Ancient Egypt's Female Reign - October 24, 2014

I am coming out of a reading slump and have been starting too many books and finishing very few which explains the lack of posts. 

Currently Reading:

   . .


Recent Review:

The Woman Who Would be King: Hatshepsut's Rise to Power in Ancient Egypt by Kara Cooney
(digital ARC received through NetGalley, print edition received through Blogging for Books)
4 stars



In Ancient Egypt, the prosperity and security of the country depended upon strong rulers and guaranteed successions approved by man and gods alike.  Men were the rulers of choice while royal women were normally relegated to a harem of wives and breeders.  Hatsheput came to rule during a time when the male choices were dead or too young and was able to rule as a powerful female.  The information regarding ancient Egypt; it's governance and its culture was fascinating and surprisingly detailed.  Unfortunately there is not a lot of information about Hatsheput herself and much of her biography was supposition.  While this is frustrating, it is also necessary, I would guess, when dealing with ancient figures.  The author does a good job using the known details of the time to create a realistic portrait of Hatsheput and her life.  I recommend this book to those who have an interest in ancient history and powerful women rulers.  I received the digital ARC of this book through NetGalley and a print edition through Blogging for Books in exchange for an honest review.