The Sekhmet Bed

Libbie Hawker

Feb 2014 · The She-King Book 1 · Running Rabbit Press

About this ebook

Is Ahmose's divine gift a blessing or a curse?

The second daughter of the Pharaoh, Ahmose has always dreamed of a quiet life as a priestess, serving Egypt's gods, ministering to the people of the Two Lands. But when the Pharaoh dies without an heir, she is given instead as Great Royal Wife to the new king – a soldier of common birth. For Ahmose is god-chosen, gifted with the ability to read dreams, and it is her connection to the gods which ensures the new Pharaoh his right to rule.

Ahmose's elder sister Mutnofret has been raised to expect the privileged station of Great Royal Wife; her rage at being displaced cannot be soothed. As Ahmose fights the currents of Egypt's politics and Mutnofret's vengeful anger, her youth and inexperience carry her beyond her depth and into the realm of sacrilege.

To right her wrongs and save Egypt from the gods' wrath, Ahmose must face her most visceral fear: bearing an heir. But the gods of Egypt are exacting, and even her sacrifice may not be enough to restore the Two Lands to safety.

Ratings and reviews

As a fan of ancient history, and historical fiction in general I truly enjoyed this book, and intend to buy the rest of the series. Thank you to the author for bringing to life an important and amazing period in human history.

Thoroughly enjoyed this book. As another critic said, I also think it should be made into a movie and will read more from this author. It caused me to self reflect and appreciate humanness through all ages and cultures.

Set in ancient Egypt, it portrays the struggle of the ruling class to appease the gods & the people. The story includes good character development, enjoying it more than expected!

About the author

Libbie Hawker writes historical and literary fiction with rich prose and vivid details of time and place. She lives in Seattle, Washington.