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Makeda
Rich, warm, captivating, evocative - wonderful.'Desney KingProduct descriptionFrom Australian best-selling author, Prue Sobers - a novel inspired by a medieval text and its ancient tale of sexual conquest.A woman stands in a hooded cloak, feet drenched and muddied, at the entrance of the great hall as thunder reverberates through the palace walls. In the gloom he cannot see her clearly. It is before the Common Era, the year 961. He is Solomon the Wise, thwarted by protocol, impatient for his work. She is the beautiful and spirited Makeda, Queen of Sheba and all Ethiopia who has risked life and limb in a bid to talk trade. Against a glittering backdrop of pomp and opulence, and the shadows of slavery and the politics of the times, as strangers, they embark on an uncharted course.She is not what he expects and takes him by surprise. He is everything she has heard. Behind the closed doors of privilege and power, both are about to face more than they bargain for.Brimming with imagery, taut with intrigue, Makeda is alight with incident and glamour. In her compelling novel of obsession and self-discovery, Prue Sobers brings to life two of the world's most illustrious icons, rendering them enthralling in all their dazzling otherness, yet as human and palpable as legends of our day. Feisty and engaging, the novel takes the reader into the minds of its characters, foiling all the energy of sovereignty and might with the exquisite eroticism of attraction and desire. Emotionally rich and evocative, this bitter-sweet story of moral dilemma, grand passions and sacrifice will tug whimsically on the strings long after it is read.
344 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2011
6 people are currently reading
261 people want to read
About the author
Prue Sobers
4 books6 followersPrue spent her young adult years, living and working in Australia, North America, Britain and the West Indies, and later travelled to Africa.
Her books on health and fitness, Deliciously Natural, and its companion, Sweet Conclusions, were best sellers, the former achieving acclaim from the medical fraternity as a classic and the best of its genre. Skilled in product design, Prue developed and marketed a range of health food products nationally under her own label, winning a gold medal and exporting to Japan. She returned to writing after selling her successful business.
Today, Prue considers England and Barbados her ‘homes away from home’. She lives in Melbourne with her husband, psychologist, Greg Nicholson, with whom she shares five grown children.
Prue is currently working on her fourth book, the sequel novel to Makeda, entitled Peril.
Her books on health and fitness, Deliciously Natural, and its companion, Sweet Conclusions, were best sellers, the former achieving acclaim from the medical fraternity as a classic and the best of its genre. Skilled in product design, Prue developed and marketed a range of health food products nationally under her own label, winning a gold medal and exporting to Japan. She returned to writing after selling her successful business.
Today, Prue considers England and Barbados her ‘homes away from home’. She lives in Melbourne with her husband, psychologist, Greg Nicholson, with whom she shares five grown children.
Prue is currently working on her fourth book, the sequel novel to Makeda, entitled Peril.
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Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews
March 12, 2012
I was lucky to win a copy on Good reads. I really looked forward to reading this book. Found Miss Sobers to be a wonderful writer and was impressed with the research she did for the book. Hard to believe this was her debate naval. She is a very talented writer and shows a great passion in her writing and the characters of this book.
We meet Makeda a beautiful women who is the Queen of Sheba. The story tells of how she comes to meet King Solomon the great and wise King of Israel. They are both powerful leader of their own countries. We meet both of them and watch how their love grows for each other. Prue Sobers takes us on a trip from the halls of King Solomon's palace to the lands of Ethiopia of Makeda the Queen of Sheba.
Miss Sobers show us a beautiful story of great courage, passion and sacrifice of both characters. We are given and insight into the thoughts of these two great people. Looking forward to more writings by Prue Sobes.
If you love historical fiction here is a book you should read.
We meet Makeda a beautiful women who is the Queen of Sheba. The story tells of how she comes to meet King Solomon the great and wise King of Israel. They are both powerful leader of their own countries. We meet both of them and watch how their love grows for each other. Prue Sobers takes us on a trip from the halls of King Solomon's palace to the lands of Ethiopia of Makeda the Queen of Sheba.
Miss Sobers show us a beautiful story of great courage, passion and sacrifice of both characters. We are given and insight into the thoughts of these two great people. Looking forward to more writings by Prue Sobes.
If you love historical fiction here is a book you should read.
August 3, 2016
Sobers' 'Makeda' was an impressive read, combining painstaking research with an ability to write with great clarity.
The novel successfully portrays the author's passion for the subject matter while providing a solid and compelling narrative.
Every detail of 'Makeda' is immaculate, allowing for rich description and a powerful setting. The main protagonists, Solomon and eponymous Makeda, are written with great care and sensitivity - a credit to Sobers' respect for not only the period of time, but also the subtleties of the human mind and spirit.
Evocative and heartfelt, 'Makeda' epitomises what makes historical fiction so powerful; a hybrid of knowledge and passion.
The novel successfully portrays the author's passion for the subject matter while providing a solid and compelling narrative.
Every detail of 'Makeda' is immaculate, allowing for rich description and a powerful setting. The main protagonists, Solomon and eponymous Makeda, are written with great care and sensitivity - a credit to Sobers' respect for not only the period of time, but also the subtleties of the human mind and spirit.
Evocative and heartfelt, 'Makeda' epitomises what makes historical fiction so powerful; a hybrid of knowledge and passion.
August 17, 2012
This book, Makeda, has an abundance of well done ambiance and I get the feeling that Prue Sobers knows this era well, if not also this country and setting. Makeda (the Queen of Sheba) herself is a highly believable character and I found her charming.
The story was lacking in interest however, and I am on the cusp of giving it 2 stars. I congratulate the author on her meticulous research and lovely Queen of Sheba character, but I felt there was a distinct lack of energy.
While this is not my usual kind of read, I did not mind it and would recommend it to people who like romantic historical fiction with strong female characters.
The story was lacking in interest however, and I am on the cusp of giving it 2 stars. I congratulate the author on her meticulous research and lovely Queen of Sheba character, but I felt there was a distinct lack of energy.
While this is not my usual kind of read, I did not mind it and would recommend it to people who like romantic historical fiction with strong female characters.
February 5, 2015
If goodreads allowed for it, I would rate this in between a 2 and a 3 star book.
It's always really frustrating for me when I end up feeling bogged down by a book I WANTED to like. I had high hopes for this book--there's so little historical fiction on this subject. But it was such a trial. The language was syrupy and exotified, Makeda/Bilqis was just NOT THAT SMART OR CUNNING; there was way too much emphasis on the whole Solomon thing with love letters that sounded like quotes from the Song of Songs from the Bible. It would have been one thing if it had involved political dialog; instead it was mostly
"OH PLEASE NEGOTIATE WITH ME"
"no"
"I LOVE YOU HERE HAVE SOME SONG OF SONGS"
"OH YES INDEED I LOVE YOU"
"but now I don't love you"
Which was exhausting, trying, and did neither character justice.
I suppose the reason why I'm being so harsh is because I wasn't expecting a historical romance novel--if I had been, I would have been more accepting (although this novel doesn't even fit a romance-novel mold, as there are absolutely no sex scenes, just sort of gushing about people's bodies and rhapsodizing things like wisdom without actually sounding wise). But I was expecting something that felt thoroughly researched and in-depth. There are loads of historical fiction biographies on the market right now, and the standards are getting high. But this felt more like something to give to young adults, and even then, with that lower standard and emphasis on "she's just like you and me; she likes boys!" (which I argue is demeaning to GOOD YA writers), it still felt rather flat.
It's like this book couldn't decide on what it wanted to be and thus dragged on and on without really saying anything at all.
It's always really frustrating for me when I end up feeling bogged down by a book I WANTED to like. I had high hopes for this book--there's so little historical fiction on this subject. But it was such a trial. The language was syrupy and exotified, Makeda/Bilqis was just NOT THAT SMART OR CUNNING; there was way too much emphasis on the whole Solomon thing with love letters that sounded like quotes from the Song of Songs from the Bible. It would have been one thing if it had involved political dialog; instead it was mostly
"OH PLEASE NEGOTIATE WITH ME"
"no"
"I LOVE YOU HERE HAVE SOME SONG OF SONGS"
"OH YES INDEED I LOVE YOU"
"but now I don't love you"
Which was exhausting, trying, and did neither character justice.
I suppose the reason why I'm being so harsh is because I wasn't expecting a historical romance novel--if I had been, I would have been more accepting (although this novel doesn't even fit a romance-novel mold, as there are absolutely no sex scenes, just sort of gushing about people's bodies and rhapsodizing things like wisdom without actually sounding wise). But I was expecting something that felt thoroughly researched and in-depth. There are loads of historical fiction biographies on the market right now, and the standards are getting high. But this felt more like something to give to young adults, and even then, with that lower standard and emphasis on "she's just like you and me; she likes boys!" (which I argue is demeaning to GOOD YA writers), it still felt rather flat.
It's like this book couldn't decide on what it wanted to be and thus dragged on and on without really saying anything at all.
April 13, 2012
"We are not born wise, Solomon. Revelation comes with knowledge and introspection." - Makeda
Makeda tells the story of Makeda, Queen of Sheba, and King Solomon. It also tells the story of some of the tribes that lived in the area that is now the Middle East and Israel. While I knew of Solomon from the bible stories, I had never heard of Makeda before so it was interesting to be introduced to such an intriguing historical figure.
That being said, I do wish that the story had really focused more on the romance between Makeda and Solomon. The story is really broken up by the second part of the book, which focuses on various characters in the tribes. While this is an interesting story and it was interesting to be introduced how many other people during the time were living during the time period. Not everyone could be royalty! But it did seem a little out of place. I just really wanted to see how two such powerful people like Makeda and Solomon fell so hard for each other. What made them tick? What made them be able to
One thing that I love in historical fiction books is being taken to a place where I've never been before. This was definitely new territory for me and I loved it!
Bottom line: This is a solid historical fiction pick!
Makeda tells the story of Makeda, Queen of Sheba, and King Solomon. It also tells the story of some of the tribes that lived in the area that is now the Middle East and Israel. While I knew of Solomon from the bible stories, I had never heard of Makeda before so it was interesting to be introduced to such an intriguing historical figure.
That being said, I do wish that the story had really focused more on the romance between Makeda and Solomon. The story is really broken up by the second part of the book, which focuses on various characters in the tribes. While this is an interesting story and it was interesting to be introduced how many other people during the time were living during the time period. Not everyone could be royalty! But it did seem a little out of place. I just really wanted to see how two such powerful people like Makeda and Solomon fell so hard for each other. What made them tick? What made them be able to
One thing that I love in historical fiction books is being taken to a place where I've never been before. This was definitely new territory for me and I loved it!
Bottom line: This is a solid historical fiction pick!
March 7, 2012
This book was very well researched, and the detail was truly astounding. One could almost picture themselves as being there. I truly enjoyed the second part of the novel, where we learn about the slave Gutte, and his tribe member's escape. To me that was the most exciting and riveting part of the whole novel.
The one bone I had to pick with this book, was that while I know it was a love story, I felt like it was too easy. Makeda never seemed to have any flaws. From the moment King Solomon saw her, he could not get enough of her beauty, her poise, her ability to deftly change subjects and wow his advisors. While I agree that these are all characteristics that would truly make for a good queen, I felt as though they were unrealistic. I suppose since these parts were told through the rose-tinted glasses of a man in love, they are true, and everything she does would be wonderful. However, as a human, I felt like she should have had some flaws. This seemed unrealistic to me, and as such it caused a slight downgrade in my rating. Perhaps this is me being a little too picky, but it's my opinion.
The one bone I had to pick with this book, was that while I know it was a love story, I felt like it was too easy. Makeda never seemed to have any flaws. From the moment King Solomon saw her, he could not get enough of her beauty, her poise, her ability to deftly change subjects and wow his advisors. While I agree that these are all characteristics that would truly make for a good queen, I felt as though they were unrealistic. I suppose since these parts were told through the rose-tinted glasses of a man in love, they are true, and everything she does would be wonderful. However, as a human, I felt like she should have had some flaws. This seemed unrealistic to me, and as such it caused a slight downgrade in my rating. Perhaps this is me being a little too picky, but it's my opinion.
February 16, 2016
From its beautiful front cover and lovely prose within its pages, the novel Makeda definitely drew me in and swept me back into ancient history. It is the heated love story between King Solomon and Makeda, Queen of Sheba, both powerful, wealthy leaders in their own lands.
Within its pages, author, Prue Sobers, deftly tackles powerful subjects such as slavery and oppression by weaving Makeda 19s life story and detailing the splendid romance that unfolds between her and Solomon. The author writes with great skill, gentle clarity, and avid enough descriptions to truly give readers a strong sense of the era.
I enjoyed Makeda 19s talent to verbally spar with Solomon, impressing instead of offending, fascinating instead of angering. She was a woman of great resilience, courageous enough to speak her mind and unafraid to act on her moral ethics. Makeda is a true heroine, one who has transcends time, whereby her dignity and brilliance fascinates to this day. A wonderful biographical historical novel!
Within its pages, author, Prue Sobers, deftly tackles powerful subjects such as slavery and oppression by weaving Makeda 19s life story and detailing the splendid romance that unfolds between her and Solomon. The author writes with great skill, gentle clarity, and avid enough descriptions to truly give readers a strong sense of the era.
I enjoyed Makeda 19s talent to verbally spar with Solomon, impressing instead of offending, fascinating instead of angering. She was a woman of great resilience, courageous enough to speak her mind and unafraid to act on her moral ethics. Makeda is a true heroine, one who has transcends time, whereby her dignity and brilliance fascinates to this day. A wonderful biographical historical novel!
June 26, 2012
I received this book for free through goodreads first reads program. Firstly, thank you to Prue for sending me her book all the way from Australia at great expense.
I enjoyed this novel. I loved the settings and rich details. I did find myself wanting a map of the areas described in the novel and did some googling to help visualize them. Based on the description on the back of the book I thought more of the novel would be dedicated to the negotiations between the two leaders, but this part was glossed over in the first 30 pages. Which isn't to say that I didn't enjoy the rest of the book, just that I was surprised. Looking forward to the sequel and the continuation of their love story and further development of their characters.
I enjoyed this novel. I loved the settings and rich details. I did find myself wanting a map of the areas described in the novel and did some googling to help visualize them. Based on the description on the back of the book I thought more of the novel would be dedicated to the negotiations between the two leaders, but this part was glossed over in the first 30 pages. Which isn't to say that I didn't enjoy the rest of the book, just that I was surprised. Looking forward to the sequel and the continuation of their love story and further development of their characters.
April 22, 2012
I really enjoyed this book. I loved the setting in ancient Israel and it was so intersting.
Prue Sobers has done an incredible job with her research and I found her attention to detail captivating.
The story revolves around King Solomon and the Queen of Ethiopia. Intwined in their story is the building of the temple in Jerusalem and daily life in ancient times.
I'm interested with a number of parts of the book in knowing whether they are based on fact or not. I'll be doing some Google searches.
I was happy to read there will be a sequel - yeah Prue! I'm looking forward to reading it :)
Prue Sobers has done an incredible job with her research and I found her attention to detail captivating.
The story revolves around King Solomon and the Queen of Ethiopia. Intwined in their story is the building of the temple in Jerusalem and daily life in ancient times.
I'm interested with a number of parts of the book in knowing whether they are based on fact or not. I'll be doing some Google searches.
I was happy to read there will be a sequel - yeah Prue! I'm looking forward to reading it :)
June 11, 2012
I would like to thank Goodreads and Prue Sobers for posting "Makeda" as a goodreads giveaway.
I really wanted to enjoy this books however I could not get into it. I did not understand the characters, their interactions and found myself asking 'whats the point?'. It was more of a passive book. Plot was, allegedly, occurring around me but I was not inside the action. I believe that the characters needed more defining qualities and unique characteristics. After finishing the book I cannot describe the characters in detail because they did not make an impression on me.
As stated above, I really wanted to enjoy the book but for some reason it never clicked with me.
I really wanted to enjoy this books however I could not get into it. I did not understand the characters, their interactions and found myself asking 'whats the point?'. It was more of a passive book. Plot was, allegedly, occurring around me but I was not inside the action. I believe that the characters needed more defining qualities and unique characteristics. After finishing the book I cannot describe the characters in detail because they did not make an impression on me.
As stated above, I really wanted to enjoy the book but for some reason it never clicked with me.
December 28, 2012
After reading this magnificent book, I instantly became a fan of Ms Prue! I love the characters, the way she was able to adapt many legends of the Queen of Sheba into one book! The way she wrote it is absolutely amazing, and it is something that I would love to read over and over again! I cannot wait for the sequel!!
A MUST READ!! I was away in town and finished the ebook in 2 days! I could have finished it in a day if I wasn't busy with the Holidays!
A MUST READ!! I was away in town and finished the ebook in 2 days! I could have finished it in a day if I wasn't busy with the Holidays!
August 11, 2014
I received this book a while back through the First Reads Program.
Reminiscent of The Alchemist, Makeda is beautifully written in waxing prose that speak to the mysticism and opulence of the times.
This read require your fullest attention. It lags a little in with Gutte's aside; but the imagery and demanding nature implores the reader to continue and it comes full circle in the end.
Reminiscent of The Alchemist, Makeda is beautifully written in waxing prose that speak to the mysticism and opulence of the times.
This read require your fullest attention. It lags a little in with Gutte's aside; but the imagery and demanding nature implores the reader to continue and it comes full circle in the end.
Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews