Hatshepsut

About the Book

Makare Hatshepsut reclined on her couch, smiling. "The king is dead!" she cried, "And I am alive. Now I will reign supreme!"

"Impossible, beloved," old Senmen warned. "You must marry the boy."

At this Hatshepsut laughed aloud and proceeded to get her own way. Queen by right of birth, the favourite daughter of Thutmosis I, she was married to Thutmosis II to safeguard the throne. Now, thirteen years later, she is expected to marry Thutmosis III, a mere child. She refused and herself took the throne.

Her reign was characterized by great expansion of trade and a time of peace in the land. One dignitary of the queen's entourage stood entirely alone. The chief of chiefs of work, the royal chancellor, the grand steward, Senenmut. Hatshepsut came to live only for him and it was to him she cried as she took the poisoned cup.

Hatshepsut left behind an imperishable monument, the 'Sublime of Sublimes', the temple at Der el-Bahri.

About the Author

Irene Roberts, who has over 100 books to her credit, began creative writing classes at Tresillian in Kingsbridge, in England, which led to the founding of South Hams Writers? Circle that has just marked its 21st anniversary. She served as the Woman?s Page Editor of the South Hams Review (1977-79), and for many years as creative writing Tutor at the Kingsbridge Community College. She is a Founder Member of the Romantic Novelists Association and has frequently been interviewed on TV and radio. Her husband, the late Trevor Roberts, was an accomplished artist. She has two sons and one daughter.