Ever wonder what Egyptian queens slept in? How they had their maids make up their faces for court appearances--what cosmetics, lip stain, eye shadow? Which dress went with what headpiece?

Author Michelle Moran must dream in ancient Egyptian because her sense of place is superb. This intriguing story is about Queen Nefertari, the niece of Nefertiti, the beautiful wife of Akheneton (the despised one-god pharoah).

Even if you're not a fan of Egyptology and the lore of the ancient kingdoms of the land nourished by the Nile, this novel is a Don't Miss: intriguing characters both admirable and evil, including nicely nuanced "older" women; luscious descriptions of palace rooms, rambling gardens, and courtyards; all this and a plot that surprises.
Highly recommended.