Sunni: The Life and Love of King Tutankhamun's Wife

by Julianna Boyer

The historical figure of King Tut comes alive in the novel Sunni: The Life and Love of King Tutankhamun's Wife. The dramatic story of the boy pharaoh of Egypt has fascinated the world for generations, touching on romance and unsolved mystery. Sunni was the half-sister of King Tut. Four years older, she became the biggest part of his growing up years. After Tut became King, he chose Sunni to be his wife. The book tells their love story, including both the good and bad times. From miscarriages to infidelity, the story gives the life and love of King Tut's reign through the eyes of his one true love. After his death, Sunni had huge decisions to make, and any wrong choice could result in tragedy. First-time author Julianna Boyer has been interested in King Tutankhamun since she was a little girl. She lives in Jefferson City, Missouri, with her husband John, two daughters, and a grandson. "Ever since I was 12, I have been almost obsessed with King Tut. Between that passion, dreams, and a past-life regression, I was inspired to write this book." Publisher's website: http: //sbprabooks.com/JuliannaBoyer

Genres: Historical Fiction

92 pages, Paperback

First published March 31, 2014

Reviews

[Erin · Rating 3 out of 5]

I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion as follows:

This book is a really quick read. If you've got a free hour or two, that's all you'll need to finish it completely. The story intrigued me. I'm not very familiar with the events of King Tut's life, but I was immediately interested in the life of his wife. What would it be like to be married to one of the most famous people in history? And for the most part, the book answered this question. The reader was able to see how a day in the life of a royal Egyptian would have played out. This is not a happy story, but that only makes it more real.

That being said, there were a few things about this book that made it difficult for me as the reader. The book begins in the modern day with a woman who has traveled somewhere to experience a past-life regression. I had never heard of this before reading this book and a little more explanation about what a past-life regression is and the whole process of achieving a glimpse into a past-life would have been appreciated. Also, when the book ended, the narrative did not revert to modern woman and I was left wondering more about her and her life after this experience.

There was no dialogue in the book, which kind of made me feel far away from the characters. It was like Sunni was withdrawn from each situation, looking at the events of her life as a spectator and commenting to the reader about it. I know that there was passion in Sunni's relationship with Tut, but it was hard to really connect with either of them without ever "hearing" them speak. The book read somewhat like a journal entry.

Apart from that, the book has a beautiful and exotic setting, interesting characters, court intrigue, romance, and sadness. All of these elements combined to make a book that I enjoyed spending a good hour with.

[Charity Henderson-vanderslice · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book. It was an easy, flowing read that kept my interest piqued. There was a page in the story that was a little more racy, and seemed a tiny bit out of place. It didn't offend or bother me at all, but might not be suitable for pre-teens. However, that being said, I am going to let my seventeen year old read it. I thought it was a great story that had a solid conclusion and was well researched, and I really enjoyed the past life idea being the basis of the story. I loved the subject matter. Ancient Egyptian culture fascinates me as well as my daughter. She is the reason for my entering the contest. I can't wait to discuss it with her when she finishes reading it. I was incredibly honored that the author included a hand written note and signed the book for me. With this being her first book, I thought she did an amazing job, and hope to hear when her next piece is published. I think we will see more great books from this author, hopefully in the new future.

[Ken · Rating 3 out of 5]

**Received from Goodreads First Reads giveaway**

Sunni: The Life and Love of King Tutankhamun's Wife tells the story of King Tut’s life from the perspective of his primary wife and half-sister, whom he calls Sunni. This book was a very quick read, which covers a lot of time in a hurry. I am not personally familiar with the known facts about Tut’s life, so I do not know how much is factual. Sunni gives an intriguing look at the potential court intrigue and romantic life of the “boy king”. Tut and Sunni endure many travails in their short lives, as written by Ms. Boyer.

As noted, this was a quick read, and I did find it interesting. I would recommend this book to those that enjoy romance in their historical fiction.

[Vicki Willis · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was given this book for free in exchange for an honest review...
I enjoyed this book. the subject matter of King Tut is intriguing and it was written from the perspective of his wife who was also his sister. It was a short book and a quick read but had elements of romance, lies, betrayal and heart break. It gave a glimpse of what life was like for women/wives during this time period. Well done!

[John Atkin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sometimes it is difficult to be bias when writing a review when it is for someone that you know personally. I felt compelled to do it anyway. I really enjoyed the way this book was written, it is easy to follow. Just a very good story and story line all around! I want more!

[Stacey · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book. The story held my interest. I like the fact that is wasn't predictable My only complaint is I would have liked more detail, for example how the characters were dressed or what the surroundings looked like. Other than that is was a good book & I would recommend it to others.

[Denise · Rating 3 out of 5]

I've read a lot of books written about this period of history, and this was a nice quick read with new twists on the life and people during Tut's life. Thank you!

[Ankh]

Its good but it isnt the reality

[Janice · Rating 3 out of 5]

I won this book in a Goodreads giveaway in exchange for an honest review. 3 1/2 stars. story about King Tut's first wife- Ankhesenpaaten or Sunni as she was called by Tutankhaten. She was actually Tut's half sister but he was a very sickly child and almost died several times and Sunni ended up taking care of him and by doing so became very close to him and very fond of him.After King Smenkhkare committed suicide Tut became King at the age of nine.Within a year Sunni married Tut and became his favorite wife. For the most part Sunni and Tut were happy, but she became jealous whenever he paid attention to any of his other wives. Sunni finally became pregnant but miscarried when she saw Tut and a councilman's daughter. Sunni became involved in making decisions on running the kingdom. Finally Sunni became pregnant again.Sunni and Kohlveri were constantly fighting over Tut as both wanted to be Tut's favorite wife. Kohlveri lost her baby and killed herself. When Sunni went into labor her baby was also born dead. Sunni wanted to be the queen more than anything, even more than her love for Tut, so she planned with his principal adviser Ay to have Ay become the ruler with Sunni as his favorite wife. After Tut's death Sunni decided she didn't want to marry him and was put to death. Very quick read. Only took about an hour or so.

[Cathy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a highly enjoyable quick read. The descriptive language provides all you need to see each of the characters, the setting, and the drama in your own mind. This piece of historical fiction is believable and provides a new insight to King Tut. I hope this new author continues to write.