The Egyptian Princess: A Story of Hagar

by K.D. Holmberg

Two women, one ancient Egyptian harem, and the daring decision that changed the course of history.

In the opulent court of Egypt’s tenth dynasty, Princess Hagar has always known her destiny. One day, she will marry the Crown Prince Merikare and become the Great Royal Wife, the most powerful woman in Egypt. But dark dreams afflict Hagar the moment she hears of the latest addition to Pharaoh’s harem: the stunning, iridescent Sumerian, Sarai. Princess Hagar feels a powerful presence around the Sumerian woman. Hagar suspects Sarai has brought black magic into the palace—but what can she do to convince Pharaoh?

The intrigue of Pharaoh’s court pales in comparison to that swirling in the Royal House of Women among the wives, children, and concubines of the king. Sarai’s arrival upsets the already precarious balance. Loyalties divide, and betrayal, jealousy, and tragedy plague the once peaceful household. When a series of disasters befalls Egypt, Hagar must make a daring decision, and the stakes could not be higher. She could lose everything—her position, her power, her family, and even her life.

Torn between the silent gods of Egypt and the powerful presence that surrounds Sarai, Hagar’s world falls apart around her. She must acknowledge the terrible price of truth, and decide for herself who she will serve.

Genres: Biblical Fiction, Historical Fiction, Historical

330 pages, Paperback

First published April 1, 2021

About the author

KD Holmberg is a retired flight attendant who turned an empty nest into a workshop for creating stories around remarkable women. She and her husband, Keith, live in South Carolina and love to travel and golf. They have five children and eight extraordinary grandchildren. She welcomes new friends at www.kdholmberg.com.

Reviews

[Staci · Rating 4 out of 5]

2085 BC Egypt

What an interesting topic: Hagar

In this first book in the series, Hagar is living with her twin brother and parents as an Egyptian Princess. Sarai (Sarah) enters into the story relatively early on. The details about life in Egypt and the customs were fascinating. As an example, daughters of Kings were educated to the same degree as their brothers.

After reading The Egyptian Princess I certainly have a different perspective on who Hagar was. Although the novel isn't focused on Sarai, readers get a good view of her character as well.

My only negative comment is that the phrase "heir and a spare" was used by Hagar. After looking up the term, it began being used during the Gilded Age well after Hagar's time.

My gratitude to the author for a complimentary copy of the novel. I was not required to post a review and all opinions expressed are my own.

[Nadine Keels · Rating 4 out of 5]

Because she's been betrothed to the crown prince all her life, Princess Hagar has lived in preparation to one day become the highest-ranking woman in Egypt. But when the prince brings a beautiful Sumerian, Sarai, to add to Pharaoh's harem, order in the kingdom takes an ominous, drastic turn in The Egyptian Princess: A Story of Hagar by author KD Holmberg.

As one of the countless people the world over who knows the scriptural story of Abraham, Sarah, and Hagar, I was intrigued to hear about this biblical fiction novel focused on Hagar's life in ancient Egypt.

The intrigue only built from there, as this story is saturated with it, along with rich detail of the place and period—something I so appreciate as a lifelong lover of historical fiction. This is a fairly dark, sometimes gruesome account from Hagar's perspective of a personal, political, and spiritual shift in her life.

Now, there were moments when the flow of logic and emotion in the story felt disjointed to me, so I was a little unclear about where the characters were coming from at times. The story's villains felt overdone to the point of being somewhat caricatural in their evilness. And certain conversations and actions from the characters, as well as some aspects of the plot, seemed repetitive after a while.

Nevertheless, I was satisfied by the moving, haunting ending of this novel. I'm already looking forward to the continuation of this ChristFic series.
__________
I received an advance reading copy of this book for an honest review.

[Jeanie Hoover · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you liked the Red Tent you will love The Egyptian Princess. This is a well-researched look into the life of Hagar (the mother of all Arab peoples) found in Genesis 6:1–16; 21:8–21. Truthfully I’ve never thought too much about Hagar and who she was. The Egyptian Princess gives us a new perspective on Hagar, Abraham, and on Sarah. How did these three lives become entwined? Who was Hagar really and why is she still so important? This exploration of her life will answer those questions. As I read this book I wondered if Hagar’s life isn’t a bridge between three major world religions (Jewish, Muslim, and Christian)? Wouldn’t that be something!

Not only do we get a new perspective on the parents of three major religions and two major cultures (Arab and Jewish) we get a glimpse into what Egypt was like 4000 years ago. It was a sophisticated and advanced culture that was powerful and far-reaching. Many of the questions that the Bible alludes to in Genesis become fleshed out in this well-written book. Hagar, Abraham, and Sarah become three-dimensional people we can relate to. You will want to go back and read their story in Genesis, and I promise you, this will enrich that reading.

Finally, this is a page-turner and it was hard for me to put down. There is drama, intrigue, lust, and love. There are personalities that you will love and hate. Hagar is written as a complex young woman who makes mistakes, is confused, and is searching for her place in the world.

The Egyptian Princess will change the way you think about whatever you’ve read in the Genesis account. It will answer some questions and probably create some new ones. It takes the familiar black and white account and paints it in living color and isn’t that what the best historical fiction does?

[Beth Roger aka Katiebella_Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Definitely my new favorite book! This is the story of Hagar and how she became the handmaid of Sarai. Rabbinical literature, Hebrew and Arabic traditions have her as Pharaoh's daughter. A princess in her own right. This author took that and wrote a book on how Hagar's meeting of Sarai in her father's haram would have led her to meet EI. A true love story of God. To all my Christian friends this is worth the read. It dose not go into the bible, but ends with her sailing out of Egypt with Abram and Sarai as her new handmaid.

[Dana McNeely · Rating 5 out of 5]

K.D. Holmberg's wonderfully emotional Historical Fiction explores a fascinating backstory for Hagar, the woman who later became Sarah's handmaid and the mother of Abraham's first son, Ishmael. I'd never heard this take on Hagar as a princess of Egypt, a twin sister to the prince, and also destined to be his primary Great Royal Wife. Sarah (called Sarai at that time) comes to Egypt under the false pretense that she is merely Abram's sister, and trouble begins. Princess Hagar is a conflicted heroine in this book, feeling the call of the God of Sarai and Abram, but fearing the gods she has been raised to honor.

The story is deeply researched from ancient sources (Midrash, Josephus, Dead Sea Scrolls) and filled with descriptions of Egypt's grandeur, myths, and customs. Highly recommended for lovers of historical fiction, especially the ancient Egyptian world.

[Lindsay · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a book that stays with you. I finished it a couple months ago and meant to write a review then but forgot…. And I can’t stop thinking about it. As someone who’s grown up a Christian-the Bible stories have lost some of their magic and this brought it back! The characters were so real to me and it fleshed out these biblical characters in a way I wouldn’t have ever thought.
The amount of detail about the time period is AMAZING and you can tell Holmberg did her research!
I can’t wait for the next two books! And hopefully there will be many more books about other biblical characters as well

[Gloria · Rating 5 out of 5]

Interesting start to the story of Hagar as an Egyptian princess. I liked the characters I was supposed to like and disliked the ones who thought too highly of themselves. Great details on ancient Egypt and life in the harem.

[Naomi Craig · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 things from The Egyptian Princess A Story of Hagar
1)Biblical fiction about Hagar and Ancient Egypt
2) Princess Hagar struggles with accepting her lot in pharaoh's house
3)Sarai, A beautiful stranger in the Haram with a captivating air & a treacherous secret
4)Hagar sees visions of devastation and knows they are linked to Sarai
5)Missionary aspect as Sarai tells the Egyptians of Yahweh

"I have spent my life gazing upon the gods of Egypt." The truth tumbled from my lips and numbed my insides. "This is the first time a god upon me."

A fantastic Debut! KD Holmberg has painted a story lush with imagery. the courts of Pharaoh and the story of Hagar came to life with beautiful crafting! I can't wait to read more of her books!

[Malia Wong · Rating 4 out of 5]

*3.75

LOVED:
- Hagar's journey of faith
- The historical detail of the Egyptian setting! Location details, cultural references, and timeline of events.

LIKED:
- How the author portrayed the situation between Pharaoh, Sarai, and Abraham

MEH:
- I didn't fully connect to Hagar's character or understand Sarai's character.
- I didn't know the

[Nyla Kay · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have recently been reading quite a bit of biblical fiction. If it contradicts rather than supports scripture, I will not finish the book. Needless to say, I start a lot more than I finish. It did not take me long to finish this page turning intriguing tale.

The Egyptian Princess: A Story of Hagar by author KD Homberg is Book 1 in her Women of Valor Series and was a beautiful interpretation of Hagar, Sarai, and Abram. This was the first time that I had ever heard claims that Hagar was a princess and betrothed to the next pharaoh of Egypt. Rabbinical literature, Hebrew and Arabic traditions name her as Pharaoh’s daughter. Extensive research was done by the author, and she explains it all in her notes at the end of the book. Be sure to read those, also.

This book taught me so much! I love historical books that have been well researched and provide tidbits of information that is new to me. In this novel we are taken into the world of Pharaoh’s women. At times peace abides but often it does not.

Set in 2085 BC Egypt, Hagar is living with her twin brother, the next pharaoh, and her parents, the Pharaoh and Queen, as an Egyptian Princess. Sarai (Sarah) enters into the story very early in the story. I found everything extremely interesting and was immediately invested in the characters and story. Many of the characters I loved, but there were just as many I found unsavory. The author did a beautiful job describing her characters. They were authentic to the era. My perceptions of Hagar as well as Abraham and Sarah have changed a little bit. As I read this novel, I cross-referenced it with scripture.

I highly recommend this biblical historical book. Anyone wanting to learn about ancient Egypt, Hagar, Sarah, or Abraham will find it captivating. The author brought part of the Old Testament to life. Book 2 will pick up as they leave Egypt. Reading groups and small groups would benefit from this as a selection. There are discussion questions at the end of the story. It gets a 5 out of 5 stars from this reader.

[Lucy · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you love history this is certainly an eye opener to life in Egypt in Biblical times. I’ve read the story of Hagar multiple times but never really considered that she could have been a Princess. This book has been well researched and well thought out but I did think it became bogged down at times. I would lay it aside but it kept calling me back and I’m so glad it did. The descriptive writing style made you feel like you could see the times and characters. The evilness of some characters made me shiver and I realized how difficult it must have been for Sarai to be thrown into the midst of such godless people and maintain her strength and beliefs. This sheds a great perspective on Abram, Sarai, and Hagar’s lives and you will become engrossed. I especially enjoyed the author notes at the end. I look forward to reading more by this new Biblical Fiction author.
I won a copy of this book. The honest review and opinions are my own and were not required.

[Sandralena Hanley · Rating 3 out of 5]

I expected more about Hagar's time as Sarai's handmade and learning about her and Ishmael after they're banished. But I guess that's for another book. Although it's been more than 4 years and the author hasn't published anything.

This story tells of Egyptian princess Hagar meeting Abram and Sarai when her twin brother/betrothed Merikare brings the lovely Sarai for his father's harem. Most of the book deals with strife and jealously within her family, showing how life was in ancient Egypt.

The attraction Hagar feels for Abraham feels forced. He's older than her father, and she has no basis for thr sudden crush because they don't interact more than a few minutes in the whole book! Also, Sarai was inconsistent in her behavior. Sweet and godly, then fierce and catty in another instance.

[Rachel · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I first started to read this book I was shocked! I had never heard the idea that Hagar was an Egyptian Princess. I loved the story. It drew me in and made me excited to read the next chapter. Kd Holmberg done an excellent job in retelling the historical (although not necessarily proven true) version of Hagar and her Royal family, and Sarai's time in Egypt. The description of the characters made me feel like I knew them. As well as the things that happened during the story was so well told.

[Brittney Hallenbeck · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Egyptian Princess, A Story of Hagar blew me away. As a Christian, I rarely gave Hagar in Genesis too much thought. She was just the Egyptian slave used by Sara and Abraham to have a son, and God gave her mercy in the desert. It never occurred to me that there was so much more to the story.
Author KD Holmberg begins the story just before Sara (Sarai) and Abraham (Abram) arrive in Egypt. Hagar is an educated, and highly spiritual woman who finds herself questioning the Egpytian gods and haunted by dark dreams. After Sarai's arrival, a series of dark events fall upon Egypt. I won't say more on the story, as to not give too much away. But the novel is captivating, and makes you want to go back and read Hagar's story not only in the Christian bible, but also in other texts as well. I can't wait for book 2! KD Holmberg is a debut author to keep an eye on.

[Emily Fontenot · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Bible is full of so many people - real people, real stories. This book highlights Hagar's story which can be found in Genesis 16. Hagar was bought in Egypt as a slave for Sarah. Later Sarah gave Hagar to Abraham to bear a child (which she did and named Ishmael). I am very glad author KD Holmberg drew attention to Hagar. Her research and writing produced a captivating book. After reading this book, I was both excited to read book 2 yet bummed that I ran out of pages to read. This book challenged me to look at someone that I thought I knew (Hagar) and realize that I actually did not know as much about her as I thought I did. The author did an excellent job at using imagery to organically lead readers to learn more about God. I am looking forward to more books from KD Holmberg.

[Laurie Wood · Rating 5 out of 5]

I flew through this book in two days, and it’s not a short book. I read it on my phone when I couldn’t be on my Kindle. I’d never heard of the fact that Hagar, “Sarai’s Egyptian handmaiden”, as she’s described in the book of Genesis, was first a royal princess of Egypt and the twin of a Pharoah in the 10th Century.
This is something not widely known in Christian denominations but is well known in Jewish and Islamic traditions. It’s written about in The Midrash (Gen. R. xlv.) which states: Hagar was the daughter of Pharaoh, who, seeing what great miracles God had done for Sarah’s sake (Gen. xii.17), said: “It is better for Hagar to be a handmaid in Sarah’s house than a mistress in her own.” The Midrash is an ancient Rabbinic interpretation of scripture. There is also reference to Hagar in the Ancient Book of Jasher, known as The Book of Wisdom. Jasher was in the original King James Version of the Bible in 1611 AD and in the Dead Sea Scrolls, but is no longer included in the Biblical Canon.
In Islamic tradition, Hagar and her son Ishmael (by Abraham) are considered to be ancestors of their prophet Mohammed, and there are many miracles attributed to Hagar, which neither the Torah nor the Midrashim refer to.
So, now that we know where the author got her fascinating premise for the book (and she explains her research more in detail at the back of it), her impeccable details of Egyptian life at the time of Abram and Sarai arriving during the famine are fascinating. When Abram lies about Sarai being his wife and says she’s his sister so that they might be spared death at Pharaoh’s hand, Sarai and Hagar become friends in The House of Royal Women.
If you love Biblical fiction, this book surpasses most in terms of its historical detail and research. I loved the care the author took in developing the characters and showing how limited a woman’s life was, even though she was one of the most powerful in the land. I can’t recommend this book highly enough. I bought my own copy on a whim, as I’m usually disappointed by the lack of depth in Biblical fiction. I’m anxious to read the next book in the series, which is coming out from Mountain Brook Ink in 2022. 5 Stars.

[Mary · Rating 5 out of 5]

“The Egyptian Princess: A Story of Hagar,” written by K. D. Holmberg is Christian fiction and a great read! I enjoyed it very much. It was fun to read about Hagar and what her life could have been like. Also, how hard life in that time period could be.

In this story, Hagar was a princess. Her father was believed to be part Pharaoh and part god. Hagar, firstborn of twins, to the Great Royal Wife, finds herself belittled because she is female. She tries so hard throughout her childhood to please her father, but he prefers her twin, Merikare, his son. When Sarai joins the harem after being taken by Merikare, by force, from her husband Abram and their people, Hagar and Sarai develop an unusual relationship. Hagar notices the peace that her new friend has, it shines out from her. As she begins to ask questions, she discovers a God she has never heard of before and desires to learn more about Him. Can she forsake the gods she has been raised to believe in and only worship one true God? And what about the dreams (or visions) she has been having? They are horrific, about the Nile drying up and many of her people dying. As she seeks advice from a couple of high sources, she just gets more confused. Could the dreams be from God? And if so, why is he hurting the people He loves?

The Egyptian Princess definitely gives one food for thought. I love the way Sarai thinks carefully before answering some of Hagar’s questions, and how she teaches her to pray. While I have never heard of Hagar being a princess, nor have I read about Sarai being in the Pharoah’s harem for over a year, it does make sense that it COULD HAVE happened that way. The book is clean, although it does mention the nudity of the slave girls a few times, but not in a sexual or trashy way. I would recommend reading The Egyptian Princess for older teens and up. There are a few violent scenes involving a beating and being eaten by alligators that could be upsetting to younger readers. I hope to read more from this author! I give it a well-deserved 5 stars.

[Amy · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Egyptian Princess is a story that focuses on the time when Abram said that Sarai was his sister to the Pharoah of Egypt because she was beautiful, and Abram was afraid. The main character and who we see this story unfold is through Hagar's eyes. In this story she is the daughter of Pharoah, a princess of Egypt. The author's notes in the back of the book explain a lot of her research and why she went with this particular way of telling Hagar's background story and her origins.

Egypt was a dangerous place and just goes to show why I would not want to really be part of any royal family. No one was safe, not the wives or the children. In this story we are put smack dab in the harem and all the backstabbing and political intrigue that could happen in a place like that. Since this is Hagar's story we get to see Egypt, her family, friends, enemies, and especially her feelings towards Abram and Sarai. And their God.

This was an interesting read. It certainly shines a different light on Hagar. Her story and her relationship with Abram and Sarai has always intrigued me and the author does try to show how she might have thought and what her journey may have been like.

I was provided a copy of this novel by the author. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions are my own.

http://pausefortales.blogspot.com/202...

[Erin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Biblical fiction is a genre that I’m not a huge fan of. It’s good most of the time. But when it’s not it is very much not. I enjoyed this book.

Normally I’d rather read a book than listen to it, but with the Biblical fiction I have found (through this book) that I love the narrator. Her voice took me to a different world and I quickly became lost in it.

Hagar is a character that I really just brushed over when reading the Bible. She was there, she had a baby, she was banished, the end. But it wasn’t. Not really. That’s a super simple version. But the real questions I didn’t ask. I didn’t really care where she came from or how she got where she was.

That’s what this story is. It’s the story of Hagar and how she ended up in Abraham and Sarah’s camp. I highly recommend you give this book a read or a listen. And just wait! Book two is coming soon!

I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from Celebrate Lit. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.

[Victoria · Rating 4 out of 5]

My review: First, I did not have the audio version, I had an e-book. I cannot comment on the narration. I requested to read and review this book through CelebratLit and the thoughts are my own, honest opinion of the book.

At first, I was not sure I was going to enjoy this book. It took me a few pages to really get into the story. I think that was because I expected the story to be what is in the Bible, not what leads up to that. I did not expect that Hagar might have truly been a princess. But, that aside, I truly did enjoy the story.

The characters are very well fleshed out, they seemed real. The story flowed very well. It was also very informative in an enjoyable way. It showed God's love and working in the lives of people and how it is always for God's glory.

You can tell that a lot of research went into this book though it didn't come off in any way as a study book.

Even though I had an ARC version, the editing was also very well done. You will not be disappointed if you enjoy reading about Bible characters that have been shown in a fictionalized, historical story.

[Mary Hake · Rating 4 out of 5]

This audiobook was skillfully written and narrated. The narrator made each character’s voice sound unique and easy to distinguish. This entire tale takes place in the time before we meet Hagar in the first book of the Bible. The author used her detailed research to craft a fine historical novel set in ancient Egypt, where Hagar is the firstborn child of the pharaoh and a twin to her brother, whom she is destined to marry. As a member of the royal family, she is well-educated and takes her role as princess seriously. When Sarai and Abram are presented to the court, Hagar feels an attraction and a wariness about their “one” God. Could He be the one who has appeared to her and spoken to her in her dreams? I found it interesting how the author incorporated a growing interest about God and faith in Hagar. This is the first time I ever heard that she might be royalty. The story of her life before becoming a handmaid piqued my interest and kept me engaged. You can picture the scenes with the skillful descriptive writing and characterization, which connects well to the intriguing plot. I received a copy from Celebrate Lit. All opinions are my own.

[Patti Pierce · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you have read the book of Genesis in the Bible, you probably know the story of Hagar, Abram, and Sarai. Hagar serves as Sarai’s handmaiden in the Bible. But how did she achieve that position? This book explores one possible scenario in which a daughter of a pharaoh – a crowned princess of Egypt may have found herself in that position.

I love getting to know Hagar and seeing her interactions with her family, servants, and others who come in contact with her. The storyline moves at a good pace, and the characters are well developed. I especially enjoyed reading the interactions between Hagar and her mother,

The author illustrates the time and attention to detail spent to make this book interesting and well-written. So if you enjoy reading Biblically-based books that explore possibilities supported by historical documents, but not told in the Bible directly, check out this book for yourself.

I received a complimentary copy of this book, but this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.

[Deana Dick · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a first novel this is a beautiful account of a woman who sometimes is overlooked in the Bible. The author doesn't shy away from some facts that are not pleasant to read about. I like how the author writes with ease and opens up a door to the past where Jesus lived. I am very impressed with how the author took a Biblical figure and gave her life through a fictional account. There are enough details in the story that makes me feel like I am reading from the Bible. Hagar has long been a mystery to me as I haven't studied her much. Now I feel as though I walked beside her as her journey unfolded. The story checks all the boxes for research, authenticity and characters that jump off the page. The emotions are definitely there are I applaud the author for writing a story rich in history, biblical truth and just enough fiction to make me want to read it again.

I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.

[Meagan Held · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed reading The Egyptian Princess. I was engrossed from the first pages until the end-I had a hard time putting the novel down. I loved the colorful and interesting characters, but none so much as Hagar. I’ve always felt a bit antagonistic toward her in the Genesis account, and most Christian fiction I’ve read either depicts her as a weak servant caught in a bad plan or as mean spirited. I have never given much thought to who Hagar was before she left Egypt. To see her depicted as a strong, educated, and God-seeking young princess was fascinating and has definitely made me want to reread her account in the Bible.
The only thing I didn’t like about the book is that I have to wait until KD Holmberg’s second book comes out to read the rest of Hagar’s story.

*I received an advanced readers and was asked to write my honest review.

[Katherine Bartlett · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have always wanted to see a story written from Hagar's point of view and this one was an interesting take on it. It takes place in Egypt when Sarai is given to pharaoh and she is in the royal harem with Hagar. The entire book took place during this time. Not until the last page us Hagar given to Sarai as her handmaiden. I honestly would have liked to have seen this story progress into the time after leaving Egypt though. I would have liked to see the relationship between Hagar and Abram and also see the changes with Sarai. In this book, Sarai is very regal and possesses a sweet nature. But eventually in the Bible, she does get harsh with her. So I would have liked.to have seen the characters develop more into the story. But this was overall a good read if you are interested in the story of Hagar from her point of view.

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Egyptian Princess: A Story of Hagar is a captivating read. K D Holmberg has proven her talent in bringing this Biblical figure to life. I was intrigued right from the start and found myself wanting to refresh myself on what the Biblical story said about her. I loved how vivid the historical details made me feel as though I was right there being part of her story. I loved every single page.

The Egyptian Princess: A Story of Hagar will be getting a very well deserved five plus stars from me. I highly recommend it for readers who enjoy Biblical fiction. I would love to read more like this by K D Holmberg in the future.

I received a paperback copy of The Egyptian Princess: A Story of Hagar from the publisher, but was not required to write a positive review. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.

[Debbie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This telling of Hagar is quite different than any other story I have read. The author clearly starts that this telling is fictional. I really like listening to the audio book. It brought the story to life. I really will think of this story whenever I hear a sermon about Hagar. I felt like I could actually feel the character’s feelings as I listen to this story. Yes, this story made me shed a few tears especially at the end. This might be a spoiler alert but this book does not tell the story of when Hagar has Abraham’s son but ends with Hagar leavening with Sarai after the king realizes that Sarai is Abram wife and not just his sister.

After reading this book, I think it would be great to read a book by this author’s and get her take on the rest of the story.

I was given a complimentary copy by the author and Celebrate Lit and these opinions are my own.

[Tabitha Bouldin · Rating 4 out of 5]

This look into Hagar's world brought a new perspective to the story for me. I've read about this countless times, yet the author made the story come alive in vivid sound and color as Hagar navigated the treacherous road to truth. I loved seeing the inner plot and politics among the wives and concubines and Hagar's drive to be seen as more than the heir she's expected to produce after her marriage. She desires power but not with the deep affliction that complicates her relationship with her father the pharaoh. Her inner turmoil as she discovers more about Sarai created a deeper storyline and pushed me to think about how hard it must have been for her, and even Sarai, living in that world. I received a copy of this book from the author through Celebrate Lit. I was not required to leave a positive review. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.

[Shirley Corder · Rating 5 out of 5]

A stunning book that gives insight into life in the ancient Pharaoh's palace. We read of Hagar, the young princess, daughter of Pharaoh, and how the arrival of Sarai (later known as Sarah) and Abram (later Abraham) changes the course of her life.
I had often read the story of her relationship with Sarah and Abraham, but I had never realised where Hagar had come from. Although this telling of her story is fiction, it is brilliantly written and gives a clear picture into Hagar's origins.
It also clarifies parts of the Biblical telling of her later life. I always wondered about her haughty attitude towards Sarah. After reading The Egyptian Princess, I understood. No wonder!
I can't recommend this book highly enough, and I only wish there was a follow up covering the rest of her life.
Thank you Ms Holmberg for all your intensive research and inspired writing.

[Ashley Dawn · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a really well written Biblical fiction. In all honesty, I knew the name Hagar when I read it but it took me a bit to place which story she was in. It absolutely wasn’t the one I was expecting so I was intrigued from that.

This is a really well done account of what could have happened and what life may have been like. I think the author knows the time period well and did a lot of research for the book. You could just feel that in the descriptions and how things were presented. Really good book that I recommend.

4/5

Thank you to the author/publisher for the review copy of this book via Celebrate Lit. I received this book in exchange for an honest review and the opinions stated above are 100% mine.