Isis of Egypt: Goddess of Thrones

by Malayna Evans

One determined goddess. Two beloved gods. Three coveted thrones.

Ancient Egypt’s most formidable goddess will stop at nothing to save her true love from the wrath of a vengeful god in this romantic retelling by the author of Neferura, perfect for readers who loved Lilith.

Isis, goddess of thrones and magic, steals the crown of Egypt and hands the power to her husband, Osiris. Together, Isis and Osiris live an idyllic life, ruling justly until the god of chaos, set on revenge for a crime Isis knows nothing about, traps Osiris in a box—a box that quickly vanishes.

Driven by rage and desperation, Isis spends decades disguised as a human woman, isolated from home and family as she searches for her lost love. When she finally uncovers the box, what she finds will change her life—and the fate of gods and mortals—forever. Unless Isis can right the wrongs of a betrayal she didn’t commit and deliver Egypt into the hands of a worthy leader, Egypt will fall to chaos. 

Isis of  Goddess of Thrones is a feminist retelling about the woman behind one of the ancient world’s most widespread and enduring cults, a goddess whose message of empathy and resilience resonates still today.

Genres: Fantasy, Mythology, Retellings, Historical Fiction, Egypt, Fiction, Adult

352 pages, Paperback

First published June 23, 2026

About the author

I'm a writer, Egyptologist, mom (2 kids and 2 spoiled Frenchies), friend, avid reader and dedicated coffee drinker.

The thing I'm most excited about at the moment is sharing ISIS OF EGYPT with readers. I waited years for someone to write a solid retelling of the Isis mythology, and finally buckled down to write it myself. I loved exploring her relationships, losses, and successes. Above all, I hope readers will be inspired by her persistence and walk away hopefully that we can all stand up to chaos and make a difference.

Fingers crossed y'all enjoy the ride! Feel free to ask me any questions. I look forward to sharing more about me and my work. Thanks for checking in. xo, me

Reviews

[TheLittleLunarReads · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was wonderful. So fun to read, it touched a part of me I thought I’d never revisit, I used to love ancient Egypt and the myths and gods and goddesses. This book would have made a teenage me a very happy girl. Isis naturally being my favourite goddess too. I enjoyed the story of her and Osiris and Horus. I loved the mentions of all the minor gods you wouldn’t normal see unless you researched. Honestly it was so lovely to read. Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this Digital ARC copy

[Christina C · Rating 4 out of 5]

Isis of Egypt: Goddess of Thrones is an engaging and informative retelling of one of the most famous stories in Egyptian mythology. The book does an excellent job introducing readers to the Egyptian pantheon, featuring many of the gods and goddesses while focusing on Isis and her rise as one of Egypt's most important deities.

The story follows the dramatic conflict between Set and Osiris, including Set's betrayal and the search for the box containing Osiris' body. Isis' determination and devotion shine throughout her journey across Egypt as she works to restore Osiris. The book also covers the birth of Horus and his eventual battle against Set, providing a satisfying conclusion to this legendary mythological saga.

What I enjoyed most was how the author brought together multiple myths into a cohesive narrative that is easy to follow while remaining faithful to the spirit of Egyptian mythology. The characters are memorable, and the family drama between the gods keeps the story interesting.

The reason for my 4-star rating is that some sections felt a bit rushed, particularly when covering the large cast of gods and goddesses. A little more depth in certain scenes and character development would have made the story even stronger.

Overall, Isis of Egypt: Goddess of Thrones is a fascinating read for anyone interested in Egyptian mythology, ancient legends, or stories of powerful gods, heroic quests, and epic battles.

[Kait · Rating 5 out of 5]

After a 3 book slump, this story gave my heart a great deal of happiness. A tale of a faithful marriage (“grief is love persevering” came to mind) in the midst of political strife; learning to forgive and let go of hate; and what it means to leave behind a worthwhile legacy. There were some itsy-bitsy details I did not love (like an offhand comment re: Isis helping pregnancies flourish, *and* assisting in abortions). But the overwhelming sensation I take from this retelling of an Egyptian myth is happy relief over a well-told story.

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review! “Isis of Egypt: Goddess of Thrones” comes out June 2026.

[Leanna Streeter · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a fascinating reimagining of the myth of Isis that brought Ancient Egypt to life. I loved seeing the story through Isis’s eyes as she navigated love, loss, power, and resilience while refusing to give up on the people she loves.

The historical and mythological details added so much depth to the story, and Isis was a compelling heroine to follow. If you enjoy mythology retellings with strong female characters, rich worldbuilding, and an emotional journey, this one is definitely worth picking up.

[Sara · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a great Egyptian retelling of one of its most well known and powerful goddesses! Review to come! 👑

(FINAL REVIEW:)

I was so excited when this book was first announced and I’m so happy to say that this book was everything that I hoped it would be. I’ve been looking for an Ancient Egyptian mythology retelling for a long time (not including the Ancient Egypt inspired YA books that have been coming out lately which have been great!) and so getting a reimagining of the goddess Isis is such a treat in and of itself. I’d like to preface this review that the author reached out and sent me an e-copy of her book along with some book goodies, and this in no way influenced my thoughts on the book. Also, the second to the last paragraph will probably contain spoilers for those who are no familiar with the myths of Isis and the book in general, so please skip that paragraph if you don’t want to get any idea of the ending (I’ll put big ❌’s before and after the spoiler though just in case)!! Now on to the review! 😊

On a side note, I’m again here to tell publishers to please please PLEASE put Author’s Notes in the front of the book!! While I think the creative approach Evans took in this was great and am already familiar with the goddess and her myths, there might be others who are not in the same boat as me and I think it would greatly benefit their reading experience if they see the author’s note first. 📝

The story (as you can probably tell from the title) is about the great Egyptian goddess of wisdom, magic, and thrones: Isis. I loved Evans’ characterization of her in this. She’s prideful with a heathly dose of egotism as expected for a great and powerful goddess, but she’s compassionate to all the gods and mortals, and loyal to those who she loves. I loved the development she goes through from being born fully grown to a grief-stricken widow and then finally to an overprotective mother. And while I love seeing a great deity like this have flaws, I did find it rather comical that a goddess of wisdom would overlooked things in plans and people. No matter what though, this made this ancient goddess all the more lovable for me. 🪶

The side characters of Isis’s siblings and other gods were a wonderful motley crew. I especially liked the sister relationship and bond that Isis and Nephthys had, and I can only imagine how this reflects actual sisterly relationships (if not only an over the top godly way). The relationship with Osiris was just what I had expected (devoted and loving), but the relationship with Set is what had me so intrigued. I loved that he’s more than just an evil god in this story, but a younger brother that feels neglected, outshone, and wronged by his siblings. I would honestly love to get a deeper look into Evans’ Set since I do love a good “misunderstood god” story. ❤️‍🩹

Plot wise, I loved the trajectory of the story and how it all came together, but I personally found the ending a little rushed. ❌ I would’ve liked to have seen what the pantheon thought of Horus’s rule and whether or not the ending for Set fit or not for him. To me, it just felt a little unresolved? ❌ But other than that personal thought, I honestly had so much fun with this! I think fans of Circe, The Witch and the Tsar, and The Witch’s Heart will enjoy the similar tone and pacing of this book. 👑

Thank you again goes to the author, Evans, for reaching out in the first place and even remembering me from my review of Neferura. I had a great time in your Ancient Egypt both mortal and godly, and can’t wait to see what you have in store next! Maybe a short story about Set please?? 🙏🏼

Publication date: June 23, so go get a copy now!!!

Overall: 4.5/5 ⭐️

[Spencer Perreault · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book does a wonderful job providing a deeper look into one of the most well-known names in History, Isis. For all the little girls who loved their giant gold Ancient Egypt book, this is for us. Overall the story was good, however I struggled with some of the pacing, particularly in the first half. It is a slower-paced book but you cannot allow that to keep you from seeing it through- the beauty of the storytelling deserves your time.

Thank you to NetGalley and Alcove press for access to this ARC!

[Lucia]

Thank you NetGalley for the eARC!

[Marci · Rating 4 out of 5]

just awesome!

This was great. I love any story of ancient Egyptian and we just don’t have enough of them. Lots of lush details. Everything I could want. I’ve read two of this author’s novels and she is rapidly becoming a favorite!

[Leah2895 · Rating 1 out of 5]

The author has no historical pedigree and gets basic Egyptian mythology all wrong. I’m all for feminism but it’s ludicrous and the writing skews very young adult I kind of want a refund - ugh

[Annamaria Totagiancaspro · Rating 4 out of 5]

Before starting with my review, I would like to thank Netgalley and the Publisher to grant me a digital ARC copy of this novel.

It's been a pleasure reading Isis of Egypt. Since I was a child, I loved Ancient Egypt history and I always feel that there aren't many novels inspired from their mythology. So when I saw this book, the child in me had to read it!

The novel starts from the beginning, narrating how Isis, Set, Osiris and Nephtys came into being from Geb and Nut. The story is told from Isis point of view, which makes the reader feel closer to her as a character. You can say that the story evolves around the four main gods with a special perspective on Isis and Osiris love.
Now, everyone knows about the legend on how Set trapped Osiris and how Isis searched for him for decades just for him to be crowned King of the Dead in the Duat. Of course, everyone knows the academic story but it felt nice reading the emotions of Isis. Her feelings for Osiris, how deeply she cared for him and the desperation that took her when he was gone. Isis was a goddess but her love for Osiris was human. She loved him and wanted to avenge him.

I would have liked to see a bit more of Osiris and Anubis but I completely understand that the main protagonist was Iris.
It was also interesting reading the relationship between Isis and Nephtys. Two sisters who love each other even though Nephtys wanted Osiris' love. A sisterhood that went beyond betrayal and showed forgiveness, mercy and love. The love that you have for your sister even if she makes you angry.

The author's style is fluid and similar to the telling of a myth but sometimes it was too much full of details that could have been avoided not to lose the readers' attention.

[Amr Saleh · Rating 5 out of 5]

She did it again!!!

Malayna Evans’s previous novel, Neferura, had been one of the biggest discoveries of my life. No, that’s not an exaggeration. As an Egyptian, I grew up in a world where Western media depicted ancient Egypt in one of three ways: fetishized, evil, or a playground for Western heroes. Most of the time, all three. Evans gave me a novel that broke all that because it was crafted by an author who has expertise, compassion, and respect toward the culture. She gave me my first-ever Western novel about ancient Egypt that I can recommend without any caveats.

This is the reason I was so excited about her second novel, Isis of Egypt. Normally, I wouldn’t have even bothered due to the reasons mentioned above. Isis, in the modern Egypt I grew up in, thousands of years after her last temple had closed, is still seen in cultural memory as the ultimate divine manifestation of everything that makes Egyptian women so revered in Egyptian culture: intelligent, unyielding, powerful, loving, caring, and most importantly, the protector of Egypt. To this day, Egyptian women are referred to as the daughters of Isis. So, coming from this cultural background, a tale about Isis from Isis’s perspective already had to deal with my unrealistic expectations. Did Evans meet my expectations? No. She exceeded them.

This book promised to be a feminist retelling of the goddess’s story, a story that is already quite feminist for its time, in my opinion. Unlike in other tales, Isis is the one with agency, even when she is at a disadvantage. So instead of having the king save his queen, the damsel in distress, we see Osiris being Isis’s damsel in distress. I encourage you to look at Egyptian art depicting the conception of Horus. Even in a sexual act where the man is typically shown as the dominant partner, we see Isis on top of Osiris, being the active one. A small detail, but when put into context, oh of who she is.

So how is this a feminist take on a tale that already has a female protagonist with such a high level of agency? The humanity of Isis. Despite being one of the most powerful Egyptian gods, maybe even the most powerful if you add the buff she gets later from Ra’s name, you can feel what Isis is feeling. You understand her love, her pain, her frustration, her cunning, and her internal struggle. It’s also incredible that she isn’t the stereotypical “strong female protagonist.” She absolutely is strong, by the way, but her strength is balanced by her flaws. Isis, for all her wisdom and knowledge, is a trickster. Not in a negative way, but unfortunately in the same way women need to bend and play by the rules of a patriarchal society to get anything they deserve.

The incredible attention to detail and mythological accuracy goes without saying. Evans is an Egyptologist, after all. She knows what she is doing. The amount of detail and soul made me feel as if I were reading a historical account written by Thoth. It doesn’t get better than that. But the one thing I adore about this novel, and Neferura before it, is that Egypt feels like an actual place. A pitfall many authors fall into with Egyptian stories is that they focus on the glamour of the gods and kings, while Egypt is basically a backdrop for the ambience. Not with Evans. Her Egypt is an actual, living, breathing place. Its own character, in its own way. That’s something I’ve only seen Egyptian authors and artists do, which just shows how ingrained Evans is in the material, not just the academic side, which is important, but also the human side.

I could keep writing until I end up with an essay, which I’ll probably do at some point, but all in all, Isis of Egypt has joined Neferura as my go-to recommendation for a novel about ancient Egypt. It’s yet another book that entertains but also encourages the reader to think, learn, and understand. A thousand thanks to Malayna Evans. I’m sure the goddess is most pleased by your depiction of her.

As for me, I can’t wait for your next novel. In the meantime, I wish you life, prosperity, and health.

[J. Else · Rating 3 out of 5]

The book follows the story of Isis from her beginnings, discovering her power, overcoming adversity, and ushering her husband and subsequently her son to the throne. For me, there was a jarring amount of mixed time references and names that were frustrating.

While the story brings to life the legend of Isis, Osiris, Set, and Horus, the actual time in history isn’t clear, and word choices and phrases used don’t help matters. Isis mentions how centuries pass multiple times in the narrative, however, how does this relate to ancient Egyptian history? The term ‘centuries’ is mentioned 18 times in the NetGalley version I received, yet no specific pharaoh is ever mentioned. Only a woman from Byblos named Sooses is named. In general, its felt that Isis’s story unfolds during the Old Kingdom, though she is first mentioned in earlier periods. However, she appears in literary form starting in the 5th Dynasty. So I’m guessing this all takes place pre-dynasty. Pyramids are mentioned in the narration, but only in relation to where some of the gods live.

For me, there were some standout & glaring historical errors that I feel worth mentioning:

• Drinking shedeh – this particular drink isn’t recorded until the 18th dynasty during the time of Akhenaten. While I’m sure the story would simply say this is because the drink wasn’t introduced to humanity yet, I feel this is a lazy excuse for a book that is perhaps set 2300 or so BCE—which is 1000 years before Akhenaten.
• The book keeps referencing the land as Egypt and places named Thebes, Alexandria, and Abu Simbel. These are Greek names (the Greek term ‘Aígyptos’ eventually becomes Egypt). Many who pick up this book are familiar with ancient Egypt, so using the terms ‘Kemet’ instead of Egypt and ‘Waset’ for Thebes would be more appropriate and welcome. The use of Greek terms spoken by ancient Egyptian gods is irritating and feels like lazy research. And Alexandria? Really? You’re using the city’s re-named title after the guy who conquered Kemet and its people?
• Modern words that stood out: waffled, toady, triggered, in vogue

Things like this feel disrespectful to me as a reader, and it underscores the authenticity and believability of the book.

To be fair, this is not to say the book isn’t good. There are some moments and a few twists here and there that really shine. However, the whole fake death with Horus “beheading” his mother was a bit too far-fetched for me. How is murdering your mother for the crime of not murdering your uncle ever a good impression to make? The beginning was slower paced as Isis’s life starts as one of ease. As the conflict between Set and Osiris comes to fruition, the narration picks up as Isis navigates a world of mortals while hunting down her missing & trapped husband. I think this part was done extremely well.

Overall, it’s a good retelling of the legend of Isis with very relevant arguments for today’s society about power and leadership. The narrative voice was compelling and developed well. The research, however, fell short despite the author’s impressive credentials. If the choice to use more familiar terms was a publisher choice or an author choice, that’s a point I would not be able to comment on. Whatever the case, there are many books that don't fall into this trap that truly raise the bar on ancient Egyptian (as it's called today) fiction.

[Shawna Borman · Rating 4 out of 5]

It’s the last Wednesday of June, so you know what that means. Book review time! This month, I decided to go with an Egyptian mythology retelling. I knew the very basics going in, but it’s not a mythology I’ve looked into much, so I was just along for the ride. Isis of Egypt: Goddess of Thrones by Malayna Evans was released yesterday (the 23rd) from Alcove Press. As usual, I must thank them and NetGalley for access to an ARC in exchange for an honest and unbiased review. Let’s do the thing!

Isis of Egypt: Goddess of Thrones follows the goddess Isis from birth throughout many of her greatest challenges. It’s not easy being the power behind the throne of the gods, but someone has to find and manipulate the right gods into power. But what happens when her beloved husband is kidnapped after years of peace and prosperity? The goddess abandons everything to search for him, letting chaos reign in her absence. Will her journey bring her husband back to her? Will she be able to end the chaos when she returns? Only time will tell.

Plot: it’s the tale of Isis. I didn’t know much going in, so I’m trusting the author (who has a Ph.D in Egyptian history) to know her stuff. The setting and story were lovely. I enjoyed how much page time went to the minor gods and goddesses. The pacing was pretty good, though a couple of spots lagged. I’m gathering those were the areas that the lore didn’t really cover, because it was mostly filler. But I learned a lot and had fun doing it. My only complaint would be the attempt to make Set sympathetic at the end. The entire book basically highlights what an asshole he was, then when he gets his ass kicked, we’re suddenly supposed to feel bad for him because he had crappy role models? Nah. He’s quite literally the personification of chaos. Just let him be the asshole.

Characters: mostly likeable/understandable. For a book told in close third person, most of the characters are surprisingly fleshed out. Except Osiris. He was basically perfect in Iris’s eyes, which was annoying. Also, apparently there’s a lot of incest in Egyptian mythology. It’s weird. But at least they don’t deny it/skip over it like some mythologies (looking at you Christianity). However, Isis and her siblings are gods, so I guess that’s what makes it okay. I don’t know. I spent far too long trying to convince myself it wasn’t icky, but never quite succeeded.

Writing: kind of preachy. Don’t get me wrong, I agree with the ideas in this book, but everything was so overexplained that it quickly became too much. It was written in more of a memoir style than as a novel, so most of it is Isis telling us the lessons we should learn rather than showing us. Yes, we get it. Stop beating the horse. It’s already dead.

Ultimately, I had mixed feelings about Isis of Egypt: Goddess of Thrones. I really enjoyed learning about Egyptian mythology. The plot and characters were good for the most part. The writing was lacking. It was a solid look into Isis if you’re interested in Egyptian mythology.

Overall, I gave it 4 out of 5 stars. Actually, a solid 3.5, but rounded up because I didn’t feel a 3 was fair. I enjoyed it well enough and think it’s worth a look if you don’t mind something that overexplains everything.

[EmmsBookShelf · Rating 5 out of 5]

Isis of Egypt is an Egyptian Mythology retelling that focuses on the story of the Goddess of magic. With the influx of Greek mythology retelling in the last few years, this book was incredibly refreshing in its theme.

This book is lyrical in its writing and I found myself highlighting so many beautifully written verses as I read through it. The description of the characters appearances beautiful, the colours of their skin, eyes, hair and clothes were so full of texture, that is was so easy to imagine these glittering figures. I also really appreciated the unique personification of the Gods, I loved finding out that this version of Mut loves a bit of pageantry, or that Ma'at has a wicked sense of humour, it not only humanised them, but added a bit of dimension to the overall narrative. It also challenged traditional depictions, like Ammit the devoured actually being quite sweet by nature. The only thing I was a little miffed about was that Sekhmets' myth was changed and in doing so, her ferocity which is such an integral part of her composure as a goddess was reduced. But that is absolutely a me problem, as I struggle to 'switch off' and just appreciate changes that are made to advance the plot of the story when it comes to Ancient Egypt.

The prose is able to communicate key contextual knowledge to the audience through Isis' exploration of the world (as she and her siblings came into the world fully grown) we learn who the existing deities are and what their domain is, the flora, fauna and scents of Egypt (which created such a vivid picture) and general beliefs (like the five components of the soul). As a result of this, it is an incredibly accessible book for those who have only an introductory understanding of Ancient Egyptian mythology. For the most part, this book stays close to the major versions of the myths associated with Isis. Like Greek Mythology, there is not always one version, or an original version of a myth, with them evolving and changing over time to suit the needs of the society (given how often the Egyptians synchronised two Gods together, their associated myths adapted too).

I found the pacing of the book was quite good, Evan's made sure to establish in the text the movement of time, sometimes millennia, others, centuries or decades. It allowed us to understand the immortality of Isis and the other Gods, without being bogged down and having a story that dragged (I don't want it to feel like its taking milennia to get to the point).

Thank you to Netgalley and Alcove Press for giving me the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review. These thoughts and interpretations are all my own.

[iris ☀︎ · Rating 2 out of 5]

2.5/5, rounded down to 2

Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with an ARC of "Isis of Egypt: Goddess of Thrones" in exchange for an honest review.

This was a book that I was incredibly excited for, having loved Malayna Evans' previous book and her handling of the stories as a retelling. Having finished this, though, I'm coming away from it incredibly disappointed in what I read.

The high point of this book is the constructing of one solid narrative of the love of Isis and Osiris, the betrayal of Set, and the birth of Horus. This is where Evans' work as an Egyptologist shines. Although we don't see much of the mortal world even during Isis' search for Osiris, the parts we do see are well developed. The use of minor deities adds to this as well, with many of them playing a larger role than they often do. It's obvious that Evans is well versed in the history of Egypt and the culture (again, Egyptologist!), and I think that's one of the highest points in this book. They were not, however, high enough to save this book for me.

The low points of this book revolve around the writing style and the flat characters. This was written as though it was a memoir, which just didn't land for me. It was a very reflective story, with Isis recounting everything she had gone through, but the scenes often felt over-explained. There was never a point where I felt an emotion for myself because I was watching events unfold, as so many instances are telling you how to feel as the scenes play out.

The characters in this book also often felt very flat, which is something I've experienced in other retellings. Often times in retellings, deities are characterized around a single trait that they have, and this book is guilty of that as well. I think the over-explaining issue would have been better if the characters were more complex, but when they're all flat and only have one personality trait, nothing that happens is compelling to read.

Overall, this book just wasn't able to live up to my expectations, and it very much wasn't for me, as disappointing as that is to say. Retellings are always hit or miss for me, but I was eager to give this a chance having loved "Neferura" and wanting to see retellings from other mythologies. Unfortunately, this was a miss, but I do hope that this can lead to more Egyptian mythology retellings as a whole.

Again, thank you to NetGalley for the ARC.

[celestialpixels_ · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've always had a soft spot for mythology retellings, and over the past year we've been treated to some wonderful additions to the genre. Books like "Andromeda" by E.S. McLeod and "I, Medusa" by Ayana Gray reminded me just how compelling it can be to revisit familiar legends through a fresh lens.

But what immediately drew me to "Isis of Egypt: Goddess of Thrones" was Isis herself.

Of all the figures in Egyptian mythology, Isis has always been one I've found myself particularly fascinated by. So when I saw a novel centered on her story, I knew I needed to pick it up.

While I was already familiar with the myth of Isis and Osiris, author Malayna Evans still managed to make the story feel fresh. Rather than presenting Isis as a distant goddess preserved in legend, Evans explores the emotions behind the myth, transforming her into a fully realized character. Her love, grief, determination, and resilience become the heart of the story.

What I appreciated most about this retelling was how human the gods written in this story felt. They never lose the grandeur that makes them divine, but they are also allowed to be flawed, vulnerable, loving, jealous, and fiercely devoted. The relationships between the gods, particularly those between Isis, Osiris, Set, and Nephthys, give the story much of its emotional weight and made me eager to keep turning the pages.

I also loved seeing Egyptian mythology receive the same attention that Greek mythology retellings have enjoyed in recent years. Ancient Egypt has always held a certain magic for me, and Evans does a wonderful job bringing that world to life. The mythology feels rich and immersive while remaining accessible to readers who may be less familiar with these stories.

At its core, "Isis of Egypt: Goddess of Thrones "is a story about love, loss, perseverance, and the lengths we go to for the ones we care about. Even knowing the mythology beforehand, I found myself completely invested in Isis's journey.

If you're a fan of mythology retellings or are looking to explore a mythology outside of the Greek pantheon, this is definitely one worth picking up.

✨ Thank you to author Malayna Evans, Alcove Press, and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Belinda (Belle) Witzenhausen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a complimentary ARC copy of Isis of Egypt: Goddess of Thrones A Novel by Malayna Evans from Net Galley and Alcove Press/Penguin Random House

Fascinated by Ancient Egypt since childhood and even going on to study Egyptology later in life, I was thrilled to be given the opportunity to read and review Isis of Egypt: Goddess of Thrones. Having read and enjoyed the author’s previous book Neferura, the author did not disappoint. Evans brings one of the most iconic figures of the Egyptian pantheon vividly to life. Isis emerges here not as an untouchable symbol but as a fully realized woman: intelligent, resilient, fiercely devoted, and heartbreakingly human. The novel lets us feel her joy, lust, grief, anger, and uncertainty, and it shows how she moves heaven and earth for those she loves.

What sets this retelling apart is balance. Isis’s strength never becomes a stereotype; it is tempered by flaws and moral complexity. For all her wisdom and power, she can be ruthless, when necessary, driven by a conviction to effect change rather than by cruelty. That moral ambiguity makes her more compelling and believable.

Evans’s command of Egyptian mythology and material culture is evident on every page. The prose is steeped in detail and scholarship, yet never dry; the world feels both authentic and immersive, as if recorded by Thoth himself. The gods retain their grandeur while also being allowed vulnerability, jealousy, tenderness, and fierce loyalty. The emotional core of the book lies in the relationships, especially between Isis, Osiris, Set, and Nephthys, which give the story its weight and momentum.

Ultimately, Isis of Egypt: Goddess of Thrones is a powerful meditation on love, loss, and the lengths we go to protect those we cherish. Evans reshapes a well‑known myth into an intimate, emotionally charged journey that kept me invested in Isis’s fate long after the final pages. Rich in scholarship yet tender in its portrayal of grief and devotion, this novel will appeal to readers who love immersive historical fiction and bold, humanized retellings of myth.

[Mana · Rating 4 out of 5]

Malayna Evans skips the usual marble statue version of Egyptian gods. She puts Isis in the mud instead. This isn't just another myth about a stolen throne; it’s a long, exhausting grind. When Isis loses Osiris and has to hide as a human for decades, she loses everything that made her a goddess. It’s a story about what’s left of you when your status and your home are gone. Just a quiet, stubborn need to fix a mess she didn't even start.

Isis doesn't turn into some girl-boss cliché here. She’s just a tired survivor who finally gets what it's like to be a mortal. The other gods, especially Set, aren't just villains; they’re a messy family with way too much power. Watching her stay empathetic while being totally alone is the best part of the book. It feels like modern burnout. It’s that feeling of doing the thankless work in the background for years just to keep your world from falling apart.

The writing is blunt. No flowery prose or over-the-top descriptions. Evans keeps it cinematic and visceral. Ancient Egypt feels like a real, dirty place, not a museum. Because of that, the emotions feel heavy. When she finally finds what she’s looking for, it isn't a "happily ever after" moment. It’s just the massive, complicated relief of a burden finally moving.

Dust from the Nile and the passage of time fill the pages of this book. It matches the feminist retelling trend yet does not feel like an imitation. It focuses on how much love can actually endure over time, not just the initial spark. My only complaint is the middle part. It’s slow. It mirrors her years of waiting, which might annoy readers looking for a fast plot. But that slowness is the point. You have to feel the loneliness she’s trapped in.

This book makes you look at your own long-term stuff. We all have something we’re searching for, some goal that keeps us going through the boring or hard years. It asks what you’re willing to drop to find what matters. It’s a sharp, weary look at the kind of grit we all hope we have when things get stripped back to nothing.

3.5/5

[Katherine · Rating 4 out of 5]

Four stars for this reimagining of the story of Isis. Malayna Evans has a PhD in Egyption history so her knowledge played a huge part in why I loved this book so much. Her story telling is engaging and interesting. I loved learning the tidbits about so many major and minor Gods. Reading how Isis learned at differnt stages of life to grow, rule, let go, survive, serve, restore, forgive, and to rebuild.



Description

One determined goddess. Two beloved gods. Three coveted thrones.

Ancient Egypt’s most formidable goddess will stop at nothing to save her true love from the wrath of a vengeful god in this romantic retelling by the author of Neferura, perfect for readers who loved Lilith.

Isis, goddess of thrones and magic, steals the crown of Egypt and hands the power to her husband, Osiris. Together, Isis and Osiris live an idyllic life, ruling justly until the god of chaos, set on revenge for a crime Isis knows nothing about, traps Osiris in a box—a box that quickly vanishes.

Driven by rage and desperation, Isis spends decades disguised as a human woman, isolated from home and family as she searches for her lost love. When she finally uncovers the box, what she finds will change her life—and the fate of gods and mortals—forever. Unless Isis can right the wrongs of a betrayal she didn’t commit and deliver Egypt into the hands of a worthy leader, Egypt will fall into chaos.

Isis of Egypt: Goddess of Thrones is a feminist retelling about the woman behind one of the ancient world’s most widespread and enduring cults, a goddess whose message of empathy and resilience resonates still today.


Thank you, NetGalley and Alcove Press, for this galley. I was under no obligation to leave a review. All opinions are my own.

[Brittany Barry · Rating 4 out of 5]

As someone who reads a lot of mythology retellings, I was excited to step beyond the familiar world of Greek gods and immerse myself in the rich, complex mythology of ancient Egypt. 🐍 Isis of Egypt offers a fascinating female-centered perspective on some of Egypt’s most iconic deities, bringing new life to stories that may be less familiar to modern readers. 💗

🪶 What did you love the most?
Evans’ writing is vivid and transportive, painting a breathtaking portrait of ancient Egypt through lush descriptions and immersive storytelling. 📚 Beneath the mythology, the novel explores deeply human themes of grief, betrayal, anger, and resilience, showing how loss can shape us, destroy us, or ultimately transform us. 🥰

🪶 What to expect:
🇪🇬 Egyptian mythology
❤️‍🩹 Fractured relationships
💍 Marriage and family drama

🪶 How was the pace?
This novel weaves together multiple Egyptian myths across more than a thousand years, which is no small feat. 🙂‍↕️ Because of the scope, the story moves quickly, but I never felt overwhelmed or lost.

🪶 How was the romance?
The relationship between Isis and Osiris is one of mythology’s most enduring love stories. 🤭 Their romance is tender, heartbreaking, and central to the emotional core of the novel. While romance readers will appreciate their connection, this is very much a mythological retelling rather than a romance novel, and there is no spice. 🚪

🪶 Do you recommend this book?
If you’ve enjoyed Greek mythology retellings, consider this your invitation to explore a different pantheon. Egyptian mythology is filled with fascinating gods, family rivalries, betrayals, and legendary relationships, and Isis of Egypt offers a compelling introduction to that world.

[Dana Sessa · Rating 5 out of 5]

I will be forever grateful for having the opportunity to read this book.  I have been a huge fan of Ancient Egypt since I was in elementary school and have always been fascinated by the rich history of the gods.  This book opened up doors into that history and Malayna Evans has done a beautiful job bringing the gods to life.  Although the book is based on Isis and her POV, the book also dives into other ancient gods and the roles they played.  Here we learn of their origins, power and magic bestowed upon them.  Relationships that had formed and then destroyed.  There is the before, where the gods and goddesses live in peace.  Then the after comes once Osiris has revenge set upon him for crime he knew nothing about.  From there on out, Isis takes on a different role to help search for lost love and restore the peace they so desperately want to get back too. From the outside, it looks as though there are the heros and villians of the story but what there really is, is just a family dealing with messy issues that can't be swept under the rug but instead is felt in ripples throughout the realms of the gods and humans alike.  Evans has done a great job with her writing.  It helps tell the story in a matter-of-fact way.  Although we already this story and its ending, reading it through Isis POV, you can't help but think there will be a happier ending.  But instead it is just the relief that we can finally move on. This book by far is  5 stars and highly recommended.

[Beau · Rating 4 out of 5]

*Thank you to Alcove Press for a complimentary arc of Isis of Egypt. All opinions expressed are my own.*

As someone who loves mythology retellings, I’ve read a strangely tiny selection of retellings based on Egyptian mythology till now - so I was really excited to pick this one up. Luckily, despite my lack of reading experiences in this area, this book does a fantastic job of introducing readers to the Egyptian pantheon and mythological world while creating an immersive and engaging story that doesn’t overwhelm you.

One of my favourite aspects was learning more about Isis herself. Given how her name has unfortunately become associated with something entirely unrelated and terrible in recent times, it was refreshing to discover the original mythological figure and gain a deeper understanding of what her story actually was. It made it easier to separate the goddess from the terror, and appreciate the rich mythology behind her.

I also really appreciated how the author wove multiple myths together into one cohesive narrative, without it becoming too much. The story remained easy to follow throughout, and it was fascinating to see familiar mythological elements blended into a seamless retelling.

While there were a few parts of the story that felt slightly rushed, I had a lot of fun reading this. Isis of Egypt is a beautifully crafted retelling that brings Egyptian mythology to life, and it’s a book every mythological retelling lover should have on their shelf.

[Jordan Frances Camille · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a fantastic read that completely drew me into the world of ancient Egyptian mythology. As someone who reads a lot of feminist Greek mythology retellings, I loved the opportunity to explore the gods and goddesses of Egypt through a female perspective.

The story follows Isis, Goddess of Magic and Wisdom, Thrones and Power, as she navigates grief, rage, and loss while striving to create a better world. I particularly enjoyed her character development throughout the novel and her resilience to keep going despite the circumstances. Isis embodies empathy and compassion, treating those around her with kindness, yet she is still flawed and has much to learn. Watching her grow through her experiences made her feel both powerful and deeply human.

Malayna Evans’ writing is immersive and evocative, bringing ancient Egypt vividly to life through rich imagery and engaging storytelling. The novel explores themes of anger, grief and rejection, showing both the destructive and transformative paths these emotions can lead people down.

Overall, this was a gripping and emotionally engaging story that I really enjoyed. It deepened my appreciation for Egyptian mythology and left me eager to explore more. I’d highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys mythology, historical fantasy, and stories centred on strong female characters.

Thank you to Malayna Evans and Alcove Press for providing a copy for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.

[Sofia Baraklilis · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you NetGalley for a free copy of this book in exchange for a review.

I’ve always been fascinated by the ancient world, be it Rome, Greece, Egypt and so on. Yet while my knowledge of the Greek gods and their myths are pretty decent I don’t know that much about the Egyptian Gods, so having a story based on Isis was very fascinating.

With really no knowledge on the mythology of Egyptian Diety I was excited to learn about them, how they related to each other and how they related to the wider world through Isis’ eyes. Again, as I have no knowledge on the myths surrounding the Gods, I can’t speak to what the author used and changed in this novel but I enjoyed getting a chance to follow Isis from the ‘beginning’ of her life and beyond. Learning about her character and traits and those of other gods was fascinating and interesting and I enjoyed the dynamics, tricks, and power plays between these gods.

Isis herself is a formidable goddess and her character is one to be admired. I can’t help but compare the Isis we get in this story to what I know of the Greek female Gods who are often portrayed as volatile and jealous. Isis definitely has those traits but she comes across as more level headed and cunning which is something to be admired and someone I could see being worshipped.

Overall I really enjoyed this story and would recommend to others who want to learn more about the Egyptian Gods, in particular Isis, and their myths in an easy to read story.

[Sasha · Rating 2 out of 5]

Unfortunately, this was a dnf at 20% :(

I will start with what worked well. I really enjoyed the Egyptian mythology and found it refreshing to read something centred around Isis, Osiris, and Set, and it was obvious throughout that the author had done her research. I loved learning more about some of the lesser-known gods and the relationships between them, and the setting itself felt incredibly unique and well-crafted.

That being said, I don't think this book quite reached its full potential for me. While the premise was fascinating, I found the pacing a little inconsistent. Some sections dragged on longer than necessary, and then other moments that felt really important seemed to fly by too quickly. It felt like such an effort to read, and something I wasn't finding myself wanting to pick up and continue. I also felt like some of the more dramatic moments lacked the emotional impact they were aiming for. There was so much potential within the story and the mythology, but I found myself wanting a bit more depth and investment in the characters to really make those moments hit harder.

Overall, I enjoyed the originality of the setting and appreciated the amount of mythology woven throughout the story, but I was left wanting a little more from the pacing and emotional side of things.

[Nicole Perkins · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you NetGalley and Alcove Press for the ARC of Malayna Evans' fantastic book "Isis of Egypt: Goddess of Thrones!"

This is such a great story! It is not a re-imagining of the Isis and Osiris myth; it is the myth brought to life with texture and color and emotion and thought. Evans imbues that goddesses and gods of Egypt with personality, building on their godly aspects to create characters that are relatable to readers: empathetic, intelligent, loving, and flawed, as we all are. Even the gods are not perfect, Evans reminds us.

As well as a vibrant presentation of the Isis and Osiris myth, this story is also about Isis coming into her own power and becoming who She is meant to be. She is an all-powerful goddess, but still distant from the mortals that she guides and watches over. In her search for Osiris' body, she must become human, and in doing so she finally comes to understand humanity. She learns from humans even as she teaches them. She learns empathy and humility and comes to understand that there are things even a goddess can't control.

This is another book that I pulled and all-nighter for--who needs sleep when you have a captivating adventure to read?!? Fans of Natalie Haynes, Jennifer Saint, Madeline Miller, and Claire Heywood will all enjoy Malayna Evans' book.

[Tiffany Seward · Rating 3 out of 5]

Mythology | Retelling | Gods

Thank you to Aclove for providing me with an ARC in exchange for my honest review!

• Plot:
The story follows Isis and her divine siblings, immortal deities deeply divided over how to rule the mortal realm. Beyond the complex divine politics, a massive mystery begins to surround Osiris, leaving Isis to navigate a web of deception, strategy, and ancient magic as she tries to uncover the truth.

• What I Liked:
Isis is a multifaceted character. We watch her balance her overlapping roles as a mother, wife, sister, and revered goddess. The inclusion of divine powers, shapeshifting abilities, and intricate magical planning added a great layer to the story. The story wraps up with a bittersweet conclusion.

• What Didn’t Work for Me:
Because these characters are immortal gods, their relationships operate on a completely different level than ours. Isis is in love with her brother, Osiris. While it makes sense within the context of their non-mortal nature, the mythological incest can still feel a bit jarring to read at times.

• Themes / Ideas:
Deception, magic, love, determination, etc.

• Who I’d Recommend It To:
Readers who enjoy mythological fantasy, intricate political plotting, complex family dynamics, and stories with powerful, multifaceted female leads.

• Overall Thoughts:
I liked that at the end of the book, the Author explained the choices behind her retelling and thanked everyone involved in bringing it to life. This is my first time learning about Isis, Osiris, Set, Nepthys, Anubis, Horus, etc. If the original story didn't include incest, this retelling probably would've been even better, since it's a reimagining. It was difficult for me to think that every time Isis would say my husband and the intimate things she wanted to do with him, I would just think, " Yikes, that's her brother." I kinda hope they were unrelated, then it wouldn't be as gross. But, again they're Gods so it's different I guess. The story revolves around her family and is set within it, with minimal interactions outside of it. I took a little longer to read this than I expected, but I was content to complete the whole story!

[Mariah · Rating 4 out of 5]

A historical fiction that Evans thoroughly deploys her in depth research and maintains the lore of Egyptian mythology. Isis is making a name for herself and that is a goddess who is remembered for her empathy and not her cruelty. The narrative classifies as Isis as more than just a romantic option – she is formidable and respectable. She stands her ground and fights for what and who she desires. A romance involving the Gods will always inspire a bit of drama that make the story interesting. A strong retelling of Isis’s story and what it means to be a goddess.
We are given a narrative where Isis lives humbly as a human. And what does it mean to accept the human condition to obtain our desires? The humanity of the Gods is what makes this drama believable with the inclusion of well researched humanity. An ancestral deity of a drama with visceral visions of humanity aside. Evans does a fantastic job of classifying the daily woes of the Gods and how they would approach each other. A fun historical fiction that is effective and to the point. Thank you Malayna Evans, Netgalley, and Alcove Press for this advanced digital copy. All opinions are my own!
Read more reviews, impressions, and tarot readings at my blog, https://brujerialibrary.wordpress.com/

[Lily · Rating 5 out of 5]

In this fascinating mythological retelling, Malayna Evans draws readers into the story of Isis, goddess of thrones and magic, and the challenges ahead of her. After stealing the Egyptian crown and giving it to her husband Osiris, Isis enjoys their idyllic life until Set, the god of chaos, plans his revenge by trapping Osiris in a box that quickly disappears. Traveling the world in disguise and driven by rage, Isis searches for her husband, and the discovery will change her life and the fates of gods and mortals alike. Unless she can make amends for the betrayal she had no part in and find a worthy leader for Egypt, the country will fall into chaos and ruin. Packed with details and figures from Egyptian mythology, readers will love the depth of the novel and the high stakes that dominate the storyline. Isis is a complex and fascinating protagonist and a flawed narrator, and the various challenges and obstacles ahead of her really force her to grow and adapt over the course of the novel. Mythology fans and fans of feminist retellings of older stories will absolutely love the depth of detail and complexity of the characters in Malayna Evans’s brilliant new novel.

Thanks to NetGalley and Alcove Press for the advance copy.

[Devina Yuliarni · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Feminist Retelling of Isis, the Egyptian Goddess of Magic and Wisdom

With a Ph.D. educational background in Egyptian history, Malayna Evans Malayna Evans retells the story of one of the most famous goddesses in Ancient Egypt. Through the lens of Isis’s point of view, Malayna invites the readers into the realm of Egypt's powerful deities. From family affairs to battles for the throne, Isis of Egypt portrays family dynamics with her siblings, Nephthys and Set, as well as her romantic lover, Osiris. After stripping Amun-Ra’s power and securing the throne for Osiris, their happy-ever-after married life was torn apart when her husband suddenly vanished in a box game. Devoted to finding her husband, she hid herself in human form and traveled far away from home. It is a story of women's resilience from the POV of the respected goddess of thrones and magic.


Malayna Evans successfully introduces prominent Egyptian deities in a very digestible yet fluid narrative. Readers can learn more about Egyptian deities and how they interact with one another. Isis of Egypt: Goddess of Thrones is highly recommended for readers who are interested in Egyptian mythology. Though her narrative is not as beautifully written in terms of wordings, Malayna Evans fills the story with Egyptian nuances, from foods, dresses, to plants, and the famous Nile River. It felt like the author immersed its readers in Egyptian culture and history.


Another aspect that makes the story stand out is the author’s way of portraying the female lead character’s depth. Isis’s divine qualities are not only demonstrated through magic but also in noble character, which develops as the story goes on. However, some parts felt too focused on Isis’s feelings, rather than her wisdom, which weakens her divine image. I also felt that some parts of the story were too slow-paced, which might cause readers to lose their attention.


Overall, Isis of Egypt: Goddess of Thrones is a feminist retelling of the widely worshipped Egyptian goddess Isis, whose story portrays resilience and wisdom as the two most formidable powers. It is highly recommended for readers who are interested in Egyptian myths. Thank you Net Galley and Malayna Evans for the e-ARC copy of the book.