurses. It's appalling, but all of this combined to create a Rome that felt real to me.

I also liked the subtle nod to homosexuality in the book, and how it's accepted in private, but kept quiet in public. I'm glad that we're at a point now where being gay is socially accepted (by most) and doesn't need to be hidden.

Anyway, in short, I loved this book. The only thing that I can think of to complain about is a single misspelling: quite should have been quiet, and that should have been caught by an editor. ;) I will definitely be reading more of Moran's books. If they are half as good as this one it will be well worth it. :)(less)

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Nov 28, 2010

Hilda rated it

· review of another edition

Recommends it for: pencinta intrik kerajaan :)

Shelves: young-adult, tears, my-favorites, owned

Semua orang tentu mengetahui Kleopatra, sang ratu Mesir yang terkenal dengan kecantikan dan kelicikannya. Kleopatra VII, yang kisah cintanya dengan Marc Anthony adalah salah satu cerita cinta terbesar pada waktu Sebelum Masehi. Tapi setelah kematian Kleopatra yang menyedihkan, kehidupan Mesir tidak berakhir begitu saja. Masih ada anak-anak Kleopatra dan Marc Anthony, yang terus hidup dan menderita.

Setelah kematian Kleopatra dan Marc Anthony, ketiga anak mereka diambil oleh Octavian, ...moreSemua orang tentu mengetahui Kleopatra, sang ratu Mesir yang terkenal dengan kecantikan dan kelicikannya. Kleopatra VII, yang kisah cintanya dengan Marc Anthony adalah salah satu cerita cinta terbesar pada waktu Sebelum Masehi. Tapi setelah kematian Kleopatra yang menyedihkan, kehidupan Mesir tidak berakhir begitu saja. Masih ada anak-anak Kleopatra dan Marc Anthony, yang terus hidup dan menderita.

Setelah kematian Kleopatra dan Marc Anthony, ketiga anak mereka diambil oleh Octavian, kaisar Romawi yang berhasil menduduki Mesir. Si kembar berusia 12 tahun Kleopatra Selene dan Alexander Helios, serta adik mereka Ptolemy yang masih berusia 3 tahun, sengaja dibiarkan hidup untuk dibawa ke Roma dalam Perayaan Kemenangan Octavian. Octavian sengaja membiarkan mereka hidup karena itu akan membuatnya terlihat bermurah hati, dan agar mereka dapat berguna dalam perkawinan politik yang akan disusun olehnya.

Selene dan Alexander kehilangan hampir segalanya; harta mereka, posisi mereka sebagai Pangeran dan Putri, rumah mereka di Mesir, orang tua mereka, bahkan adik mereka Ptolemy yang sakit keras dan akhirnya mati. Mereka dipaksa menyesuaikan diri dan mengakui diri mereka sebagai warga Roma. Memakai pakaian ala orang Roma, pulasan seperti warga Roma, dan menilai sesuatu dari sudut pandang Roma. Selene yang cantik dan cerdas, meskipun keras kepala, menemukan kebebasannya dalam melukis arsitektur gedung-gedung. Kakak kembarnya Alexander yang tampan dan ramah lebih memilih pacuan kuda dan bersosialisasi dengan anak-anak Roma lainnya. Mereka melindungi satu sama lain, dan bersumpah akan kembali ke Mesir bersama-sama suatu hari nanti.

Di umur yang masih belia, para anak-anak bangsawan Roma sudah mengerti bahaya dan kewajiban mereka pada Roma. Tindakan-tindakan dan ucapan mereka bagaikan anak berumur 15 atau 16 tahun di masa kini. Sekali, saudara tiri Selene dan Alexander yang masih berumur 10 tahun datang dan memperingatkan mereka agar berguna untuk Octavian, karena itulah satu-satunya cara untuk bertahan hidup di Roma. Kemiskinan dan bayi-bayi yang ditelantarkan bukanlah hal yang aneh di Roma. Perkawinan bagi wanita adalah kewajiban, dan ayah serta saudara lelaki merekalah yang memutuskan perkawinan itu. Budak-budak adalah pihak yang tak bisa menuntut. Kaum bangsawan dan senat adalah pihak yang akan selalu memerintah Roma.

Merskipun tidak seratus persen sama dengan sejarah, Cleopatra’s Daughter berhasil menyuguhkan kisah yang menawan dengan setting Sebelum Masehi. Istilah-istilah Latin seperti chitos dan domina mewarnai cerita, dan kebiasaan-kebiasaan orang Romawi digambarkan dengan begitu baik. Setiap tokoh dalam cerita memegang peran yang penting, terutama tokoh Red Eagle yang digambarkan sebagai tokoh misterius yang ingin menghentikan perbudakan di Roma. Aku terutama mengagumi tokoh Selene yang pandai, tegar, dan tak pernah berhenti menyerah dalam memerangi ketidakadilan.

Cleopatra’s Daughter membuatku menangis dan tertawa. Efek yang ditimbulkannya begitu dahsyat, dan aku yakin seperti setiap buku yang luar biasa, buku ini akan tetap mempengaruhiku dalam waktu yang lama. Aku bahkan merasa sedih ketika aku mencapai halaman terakhir, dan membaca halaman terakhir kisah ini.(less)

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Sep 15, 2009

Angelc rated it

Shelves: 5-stars, already-own-read

Wow! I loved this book! 'Cleopatra's Daughter' is one of the best books I have read for a long time! Cleopatra Selene, her twin brother, Alexander, and their young brother Ptolemy suffer the loss of their parents, Cleopatra and Marc Antony, when Romans invade Egypt. As the children of the King and Queen of Egypt, Selene and her brothers are forcibly taken to Rome, essentially as prizes of the war. The story takes flight after their arrival in Rome and the twins adjust to a vastly different lifes...moreWow! I loved this book! 'Cleopatra's Daughter' is one of the best books I have read for a long time! Cleopatra Selene, her twin brother, Alexander, and their young brother Ptolemy suffer the loss of their parents, Cleopatra and Marc Antony, when Romans invade Egypt. As the children of the King and Queen of Egypt, Selene and her brothers are forcibly taken to Rome, essentially as prizes of the war. The story takes flight after their arrival in Rome and the twins adjust to a vastly different lifestyle than they knew in Egypt. Octavian is the ruler of Rome and the person responsible for their parents'deaths, but they have no choice to obey and trust him because he is repsonsible for their livelihood. Octavian has the children live with his kind sister and her son, but still their fates are ominously uncertain. When they arrive in Rome, Selene and Alexander are only eleven and not a threat to Octavian, but will they still be safe when they reach adulthood at 15?

Each and every character leapt off the page and their vivid personalities were based on historical record. Selene was definitely her mother's daughter, an intelligent, strong girl, not afraid to stand up for herself and what she believes in. Her compassion for the less fortunate showed her soft and caring side. Selene had a passion for drawing and her talent for sketching buildings impressed even Octavian.

Selene's peers were more interested in betting on chariot races and shopping than participating in her scholarly and charitable pursuits, but they were definitely supportive of her and more idealistic than the older generation. Selene loves getting attention from Octavian's nephew and probable heir, Marcellus. Marcellus is handsome, young, and carefree, and clearly admires Selene's beauty as well as her morals. Selene fails to notice that Juba, one of Octavian's most trusted guards, admires her as well for her strength and hope along with her humanitarian endeavors.

I loved the portrayal of Selene's relationship with Alexander. As twins, they had an incredibly close bond that was strengthened by the loss of their family and home. Sometimes they felt like all they had was each other. They were much more learned than most Romans, due to their mother's guidance, and they would speak to each other in languages that no one else could understand. Moran really captured their deep bond, affection for each other, and even playfulness.

The author added the fictional character of the Red Eagle to represent those Romans who fought against slavery. The identity of the Red Eagle is a secret and the mystery surrounding him and his adventures add a lot of excitement to the story.

Michelle Moran really brought Selene's world alive. She told an epic story but never lost sight of the everyday details of ancient Rome. I felt like I could see Juba's statues, Selene's scrolls, and Marcellus and Alexander's betting dice. My only complaint about this book is that at 400 pages, it was over too soon! I feel like there is much more of Selene's story to be told, and really hope that Moran has plans for a sequel!

Reviewed for: http://inthehammockblog.blogspot.com/

(less)

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Nov 02, 2010

Michelle, the Bookshelf Stalking rated it

· review of another edition

Shelves: have-audiobook

This book was fascinating. The book, while a work of fiction, is based on real people in history. While I was somewhat familiar with the actual historical figures, my knowledge is limited to college courses.

The book is a semi-fictional account of Cleopatra's children with Marc Antony- twins Alexander and Cleopatra Selene. Selene and Alexander are taken to Rome against their will after Octavian, the ruler of Rome, defeats their parents, the rulers of Egypt.

The story begi...more

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Jul 14, 2011

Summer rated it

Shelves: historical-fiction, fiction

I sort of waffled between 4 or 5 stars on this book. It's really well written and engrossing in my opinion. It's sometimes shelved as YA, and while the main characters start around 12 and age to 15 in the book I wouldn't necessarily say that it's meant for a YA audience. The narrator of the story has a mature voice and the subject matter is more adult in nature at times. I think my main problem is the romantic element as, while I knew it wasn't the focus of the story, it sort of threw me. I read...more

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Mar 31, 2011

Monique rated it

· review of another edition

Shelves: gyptian-all-things-egypt

Another book on Egyptian history by a truly amazing author, Moran makes you feel like you have been transported to imperial Rome through the eyes of a brave young girl, daughter of the infamous, powerful Kleopatra. The novel begins with the tragic and dramatic double suicide of one of my favorite love stories in history: Kleopatra and Marc Anthony...dramatically with rival Roman trimurvate Octavian vying for Egypt's power and wealth Kleopatra and Marc Anthony finally deplete their resources and ...more

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Mar 09, 2011

Stephanie rated it

Shelves: amazing-friendships, female-author, passes-bechdel-test, shit-just-got-real, worthwhile-historical-fiction

Because I have a short reading attention span, reading Cleopatra: A Life reminded me that I had this book on my mental to-read list. And today I decided to take a detour into reading Cleopatra's Daughter before resuming that one. I wasn't super impressed with Nefertiti; in presentation, it struck me as a warmed over The Other Boleyn Girl... this time in Egypt! (And with a more interesting main character, to be fair.) Still, I have been curious about Cleopatra Selene for some time now and histori...moreBecause I have a short reading attention span, reading Cleopatra: A Life reminded me that I had this book on my mental to-read list. And today I decided to take a detour into reading Cleopatra's Daughter before resuming that one. I wasn't super impressed with Nefertiti; in presentation, it struck me as a warmed over The Other Boleyn Girl... this time in Egypt! (And with a more interesting main character, to be fair.) Still, I have been curious about Cleopatra Selene for some time now and historical fiction is like my literary comfort food. tl;dr: I was totally destined to read this someday and, hurray!, this book proved to be well worth my while.

I will say that I was frustrated in some points; some of the character are tiresome caricatures and boring tropes, sticking out like sore thumbs among the more well-developed ones. Likewise, Moran's writing style is a puzzle to me, wherein stronger emotions occasionally fall flat. Nothing comes across as maudlin, but she had an unenviable task considering the sheer number of tragedies in Selene's life. Also, and this is probably petty, but I rather wish this book had been a duology. I really wanted to read about Selene's life after the time span covered in this book, because it's some pretty fascinating stuff. As it stands, the ending feels a bit abrupt, and I think a chapter or two more wouldn't have hurt.

Still, Cleopatra's Daughter is compulsively readable and ridiculously entertaining. Prickly, conscientious Selene is an appealing heroine, and a number of the side characters are equally interesting. Julia in particular steals the show, and I was so glad that the author made her and Selene have a somewhat complicated relationship. (Actually, and this might have been because I was just reading this books, I was slightly reminded of Gemma and Felicty from A Great and Terrible Beauty. This is a good thing!)

Moran is also pretty decent about sticking to historical fact. She does invent a slave uprising out of whole cloth, but this didn't bother me. It fit well into the climate of the day, and it didn't come across as the author going "well I think THIS should have happened instead!" Furthermore, Cleopatra's Daughter does a pretty damn decent job of developing the character's personalities, rather than merely going from point A to B in history.

This is more like a 4.5. Pretty much a perfect rainy day read! (less)

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Feb 24, 2011

Isis rated it

· review of another edition

Recommends it for: Early Teens Aged 10 - 15

Recommended to Isis by: No one

Shelves: hellenistic-age-400-to-30bce-fictio, imperial-age-30bce-to-500ce-fiction

In terms of the recommendation to those who love historical fiction and ancient Egypt, as a voracious reader and someone so interested in history that I've made a career out of it, I've got to say that my response was more of a mixed bag to this book.

There were good and bad things to say about this book. I didn't like the blatant name-dropping, especially as it served little to no purpose and seemed to be added in purely for the "Ooooh, look, there's Ovid! And this is Vercingeto...moreIn terms of the recommendation to those who love historical fiction and ancient Egypt, as a voracious reader and someone so interested in history that I've made a career out of it, I've got to say that my response was more of a mixed bag to this book.

There were good and bad things to say about this book. I didn't like the blatant name-dropping, especially as it served little to no purpose and seemed to be added in purely for the "Ooooh, look, there's Ovid! And this is Vercingetorix's daughter!!!" factor. It just seemed unnecessary to drop names when the main characters and plot ought to be able to carry a novel. There were also some implausible moments, such as Octavian taking the children with him out and about in Alexandria, or Octavia befriending them instantly (having the children by another woman of the husband who abandoned you dropped into your care? You'd at least think it'd take a while to bond). Also the twins seem to fit into their new lives and companions in Rome rather quickly, which surprised me given the traumatising experiences they'd been through. It just takes away from a sense that these are real people reacting as real people would. Well-drawn characters react to events around them in a way that makes sense given their personality and experiences, and it shows refinement from an author if they can create characters who seem to react and grow almost naturally.

There's a lot of exposition throughout the book. It's all too obvious that it's exposition for the benefit of the reader, and unfortunately it hasn't been done subtly. The information conveyed consists of all the most iconic trivia about the Romans that has filtered into the public consciousness, and the way it's presented is rather clunky and simplistic in a "oh and by the way did you know..." kind of way, such as Octavian saying "And remember, a third of Rome's population is enslaved". It's not woven into the plot very often, it tends to take the form of one character verbally explaining things to another character. The plot twists can be seen a mile off, and by page 80 I had guessed who the Red Eagle would be and who Kleopatra Selene would end up with (I'm avoiding saying who so as not to give spoilers, but it's become a real trend in historical fiction recently). The inclusion of the fictional Red Eagle plot surprised me because it's such a well worn storyline in so many books before, the classic "masked fighter of injustice in the big city" trope, and I wondered if Moran felt like she had to include it out of fear that readers would think the unembellished true story was too "boring" or "dull".

In addition, the scope of the story felt very insular and small scale, and not just because Kleopatra Selene is the first person narrator. The sense of epic scale is missing from this book, which feels strange given that the events and characters were so important historically. Many scenes are blinkered and narrow in scope, and I felt that there were some missed opportunities to convey a grander scale of events - for example, Octavian's first triumph is covered in only two pages and most of that consists of Kleopatra Selene's internal thoughts with a few titbits of description thrown in, and I was a bit disappointed that it didn't really evoke the magnitude of the occasion. I was pleasantly surprised by the author's note at the back of the book, and really appreciated Moran having a frank discussion about some of the changes she made to the history. However, I was also disappointed that there were so very many inaccuracies which are not mentioned in the author's note. Poor Octavian takes a beating on the historical accuracy front - his description and many of his actions in the novel are in fact made up - and I thought he was too vilified.

On the positive side, the story built up well to the climax, creating tension and probably the most emotion in the entire novel with a certain tragic incident, and then releasing that tension with the double revelation of the Red Eagle's identity and the identity of Kleopatra Selene's intended husband. Though the writing was rather simplistic, it seemed more forgivable if I approached this as a children's book. I actually think it was a good marketing decision to rate this book as for Young Adults/Adults (her previous two novels were defined only for the Adults group) - I think Moran needs to go further and market it completely at the early teens age group. Viewing it from that perspective, the story comes off as an enjoyable teenaged adventure romp. It's not earth-shattering literature, but it seems really well suited to an enthusiastic young historian, or those times when you just want to kick back and read something fun and unchallenging.(less)

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Jan 06, 2011

Kara rated it

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This review has been hidden because it contains spoilers. To view it, click here.

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Oct 07, 2010

Nikki rated it

· review of another edition

Recommends it for: Lovers of Cleopatra and Ancient Rome

Shelves: cleopatra-and-egypt, own, historical-fiction, 2010, roman-empire, favorites

I thoroughly enjoy anything and everything having to do with my favorite person in history: Cleopatra. Therefore I was extremely interested in reading Moran's take on the life of Cleopatra's daughter after her mother's ultimate demise. Unfortunately there is not a wealth of information available regarding Selene, however, Moran did an excellent job in piecing together what is known and portraying it through historical fiction. I found the book thoroughly entertaining and it left me wanting more....more

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Feb 28, 2011

Sarah rated it

Shelves: nae

I have become a true fan of historical fiction, and at the top of my list is author Michelle Moran. In Cleopatra's Daughter, the author introduces us to Selene and Alexander, the children of Cleopatra and Mark Anthony, and takes us on their journey from Egypt to Rome, where they become members of Caesar's family. Along the way the reader discovers what life was like for the rich and poor during the time of Caesar. Selene and Alexander learn the Roman culture, attend school, and make friends, ...more

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Apr 22, 2011

Melinda rated it

· review of another edition

Cleopatra's Daughter is told from the perspective of Selene, daughter of Cleopatra and Mark Anthony. She and her twin brother, Alexander, are left orphans after the suicide of their parents. The children are sent to Rome to become part of the household of Octavian (later Augustus). The book follows Selene's attempts adapting to Roman culture in order to survive. Honestly, I didn't start out liking this book maybe because I had no knowledge of early Rome or Egypt. However, because of the won...more

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Dec 25, 2010

Lexi Wangler rated it

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Shelves: books-i-have-reviewed-wittily-and

While an interesting take on the children of Cleopatra and Marc Antony, there is very little imagination or even characterization going on here. You don't feel attached to the characters, there is little to no reason to keep reading, and even the plot is a play-by-play account and not a real story. The ending feels more like a sop to keep the reader happy than an ending, and even the more intriguing characters seem flat and uncaring. I enjoyed the background because I like historical fiction, bu...more

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Jun 11, 2010

Miss GP rated it

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I was surprised how much I enjoyed this novel. Moran's attention to historical detail was absolutely top-notch. It's one of the best historical fiction books I think I've encountered in a long time - great balance of history and entertainment. There was one plot element that really bugged me -- something not historically accurate, something included simply to move the plot along -- that I thought was unnecessary and detracted from the overall high quality of the book, but other than that I lo...more

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Jan 30, 2012

Stefanie rated it

So this was book number two I got from the library based only on the cover and the fact that I vaguely recalled someone mentioning it to me. Actually, when I looked it up on this website, it turns out there's multiple books with this title, so it's possible that this isn't even the same one. Oh well.

Anyhoo, apparently the historical research in this book is sound, and I'm too lazy and apathetic to look it up, but I feel like there's actually not that much on what happened to Cleopatra ...more

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Jan 06, 2012

Shweta's Book Journal rated it

· review of another edition

Shelves: ya-historical-fiction

If you haven't read Michelle Moran's books then definitely missing some thing wonderful . I am a huge fan but for each of her book I have wondered before I started reading, if this book was going to be as good as the earlier one. No worries on that front. She takes her work to a new level each time she writes.

Cleopatra's Daughter begins with the last days of Kleopatra VII and Marc Antony. After thier deaths ,their children Alexander Helios , Plotemy and Kelopatra Selene are taken to ...more

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Nov 16, 2011

Ceren rated it

· review of another edition

Like wine, I believe this book that will definetly be one of the books I could re-read in the future and still be even more captivated by the sheer story-telling weaved in between historical fact. If your one of those readers who after awhile get sick of reading the same boring, cliched, sickly sweet (and not very good for you!) YA books that seem more interested in cashing in on the "Twilight" and crappily (Is that even a word? haha!) written romance books disguised as "The Next ...moreLike wine, I believe this book that will definetly be one of the books I could re-read in the future and still be even more captivated by the sheer story-telling weaved in between historical fact. If your one of those readers who after awhile get sick of reading the same boring, cliched, sickly sweet (and not very good for you!) YA books that seem more interested in cashing in on the "Twilight" and crappily (Is that even a word? haha!) written romance books disguised as "The Next Hunger Games" bandwagon, I would whole-heartedly recommend this book to you!

"Cleopatra's daughter" tells the story of Selene, who is (if you haven't noticed from the title lol) Cleopatra's forgotten-in-many-history-book's daughter whose life changes forever with that of her twin brother Alexander and younger brother Ptolemy after the Roman's evade Egypt. This invasion not only resulted in the death of her father (Marc Antony) and contributed to her mother's suicide, but it also meant a new era in the children's lives. Octavian (the Roman emperor) decides to bring (more like force) the children into coming with him to Rome, were he parades the children as tokens of his conquests.

Moran has an amazing way of writing, it almost makes the reader feel what it would be like to live, breathe and eat in such an amazing period of history. From the start of the novel to the very end I was captivated by the story of such an fearless protagionist who behind her strong facade (Selene had many talents, one of them was being an gifted architectural designer, she also tried hard to stay true to herself and finding ways were one day she would be able to go home with her brother), she was also quite vulnerable as well (after all, she was only a child when these events took place).

However, the only fault I could find was that I would have greatly aprreciated if Moran had focused more on Selene's adolesecence and growth into adulthood (such as her marriage to Juba and career as an architect) which would have added more excitement to the story (prehaps she can write a sequel to wrap things up abit more!). Furthermore, Moran never really showed how Selene and Juba fell in love, it was only until the very last pages that we saw a 'spark' of something (e.g Juba proposing to her) yet it happened all to quickly for my liking. It would have been better if she had showed the reader how these two actually began to gradually fall in love before they got married! Still, it was an enjoyable and interesting read. (less)

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Oct 26, 2011

TG rated it

· review of another edition

Selene, only daughter of Mark Antony and Cleopatra, certainly had an interesting life but I came away from reading this book with the feeling that Moran didn't really focus on the most interesting part of it. The first couple of chapters deal with Cleopatra's suicide and the taking of her remaining children to Rome by Octavian, but following that, the story takes on an 'after the storm' feel and mainly deals with how Selene and her brother Alexander handle settling into day-to-day life in Rome.
...moreSelene, only daughter of Mark Antony and Cleopatra, certainly had an interesting life but I came away from reading this book with the feeling that Moran didn't really focus on the most interesting part of it. The first couple of chapters deal with Cleopatra's suicide and the taking of her remaining children to Rome by Octavian, but following that, the story takes on an 'after the storm' feel and mainly deals with how Selene and her brother Alexander handle settling into day-to-day life in Rome.

I rather liked the Ancient Rome: The High School Years aspect, as Selene meets and befriends the famous children of the imperial family while they are all teens and pre-teens. If you've seen or read I, Claudius, then it's certainly cool to read about Octavian's daughter Julia, Octavia's son Marcellus and Livia's son Tiberius all hanging out, going to school together, shopping, playing and flirting.

What the book is probably best for is an introduction to life in Rome. It's a first person narrative; we see everything through Selene's eyes, so we get the same newcomers' tour she does and the intricacies of what it is to be Roman explained. It only occasionally feels like the Exposition Fairy has wandered onto the pages and even then, Ancient Rome is fascinating so I'm not gonna complain about learning more about it. I've noticed that new tellings of the Roman world have sought to accurately portray the evils of slavery (I'm thinking of TV's Rome and Spartacus) and Cleopatra's Daughter uses real-life cases from the time to paint a chilling portrait of just how much it freaking sucked to be a slave in Rome.

Moran's writing is good and the story runs pleasantly along, but it still felt like a long time before anything really happened, plot-wise. Sure, plenty of stuff is happening on the political scene in Rome, but Selene is not involved in it, so we only hear about these things second-hand. Mostly we stick with the kids as they study Homer and buy material for tunics. Selene was part of one of the greatest marriages in history and I would have definitely preferred more focus on the build-up to that love story, but there's very little on it until the end.

I would also have preferred it if I'd liked Selene a little more, but after a while her sanctimonious attitude to the Romans really started to grate. I understand why she'd be biased towards her parents and why she'd hate Octavian, but after the hundredth time she thinks some variation of "Egypt/My mum and dad rules! Rome/Octavian drools!" I was rolling my eyes and wishing she'd just get over it already. Yes, I lost all sympathy for the girl who lost her country and her entire family. I actually felt way more sympathy for Julia in this version of the story.

There were definitely things I enjoyed about this book, but overall I was underwhelmed. I'd recommend it to a reader who doesn't know much about the characters and the time period and wants a nice read that's an easy way in to the era.(less)

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Oct 10, 2011

Sharon rated it

· review of another edition

Shelves: historical-fiction

This historical fiction novel details the lives of Cleopatra and Marc Antony's twins after their fall from power and suicide. The story begins with the king and queen of Egypt committing suicide as Alexandria crumbles, leaving behind their three children-- Alexander Helios and Cleopatra Selene (who are twins) and a younger brother Ptolemy. Octavia is a former wife of Marc Antony who raises the children in Rome, where she lives with her brother Octavian Caesar. No details are spared in describ...more

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Oct 07, 2011

Soa rated it

· review of another edition

Although the Dream is Far

Если не так давно я говорила об уникальности Мишель стирать границы между современным миром с его информационным прогрессом и загадочными путами волшебного древнего мира горячих пустынь и палящего солнца, то здесь я предпочту умолчать насчет «сказочности» и романтики. Язык, к сожалению, не поднялся выше должного уровня, о чем свидетельствуют все те же переданные писательскому перу схожие синонимы, а, быть может, во всем виноват переводчик. Ругать здесь мож...more
Although the Dream is Far

Если не так давно я говорила об уникальности Мишель стирать границы между современным миром с его информационным прогрессом и загадочными путами волшебного древнего мира горячих пустынь и палящего солнца, то здесь я предпочту умолчать насчет «сказочности» и романтики. Язык, к сожалению, не поднялся выше должного уровня, о чем свидетельствуют все те же переданные писательскому перу схожие синонимы, а, быть может, во всем виноват переводчик. Ругать здесь можно много кого, но книга оказалось не столь поглощающей воображение. В первую очередь надо осознавать, что это художественная литература, доработанная гипотезами автора над всеми историческими событиями, происходившими с теми или иными личности, а значит о какой-либо достоверности дальнейшей жизни детей Клеопатры после ее смерти, говорить нельзя. Но, как и в предыдущих своих работах, автор проработала все исторические данные по выбранному ее периоду времени.
Роман, так или иначе, доставляет удовольствие, несмотря на оттесненную в сторону любовную линию, проявляющуюся прозрачной полосой на самых последних страницах книги.
Я с такой же яростью, пылающей в глазах, схвачусь за новый роман Моран, как только наши многоуважаемые издатели все же посчитают взяться за отечественный перевод «Мадам Тюссо». Безумно жаль, что писательница приступила к более позднему времени. Хотелось бы увидеть, что-нибудь посвященное Древнему миру, которому почему-то слишком мало уделяют времени наши переводчики, да и сами зарубежные писатели. Культура, религия, всевозможные легенды захватывающие нас в детстве – все это возвращается. Да, подобная работа так же должна присутствовать в творчестве Моран, а почему бы и нет – прекрасный пример доминирования истории над слащавыми словами о любви, который в очередной раз доказывает, что мужчина не любит выражать свои чувства словами, он сразу действует, покоряя девичье сердце. (less)

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Sep 26, 2011

Sam rated it

· review of another edition

Shelves: africa, fiction, historical-fiction, owned, women, egypt

After the victory of Octavian/Augustus and the defeat of her parents Antony and Queen Cleopatra, Selene and her twin brother Alexander are taken to live in Rome. Although things seem welcoming at first Selene must struggle to make herself useful to Augustus and avoid being seen as expendable.

Score: 3.5 out of 5.

I really wanted to love this book for what it was - a light, easy going piece of historical fiction. But I just couldn't love it. I enjoyed it and found it hard to ...more

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Sep 12, 2011

Kristie rated it

· review of another edition

I loved this book! Of course I did - it's historical fiction, my favorite genre.

There were several strengths to the story worth mentioning:

1. Moran has obviously done her research. The details about the clothing, the food, the architecture, etc. really added to the feel of the novel.

2. I had to do quite a bit of research to understand the "characters" in the novel. Even though I knew how the story would end based on history, I thought Moran was clever ...more

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Aug 08, 2011

Heather rated it

This book is great, in my humble opinion. I want to read more on Kleopatra Selene, and will likely read the book about Nefertiti from the same author. Intriguing look at a time eons ago that was no so different than today in many aspects. Very strong female role model. Would highly suggest to those that like historical fiction. Beautifully written and inspiring topics covered.

This is my first experience reading this author, and in reading the other reviews, I see I should like the Heretic ...more

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Aug 04, 2011

Amanda rated it

· review of another edition

Cleopatra's Daughter picks up as the Romans, led by Octavian, are capturing Egypt. Selene, the daughter of Cleopatra and Marc Antony, along with her brother Alexander, are taken prisoner by Ocatvian after her mother commits suicide. Once in Rome, Selene becomes frightened about her future -will she be killed? Will Ocatavian force her to marry some old Roman senator? And most importantly...will she ever see her beloved Egypt again?

Michelle Moran offers a fascinating view of an ancient y...moreCleopatra's Daughter picks up as the Romans, led by Octavian, are capturing Egypt. Selene, the daughter of Cleopatra and Marc Antony, along with her brother Alexander, are taken prisoner by Ocatvian after her mother commits suicide. Once in Rome, Selene becomes frightened about her future -will she be killed? Will Ocatavian force her to marry some old Roman senator? And most importantly...will she ever see her beloved Egypt again?

Michelle Moran offers a fascinating view of an ancient young woman trying to make herself useful and find happiness while navigating the turbulent politics and violence of Rome. Selene is a strong, enjoyable protagonist whose strong opinions and zeal for knowledge is refreshing. Her story is primarily a coming-of-age one with a hint of a love story along with political intrigue. Cleopatra's Daughter offers a great window into the Roman world. I don't know how historically accurate it actually is, but it feels believable and makes logical sense (some history buffs may have issues with it, but for fiction it worked). I particularly enjoyed Selene's interest and pursuit of architecture -at the time, a career not seen fit for women -and her willingness to speak her mind, despite the consequences.

At times, however, Selene feels a little too modern for the Roman world. Perhaps Moran did this to help readers better connect with her -which worked like a charm, since I found Selene to be a really relate able main character -but some of the historical accuracy seems to suffer here (would the Romans really let Selene study architecture with a master architect?). At times, the novels feel a little soap box-y, with overly frequent comments about how horrible Roman slavery and treatment of the poor was, etc. The story also feels a little strained and the pacing a little uneven at times -even a little bit violent or adult for the intended audience.

Overall, I enjoyed Cleopatra's Daughter. Selene is a fun protagonist and the story was different, easy to read and kept me interested for the most part. I wasn't hooked enough to pick up more Michelle Moran books, but reading Cleopatra's Daughter was time well spent. (less)

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Jun 24, 2011

Jennifer rated it

· review of another edition

Another good historical fiction from Michelle Moran. This is not a genre I am usually into, but the three books of Moran's I have read were enjoyable. I read this one in only a few days, which speaks to how engaging it was, and that it is fairly light. If you are at all fascinated with Egypt or the Roman Empire, and like tales of unlikely heroines, you will like this book.

The one thing I would criticize is that a family tree would have been helpful. It might have given away a few...more

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Jun 18, 2011

Britni rated it

· review of another edition

Have you ever wondered what happened to Cleopatra's twins when she died? Didn't even know she had twins? Me neither. That's the beauty of historical fiction, you learn things while engrossed in the depth of a beautiful story.

Cleopatra's Daughter by Michelle Moran is the story of Cleopatra's twins, Alexander and Selene as they are taken to Rome after Egypt is conquered. The story is told from Selene's point of view and a fascinating look at Roman rule and Egyptian culture. It follows Se...more

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May 09, 2011

Frances rated it

· review of another edition

The marriage of Marc Antony and Cleopatra is one of the greatest love stories of all time, a tale of unbridled passion with earth-shaking political consequences. Feared and hunted by the powers in Rome, the lovers choose to die by their own hands as the triumphant armies of Antony’s revengeful rival, Octavian, sweep into Egypt. Their three orphaned children are taken in chains to Rome; only two– the ten-year-old twins Selene and Alexander–survive the journey. Delivered to the household of Octavi...moreThe marriage of Marc Antony and Cleopatra is one of the greatest love stories of all time, a tale of unbridled passion with earth-shaking political consequences. Feared and hunted by the powers in Rome, the lovers choose to die by their own hands as the triumphant armies of Antony’s revengeful rival, Octavian, sweep into Egypt. Their three orphaned children are taken in chains to Rome; only two– the ten-year-old twins Selene and Alexander–survive the journey. Delivered to the household of Octavian’s sister, the siblings cling to each other and to the hope that they will return one day to their rightful place on the throne of Egypt. As they come of age, they are buffeted by the personal ambitions of Octavian’s family and court, by the ever-present threat of slave rebellion, and by the longings and desires deep within their own hearts.

The Author sticks to every original historical detail that was paved along the lives of these heroes. The fateful tale of Selene and Alexander is brought brilliantly to life in Cleopatra’s Daughter. Recounted in Selene’s youthful and engaging voice, it introduces a compelling cast of historical characters: Octavia, the emperor Octavian’s kind and compassionate sister, abandoned by Marc Antony for Cleopatra; Livia, Octavian’s bitter and jealous wife; Marcellus, Octavian’s handsome, flirtatious nephew and heir apparent; Tiberius, Livia’s sardonic son and Marcellus’s great rival for power; and Juba, Octavian’s watchful aide, whose honored position at court has far-reaching effects on the lives of the young Egyptian royals.

The parts in which that ticked me off i guess was the fact the most of the book is based around the 11 year old selene, who by the way acts and speaks as an eighteen year old which confused me immensely. The latter part of the book takes you to the love story of princess Selene and the tragedy surrounding Prince Alexander. It shocks you but also keeps you enthralled with suspense. The saddening fact about this book is that the book ends when the love story for Selene begins.. and i can only hope that the author continues this story with another book about Princess Selene and……. :p (read the book)

After reading this book I realized that she might actually get into my list of favourite authors as well as the book just got selected into a favourite read. If your looking for it then trust me its worth it. (less)

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Apr 12, 2011

Holli rated it

By the end of the book, I felt like I had enjoyed it. But I struggled through the first half a little bit. I felt there were too many characters that I knew were interconnected, but I couldn't keep track of who belonged to which person and why they mattered. So it was hard to really connect with the story. It was interesting to learn about the Roman Empire, but again, with the story including Egypt and Greece and Rome, it felt like too many cultures going on at once.

The second half of...more

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Feb 25, 2011

Jim rated it

· review of another edition

I read a lot of Roman material, both fiction and nonfiction, contemporary letters, and so on. So when an author's view of Rome significantly departs from what is known about the period, it yanks me out of the story. We had recently finished Colleen McCullough's masterful multivolume series on Rome, which ended where this story begins, and the contrast was jarring. Perhaps that says more about the quality of writing, but I think it says more about the degree of research. McCullough's bibliograp...more

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About Michelle Moran

Librarian Note: There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name. See this thread for more information.

Michelle Moran was born in the San Fernando Valley, CA. She took an interest in writing from an early age, purchasing Writer's Market and submitting her stories and novellas to publishers from the time she was twelve. When she was accepted into Pomona College s...more

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The Egyptian Royals Collection: Three Historical Novels by Michelle Moran: Nefertiti, The Heretic Queen, and Cleopatra's Daughter

The Second Empress : A Novel of Napoleon's Court

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