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The Moroccan Empire #1
A String of Silver Beads
A woman seeking adventure. A bitter rivalry. The birth of an empire.
11th century North Africa. Kella is a Berber girl disguised as a boy, travelling the trade routes and beating all comers in the camel races. When her true identity is revealed, she is sent home to the family desert camp to be taught women's skills.
Bored with her restrictive life, Kella yearns for her freedom and the excitement of life on the road. When a mighty army sets out on a holy mission, she risks marriage to its general, Yusuf, hoping to join him on a great adventure. But while Yusuf conquers the whole of North Africa, Kella finds herself an unexpected rival to his infamous queen consort, Zaynab.
Can Kella protect herself from a powerful and jealous rival? Can she secure a future for her son in this newborn empire? And will she ever find the freedom she craves?
A String of Silver Beads is the exciting second book in the Moroccan Empire historical fiction series. If you enjoy adventures, power struggles and journeys through history seen through a woman's eyes, then you will be enthralled by this stirring novel. Journey through North Africa as a new empire is born. Buy A String of Silver Beads today.
11th century North Africa. Kella is a Berber girl disguised as a boy, travelling the trade routes and beating all comers in the camel races. When her true identity is revealed, she is sent home to the family desert camp to be taught women's skills.
Bored with her restrictive life, Kella yearns for her freedom and the excitement of life on the road. When a mighty army sets out on a holy mission, she risks marriage to its general, Yusuf, hoping to join him on a great adventure. But while Yusuf conquers the whole of North Africa, Kella finds herself an unexpected rival to his infamous queen consort, Zaynab.
Can Kella protect herself from a powerful and jealous rival? Can she secure a future for her son in this newborn empire? And will she ever find the freedom she craves?
A String of Silver Beads is the exciting second book in the Moroccan Empire historical fiction series. If you enjoy adventures, power struggles and journeys through history seen through a woman's eyes, then you will be enthralled by this stirring novel. Journey through North Africa as a new empire is born. Buy A String of Silver Beads today.
294 pages, Paperback
First published October 19, 2018
167 people are currently reading
186 people want to read
About the author
Melissa Addey
29 books114 followersI mainly write historical fiction: my first novel, The Fragrant Concubine, was Editor’s Choice at the Historical Novel Society, my latest, The Cold Palace, won the 2019 Novel London award.
I was the Leverhulme Trust Writer in Residence at the British Library and now run regular workshops there. I have a PhD in Creative Writing and have self-published 13 books.
I live in London with my husband and two children.
If you’d like to try my writing, visit my website www.melissaaddey.com to pick up a free novella, The Cup.
I was the Leverhulme Trust Writer in Residence at the British Library and now run regular workshops there. I have a PhD in Creative Writing and have self-published 13 books.
I live in London with my husband and two children.
If you’d like to try my writing, visit my website www.melissaaddey.com to pick up a free novella, The Cup.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
May 24, 2019
My literary love is 20th century historical fiction, but this magnificent novel — set in 11th century North Africa — has happily expanded my bookish horizons. The author thoroughly captivates with the story of Kella, a girl who dresses as a boy to compete in camel races and traverse exotic trade routes. Her gender is discovered, however, and she’s dispatched back home, schooled in the ways of Muslim woman of her era. Strong spirit that she is, Kella longs for more which she seeks through marriage with the general of an army engaged in holy war. Oh the adventures, the heartbreak, the risks this courageous woman takes for freedom and love, described in narrative as addictive as great cinema. 5 of 5 Breathtaking Stars!
I thank the author for the review copy and the great privilege of critiquing A STRING OF SILVER BEADS. Opinions are fully mine.
I thank the author for the review copy and the great privilege of critiquing A STRING OF SILVER BEADS. Opinions are fully mine.
March 7, 2019
I rarely read books written in first person present tense, but in this case, I'm glad I made an exception. The writing is exquisite.
November 30, 2018
We start in the 1070s, with a woman explaining to us something of Tuareg ways, the importance of women's jewelry and what it reveals about a woman's life.
Kella is a young woman of the Tuareg, and in 1067, at the age of seventeen, she is still passing as her father's youngest son, traveling with him and her five brothers, plying her considerable skills as a trader--and winning camel races.
It's that last that trips her up. Among the Tuareg, it's men and boys, not women and girls, who go veiled. Under a man's robes, and with her face veiled, she can pass as a boy. But when, near the end of a race, her veil becomes tangled and accidentally pulled off, she is exposed as female. It's a huge embarrassment not just to the men she beat in the race, but to her father. He had already been growing uncomfortable with letting her pass for a boy; this is the last straw. She will be returned to their home camp to, finally, learn women's skills from his sister, her Aunt Tezemt.
That's why, when the Commander of a great army and his cousin and chief general visit looking for recruits for a great plan of conquest of North Africa, Kella is in women's clothes and demonstrating her now considerable feminine skills.
But she still longs for the freedom of a trader's life.
What happens from here is both unexpected and, in its own way, logical.
Kella's life unfolds with pieces of jewelry marking each transition and new stage in life. She's intelligent, resourceful, but not so ruthless as some around her. This is an important period in Muslim history and the history of North Africa, with implications, in later books in the series, for the future of Spain, as well. The author has kept to the history that we do know, but there are large areas left undocumented, leaving plenty of room for this story.
The two men who attract her interest are each in their own way both attractive and mostly good, yet not without flaws. The same is true of Kella herself, her family, and her friends.
It's an interesting story about a period of history that isn't familiar to most Americans, and to me at least, is more interesting because of that. Recommended.
I received a free electronic galley from the publisher, and am reviewing it voluntarily.
Kella is a young woman of the Tuareg, and in 1067, at the age of seventeen, she is still passing as her father's youngest son, traveling with him and her five brothers, plying her considerable skills as a trader--and winning camel races.
It's that last that trips her up. Among the Tuareg, it's men and boys, not women and girls, who go veiled. Under a man's robes, and with her face veiled, she can pass as a boy. But when, near the end of a race, her veil becomes tangled and accidentally pulled off, she is exposed as female. It's a huge embarrassment not just to the men she beat in the race, but to her father. He had already been growing uncomfortable with letting her pass for a boy; this is the last straw. She will be returned to their home camp to, finally, learn women's skills from his sister, her Aunt Tezemt.
That's why, when the Commander of a great army and his cousin and chief general visit looking for recruits for a great plan of conquest of North Africa, Kella is in women's clothes and demonstrating her now considerable feminine skills.
But she still longs for the freedom of a trader's life.
What happens from here is both unexpected and, in its own way, logical.
Kella's life unfolds with pieces of jewelry marking each transition and new stage in life. She's intelligent, resourceful, but not so ruthless as some around her. This is an important period in Muslim history and the history of North Africa, with implications, in later books in the series, for the future of Spain, as well. The author has kept to the history that we do know, but there are large areas left undocumented, leaving plenty of room for this story.
The two men who attract her interest are each in their own way both attractive and mostly good, yet not without flaws. The same is true of Kella herself, her family, and her friends.
It's an interesting story about a period of history that isn't familiar to most Americans, and to me at least, is more interesting because of that. Recommended.
I received a free electronic galley from the publisher, and am reviewing it voluntarily.
February 1, 2019
It swept me away!
Wonderful characters. Interesting plot. Vivid descriptions. Lots of rich historical details. Simply a GREAT, unputdownable read!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Wonderful characters. Interesting plot. Vivid descriptions. Lots of rich historical details. Simply a GREAT, unputdownable read!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 5, 2025
Interesting story of “Morocco” before it begins.
Young girl brought up in Berber culture along the trading routes. It’s not a sophisticated writing but is an enjoyable read!
Young girl brought up in Berber culture along the trading routes. It’s not a sophisticated writing but is an enjoyable read!
April 19, 2019
Review of "A String of Silver Beads (The Moorish Empire Book 2)" by Melissa Addey - Moroccan history centred in Marrakesh
Amazon Summary: North Africa, 1067. Kella is a girl disguised as a boy, travelling the trade routes and beating all comers in the camel races. When her true identity is revealed, she is sent home to the family desert camp to be taught women’s skills. But Kella yearns for her freedom and the excitement of life on the road and when a mighty army sets out on a holy mission, she risks marriage to its general, Yusuf. While Yusuf conquers the whole of North Africa, Kella finds herself a rival to his infamous queen consort, Zaynab, a powerful and jealous woman. Can Kella protect herself and her newborn son? Can she find the freedom she craves as well as love? Second in the Moorish Empire series, this is a new take on a dramatic period of history.
My review: When you are interested in the history of Morocco but like it told in a good novel this is the book for you. The setting is the founding of the Almoravid dynasty.
The Almoravid dynasty was an imperial Berber Muslim dynasty centered in Morocco. It established an empire in the 11th century that stretched over the western Maghreb and Al-Andalus. Founded by Abdallah ibn Yasin, the Almoravid capital was Marrakesh, a city the ruling house founded in 1062. The dynasty originated among the Lamtuna and the Gudala, nomadic Berber tribes of the Sahara, traversing the territory between the Draa, the Niger, and the Senegal rivers.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Almorav...
Yusuf, his cousin Abu Bakr and Zaynab are all historical figures and are important figures in the conquest of the Mahgreb by the Almoravids dynasty.
The earliest reference to Zaynab is in the anonymous 12th-century text Kitab al-Istibsar, where it says "In her time there was none more beautiful or intelligent or witty ... she was married to Yusuf, who built Marrakech for her"
Her example and the fact that she assisted in creating the dynasty and its customs had great impact on the situation of women in Almoravid Morocco. In the tradition and example of her, women in Morocco had high status during the reign of the Almoravid dynasty; princesses was allowed to participate in state affairs; women in Morocco did not wear veils; the education of women was accepted and normal, with notable women such as Hafsa Bint al-Hajj al-Rukuniyya holding courses for the women of the palace; at least two women known to have been doctors, and, finally, princess Fannu famously participated in the defense of the capital during the dynasty's downfall in 1147 (Wikipedia)
"Zainab was praised for her matchless beauty as well as her skills in governance matters. Though many women lived in the shadow of their husbands at that time, historians report that Zainab Nafzaouia was highly influential in the process of decision making especially in public affairs.
Lotfi Bouchentouf de Zamane reports that Zainab Nafzaouia has repeatedly intervened in politics. For instance she urged her husband Yusuf Ibn Tachfin to change his status from a mere deputy of Abu Bakr to the title of “Amir al Mouminin”, the prince of believers.
Women living under the Almoravids rule were relatively emancipated in public life. They held a prominent role in society as they were entrusted with governance issues in their households."
https://www.moroccoworldnews.com/2012...
Yusuf is portraited in history as a wise and fair man.
In this novel Zaynab is portrayed as a woman who sleeps herself to power and who is terribly jealous. Well the first part seems to be true as she keeps marrying another candidate who seems to qualify for the ruler of the Maghreb but if she was a bad person we will never know.
I think the fictional Kella is described in a genuine way: a girl who saw a lot of the world as a child and teenager and who suddenly is confined to the role of a peasant woman in a camp and who yearns for freedom and travel will be fascinated by a general with a vision to conquer the world. Yusuf seems to be the kind of man who is attracted to smart women who share his vision. But where Kella is a young nomad girl Zaynab is the older and experienced woman and he falls madly in love with her.
I do not agree with the end conclusion in the book on their relationship and the relationship Kella has with her friend from home. Because the book is very detailed apart from the sexual relationship Kella has it is a bit difficult to fathom how intense their bond is. I think Kella was besotted and yes Yusuf was more feeling tenderness towards her while he seems madly in love and under the spell of Zaynab. But the other relationship seems only to me to be love from one side. The ending feels a bit too convenient.
The book is very entertaining and keeps you guessing which of the women will prevail. The story seems to be a romance but towards the second half it is more about the founding of Marrakesh and the power struggles in the new realm. For someone who likes history it was a nice way to get acquainted with Moroccan / Maghreb history of that era.
The title by the way is a reference to the jewellery Kella wears as a Touareg woman. Every chapter is named after an item of traditional jewellery that is given for certain occasions. The string of silver beads is the only present Kella can give to someone she loves very much.
A 4 stars out of 5
Amazon Summary: North Africa, 1067. Kella is a girl disguised as a boy, travelling the trade routes and beating all comers in the camel races. When her true identity is revealed, she is sent home to the family desert camp to be taught women’s skills. But Kella yearns for her freedom and the excitement of life on the road and when a mighty army sets out on a holy mission, she risks marriage to its general, Yusuf. While Yusuf conquers the whole of North Africa, Kella finds herself a rival to his infamous queen consort, Zaynab, a powerful and jealous woman. Can Kella protect herself and her newborn son? Can she find the freedom she craves as well as love? Second in the Moorish Empire series, this is a new take on a dramatic period of history.
My review: When you are interested in the history of Morocco but like it told in a good novel this is the book for you. The setting is the founding of the Almoravid dynasty.
The Almoravid dynasty was an imperial Berber Muslim dynasty centered in Morocco. It established an empire in the 11th century that stretched over the western Maghreb and Al-Andalus. Founded by Abdallah ibn Yasin, the Almoravid capital was Marrakesh, a city the ruling house founded in 1062. The dynasty originated among the Lamtuna and the Gudala, nomadic Berber tribes of the Sahara, traversing the territory between the Draa, the Niger, and the Senegal rivers.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Almorav...
Yusuf, his cousin Abu Bakr and Zaynab are all historical figures and are important figures in the conquest of the Mahgreb by the Almoravids dynasty.
The earliest reference to Zaynab is in the anonymous 12th-century text Kitab al-Istibsar, where it says "In her time there was none more beautiful or intelligent or witty ... she was married to Yusuf, who built Marrakech for her"
Her example and the fact that she assisted in creating the dynasty and its customs had great impact on the situation of women in Almoravid Morocco. In the tradition and example of her, women in Morocco had high status during the reign of the Almoravid dynasty; princesses was allowed to participate in state affairs; women in Morocco did not wear veils; the education of women was accepted and normal, with notable women such as Hafsa Bint al-Hajj al-Rukuniyya holding courses for the women of the palace; at least two women known to have been doctors, and, finally, princess Fannu famously participated in the defense of the capital during the dynasty's downfall in 1147 (Wikipedia)
"Zainab was praised for her matchless beauty as well as her skills in governance matters. Though many women lived in the shadow of their husbands at that time, historians report that Zainab Nafzaouia was highly influential in the process of decision making especially in public affairs.
Lotfi Bouchentouf de Zamane reports that Zainab Nafzaouia has repeatedly intervened in politics. For instance she urged her husband Yusuf Ibn Tachfin to change his status from a mere deputy of Abu Bakr to the title of “Amir al Mouminin”, the prince of believers.
Women living under the Almoravids rule were relatively emancipated in public life. They held a prominent role in society as they were entrusted with governance issues in their households."
https://www.moroccoworldnews.com/2012...
Yusuf is portraited in history as a wise and fair man.
In this novel Zaynab is portrayed as a woman who sleeps herself to power and who is terribly jealous. Well the first part seems to be true as she keeps marrying another candidate who seems to qualify for the ruler of the Maghreb but if she was a bad person we will never know.
I think the fictional Kella is described in a genuine way: a girl who saw a lot of the world as a child and teenager and who suddenly is confined to the role of a peasant woman in a camp and who yearns for freedom and travel will be fascinated by a general with a vision to conquer the world. Yusuf seems to be the kind of man who is attracted to smart women who share his vision. But where Kella is a young nomad girl Zaynab is the older and experienced woman and he falls madly in love with her.
I do not agree with the end conclusion in the book on their relationship and the relationship Kella has with her friend from home. Because the book is very detailed apart from the sexual relationship Kella has it is a bit difficult to fathom how intense their bond is. I think Kella was besotted and yes Yusuf was more feeling tenderness towards her while he seems madly in love and under the spell of Zaynab. But the other relationship seems only to me to be love from one side. The ending feels a bit too convenient.
The book is very entertaining and keeps you guessing which of the women will prevail. The story seems to be a romance but towards the second half it is more about the founding of Marrakesh and the power struggles in the new realm. For someone who likes history it was a nice way to get acquainted with Moroccan / Maghreb history of that era.
The title by the way is a reference to the jewellery Kella wears as a Touareg woman. Every chapter is named after an item of traditional jewellery that is given for certain occasions. The string of silver beads is the only present Kella can give to someone she loves very much.
A 4 stars out of 5
September 6, 2021
This book was entered in The Wishing Shelf Book Awards. This is what our readers thought:
Title: A String of Silver Beads
Author: Melissa Addey
Star Rating: 5 Stars
Number of Readers: 16
Stats
Editing: 9/10
Writing Style: 10/10
Content: 10/10
Cover: 6/10
Of the 16 readers:
16 would read another book by this author.
8 thought the cover was good or excellent.
16 felt it was easy to follow.
16 would recommend this book to another reader to try.
Of all the readers, 6 felt the author’s strongest skill was ‘plotting a story’.
Of all the readers, 5 felt the author’s strongest skill was ‘developing the characters’.
Of all the readers, 5 felt the author’s strongest skill was ‘writing style’.
15 felt the pacing was good or excellent.
16 thought the author understood the readership and what they wanted.
Readers’ Comments
“What a fascinating novel. I love the hero, Kella. She’s a strong minded girl/woman living in a man’s world. Well-written, easy to follow and with plenty happening. I enjoyed it a lot!” Female reader, aged 45
“An interesting look at Muslim history through the eyes of an intelligent girl. The author did a wonderful job of researching the time and place, and this shows in the depth of the characters and the complexity of the plot.” Male reader, aged 54
“A strong spirited protagonist and a plot full of drama, romance and set in a time and place not often seen in novels today. Top marks for originality.” Male reader, aged 38
“I loved the range of characters in this novel. I think, even if historical novels are not your thing, you’ll still learn a lot about Muslim culture/history reading this. I would happily read another book by this author.” Male reader, aged 60
To Sum It Up:
‘A superbly plotted historical novel with a vividly described setting and packed full of memorable characters. A FINALIST and highly recommended!’ The Wishing Shelf Book Awards
Title: A String of Silver Beads
Author: Melissa Addey
Star Rating: 5 Stars
Number of Readers: 16
Stats
Editing: 9/10
Writing Style: 10/10
Content: 10/10
Cover: 6/10
Of the 16 readers:
16 would read another book by this author.
8 thought the cover was good or excellent.
16 felt it was easy to follow.
16 would recommend this book to another reader to try.
Of all the readers, 6 felt the author’s strongest skill was ‘plotting a story’.
Of all the readers, 5 felt the author’s strongest skill was ‘developing the characters’.
Of all the readers, 5 felt the author’s strongest skill was ‘writing style’.
15 felt the pacing was good or excellent.
16 thought the author understood the readership and what they wanted.
Readers’ Comments
“What a fascinating novel. I love the hero, Kella. She’s a strong minded girl/woman living in a man’s world. Well-written, easy to follow and with plenty happening. I enjoyed it a lot!” Female reader, aged 45
“An interesting look at Muslim history through the eyes of an intelligent girl. The author did a wonderful job of researching the time and place, and this shows in the depth of the characters and the complexity of the plot.” Male reader, aged 54
“A strong spirited protagonist and a plot full of drama, romance and set in a time and place not often seen in novels today. Top marks for originality.” Male reader, aged 38
“I loved the range of characters in this novel. I think, even if historical novels are not your thing, you’ll still learn a lot about Muslim culture/history reading this. I would happily read another book by this author.” Male reader, aged 60
To Sum It Up:
‘A superbly plotted historical novel with a vividly described setting and packed full of memorable characters. A FINALIST and highly recommended!’ The Wishing Shelf Book Awards
October 29, 2025
Melissa Addey lässt in ihrem Roman A String of Silver Beads die Protagonistin Kella selbst zu Wort kommen. Kella erzählt ihre Lebensgeschichte anhand von Schmuckstücken und Juwelen – jedes von ihnen symbolisiert eine wichtige Etappe ihres Werdens. Als Leserin begleitet man sie von ihrer Jugend und den Abenteuern entlang der nordafrikanischen Handelsrouten des 11. Jahrhunderts über ihre Reifung zur jungen Frau und ihre erste Liebe bis hin zu den Herausforderungen als erste Ehefrau des Generals Yusuf. Gemeinsam mit ihm verfolgt sie die Vision, die Stämme und Völker Nordafrikas in einem friedlichen Reich zu einen – auch wenn der Weg dahin zunächst von Krieg und Eroberung bestimmt ist.
Der besondere Schreibstil von Melissa Addey und die intime Erzählperspektive Kellas ziehen einen tief in die Geschichte hinein. Man versteht ihre Gedanken und Motive so gut, dass es leichtfällt, sie als Protagonistin ins Herz zu schließen. Anfangs wollte ich das Buch am liebsten in einem Rutsch durchlesen. Doch je weiter die Geschichte voranschritt, desto stärker wurde ich emotional mitgerissen – bis hin zu Momenten, in denen ich das Buch für eine Woche zur Seite legen musste, weil mich Wut und Mitgefühl überwältigten. Das Ende hat mich schließlich mit Tränen in den Augen zurückgelassen.
Zum Glück gibt es noch weitere Bücher über Kella und einige der faszinierenden Figuren, die in diesem Roman eingeführt werden – und ich freue mich schon sehr darauf, sie alle zu lesen!
Der besondere Schreibstil von Melissa Addey und die intime Erzählperspektive Kellas ziehen einen tief in die Geschichte hinein. Man versteht ihre Gedanken und Motive so gut, dass es leichtfällt, sie als Protagonistin ins Herz zu schließen. Anfangs wollte ich das Buch am liebsten in einem Rutsch durchlesen. Doch je weiter die Geschichte voranschritt, desto stärker wurde ich emotional mitgerissen – bis hin zu Momenten, in denen ich das Buch für eine Woche zur Seite legen musste, weil mich Wut und Mitgefühl überwältigten. Das Ende hat mich schließlich mit Tränen in den Augen zurückgelassen.
Zum Glück gibt es noch weitere Bücher über Kella und einige der faszinierenden Figuren, die in diesem Roman eingeführt werden – und ich freue mich schon sehr darauf, sie alle zu lesen!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 4, 2025
This historical fiction novel set in the 12th century Northern Africa is one that I was unable to put down. Historical fiction is my favorite genre of reading material. The time period and the location are relatively new to me as a reader.
Author Melissa Addey seamlessly weaves a tale of a Berber nomadic woman whose love of travel, freedom and trade causes her to marry hastily to an ambitious warrior. Thinking she has attained the life she desires, her marriage quickly becomes one of danger, isolation and subservience.
As the book title represents, the significance of a woman’s jewelry delineates passages in her life. Gorgeous images of food, bazaars, native dress, customs and aspects of the nomadic life, terrain, scorching weather and far flung cities makes for a feast to the reader’s sensibilities.
The heroine, Kella steals the reader’s heart from page one. As she faces each pitfall with courage and dignity, she lives with the unbearable knowledge that she has made a terrible choice in Yusuf, her spouse.
I learned so much with this read and it was a joy to indulge in. As this is a series, I’m looking forward to reading the next novel.
Author Melissa Addey seamlessly weaves a tale of a Berber nomadic woman whose love of travel, freedom and trade causes her to marry hastily to an ambitious warrior. Thinking she has attained the life she desires, her marriage quickly becomes one of danger, isolation and subservience.
As the book title represents, the significance of a woman’s jewelry delineates passages in her life. Gorgeous images of food, bazaars, native dress, customs and aspects of the nomadic life, terrain, scorching weather and far flung cities makes for a feast to the reader’s sensibilities.
The heroine, Kella steals the reader’s heart from page one. As she faces each pitfall with courage and dignity, she lives with the unbearable knowledge that she has made a terrible choice in Yusuf, her spouse.
I learned so much with this read and it was a joy to indulge in. As this is a series, I’m looking forward to reading the next novel.
October 24, 2025
Melissa Addey masterfully transports readers to 11th century North Africa, immersing them in a world of desert landscapes, bustling trade routes, and the rise of the Almoravid dynasty. The story centers on Kella, a strong-willed Berber girl who lives disguised as a boy to roam freely and compete in camel races. Her discovery forces her into a restrictive role, igniting her yearning for freedom, adventure, and love.
The novel beautifully combines rich historical detail with a compelling personal journey. Addey's vivid descriptions make the scents, sights, and sounds of the era come alive. The characters are nuanced and believable, especially Kella, whose courage and intelligence shine despite societal limitations.
The tension between Kella, her ambitious husband Yusuf, and his powerful consort Zaynab adds depth to the narrative, intertwining personal drama with the political upheaval shaping the region. This book is ideal for fans of historical fiction, especially those interested in strong female protagonists and lesser-known chapters of Muslim and North African history.
The novel beautifully combines rich historical detail with a compelling personal journey. Addey's vivid descriptions make the scents, sights, and sounds of the era come alive. The characters are nuanced and believable, especially Kella, whose courage and intelligence shine despite societal limitations.
The tension between Kella, her ambitious husband Yusuf, and his powerful consort Zaynab adds depth to the narrative, intertwining personal drama with the political upheaval shaping the region. This book is ideal for fans of historical fiction, especially those interested in strong female protagonists and lesser-known chapters of Muslim and North African history.
September 4, 2022
I have never read anything about the Moorish Empire and knew nothing about it, but the blurb intrigued me. I'm glad I went outside my comfort zone to read this book.
Kella is a young woman in North Africa in 1067, who lives here life as a boy. Her greatest love in life is following the trade routes with her father and brother and winning camel races. But, when it is discovered that she is a girl, her father packs her off to live with her Aunt and learn womanly skills.
Kella is desperate to be back on the trade routes and is determined to find a way to escape the mundane life of a woman (which she considers to be just a little above a slave's fate).
The author has done a wonderful job in creating the atmosphere of Kella's world. Even though the book is told from her perspective, the other characters come alive through her descriptions and thoughts.
I would recommend this book to those who love strong female characters in a historical setting and who enjoy a well-told story with colorful descriptions.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Kella is a young woman in North Africa in 1067, who lives here life as a boy. Her greatest love in life is following the trade routes with her father and brother and winning camel races. But, when it is discovered that she is a girl, her father packs her off to live with her Aunt and learn womanly skills.
Kella is desperate to be back on the trade routes and is determined to find a way to escape the mundane life of a woman (which she considers to be just a little above a slave's fate).
The author has done a wonderful job in creating the atmosphere of Kella's world. Even though the book is told from her perspective, the other characters come alive through her descriptions and thoughts.
I would recommend this book to those who love strong female characters in a historical setting and who enjoy a well-told story with colorful descriptions.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 13, 2020
Oh my I fell in love with Kella from the first sentence. A former tomboy myself, I to lived to ride; however, for me it was horses.
I laughed and cried with her as she went through life. From the camels to the trade routes she rode with her father, the descriptions pull you in until you are there yourself.
I could feel her anger and dispair at being made to learn the way of being woman. So much sensitivity from her aunt and family is told in a masterful way.
Using marraige to enable her to continue her adventures she finds herself loving the time spent with her husband until she is forced to wait in camp until he could send for her.
I loathed Zaynab, Yusef's second wife from the moment the author introduced her.
Its a wonderful read for Young Adults, Adults or seniors.
Looking forward to reading more from this author.
I laughed and cried with her as she went through life. From the camels to the trade routes she rode with her father, the descriptions pull you in until you are there yourself.
I could feel her anger and dispair at being made to learn the way of being woman. So much sensitivity from her aunt and family is told in a masterful way.
Using marraige to enable her to continue her adventures she finds herself loving the time spent with her husband until she is forced to wait in camp until he could send for her.
I loathed Zaynab, Yusef's second wife from the moment the author introduced her.
Its a wonderful read for Young Adults, Adults or seniors.
Looking forward to reading more from this author.
November 30, 2018
I have read other historical novels by this author besides this one (the Forbidden City books). I love her writing! I find myself getting totally immersed in the storyline, the setting & the time period!! I also find myself getting tense as the plot gets more involved!! I thought the historical parts were very interesting with the Muslim culture, family dynamics & way of life. I really enjoy learning new things!! One thing I also really like are the strong female characters! I can't imagine living with the restrictions of being a woman of a different time period, culture & religion! I would recommend this book if you like historical novels & strong women characters! I received a free copy of this book & my opinion in this review is all my own!
March 25, 2020
The Moorish Empire Begins To Form
In this book, the Moorish Empire grows to include Marrakesh and Fez. This is a wonderful series to binge read. The history of Northern Africa was not covered in much detail outside of Egypt. The Moroccan Empire was always somewhat of a footnote. While this is fictionalized history, all of the pertinent details of the story are based on fact. The story has some folks that are just plain evil as well as some that were truly blessed. It is always more fun knowing that you are reading about things that really happened and not just imagined. I can't wait to read the next in the series. I received this book for free from the author and voluntarily chose to post my honest review.
In this book, the Moorish Empire grows to include Marrakesh and Fez. This is a wonderful series to binge read. The history of Northern Africa was not covered in much detail outside of Egypt. The Moroccan Empire was always somewhat of a footnote. While this is fictionalized history, all of the pertinent details of the story are based on fact. The story has some folks that are just plain evil as well as some that were truly blessed. It is always more fun knowing that you are reading about things that really happened and not just imagined. I can't wait to read the next in the series. I received this book for free from the author and voluntarily chose to post my honest review.
August 12, 2025
What an absolutely stunning historical novel! I was sucked into the Berber world from the first paragraph, and the story didn't let go until I turned the last page.
The writing makes the sights, sounds, smells, dangers and everyday life in 11th Century Morocco come alive. The first person perspective really puts you in the middle of Kella's story as she dreams of a large life full of adventure and excitement, but instead faces a world of love, complicated relationships and war-time politics.
This book has opened my eyes to a fascinating time in history and the beauty of far-off places. I am so glad that there are more books in this series, because I'm not ready yet to leave Kella and her world behind.
The writing makes the sights, sounds, smells, dangers and everyday life in 11th Century Morocco come alive. The first person perspective really puts you in the middle of Kella's story as she dreams of a large life full of adventure and excitement, but instead faces a world of love, complicated relationships and war-time politics.
This book has opened my eyes to a fascinating time in history and the beauty of far-off places. I am so glad that there are more books in this series, because I'm not ready yet to leave Kella and her world behind.
May 16, 2019
"A String of Silver Beads" earns 5/5 Trinkets...Engaging and Intriguing!
Unique in its eleventh century North African setting and Moorish culture, Melissa Addey's story still shares many contemporary themes of women, their place in a society, and the conflicts that may arise when dreams beg to go beyond the cultural limitations. An extraordinary tale weaving historical figures and events not entirely common knowledge, I was fascinated and intrigued. The story is epic with power struggles, conflicts, relationships, but it's the rich characters that had me turning the page.
"Disclosure: I received an ARC. My review is voluntary with honest insights and comments."
Unique in its eleventh century North African setting and Moorish culture, Melissa Addey's story still shares many contemporary themes of women, their place in a society, and the conflicts that may arise when dreams beg to go beyond the cultural limitations. An extraordinary tale weaving historical figures and events not entirely common knowledge, I was fascinated and intrigued. The story is epic with power struggles, conflicts, relationships, but it's the rich characters that had me turning the page.
"Disclosure: I received an ARC. My review is voluntary with honest insights and comments."
October 29, 2021
Second book in this series of books by Melissa Added who writes in the first person. It takes some getting used to reading this way but once you start to get into the story you forget your doing so and become part of the story. Mystery,murder,killings, jealousy, historical and discover Africa in the beginning of a untouched land. Follow a boy who is really is a young girl wanting to win a race and show all the men that a mere girl can do and try to win and doesn't have to be a man to do so! Follow Kella's life and see what troubles she comes against as she tries to protect not only herself but her son and fight for their freedom that she deserves..off to book three in this series and see also what kind of life Yusuf lives as he not only fights in Africa but what he will do for love!!
December 2, 2018
Wow! What a great story! I loved the characters and the way each was presented sent this historically correct story into five stars. I was also impressed how smooth it reads and I actually felt for this girl changing to woman. Everything from the camel races to the awfulness of the second wife to the marriage bed and baby birthing was handled perfectly! No filthy language needed nor used and yes, the characters are Muslims, but it is not about their religion.
December 22, 2018
She had pretended she was a boy so.She could have the life of adventure she wants. She does well.until her true sex is discovered and she is sent to learn about being a woman. She hates it and she wonders if she marries him if she would get it back. Now she will be in a battle to protect herself and her new son. Can she will themselves safe? See how she gets on
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 15, 2018
This author is new to me but I am hooked. This is a great story of women's struggles in history to make decisions in their life. I loved this story and hope to read more by this author. A very engaging story that kept me turning pages to the end!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 5, 2019
This book has received a Discovering Diamonds Review:
Helen Hollick
founder #DDRevs
"The skilled writing style means that there is nothing to trip the reader up, no clumsy phrasing or cliche which reminds you that you're reading someone's words. The actual writing moves out of the way and lets you enjoy the story."
Helen Hollick
founder #DDRevs
"The skilled writing style means that there is nothing to trip the reader up, no clumsy phrasing or cliche which reminds you that you're reading someone's words. The actual writing moves out of the way and lets you enjoy the story."
December 1, 2018
Allow a day for this adult tale of coming of age, defying norms, and making history in 11th-century northeastern Africa.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 14, 2018
In 1067 Africa Kella disguised herself as a boy to travel. When she’s discovered, gets sent home. Not suitable for her, tries other ways. Intriguing.
December 6, 2018
Great read set in 1074.
September 22, 2019
Didn't have a good ending.
November 30, 2019
Outstanding
Looking towards next in series. Such wonderful heartfelt stories. Seems as though actual friends are revealed and my interest kindled marvelously.
Looking towards next in series. Such wonderful heartfelt stories. Seems as though actual friends are revealed and my interest kindled marvelously.
February 14, 2021
Loved the entire series.
April 29, 2022
Adley has a talent for bringing far away times and places to exuberant life through detail and chara,cterization.
May 1, 2022
Wonderful read
I can not wait to read the next book in this amazing series. Read this one in just two days!
I can not wait to read the next book in this amazing series. Read this one in just two days!
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