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Oracle of the Reeds
Scrolls of papyrus are found in a humble grave which prove to be the written account of Senmut's life story. Oracle of the Reeds traces the story of this son of a paper maker to his education in the Prince's School in the palace at Thebes to his life as a priest of Amun and finally to the palace of Thutmose II where he secures a position as teacher in the king's harem. Here he meets the princess Hatshepsut as a child. It begins a long friendship that turns into a tempestuous love affair. When her husband dies, Hatshepsut assumes the role of regent of the child king Thutmose III. As such, she continues to bestow honors and power to her lover, Senmut. In his new role, Senmut becomes the king maker and Hatshepsut assumes the role of king dressed in the traditional male royal attire. The ambitious Senmut has also honed his skills as an architect and achieves his crowning glory creating the most beautiful of all Egyptian temples, the temple to Amun and Hathor at Deir el Bahri. For his achievement, he receives the honor of Greatest of the Great. Throughout the narrative flows the ageless Nile, bringing life to the kingdom's people. The smells, the sights, the songs, the poems, and the ancient gods pervade the atmosphere of a magic time.
Hatshepsut's reign is one of the most peaceful and prosperous in Egyptian history, but it is fraught with danger. Hapuseneb, the High Priest of Amun and soon to be vizier enters the palace and forms an alliance with the teenaged Thutmose. Already a boyhood enemy of Senmut's, his plots and intrigues prove to be the undoing of Senmut who is forced into exile and ultimately the death of the female king.
Hatshepsut's reign is one of the most peaceful and prosperous in Egyptian history, but it is fraught with danger. Hapuseneb, the High Priest of Amun and soon to be vizier enters the palace and forms an alliance with the teenaged Thutmose. Already a boyhood enemy of Senmut's, his plots and intrigues prove to be the undoing of Senmut who is forced into exile and ultimately the death of the female king.
273 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 11, 2018
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Displaying 1 - 2 of 2 reviews
July 16, 2024
Thomas Bauer’s Oracle of the Reeds is an engrossing historical novel that vividly brings ancient Egypt to life. The story follows Senmut, a papermaker’s son who rises through the ranks to become a priest, a teacher in the royal palace, and ultimately a master architect. His journey is intricately tied to Hatshepsut, a princess who ascends to become one of Egypt’s most remarkable rulers.
Bauer’s writing style is richly descriptive and immersive. He excels in painting a vivid picture of ancient Egyptian culture, society, and daily life. From the bustling city of Thebes to the serene rituals of the temple, the author’s attention to detail is meticulous and adds authenticity to the narrative. The historical context is seamlessly woven into the story, providing readers with a deep understanding of the period without feeling like a history lesson.
One of the strengths of Oracle of the Reeds is its character development. Senmut is a compelling protagonist whose growth and ambitions drive the narrative forward. Hatshepsut’s portrayal as a strong and intelligent ruler is equally captivating. Their complex relationship is handled with sensitivity and depth, adding an emotional layer to the historical events.
The novel is not without its tensions and conflicts. Political intrigue and power struggles are central to the plot, creating a sense of suspense and drama. However, Bauer manages to balance these elements with moments of introspection and personal growth, making the characters’ journeys feel genuine and relatable.
While the book is richly detailed, it occasionally slows the pace of the narrative. Nonetheless, the immersive experience and well-developed characters more than compensate for these moments.
In conclusion, Oracle of the Reeds is a beautifully crafted historical novel that transports readers to the heart of ancient Egypt. Thomas Bauer’s evocative storytelling and meticulous research make this a highly recommended read for fans of historical fiction. For readers of historical fiction, this is a must-read. 4 out of 5 stars!
Bauer’s writing style is richly descriptive and immersive. He excels in painting a vivid picture of ancient Egyptian culture, society, and daily life. From the bustling city of Thebes to the serene rituals of the temple, the author’s attention to detail is meticulous and adds authenticity to the narrative. The historical context is seamlessly woven into the story, providing readers with a deep understanding of the period without feeling like a history lesson.
One of the strengths of Oracle of the Reeds is its character development. Senmut is a compelling protagonist whose growth and ambitions drive the narrative forward. Hatshepsut’s portrayal as a strong and intelligent ruler is equally captivating. Their complex relationship is handled with sensitivity and depth, adding an emotional layer to the historical events.
The novel is not without its tensions and conflicts. Political intrigue and power struggles are central to the plot, creating a sense of suspense and drama. However, Bauer manages to balance these elements with moments of introspection and personal growth, making the characters’ journeys feel genuine and relatable.
While the book is richly detailed, it occasionally slows the pace of the narrative. Nonetheless, the immersive experience and well-developed characters more than compensate for these moments.
In conclusion, Oracle of the Reeds is a beautifully crafted historical novel that transports readers to the heart of ancient Egypt. Thomas Bauer’s evocative storytelling and meticulous research make this a highly recommended read for fans of historical fiction. For readers of historical fiction, this is a must-read. 4 out of 5 stars!
April 10, 2024
Oracle of the Reeds is the story of Senmut and Hatshepsut, the female pharaoh. Senmut became the most powerful man in Egypt. The story follows his rise to power. The story telling is very descriptive, the atmosphere perfect throughout the novel. I enjoyed how the author did justice to Senmut and kept the story line close to historical sources. He did his research diligently. The chemistry between Senmut and Hatshepsut is palpable and keeps pace to the very end. Perhaps one of the best and most well constructed book I've read this year. A real entertainment for historical fiction fans. Rabia Tanveer
Displaying 1 - 2 of 2 reviews