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Cleopatra
A lush, unputdownable novel about the legendary Cleopatra. Discover the woman behind the myth, in this epic and opulent novel, perfect for fans of Jennifer Saint, Madeline Miller, Philippa Gregory and Alison Weir.
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A young queen.
Consecrated at birth as a royal goddess, Cleopatra learns early on from her father's experience that to rule means to fight. Politically astute, her deep love for Egypt means she'll do everything in her power to retain its autonomy from the all-devouring Romans.
A great emperor.
Julius Caesar is a legendary warrior whose might helped secure the Egyptian throne for Cleopatra's father. Years later, when he encounters the now Queen of Egypt, it is more than a meeting of rulers - it is a meeting of souls.
Together they could have ruled the world.
In Julius, Cleopatra finds the first person who challenges and respects her fiercely brilliant mind, who understands her duty and shares her passionate nature. Their union, forged in conflict, seems unbreakable, but are the bonds binding them to their countries even stronger?
Yet in a choice between love and duty, only one can win.
...................
A young queen.
Consecrated at birth as a royal goddess, Cleopatra learns early on from her father's experience that to rule means to fight. Politically astute, her deep love for Egypt means she'll do everything in her power to retain its autonomy from the all-devouring Romans.
A great emperor.
Julius Caesar is a legendary warrior whose might helped secure the Egyptian throne for Cleopatra's father. Years later, when he encounters the now Queen of Egypt, it is more than a meeting of rulers - it is a meeting of souls.
Together they could have ruled the world.
In Julius, Cleopatra finds the first person who challenges and respects her fiercely brilliant mind, who understands her duty and shares her passionate nature. Their union, forged in conflict, seems unbreakable, but are the bonds binding them to their countries even stronger?
Yet in a choice between love and duty, only one can win.
400 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 27, 2023
14 people are currently reading
1398 people want to read
About the author
Joanna Courtney
13 books202 followersMy first literary accolade was a creative writing prize at primary school and from that point on I wanted to be a novelist. I was always reading as a child and often made up stories for my brother and sister on long car journeys. I was also a huge Enid Blyton fan and by ten I was writing my own (doubtless terrible) boarding school novels. Perhaps inevitably, I took my degree in English literature and it was at Cambridge, specialising in medieval literature, that I first discovered what has become a true passion for ancient history.
I took a sidestep after university to work in a wonderful textiles factory in Lancashire - a move that led me to my lovely husband, but didn't satisfy my yearning to write. Married and living in Derbyshire, however, I took up my pen again in the sparse hours available between raising my two stepchildren and two more of my own. At that hectic time, I primarily wrote shorter fiction and I've had well over 200 stories and serials published in women's magazines. As my children began to grow up and then leave home, however, I have had more time to write.
My passion is freeing women from either the obscurity or the mistruths of male-dominated history. My first trilogy, The Queens of the conquest, is about the women fighting to be Queen of England in 1066 - Edyth of Mercia, wife of King Harold; Elizaveta of Kiev; wife of Harald Hardrada; and Matilda of Flanders, wife of William the Conqueror.
My second explores the true story of three of Shakespeare's most famous - and most maligned heroines - Lady Macbeth, Ophelia and Cordelia.
I also write WW2 fiction as Anna Stuart.
I took a sidestep after university to work in a wonderful textiles factory in Lancashire - a move that led me to my lovely husband, but didn't satisfy my yearning to write. Married and living in Derbyshire, however, I took up my pen again in the sparse hours available between raising my two stepchildren and two more of my own. At that hectic time, I primarily wrote shorter fiction and I've had well over 200 stories and serials published in women's magazines. As my children began to grow up and then leave home, however, I have had more time to write.
My passion is freeing women from either the obscurity or the mistruths of male-dominated history. My first trilogy, The Queens of the conquest, is about the women fighting to be Queen of England in 1066 - Edyth of Mercia, wife of King Harold; Elizaveta of Kiev; wife of Harald Hardrada; and Matilda of Flanders, wife of William the Conqueror.
My second explores the true story of three of Shakespeare's most famous - and most maligned heroines - Lady Macbeth, Ophelia and Cordelia.
I also write WW2 fiction as Anna Stuart.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
October 9, 2025
**Read 4.5 STARS!**
This very engaging historical novel is about Queen Cleopatra VII of Egypt and Julius Caesar, but with an inspiring woman, like now with Cleopatra, as the centre figure of this book, as is the custom so far with this formidable author's writing.
At the beginning of the book you'll find Queen Cleopatra VII's Family Tree, and a well-drawn inserted map of Alexandria and Nile Delta in Egypt, as well as a general map of the Green Sea and countries.
At the end of the book within the Historical Note, you can read superbly explanations about the historical circumstances in general, and about places and people concerning this period of history.
Storytelling is wonderful, all characters, real historical and fictional, come vividly to life in this story about power, treachery, heroism and backstabbing within and without, while the historic atmosphere between Egypt and Rome comes splendidly off the pages.
The book is divided into three parts, and it is set between 56BC in Alexandria at the court of Pharaoh Ptolemy XII, until 44BC with the assassination of Julius Caesar in Rome, and the subsequent flight of Cleopatra back to Alexandria, Egypt.
What is to follow is a wonderful retelling about the special relationship between Cleopatra and Julius Caesar, a relationship of two people with equal minds about future rule and learning, and what they could have achieved, were it not for a group smallminded Roman Republicans to cut their ties for good by this assassination, and this latest act will bring Rome back into civil war again with all its future consequences.
Highly recommended, for this is a splendid retelling of the lives, love and deeds of especially Cleopatra but also of Julius Caesar, a retelling that's brought to us in a most astounding fashion by the author, and that's why I like to call this book: "A Brutally Broken Beautiful Love Story"!
This very engaging historical novel is about Queen Cleopatra VII of Egypt and Julius Caesar, but with an inspiring woman, like now with Cleopatra, as the centre figure of this book, as is the custom so far with this formidable author's writing.
At the beginning of the book you'll find Queen Cleopatra VII's Family Tree, and a well-drawn inserted map of Alexandria and Nile Delta in Egypt, as well as a general map of the Green Sea and countries.
At the end of the book within the Historical Note, you can read superbly explanations about the historical circumstances in general, and about places and people concerning this period of history.
Storytelling is wonderful, all characters, real historical and fictional, come vividly to life in this story about power, treachery, heroism and backstabbing within and without, while the historic atmosphere between Egypt and Rome comes splendidly off the pages.
The book is divided into three parts, and it is set between 56BC in Alexandria at the court of Pharaoh Ptolemy XII, until 44BC with the assassination of Julius Caesar in Rome, and the subsequent flight of Cleopatra back to Alexandria, Egypt.
What is to follow is a wonderful retelling about the special relationship between Cleopatra and Julius Caesar, a relationship of two people with equal minds about future rule and learning, and what they could have achieved, were it not for a group smallminded Roman Republicans to cut their ties for good by this assassination, and this latest act will bring Rome back into civil war again with all its future consequences.
Highly recommended, for this is a splendid retelling of the lives, love and deeds of especially Cleopatra but also of Julius Caesar, a retelling that's brought to us in a most astounding fashion by the author, and that's why I like to call this book: "A Brutally Broken Beautiful Love Story"!
August 18, 2024
In this novel, Joanna Courtney tells us the love story of the Queen of Egypt and Rome's most famous emperor, Julius Caesar. I was immediately captivated by the author's narrative and style, and the story is fluid and interesting. Thanks to this book, I discovered several facets of Cleopatra that I didn't know, in particular the fact that her entire family practically turned against her. On several occasions I felt sorry for her, but I was surprised by her intelligence, kindness and empathy towards others. She is everything a queen should hope to be and the fact that the Romans saw her as Julius' whore irritated me on several occasions.
« You may not be mine according to the self-conscious laws of Rome…' He waved a dismissive hand around the grand Forum. But you are mine all the same, and I yours, and I wish them to know it. You may not be my wife-in-law, Cleopatra, but you are most certainly my wife-in-love.' »
Their love story also touched me, it was beautiful and romantic, not forgetting that they understood each other because they both had to manage great nations. I was saddened by Julius's death and felt Cleopatra's grief.
« I can live without you, she agreed. 'I can live for my son and for the new baby, for my friends and for my country. I can, and will live but, Julius, it would be like battling through the grey clouds of Britannia instead of basking in the glorious sunshine of home. »
I also enjoyed her various friendships (especially Erias and Levi), it was clear that her friends had become her refuge and the family she always deserved.
This is a book that I absolutely recommend to lovers of history and antiquity 🏛️!
« You may not be mine according to the self-conscious laws of Rome…' He waved a dismissive hand around the grand Forum. But you are mine all the same, and I yours, and I wish them to know it. You may not be my wife-in-law, Cleopatra, but you are most certainly my wife-in-love.' »
Their love story also touched me, it was beautiful and romantic, not forgetting that they understood each other because they both had to manage great nations. I was saddened by Julius's death and felt Cleopatra's grief.
« I can live without you, she agreed. 'I can live for my son and for the new baby, for my friends and for my country. I can, and will live but, Julius, it would be like battling through the grey clouds of Britannia instead of basking in the glorious sunshine of home. »
I also enjoyed her various friendships (especially Erias and Levi), it was clear that her friends had become her refuge and the family she always deserved.
This is a book that I absolutely recommend to lovers of history and antiquity 🏛️!
February 25, 2024
I had a couple of issues with it and raised my eyebrow a few times, but I was here for some Cleopatra/Caesar and I got it. In light of that, I can't complain. A book hitting several of my "romantic couple" desires and actually being pretty good is frustratingly hard to find.
June 22, 2025
I am shocked this isn't more popular!!!!! She has inspired me to do the deepest dive into everything Egyptian.
I thought this was a brilliant book. It's the first historical fiction novel in quite a while where I was perfectly content with the balance between history and fiction.
Courtney has researched this topic astutely, and this novel is a testament to her endeavours. I was particularly impressed with her in-depth explanation of her decision-making process at the back of the book. It was nice to see her mindset and the information that guided her journey in writing this novel. Additionally, her narrative is quite historically accurate, yet it doesn’t feel clunky or too heavy.
Courtney reminds me a lot of Anne Garthwaite—my favourite historical fiction novelist—and her style. Similar to Garthwaite, Courtney highlights Cleopatra’s individual achievements, intelligence, and personability in a way detached from the accepted patriarchal narrative. What sets this apart from other Cleopatra retellings is Courtney’s refusal to sensationalise or romanticise her subject. Instead, she gives us a Cleopatra who is strategic, emotionally complex, and thoroughly modern in her outlook. Once or twice, she was a little too naive for my liking. However, this wasn't the common narrative- and who are we if not occassionally flawed.
Reading this book felt educational in the best way. I genuinely learned so much in a succinct and easily comprehensible manner. Yes, liberties have been taken with the actual events. Nonetheless, Courtney fills the pages with tiny wee facts and tidbits that I LOVED.
Courtney broaches a really interesting question throughout, probing whether Republic vs. Royalty has any true difference. She continuously highlights the blatant similarities and draws very astute conclusions about the hypocrisies of Roman rule and the perceived brilliance of the Republic.
I think she balanced the romantic element well. I would not say this is a romance novel (as advertised), but rather an excellent feminist retelling—which happens to involve one of the world's most infamous women and love stories.
My only issue is that it was somewhat slow-paced at the very start. The prose is elegant without being boring, and Courtney’s pacing (after the first 50-ish pages) is confident and immersive. There’s a literary quality to her writing, but it's still highly accessible.
I’d recommend this to readers who enjoy character-driven historical fiction, especially those looking for strong female voices and nuanced political drama.
I thought this was a brilliant book. It's the first historical fiction novel in quite a while where I was perfectly content with the balance between history and fiction.
Courtney has researched this topic astutely, and this novel is a testament to her endeavours. I was particularly impressed with her in-depth explanation of her decision-making process at the back of the book. It was nice to see her mindset and the information that guided her journey in writing this novel. Additionally, her narrative is quite historically accurate, yet it doesn’t feel clunky or too heavy.
Courtney reminds me a lot of Anne Garthwaite—my favourite historical fiction novelist—and her style. Similar to Garthwaite, Courtney highlights Cleopatra’s individual achievements, intelligence, and personability in a way detached from the accepted patriarchal narrative. What sets this apart from other Cleopatra retellings is Courtney’s refusal to sensationalise or romanticise her subject. Instead, she gives us a Cleopatra who is strategic, emotionally complex, and thoroughly modern in her outlook. Once or twice, she was a little too naive for my liking. However, this wasn't the common narrative- and who are we if not occassionally flawed.
Reading this book felt educational in the best way. I genuinely learned so much in a succinct and easily comprehensible manner. Yes, liberties have been taken with the actual events. Nonetheless, Courtney fills the pages with tiny wee facts and tidbits that I LOVED.
Courtney broaches a really interesting question throughout, probing whether Republic vs. Royalty has any true difference. She continuously highlights the blatant similarities and draws very astute conclusions about the hypocrisies of Roman rule and the perceived brilliance of the Republic.
I think she balanced the romantic element well. I would not say this is a romance novel (as advertised), but rather an excellent feminist retelling—which happens to involve one of the world's most infamous women and love stories.
My only issue is that it was somewhat slow-paced at the very start. The prose is elegant without being boring, and Courtney’s pacing (after the first 50-ish pages) is confident and immersive. There’s a literary quality to her writing, but it's still highly accessible.
I’d recommend this to readers who enjoy character-driven historical fiction, especially those looking for strong female voices and nuanced political drama.
April 11, 2024
3 stars. A tricky story to tackle in 350 pages! This is more of a story of Cleopatra, less so about the romance/relationship between her and Julius.
August 11, 2024
I always enjoy a Joanna Courtney novel. This one is centred around the relationship between Cleopatra and Caesar. There's some artistic licence taken with aspects of Cleo's life but, overall, it's a sweeping tale of love and duty.
April 16, 2025
Joanna Courtney’s Cleopatra & Julius is a fascinating historical fiction that reimagines the infamous relationship between Cleopatra and Julius Caesar. What sparked Courtney’s interest in Cleopatra was an intriguing fact: Cleopatra is closer in time to the iPhone than to the Great Pyramid of Giza. This curiosity led her to research Cleopatra, uncovering a portrayal far removed from the one shaped by Roman victors. Instead of the morally loose woman history often describes, Courtney found a strong, strategic queen who always had her empire’s best interests at heart.
The novel brims with geopolitical tension, vividly depicting the hostility between Egypt’s monarchy and the Roman Republic, which harbored a deep disdain for monarchies. It draws a fascinating parallel to modern-day geopolitics—imagine the scandal if a Western president were to marry the queen of a Middle Eastern monarchy! That was the climate in which the romance between Cleopatra and Julius Caesar blossomed, a union of rulers whose nations were bitterly opposed yet who were deeply captivated by each other.
Courtney treats their romance with dignity, offering an insightful perspective on how rulers of different genders wielded power. Julius Caesar is portrayed as the epitome of masculinity—a decorated war general, a master strategist, and a fierce debater who led Rome to glory with conquests in Gaul, Britannia, and Iberia. Cleopatra, on the other hand, learned the hard way that competence alone wasn’t enough to survive as a ruler. Managing public perception and preventing hysteria or revolt were equally crucial, not just for stability but for survival itself.
The book is rich with historical details that I thoroughly enjoyed. For instance, I learned that giraffes were known as “camelopards” in Rome and that Egypt introduced a sophisticated timekeeping device to the Romans—the precursor to modern watches. These nuggets of knowledge remind us that many of the things we take for granted today were painstakingly developed, debated, and decided upon centuries ago. This perspective fosters a deeper appreciation for the innovations that shape our modern lives.
While the book is well-researched and has an engaging plot, the narration occasionally falls short, with some characters feeling flat and certain narrative devices underutilized. However, this doesn’t detract significantly from the reading experience, as the vivid imagination of readers can easily fill in the gaps. Courtney’s deep dive into history provides enough material to imagine parallel scenarios and rich dialogues.
If, like me, you enjoy reading about legendary leaders navigating high-stakes situations, this book is a must-read. Cleopatra and Julius Caesar are iconic figures, and Courtney does an admirable job of bringing their personalities and perspectives to life. It’s a wonderful way to put character behind these legendary names and gain insight into the complexities of their time.
The novel brims with geopolitical tension, vividly depicting the hostility between Egypt’s monarchy and the Roman Republic, which harbored a deep disdain for monarchies. It draws a fascinating parallel to modern-day geopolitics—imagine the scandal if a Western president were to marry the queen of a Middle Eastern monarchy! That was the climate in which the romance between Cleopatra and Julius Caesar blossomed, a union of rulers whose nations were bitterly opposed yet who were deeply captivated by each other.
Courtney treats their romance with dignity, offering an insightful perspective on how rulers of different genders wielded power. Julius Caesar is portrayed as the epitome of masculinity—a decorated war general, a master strategist, and a fierce debater who led Rome to glory with conquests in Gaul, Britannia, and Iberia. Cleopatra, on the other hand, learned the hard way that competence alone wasn’t enough to survive as a ruler. Managing public perception and preventing hysteria or revolt were equally crucial, not just for stability but for survival itself.
The book is rich with historical details that I thoroughly enjoyed. For instance, I learned that giraffes were known as “camelopards” in Rome and that Egypt introduced a sophisticated timekeeping device to the Romans—the precursor to modern watches. These nuggets of knowledge remind us that many of the things we take for granted today were painstakingly developed, debated, and decided upon centuries ago. This perspective fosters a deeper appreciation for the innovations that shape our modern lives.
While the book is well-researched and has an engaging plot, the narration occasionally falls short, with some characters feeling flat and certain narrative devices underutilized. However, this doesn’t detract significantly from the reading experience, as the vivid imagination of readers can easily fill in the gaps. Courtney’s deep dive into history provides enough material to imagine parallel scenarios and rich dialogues.
If, like me, you enjoy reading about legendary leaders navigating high-stakes situations, this book is a must-read. Cleopatra and Julius Caesar are iconic figures, and Courtney does an admirable job of bringing their personalities and perspectives to life. It’s a wonderful way to put character behind these legendary names and gain insight into the complexities of their time.
January 30, 2024
I feel like I have mixed feelings about this book. I did really enjoy it but found that at some points it read a bit long and then at other points, it felt a bit rushed. That slightly dampened the reading experience for me.
Who doesn't love a story about Cleopatra and this book literally follows her from a very young age right up until she has her first child and then up until just after the death of Julius Caesar. Which I loved, as so much of her well known story is focused more around her rule and marriage to Mark Anthony.
The story introduced me to characters that I haven't often thought about when looking at Cleopatra's story and liked how it explored the tensions and power dynamics within her family. This book instantly kicks off with her elder sister, Berenice, betraying her father and subsequently follows Cleopatra and her father fleeing Egypt and heading over to Rome, trying to pull together an army to come and fight for them. We then concentrate on how Roman’s view royalty at this time, especially considering it's the start of them establishing their Republic and becoming the great Empire and conquers we know them to be.
The way the Romans treat Cleopatra is an understandable shock, this is exploring the fact that she isn't respected and people hate her purely for the fact that she calls herself a royal. One of the things that I most enjoyed about Joanna’s writing is that Cleopatra is constantly playing this comparison between the hypocritical nature of the Roman Empire, concentrating on the fact that whilst Rome may be a republic, it's very heavily based on the rich influential people in society and they are making the decisions whilst the poor are left to suffer. The comparison of how that is very similar to her being a ruler and she is just more honest about it due to her royalty is well written, well done and really opens that discussion.
The things happening to Cleopatra and her fight to remain queen and have the ability to rule without a man and her constant defence of this, is another reminder of how woman were treated at this time, on top of begging the questions around if we as a society still hold some of these archaic ideas about female rulers.
Egyptian royalty literally viewed themselves as having a God or goddess within them. It also showcases how detached royalty can be and how attached royalty can be from its people and how much this effects the state of a country.
Is the first book I've ever read by Joanna and this book really was worth the read, obviously it's a fictional retailing so take it with a pinch of salt, but I did feel it did a great job of bringing history to this love story. Meaning this story had substance, purpose and it reinvented a extremely well-known figure.
Who doesn't love a story about Cleopatra and this book literally follows her from a very young age right up until she has her first child and then up until just after the death of Julius Caesar. Which I loved, as so much of her well known story is focused more around her rule and marriage to Mark Anthony.
The story introduced me to characters that I haven't often thought about when looking at Cleopatra's story and liked how it explored the tensions and power dynamics within her family. This book instantly kicks off with her elder sister, Berenice, betraying her father and subsequently follows Cleopatra and her father fleeing Egypt and heading over to Rome, trying to pull together an army to come and fight for them. We then concentrate on how Roman’s view royalty at this time, especially considering it's the start of them establishing their Republic and becoming the great Empire and conquers we know them to be.
The way the Romans treat Cleopatra is an understandable shock, this is exploring the fact that she isn't respected and people hate her purely for the fact that she calls herself a royal. One of the things that I most enjoyed about Joanna’s writing is that Cleopatra is constantly playing this comparison between the hypocritical nature of the Roman Empire, concentrating on the fact that whilst Rome may be a republic, it's very heavily based on the rich influential people in society and they are making the decisions whilst the poor are left to suffer. The comparison of how that is very similar to her being a ruler and she is just more honest about it due to her royalty is well written, well done and really opens that discussion.
The things happening to Cleopatra and her fight to remain queen and have the ability to rule without a man and her constant defence of this, is another reminder of how woman were treated at this time, on top of begging the questions around if we as a society still hold some of these archaic ideas about female rulers.
Egyptian royalty literally viewed themselves as having a God or goddess within them. It also showcases how detached royalty can be and how attached royalty can be from its people and how much this effects the state of a country.
Is the first book I've ever read by Joanna and this book really was worth the read, obviously it's a fictional retailing so take it with a pinch of salt, but I did feel it did a great job of bringing history to this love story. Meaning this story had substance, purpose and it reinvented a extremely well-known figure.
December 20, 2024
My mother begged me to read this as we both love historical fiction, and because of some of the lacklustre reviews I was a bit hesitant. Some have claimed it's absolute fairy tales and completely historically inaccurate. Some have said the romance element wasn't very central. Someone (definitely a man) criticised it saying it was more-so about Cleopatra than Julius.
Personally, I cannot fully speak to the historical accuracy as the Roman empire and Alexandrian history is not my typical area of interest, but I was convinced by the author's explanations for the creative liberties she took at the end of the novel. Although I can be pernickety about historical accuracy in books, I wasn't going to let it get in the way of this very good story. I did wish I'd explored the historical contexts a bit more before reading this, but as I really enjoyed, it would also be fair to say ignorance is bliss. I will say some of the dialogue, fairly described by another reader as "silly", did jar me slightly, for example the quotes "ego hard-on" and "yeah" seemed painfully modern. But again, I didn't think it detracted too much from a good story.
This had a slower start, as is usually the case in books with such rich context, but once the pace picks up at around 40%, you're golden. I was really gripped by this book at times and would think and dream about it when I put it down. I cared for the characters, and even though Cleopatra came across spoilt at times, with a little empathy I could really understand her perspective. Occasionally, during the scenes where some big public event was happening (there's a fair few), I found myself a bit confused at the jumps in atmosphere and would go back to check I hadn't skipped a page. Again, it's possible some prior knowledge might have made these scenes more impactful but they did seem a bit jumpy regardless. That is my main criticism of the writing.
As for the romance element, I really enjoyed it and had some smiling to myself like a knobhead moments. It's definitely more historical fiction than a romance novel, but it's sweet and flirty and simple and contrasts the political complexities that surround Petra and Julius' relationship. I was very grateful for the disproportionate focus on Cleopatra because it would have been so boring otherwise. The world doesn't need more books on the roman empire imo. Julius did do my head in at several points, but as is common within a tragic hero character. Very Aristotelian. The manifestations of his fatal flaw would've had me on the barge back to Egypt far sooner than Cleopatra was but the heart wants what it wants I suppose x
Personally, I cannot fully speak to the historical accuracy as the Roman empire and Alexandrian history is not my typical area of interest, but I was convinced by the author's explanations for the creative liberties she took at the end of the novel. Although I can be pernickety about historical accuracy in books, I wasn't going to let it get in the way of this very good story. I did wish I'd explored the historical contexts a bit more before reading this, but as I really enjoyed, it would also be fair to say ignorance is bliss. I will say some of the dialogue, fairly described by another reader as "silly", did jar me slightly, for example the quotes "ego hard-on" and "yeah" seemed painfully modern. But again, I didn't think it detracted too much from a good story.
This had a slower start, as is usually the case in books with such rich context, but once the pace picks up at around 40%, you're golden. I was really gripped by this book at times and would think and dream about it when I put it down. I cared for the characters, and even though Cleopatra came across spoilt at times, with a little empathy I could really understand her perspective. Occasionally, during the scenes where some big public event was happening (there's a fair few), I found myself a bit confused at the jumps in atmosphere and would go back to check I hadn't skipped a page. Again, it's possible some prior knowledge might have made these scenes more impactful but they did seem a bit jumpy regardless. That is my main criticism of the writing.
As for the romance element, I really enjoyed it and had some smiling to myself like a knobhead moments. It's definitely more historical fiction than a romance novel, but it's sweet and flirty and simple and contrasts the political complexities that surround Petra and Julius' relationship. I was very grateful for the disproportionate focus on Cleopatra because it would have been so boring otherwise. The world doesn't need more books on the roman empire imo. Julius did do my head in at several points, but as is common within a tragic hero character. Very Aristotelian. The manifestations of his fatal flaw would've had me on the barge back to Egypt far sooner than Cleopatra was but the heart wants what it wants I suppose x
October 2, 2023
I purchased this book because Egyptian/Roman history is one of my favourite topics to study and learn about, I cannot tell you how many documentaries I’ve watched about Queen Cleopatra. I know the story of Cleopatra and Julius so I went into this book pretty much knowing what was going to happen, but I still really enjoyed it. The love story between them is only really focused on one half of the book, the first half talks about her being forced to flee Egypt and go to Rome, you grow with her and see her mature into the Queen she is so widely spoken about. She is so smart, one of the reasons I admire is how she smart and driven she was. The story is really well written and it flowed nicely, I thought there was times where things were just explained too in depth to the point where it was getting a bit tiresome but you can look past that.
If you’re unfamiliar with ancient Egypt and it’s relationship with Rome, I would probably have look into it before reading the book as it can get very confusing/political. I pretty much knew all the names and I still found myself backtracking and trying to figure who is who, who was related too who, who was dead lol. It can get a bit much so I’d have a basic knowledge of it first before reading the book (IMO). Hardly any of Marc Anthony is mentioned, which I thought was odd since he is very much involved with Caesar throughout his life, but this book is mainly based around Cleo and Caesar so I can see why. The romance that she has with Anthony isn’t mentioned either, it’s not hinted or anything.
At the back of the book the author goes through bits of the book she changed and explains why she wrote the book, what was made fiction etc, which I found really helpful as there was some bits I either wasn’t familiar with/didn’t know happened.
Overall I’d highly recommend this book to anybody that is interest in their story or just wants to find out more about it.
If you’re unfamiliar with ancient Egypt and it’s relationship with Rome, I would probably have look into it before reading the book as it can get very confusing/political. I pretty much knew all the names and I still found myself backtracking and trying to figure who is who, who was related too who, who was dead lol. It can get a bit much so I’d have a basic knowledge of it first before reading the book (IMO). Hardly any of Marc Anthony is mentioned, which I thought was odd since he is very much involved with Caesar throughout his life, but this book is mainly based around Cleo and Caesar so I can see why. The romance that she has with Anthony isn’t mentioned either, it’s not hinted or anything.
At the back of the book the author goes through bits of the book she changed and explains why she wrote the book, what was made fiction etc, which I found really helpful as there was some bits I either wasn’t familiar with/didn’t know happened.
Overall I’d highly recommend this book to anybody that is interest in their story or just wants to find out more about it.
March 21, 2025
The story of Cleopatra and Julius Caesar has been told many times, but how has author Joanna Courtney approached it? I was curious, so I decided to flip through her book during a visit to the bookstore.
Just a few pages in, I was hooked and needed to know what Joanna Courtney’s Cleopatra was like.
The author uses the first-person perspective to tell the story. Right from the start, we are immersed in a royal celebration in Alexandria. Cleopatra is a young girl has to flee with her father to Rome.
Courtney does a wonderful job of depicting Cleopatra’s gradual growth. As she matures, she becomes wiser, and her character is very believable.
I really enjoyed the portrayal of everyday life. It’s clear that the author has done her research and knows how to weave it into the narrative.
I also appreciated the contrast between Cleopatra’s immediate surroundings and the city of Rome. Cleopatra meets many of the citizens of the Republic. I did, however, have one issue: I got a bit confused about the Romans and had to keep flipping back to figure out which one was being referred to. That, however, was my own challenge.
The book is titled Cleopatra & Julius, so I was waiting for Caesar to make his entrance. He doesn’t take center stage until the last third of the book. However, when he does, his relationship with Cleopatra is portrayed in a balanced way. Both leaders—of Rome and Egypt—are depicted as partners.
Overall, I think Joanna Courtney has succeeded in bringing this historical period and its key figures to life in a fresh and engaging way. The book is a pleasure to read.
Just a few pages in, I was hooked and needed to know what Joanna Courtney’s Cleopatra was like.
The author uses the first-person perspective to tell the story. Right from the start, we are immersed in a royal celebration in Alexandria. Cleopatra is a young girl has to flee with her father to Rome.
Courtney does a wonderful job of depicting Cleopatra’s gradual growth. As she matures, she becomes wiser, and her character is very believable.
I really enjoyed the portrayal of everyday life. It’s clear that the author has done her research and knows how to weave it into the narrative.
I also appreciated the contrast between Cleopatra’s immediate surroundings and the city of Rome. Cleopatra meets many of the citizens of the Republic. I did, however, have one issue: I got a bit confused about the Romans and had to keep flipping back to figure out which one was being referred to. That, however, was my own challenge.
The book is titled Cleopatra & Julius, so I was waiting for Caesar to make his entrance. He doesn’t take center stage until the last third of the book. However, when he does, his relationship with Cleopatra is portrayed in a balanced way. Both leaders—of Rome and Egypt—are depicted as partners.
Overall, I think Joanna Courtney has succeeded in bringing this historical period and its key figures to life in a fresh and engaging way. The book is a pleasure to read.
August 9, 2023
A historical fiction of Cleopatra, focusing largely - but not exclusively - on her relationship with Julius Caeser.
The book starts with Pharoh Ptolemy XII showing off his five children to the court and people, blissfully unaware of the cracks underneath the surface. Then his eldest daughter, Bernice, simmering with the kind of rage any 5th wave feminist can relate to, stages a violent coup and Cleopatra finds herself in exile with her father, and learns firsthand just how powerful - and awful - the Romans are.
When Cleopatra herself comes to power, she ends up working with Julius Caeser and, at first, she naively thinks they have a partnership of equal sharing of power and love, and it is painful to see her realize that Ceasar only saw her as a side piece and never took her fully seriously, either as ruler or woman.
Excellent use of world building to show both Alexandria and Rome and to give the reader a sense of the players without any info dumping. A great look at what the story of Queen Cleopatra and Julius Caeser could have looked like up close.
September 6, 2023
I am writing this after having just put down the book. It was captivating, bold and unapologetic in its exploration of Cleopatra’s rule. Whilst the romantic affair between herself and Julius Caesar is integral to the book, it is not always the central focus.
Whilst it is somewhat difficult to initially understand who is who, read past the first couple of chapters and you’ll be enveloped into a world of corruption, wealth and power - underpinned by strong characters and beautiful emotional writing. I’ve have long been fascinated by Ancient Egypt and the Romans so this story was something I unknowingly craved.
I do think this book is for a very specific type of reader; those into historically accurate (as much as is possible) fiction, I feel will enjoy this book. More so, I think any fan of documentaries regarding the Romans or Egypt or invested in ancient history, will revel in it.
This book was powerful, chaotic and it really, in the end, wrenched my heart strings. I will remember it for a long time to come.
Whilst it is somewhat difficult to initially understand who is who, read past the first couple of chapters and you’ll be enveloped into a world of corruption, wealth and power - underpinned by strong characters and beautiful emotional writing. I’ve have long been fascinated by Ancient Egypt and the Romans so this story was something I unknowingly craved.
I do think this book is for a very specific type of reader; those into historically accurate (as much as is possible) fiction, I feel will enjoy this book. More so, I think any fan of documentaries regarding the Romans or Egypt or invested in ancient history, will revel in it.
This book was powerful, chaotic and it really, in the end, wrenched my heart strings. I will remember it for a long time to come.
August 29, 2025
Sinceramente non mi aspettavo grandi cose da questo libro, l'ho comprato spinta dalla copertina e dal titolo, ma immaginavo già a cosa sarei andata incontro.
Il titolo, per prima cosa, è un po' fuorviante: in realtà avrebbe più senso se fosse intitolato solo a Cleopatra, dato che fino alla metà di Cesare si intravede solo la sagoma.
Cleopatra, poi, passa più tempo a scappare in giro per il mondo e a chiedersi "cosa farebbe Iris" che a governare realmente, tranne quando prende posizioni sinceramente ridicole e tutti ne fanno le spese.
Il finale, per quanto ovviamente noto (la storia alla fine quella è) è incredibilmente anticlimatico.
Pagine e pagine sui problemi matrimoniali di Claudia e su Levi che deve fare coming out e poi la morte di Giulio Cesare è tipo "beh, è morto. RIP".
Alcune parti sono carine, lo ammetto, ma legge molto più come un romance contemporaneo che come uno storico.
Molto delusa, ma non sorpresa.
Il titolo, per prima cosa, è un po' fuorviante: in realtà avrebbe più senso se fosse intitolato solo a Cleopatra, dato che fino alla metà di Cesare si intravede solo la sagoma.
Cleopatra, poi, passa più tempo a scappare in giro per il mondo e a chiedersi "cosa farebbe Iris" che a governare realmente, tranne quando prende posizioni sinceramente ridicole e tutti ne fanno le spese.
Il finale, per quanto ovviamente noto (la storia alla fine quella è) è incredibilmente anticlimatico.
Pagine e pagine sui problemi matrimoniali di Claudia e su Levi che deve fare coming out e poi la morte di Giulio Cesare è tipo "beh, è morto. RIP".
Alcune parti sono carine, lo ammetto, ma legge molto più come un romance contemporaneo che come uno storico.
Molto delusa, ma non sorpresa.
October 2, 2023
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, however, it’s not five stars for two reasons. 1) I felt it was improperly billed and was more about just Cleopatra than her relationship with Julius 2) I admire Courtney’s giving Cleopatra the credit she deserves as an intelligent ruler ahead of her time, but felt she didn’t give enough credit to Caesar and made him look boorish in comparison.
But I loved this book and was very happy it came out as I’ve always loved Cleopatra and Julius’s relationship more than hers with MA. I do hope there is a sequel!
But I loved this book and was very happy it came out as I’ve always loved Cleopatra and Julius’s relationship more than hers with MA. I do hope there is a sequel!
January 16, 2024
this is more of a 3.5 star, maybe a 4! This was definitely different from my usual ancient myth reads etc - I’m a Greek or Roman girly through and through, so it was nice to read something mainly Egyptian! It did mean that I wasn’t super familiar with the characters/stories so sometimes it could get confusing and I did find the first third of the book very slow, idk if the book title should be this bc it was mainly focused on miss Cleopatra in Egypt doing her thang - still good but not what I thought I was signing up for??? The last 100 pages got me hooked though
June 6, 2024
Overall a very enjoyable read. The plot was well thought out, and I liked the development of Cleopatra through the book.
However, I did feel that the writing was a little simplistic in places, and that maybe the story wasn’t framed as well as it could have been. Julius is not properly introduced as a main character until half way through the story, and I didn’t feel there was as much development to their romance as there could have been.
I appreciated the author taking the readers through the historical details, however, and I liked how she used various elements of history in the book.
However, I did feel that the writing was a little simplistic in places, and that maybe the story wasn’t framed as well as it could have been. Julius is not properly introduced as a main character until half way through the story, and I didn’t feel there was as much development to their romance as there could have been.
I appreciated the author taking the readers through the historical details, however, and I liked how she used various elements of history in the book.
November 20, 2024
History mainly remembers Cleopatra as being the last Queen of Eygpt and for having two Roman lovers. This book portrays her as being a strong, intelligent, and passionate woman who fought to keep her throne even when it cost her entire family. I loved how the romance between Cleopatra and Julius developed as they seemed deeply in love, and you truly felt Cleopatra's grief when Julius was assassinated. However, I found it frustrating with how the Romans only saw her as Julius' lover and not as a Queen.
January 1, 2024
I enjoyed reading this book. It tells the story of Cleopatra from a small child Until Julius Caesar’s death. Cleopatra and Julius Caesar become lovers and it tells the story in an easy to read format of the history of Cleopatra. The author - Joanne Courtney has researched well, and at the back of the book writes notes on any changes that she had to make . I’d love her to write one on the next half of Cleopatras life and her relationship with Marc Anthony. The book is in an easy to read format and great for people who want to know the story of Cleopatra in a palatable way.
September 19, 2024
It was an intresting 'version' of the situationship that they must have had, was a good blend of what was happening at the time with the fictional version of emotions and feelings they might have had. If you wanted it for historical reason it might not be your thing but as a book on its own, it was a good read
January 17, 2025
An interesting read. It got me interested in Egyptian history and I appreciate the authors note in the back listing historical inaccuracies. Not a must read for a casual reader but if you enjoy historical retellings you will enjoy! I appreciated that it focused on early parts of cleopatras life as stories often focus on her death
August 4, 2025
This book had been on my list for over a year, but I’m glad to have got the chance to read it. It was a nice story, aside from the obvious ending, and I learnt a lot about cleopatra and julius from it.
It was not the best book ever, but served as a nice refresher after the last couple books I’ve read.
4⭐️
It was not the best book ever, but served as a nice refresher after the last couple books I’ve read.
4⭐️
November 27, 2023
"The love story the world would never know" is the sub title. True because it all comes from the author's imagination. The story is pretty enough if that's what you are after. I was more interested in the historical angle which is handled capably enough.
December 10, 2023
Perfect for any lover of the ancient world - an original and inspiring story of Queen Cleopatra and her relationship with Julius Caesar, told within the perspective of her youth and growth. Will happily read again
August 23, 2023
I love historical fiction so was really disappointed that I wasn’t gripped by this book, I found it really hard going.
January 25, 2024
Wildly anachronistic with silly dialogue and extremely flattened situations. But the plot did keep me engaged enough to finish.
February 9, 2024
3.75
It’s not a full 4 ⭐️, but I’ve really enjoyed it. It’s a clever, lovely book. And it has scratched my Cleopatra/Caesar itch.
It’s not a full 4 ⭐️, but I’ve really enjoyed it. It’s a clever, lovely book. And it has scratched my Cleopatra/Caesar itch.
did-not-finish
March 9, 2024DNF @ page 62. The writing is bland, the setting feels unrealistic and Cleopatra is a "pick me" girl with no substance.
August 17, 2024
Really enjoyed this. Definitely want to read more from Joanna Courtney
didn-t-finish
August 28, 2024There's historically inaccurate, and then there's whatever this is.
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