The Pharaohs Daughter (Treasures of the Nile, #1) by Mesu Andrews

The Pharaohs Daughter (Treasures of the Nile, #1) Reviews

• 
  Christine Indorf

  I am finishing Christian Fiction week and of course I had to reread the Pharaoh's Daughter by Mesu Andrews. I love this story of Moses adoptive mother and her journey. She is the Pharaoh sister and then her adoptive father became Pharaoh. She did take Moses from the Nile and kept his identity a secret. It is about how one lie can affect and even almost destroy you and how God and make it all right again. I love the loves story in this book. There are a few but the relationship with the main character Anippe and 2nd husband. Instead of lies they focused on God true grace and mercy. In this book you don't see Moses as he was in the second part of his life but you see him as a prince and his lost of his father, Mother and his secret life of being a Hebrew. After you read this wonderful book you feel like you are right there in the mist of this family. Such a wonderful book. If you haven't read any Biblical Fiction you really need to try it and definitely read the Pharaoh's Daughter or any book by Mesu Andrews. Such an excellent book and had so much fun catching up on my favorites and discovering new and exciting books this last week! Try Christian fiction, you will fall in love!!
• 
  Beth

  Anippe has known from a young age that Pharaoh and the Egyptian gods controlled her fate. After childbirth took the lives her mother and infant brother, she becomes deathly afraid of bearing a child of her own, believing that Anubis, the Egyptian god of death lies in wait for the day she becomes a mother. She carries this fear into her marriage to Sebak, a captain in her brother, Pharaoh Tut’s, army and follows her as she becomes mistress of a prominent Egyptian estate. When Tut orders the Hebrew midwives to drown any sons that are born to their people, Anippe seizes the opportunity to launch a great deception. Finding a baby floating in a basket in the Nile, Anippe believes the Egyptian gods have answered her prayers. She can pretend that she had a son, yet doing so sets into motion events that place her, her son and his true Hebrew family, in terrible danger. As bloodshed mounts and the political tide of Egypt turns, Anippe wonders if her son may have a chance to become Pharaoh, or whether the god of the Hebrews, He who is called El Shaddai, has a bigger plan for them both.
  
  Prior to reading The Pharaoh’s Daughter, I had only read one of Mesu Andrews’s previous novels. While it was fully enjoyable, this novel brought a whole other level for me. I’ve read a couple of authors that are very popular in Biblical fiction, but they just didn’t click with me, so I tend to stick with a hand full of authors in this genre that I know won’t disappoint. After finishing this novel, I feel confident that Mesu Andrews can be easily join their ranks.
  
  In many ways, The Pharaoh’s Daughter is an epic story. It spans several years and several major shifts throughout Anippe’s life. There is a lot of political intrigue and several characters, but I feel like Mesu imparts what the reader needs to know without it being overwhelming. There are some jumps in time, but they were not a problem for me here. The passage of time and key events that the reader needs to know are explained by allowing the information to come naturally in the scene. Whether in the opening scene after substantial passage of time or whether in a character’s emotions after an intense scene, Mesu truly understands the importance of showing what happened rather than simply telling. She brings ancient Egypt to life in a fascinating way. Details of their belief system, politics, and daily life are present from the beginning, woven seamlessly throughout the story. One of my favorite details she included was the way they named second and third children the same name as the first born to “trick” the gods as a way to ensure the firstborn’s life. Names in general are very important in both the Egyptian and Hebrew families, and even Anippe experiences name changes that have a profound impact on her. From their elaborate feasts to the details of running an Egyptian household, I found it all to be mesmerizing.
  
  The lives of the Egyptian royalty and the Hebrew servants are fully realized. Despite having guards and servants are at her beck and call and wanting for very little in the material sense, Anippe lives in fear, first from childbirth, then later from her deception of raising Moses as her own son. The juxtaposition of the Egyptian’s way of life and the Hebrew’s way of life was very startling at times, but what was even more impressive was the feeling of discovering that along with Anippe as the story progresses. The lavish, pampered lifestyle of the Egyptians is a stark foil to the simplistic, bare, yet often content, lifestyle of the Hebrews. Both families are composed of well-rounded characters full of depth. Their hopes, fears and dreams were rich and layered, and I especially loved the interactions that brought royalty and commoner together. Although Anippe starts off as pampered and entitled, she develops and grows in a realistic way. Her sister, Ankhe, provides a nice foil for her, showing what can happen when bitterness in life circumstances rules instead of hope. Anippe gave her chance after chance, which was a bit annoying; however, since her sister was her only close relative, I can understand why she was so forgiving. Mered, a Hebrew and the chief linen maker in Anippe’s estate, is also a complex character. I really enjoyed getting to know him and his family. Overall, the relationships between the characters come across as genuine and heartfelt, and I especially treasured the relationship between Anippe and Miriam, who becomes Anippe’s handmaiden after she is found watching Moses from the river bank.
  
  This novel has a bit of everything – danger, court and political intrigues, familial and romantic love and a beautiful tale of redemption that encompasses the entire story. The spiritual aspect feels very authentic and natural to the story, and I related to Anippe’s fears and doubts. As her name is changed once again, this time to the Hebrew name of Bithiah, she comes to understand just how worthy she is of a life free from fear and seeing her progress from fear to hope was very uplifting.
  
  I am no expert on Egyptian history or a Biblical scholar, so as long as an author stays true to the Biblical account, I am usually lenient when it comes to things that don’t have a definitive answer. The Bible doesn’t name the pharaoh in the story of Moses, and Mesu chooses to use Tut as the Pharaoh that decreed Hebrew baby boys to be killed at birth and his successor as the one who refused the Lord’s demands in Exodus. While I don’t know that I believe them to be two different pharaohs, Mesu does present a plausible story and has clearly done a lot of research. Much of the story takes place well before the events in Exodus, so it’s easy to see Mesu’s story as what “could have been,” and I also appreciated her explanation at the end and what scripture she used as reference.
  
  Ultimately when I read fiction set in biblical times, I want to feel prompted to return to the biblical account and look at it with fresh eyes once again. Mesu certainly accomplished that for me in The Pharaoh’s Daughter. It was a thoroughly entertaining, enlightening and profound read that kept me turning those pages well past time to turn in for the night. The Pharaoh’s Daughter is labeled as “A Treasure of the Nile Novel,” so I’m hoping this means more stories (perhaps one about Miriam!) like this one are up next for Mesu. I am eager to read her other published books and whatever story that she pens next. Highly recommended!
  
  This review first appeared here:
  http://straightoffthepage.com/the-pha....
• 
  Staci

  Simply fascinating look at what life was like for Egyptians and Hebrews many years ago. The Pharaoh's daughter went through more than one transformation during the novel. I especially loved Mered and Miriam.
  
  The author shared Moses' story through the lens of his Egyptian mother. The novel is well written and I look forward to reading the next in the series: Miriam.
• 
  Loraine

  Mesu Andrews takes a look at the life of Moses from a very different perspective in this book. Her focus is on Pharaoh's daughter who retrieves Moses as a baby from the Nile, and her life as a wife and mother as well as her slow conversion to the Hebrew belief in one God. Andrew's historical research as well as Biblical research is wonderfully evident throughout this well-written book. She brings the sights, sounds, smells and dress of the time period to life along with the huge differences between the Egyptian royalty and the Hebrew slaves. Her after notes that explain her reasoning for the choices she made added to this interesting look at Moses' young life.
  
  I look forward to completing this series and reading more of Andrew's Biblical fiction. Highly recommended.
• 
  Sarita

  This is my first book by Mesu Andrews and I will definitely be reading more. I had this book for almost a year and always for some reason selected other books to read first. I’m glad I finally picked this up.
  
  This book started very slowly for the first 100pages and I felt confused with all the different characters and struggled a bit with all the names, especially the Egyptian names. But after 100pages the story grabbed me and I was finding every possible opportunity to read.
  
  The biblical history is in line with the Bible and the Egyptian history is well searched. I loved how Mesu’s characters broke open Moses’s story on a different level. I recently read Moses’ story in the Bible, so it was refreshing to round it out with this story.
  
  It was a difficult read as well. Especially the violence and the part of the killing of the Hebrew babies.
  
  Mesu’s characters was a great representation of how good vs evil looks when you are following and captured by false gods versus the Hebrews who are in slavery but living in freedom because of there love and trust in El-Shaddai.
  
  Looking forward to reading Miriam’s story soon.
• 
  Alicia Willis

  5 stars. Best for ages 18+ or married.
  
  From the synopsis. Anippe has grown up in the shadows of Egypt’s good god Pharaoh, aware that Anubis, god of the afterlife, may take her or her siblings at any moment. She watched him snatch her mother and infant brother during childbirth, a moment which awakens in her a terrible dread of ever bearing a child. Now she is to be become the bride of Sebak, a kind but quick-tempered Captain of Pharaoh Tut’s army. In order to provide Sebak the heir he deserves and yet protect herself from the underworld gods, Anippe must launch a series of deceptions, even involving the Hebrew midwives—women ordered by Tut to drown the sons of their own people in the Nile. When she finds a baby floating in a basket on the great river, Anippe believes Egypt’s gods have answered her pleas, entrenching her more deeply in deception and placing her and her son Mehy, whom handmaiden Miriam calls Moses, in mortal danger. As bloodshed and savage politics shift the balance of power in Egypt, the gods reveal their fickle natures and Anippe wonders if her son, a boy of Hebrew blood, could one day become king. Or does the god of her Hebrew servants, the one they call El Shaddai, have a different plan—for them all?
  
  I first fell in love with Mesu Andrews' books when I read In the Shadow of Jezebel. I found this little gem at a book store near me and snatched it up. It actually took me about two to three weeks to finish due to the depth, length, and deep, mature nature of the story and writing.
  
  Mesu Andrews weaved a fascinating, historically rich, and heart gripping story with this one. I couldn't put it down, yet I had to to ponder, to gasp, to let the weight of Anippe's world stir my thoughts and touch my heart. Parts of Anippe's world felt very real to me--the fear, particularly the fear of people. Even her fear in *spoiler* trusting El Shaddai was real to me.
  
  There is not much I can say that would add to the synopsis or without giving away the intricate and fascinating plot line. Mesu Andrews' love for God and Scripture and her knowledge of the heart of God was woven into each page. All I can say is READ it. The history and facts about God's Word will blow your mind--and the story will most definitely touch your heart.
  
  Best for 18+ or married couples due to sexuality and violence. Nothing is ever described in detail and is very prudently handled, yet I counsel caution simply because I tend to lean on the safe side. :) The Egyptians were a very immoral people--more so than the Romans--and historical accuracey demanded there be some mention of their depravity and need for a Savior.
• 
  Amanda Geaney

  Chances are, you know the story of Moses–a Hebrew babe saved from crocodile infested waters and raised in an Egyptian palace (Exodus 2). Now it’s time to read his story like you have never before – through the eyes of Anippe, the Pharaoh’s Daughter. With the help of author Mesu Andrews, immerse yourself in the luxury of ancient Egypt, stand in the throne room of King Tut, and set adrift on the Nile River… But beware! Danger abounds, and one must be careful with whom they confide their secrets. Reconciling ancient history with biblical accounts, Mesu Andrews delivers an eye-opening account that will send you running back to scripture.
  
  Let me begin by confessing that I have read every book Mesu Andrews has written to date. I am fascinated by the obscure details that she mines from God’s Word. I don’t know how anyone could ever tire of reading the bible because God has hidden so many treasures within. Treasures that great biblical fiction titles like this selection bring to light. The biblically inspired plot twists in this book blew my mind!!
  
  The Pharaoh’s Daughter will appeal to both historical fiction and biblical fiction fans. It is laden with irresistible and dynamic characters. Due to their cruel treatment of Hebrew slaves, a few Egyptian characters drew my ire, but overall I felt a keen attachment to the cast. Historical fiction fans will relish the rich details of the Egyptian-Hittite war, successions to the throne, fashion, commerce, and cultural norms of the day. Christian readers and biblical fiction connoisseurs will recognize a number of biblical truths revealed throughout the storyline: God love is for all mankind, deception is a slippery slope, hope enables us to endure all things, and all other gods fall short of the glory of the One True God. This book is sure to entertain and inspire a wide audience.
  
  The Pharaoh’s Daughter hits bookstores March 17th – preorder your copy today. Come back and let me know if you were caught by surprise as well!
  
  My thanks to Mesu Andrews for offering an advanced reader copy of this title for my review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
• 
  Raechel Lenore

  I was eager to jump into this beautiful book. I’ve been reading several things on or relating to the Biblical account of Moses, so this was a nice addition. And while “The Pharaoh’s Daughter” felt more like fiction-fiction than Biblical fiction, I still enjoyed it. The story was quite alive.
  
  There were some parts that I did not care for, and some that made me feel quite uncomfortable because of the…graphic nature of the scenes. There was a part of torture that really made me uncomfortable – I get that we’re to understand that the Egyptians could be ruthless, but for me personally, I think this particular scene was just too much/too far.
  
  It was interesting to get to see from the perspective of Egypt’s side, particularly the family of ‘The Pharaoh’s Daughter’, herself most importantly included. When reading the account, we so often can glance past this side of history and think the Egyptians utterly evil, but I’m sure even they had some soft parts, misled as they were. This perspective was indeed very interesting, and I enjoyed being able to get a glimpse into it. For me, my interpretation of the Biblical account is different, but that doesn’t mean that this book’s was wrong – only God knows what all happened back then! And that’s okay. I do know that God was involved in this writing, especially since I know Mesu to be a very godly person. :)
  
  I liked the Hebrew’s aspect in this story a lot. I enjoyed Miriam especially and am greatly looking forward to her story in the next book of this series! I liked Anippe as a character. Her representation of being the Pharaoh’s daughter mentioned in Exodus, I’m not quite sure I shared, but as I said, her as a character I liked. Her deception was a hard thing, and I would get frustrated with her for it, but in this tale for her, you kind of understood why she did what she did. We all have fears – great fears – and without God (and sometimes even as we know Him; we still struggle!) they can cause us to do some very not-great things. So yes, Anippe was a well-built up character.
  
  There of course was a faith-strand, since it’s the account of Moses and such, and for the most part, it was good. There were some great quotes from it, which I will share at the end of this review.
  
  I was rather disappointed though that we didn’t get to see more of Anippe’s transition in her faith. There were some parts that had great opportunities to open up into a deeper discussion of the truth of the One True God and the lies of all the Egyptians gods, but then it would skip to another scene or jump to a different conversation, leaving the faith discussion wanting.
  
  There was also a great deal of marriage sensitive issues. I would definitely recommend readers to be at least 18 years old and use caution because of delicate issues such as this and the graphic torture scenes.
  
  But yes, I really love Mesu Andrews – her note before the story and afterwards were both so good and heartfelt. I loved her note of asking for grace and forgiveness for any discrepancies etc. in the novel. We are only humans and can do what God gives us strength for – and I think Mesu does an excellent job.
  
  I think that, as with all Biblical fiction, we need to keep in mind that everyone has their own interpretation of things, which makes each story unique. :)
  
  As a fiction piece, I liked this read. As a Biblical fiction piece, it just didn’t hit me as much. That doesn’t mean it won’t for you though. :)
  
  
  
  “Blame and Guilt serve no purpose” – Chapter 35
  
  “If fear robs us of truth, faith never has a chance to grow” Chapter 37
  
  “A god could never fill the longing for your one true love.” “No, Bithiah. A man can never fill the longing for my one true God.”
  
  “Hope can’t be lost or stolen. Hope is a choice we embrace for ourselves each day”
  
  
  I received a free gift copy of this book – I was not required to write a review. All thoughts are my own, unbiased and honest.
• 
  Kate (The Shelf Life)

  In the last couple of years, I have plunged head first into Biblical fiction. Years ago, there wasn't as big as a selection as there is today. A part of that growth is in part to Mesu Andrews' books. And what books they are!
  
  Mesu Andrews has traveled around in the Old Testament from Dinah to Jezebel's Granddaughter. The range of research that she puts into her books is phenomenal and even though her work is Biblical fiction, she does her best to stay as true to the original story as presented in the Bible, but with added fiction to fill in and make the story more relateable and with a little more adventure.
  
  I have always loved ancient Egypt. It was one of my favorite eras to study in history class. There is just so much there and it all hasn't been discovered yet, which was just proven this past week with some archeological digs going on. Mesu Andrews just brought her beautiful writing, to my favorite time and my goodness how they mesh!
  
  I think it is safe to say, most people know the story of Moses, whether through Sunday school or Cecil B. Demil's classic that is a tradition in my house every Easter. We know Moses was raised in a palace and by Pharaoh's daughter. Mesu takes this story deeper and connects us more with a very thought out and possible timeline (one we may never know for certain, but this one was great!) and one that you didn't know where it would fully lead you after what is known.
  
  I wasn't sure how I would feel reading about Anippe, when we are first really introduced to her, she comes off as a bit spoiled, which I can get being with her a princess, but as you get to know her through the constant shifting time of life, I grew to care for her as her character opened up. I applauded her for standing up for her sister, who in all honesty, got so many second chances from her. Anippe had a deep love for Ankhe, even with Ankhe's firmly planted bitterness. I was back and forth on my feelings for Anippe's sister. How she was treated was heartbreaking by all of those who should have been closest to her, but her response was harsh and at times cruel.
  
  In comparison, Anippe faced her struggles with grace and she grew and learned from them. She had a deep love for her son, Mehy and in her way cared for his birth family. It was the connection that helped her to grow and be saved in so many ways. It opened her up to new possibilities.
  
  It was also in this story, that we get to meet Miriam. We are introduced to her as a young girl among the rushes, as she watched after her baby brother to being a midwife in the skilled labor slave camp where she and her family lived. After reading these parts about her, I can't wait for Miriam's story! Miriam was a gentle soul who cared and loved all those around her. I can't wait see how Miriam's story is expanded on.
  
  Mered was a wonderful character to read about. He has such love and dedication to his family, along with a strong friendship to Sebak, his master. Mered was honorable and he was valued for the work and dedication he offered. Despite everything that was going on and that he and his family were enslaved, he tried to keep positive for his family and those around him and also watching after to protect everyone.
  
  I thoroughly enjoyed this book! I'm so glad I closed out 2014 on such a high note.
  
  
  Thank you to the author and to Mesu's BFF Group, I received a copy of this book for free in exchange for an honest review.
  
  This review was originally posted @
  http://wordsfromabookaholic.blogspot....
• 
  Irene

  
  
  How should I start this review? I mean, this book was so much different than what I was expecting! The characters! The oh-so-did-NOT-see-THAT-coming plots! Honestly, I’m a bit wordless over this! But since I promised a full review of Mesu Andrews‘ unique latest, I will try my best to give y’all just that. Hopefully without any spoiler alerts! ;)
  
  I think I should start off by saying that I enjoy biblical fiction. A lot. And -Surprise, surprise!- Moses happens to be one of my favorite biblical characters. No matter how many times it’s been retold -movie or book- the story of Moses always grabs my full anticipation. But what happens when you not only get the chance to experience the story of Moses, but also the characters mentioned briefly in the book of Exodus? Something adventurous. Like, really!
  
  With an almost slight resemblance to Cecil B. DeMille’s The Ten Commandments (1956), The Pharaoh’s Daughter allows the reader a sharper look on the mysterious land of Ancient Egypt and its people. Which was really awesome! I loved learning about those little pieces of history imbedded throughout the story. Although there were times I wished the story and it’s characters moved a bit faster to get to the point, I can honestly say it was worth sticking to the end.
  
  
  {I received this book from Blogging for Books for my honest review. Thanks BFB!}
  
  Originally posted here;
  https://athoughtreflected.wordpress.c...
  
• 
  Anna Hurtt

  This was an excellent story and I really enjoyed it. Mesu Andrews brings the Bible to life like few authors can, and her latest book is no exception.
  
  "The Pharaoh's Daughter" tells the story of many characters; the main one being Anippe, King Tut's sister and the circumstances of baby Moses' rescue and adoption. While I grew frustrated with some of Anippe's choices and deceptions, the way she has grown by the end of the book redeems her character beautifully.
  
  The historical details of this book were fascinating to me, as well as the social contrasts between Egyptians and Hebrews. I love learning while reading a good story.
  
  I highly recommend this book for anyone who enjoys quality biblical fiction what will strengthen your faith. 5 stars!
  
  (I received an ARC of this book from the publisher via BloggingForBooks.com in exchange for an honest review, which I have given.)
  
• 
  Ebos Aifuobhokhan

  Pharaoh's daughter is one of the most intriguing characters of scriptures and Mesu's with scriptures, in-depth research and a very uncanny imagination bring us a story you'd never forget.
  This story is filled with the mighty power of God, His unconditional love, the depth he goes for His people. I loved more about this book the way God worked on Anippe's heart to a place of surrender and leaving the only life she's ever known. The paths of deception and fear that got her to that point will warm and captivate your heart.
• 
  Audrey

  I must admit that I had mixed feelings when I received an advance copy of The Pharaoh's Daughter for preview. Ancient Egypt has long fascinated me and I like to read anything on the topic that I can get my hands on. But since I followed up on another author's twenty year research on the placement of Moses in Egyptian history I already formed my own opinions. Yet I felt like I would be a traitor if I couldn't give Mesu less than a glowing report and decided to try to read the book with an open mind.
  
  As usual, as a story teller Mesu doesn't disappoint and I was immediately drawn into the book from the get-go. I also knew on the first page that she had done her home work well in regards to Egyptian culture and had no complaints about that. However, skepticism remained. For example, I had doubts that Moses was born during the reign of King Tut although Mesu does present a valid argument that he may have been the Pharaoh to order the destruction of the baby boys. My objection is that the princess who adopted Moses was the daughter of Pharaoh as stated in Exodus 2:5 and King Tut had no living children. Instead his sister/wife miscarried twice. In this story Anippe is King Tut's sister and the man who adopts her becomes the Pharaoh later on. I am not here to expound on Egyptian history and whether or not Anippe was an actual character, but my point is that since the Bible states that the princess was a daughter I think we can safely conclude that she would have been the daughter of a present king not a future king. (A deceased king might be a possibility as in this case.)If not, I am sure the Bible would have stated that she was a sister. As for Mesu's decision to base her conclusion on 1 Chronicles 4: 17-18 is a weak foundation. It makes for an intriguing assumption and I am sure there is probably a reasonable explanation. I believe that all history lines up with the Bible. If at first sight it doesn't appear that way it must be because that not all the evidence is in yet and we need to do more research. On a side note Moses is a strongly Egyptian name and not a Hebrew one.
  
  Once I was able to put my prejudices aside I was able to enjoy the story. It is well-written and appeared to be historically accurate. As usual, when I read book of this nature I desire to dig a little deeper into historical records and into Scripture. I appreciated how Anippe became Bithiah, by joining the Hebrews and accepting El Shaddai as her God. Reading this book reminded me that everyone is entitled to her own opinions in regards to history as long as it measures up to the Word of God. We may never truly know who Moses was in secular history. Even Biblical scholars disagree on time lines but we need to respect and appreciate each others points of view.
• 
  Dawn

  Summary from Amazon
  Anippe has grown up in the shadows of Egypt’s good god Pharaoh, aware that Anubis, god of the afterlife, may take her or her siblings at any moment. She watched him snatch her mother and infant brother during childbirth, a moment which awakens in her a terrible dread of ever bearing a child. Now she is to be become the bride of Sebak, a kind but quick-tempered Captain of Pharaoh Tut’s army. In order to provide Sebak the heir he deserves and yet protect herself from the underworld gods, Anippe must launch a series of deceptions, even involving the Hebrew midwives—women ordered by Tut to drown the sons of their own people in the Nile.
  When she finds a baby floating in a basket on the great river, Anippe believes Egypt’s gods have answered her pleas, entrenching her more deeply in deception and placing her and her son Mehy, whom handmaiden Miriam calls Moses, in mortal danger.
  As bloodshed and savage politics shift the balance of power in Egypt, the gods reveal their fickle natures and Anippe wonders if her son, a boy of Hebrew blood, could one day become king. Or does the god of her Hebrew servants, the one they call El Shaddai, have a different plan—for them all?
  
  My Thoughts:
  I've read some of Mesu Andrews books before, and I've enjoyed them. This one was no different. I loved how much research the author put into the book. I've not read a lot about the Egyptian Princess who raised Moses, so it was fun to read one.
  
  I'll admit that I got a bit confused as to who was who in the story. I also did find it to be a little slow moving at times. Still, I enjoyed it. Especially since Biblical fiction isn't one of my favorite genres.
  
  I really liked Anippe. I liked how she changed and grew during the course of the book. And the Hebrew midwives. They were pretty awesome.
  
  Recommended to fans of Biblical Fiction, historical fiction, Jill Eileen Smith
  
  I received this book for free from Blogging for Books for the purpose of reviewing. My thoughts and opinions are my own.
  
  Rating - 4 stars
  
• 
  Dawn Kinzer

  You may know the story of Moses being left in a basket to float down the Nile. You may have heard the story of him standing up to Egypt’s pharaoh and demanding that he release the Hebrew slaves. Perhaps you’ve watched Moses lead his people out of Egypt in the movie The Ten Commandments. But what happened to Moses during the years between? What about his childhood and the woman who saved him as an infant?
  
  Although this portrayal of Moses’ childhood is fictionalized, Mesu Andrews uses intensive research and creativity to fill in the possible missing pieces for us. The Pharaoh’s Daughter makes the story of Moses, Anippe, and the lives of the Hebrew people come alive for me. I was mentally and emotionally thrown back into biblical times. The author has the ability to put us into the hearts and minds of the characters. It was easy for me to connect with Anippe—her desires, her fears, and her joys.
  
  This isn't a sweet Bible story. It’s filled with action, danger, evil, treachery, and hatred. It shows how bitterness and envy can twist perceptions and affect people’s actions, decisions, and ultimately their lives.
  
  The Pharaoh’s Daughter is also a story about love between man and woman, parent and child, and God and his people—and those willing to sacrifice for loved ones. Along with heartbreak and pain, there is also kindness, grace, and forgiveness.
  
  Through edge-of-your-seat suspense, I was able to see God’s hand at work in a new and refreshing way. I believe there is a depth to this story that will keep impacting readers long after they reach “the end.”
• 
  Martha

  "Fear is the most fertile ground for faith". This interesting statement that this author makes in this book sets the stage for a unique biblical fiction. It is not actually focused on a biblical character though. This book is about the woman that drew Moses from the Nile and really focuses on her life.
  
  Since much can be learned from history, I was amazed at what I learned from this book. The Egyptian lifestyle was somewhat brutal and this book does go into some detail about some of the brutality. It is not graphic in the sense of reality, but I would not recommend it for young teens or those that are sheltered.
  
  When I set this book down, it was one that you did not want to pick up another one for awhile. My mind was spinning with the beauty of the story. Yet another story about a strong woman that God used to save His people that was a Gentile. It spoke to me about how strong women were praised by God.
  
  I loved how the word pictures were created in this book without glorifying evil or magnifying it. It spared nothing as far as description, yet gave you room to create your own visions of the historical setting.
  
  I highly recommend!
  
  This book was provided by Blogging for Books and the publisher. The opinions contained herein are my own.
  
• 
  Lori Twichell

  From the moment I picked this book up, it was different, unique, and fascinating. Anippe was raised with the understanding that Anubis hovered around every corner. At any time, he could show up and steal you to the afterlife. For a child, this was not a pleasant thought. And knowing that you are someone else’s namesake in order to fool Anubis into taking you first? That adds an all new level of stress and terror.
  
  Mesu Andrews took a story that we all know and she didn’t just breathe new life into it – she recreated it completely. When I picked this book up, I figured it was another historical novel retelling a Bible story. They’re okay. I like them. I enjoy the insight into my favorite people from the Bible. But those books don’t always get me excited about reading. This book absolutely shocked me with how good it was. This was so much more than anything I’d imagined! I mean really – I know the Moses story. I just read through it for my own personal devotions a few weeks ago. But this book had me so on edge, I had no idea what was coming next! I loved it!
  
  If you want rich historical detail, beautiful characters and intricately woven storytelling, this is most definitely the book for you. I can’t recommend it highly enough. Don’t miss this one!
  
• 
  Angie Arndt

  Mesu Andrews' masterful retelling of the story of Pharoah's daughter is her latest biblical "what if" novel. I've read them all and enjoyed how she brings the people from the Bible stories we all know and love to life. And I know that she studies, not only the Bible, but historical texts in order to make sure her novels are accurate. And as is the case in most Bible stories, this one has suspense, intrigue and bloodshed.
  
  For me, the best part of her novels are the characters. Anippe, Pharaoh's daughter, finds Moses in a basket, we all know that, but this book goes before and beyond that chapter of the Bible. Reading this book was just like going to the movies and yes, I laughed and I cried -- more than once as she changes -- forced by circumstances and her beliefs to make decisions she cannot change.
  
  This was an awesome book that entertained, touched my heart and made me think.
  
  If you love biblical fiction, the story of Moses or seeing the Bible come to life, you'll love this book too.
  
  My thanks to the publisher for my copy in exchange for my fair and honest review.
  
  
• 
  Paula Vince

  I've been told about the sight of the wonderful, life-giving River Nile lying in the scorching Egyptian climate, the only strip of blue. And I've been fascinated with the lavish pyramids and burial sites of Egypt. This story takes us there, to the time period of the first few chapters of Exodus. Anippe is an Egyptian princess who was forced to make a political marriage to Commander Sebak and move to the Delta, with its grain fields and Hebrew slaves. This is the story of how she becomes the adopted mother of Moses, when she went down to the river to bathe and discovered his basket.
  
  This time and place takes the phrase, 'Our lives have never been our own' to a crazy level. So many characters find themselves forced to do what's regarded as expedient for their people and country. Even those who make cruel decisions are shown to have been victims of the same phenomenon in their own lives. My heart ached for Tut, the confused ten-year-old boy who was forced into marriage with an older woman, even though I hated the cold-hearted monster he becomes later in the story when he made his edict about the Hebrew boy babies. I guess when you consider that Ancient Egypt was a place with so many gods for everything you could think of, it's no wonder trying to determine the person at the top got a bit confusing. How creepy that Anippe, who grew up alongside her brother, honestly came to believe that his emotional state translated as turmoil in the natural elements.
  
  Mesu Andrews took quite a bit of poetic license with the plot, giving characters such as Puah and Shiphrah, the two midwives, their own stories of intense drama, tying in with that of the Egyptian princess. I can't help thinking of the flak certain biblical movies such as 'Noah' have received in recent years, making me wonder whether she 'Hollywood-ised' this story to some extent (such as the deal made between Puah and Anippe). The ruses Anippe goes through to claim the son she rescued from the River Nile is put forward as very tricky and underhanded in this novel. What a lot of personal and political intrigue gets drawn out of one simple passage in the Bible about young Moses being retrieved from the River.
  
  I think the biggest strength of this novel was also the greatest weakness for me. The author did such a lot of research, the authenticity makes it harder for me to bond emotionally with any particular characters. Even 'good' guys, like Sebak, come across as a bit harsh. The ancient Egyptian mindset, which I'm sure Ms Andrews has nailed, leaves me cold, and thankful that I escaped being born into that time and place.
  
  So overall, although this novel has all the hallmarks of another brilliantly researched Mesu Andrews novel, it's not my favourite title of hers. However, this won't stop me reading more.
  Some of my favourite quotes.
  'Mered (Puah's husband) didn't understand Egyptian gods and symbols and legends, but neither did most Egyptians... At least El Shaddai was unchanging, though many Hebrews had given up hope of his ancient promises.'
  
  Thanks to WaterBrook Multnomah and Blogging for Books for my review copy
• 
  Sahadat Hossain

  মূসা (আঃ) এর জন্মের পর তাঁকে একটা ঝুড়িতে করে নীল নদে ভাসিয়ে দিয়েছিলেন তার জন্মধাত্রী মা, যাতে করে ফেরাউনের হাত থেকে তিনি রক্ষা পান… এটা আমরা সবাই জানি… কিভাবে তিনি ফারাও এর স্ত্রী কর্তৃক রক্ষা পান, পরবর্তীতে তিনি হিব্রু জনগোষ্ঠীর পক্ষ নিয়ে ফারাও এর বিরুদ্ধে রুখে দাঁড়ান……
  প্রাচীন মিশর নিয়ে আমার আগ্রহ অনেক, কিন্তু এ বিষয়ে পড়া হয় তুলনামূলক কম… উইলবার স্মিথ এর ইজিপশিয়ান সিরিজ দিয়ে প্রাচীন মিশর এর সাথে আমার পরিচয়… এরপর কয়েকটা নন-ফিকশান পড়ার চেষ্টা করেছিলাম… ফলাফল খুব একটা ভালো না… ফিকশন এর মধ্যে রামেসিস সিরিজ এর বইগুলোও অসাধারণ… বেশিরভাগ বইয়ের মূল বিষয় থাকে ফারাও কেন্দ্রিক…
  মেসু এন্ড্রুজ এর লেখা The Pharaoh’s Daughter এর কেন্দ্রবিন্দু ফারাও এর মেয়ে, আনিপ্পি… আনিপ্পি ছোট থেকেই জেনে আসছে যে তার জীবনধারা সম্পুর্নভাবে নিয়ন্ত্রিত হয়ে আসছে দেবতা আনুবিস এর ইশারায়… দেবতা আনুবিস যে কোন সময়, যে কোন জায়গায় তাকে কিংবা তার ছোট বোনকে নিয়ে যেতে পারে পরবর্তী জীবনে… যে কিনা ইতিমধ্যে তার সদ্যজাত ভাই এবং তার মাকে নিয়ে গেছে…
  তার ছোট ভাই এর জন্মের সময় তার মা এবং ভাই দুজনই মারা যায়।। এ থেকে তার মনে সন্তান জন্ম দেয়ার ব্যাপারটা নিয়ে এক ভীতিকর অবস্থার সৃষ্টি হয়… ইতিমধ্যে তার ভাই ফারাও টাট এর ইচ্ছায় তার বিয়ে হয় ফারাও সৈন্যবাহিনীর ক্যাপ্টেন সেবাক এর সাথে।। যে কিনা ভদ্��-��ম্র কিন্তু শর্ট টেম্পারড… সেবাক চায় একজন উত্তরাধিকারী। কিন্তু আনিপ্পি এখনো সন্তান জন্মদানের ব্যাপারে ভীতসন্ত্রস্ত…
  ইতিমধ্যে, ফারাও এর স্ত্রী, রানী সেনপা ২য় বারের মত সন্তান মৃত সন্তান এর জন্ম দেয়।। এতে ফারাও ক্ষেপে গিয়ে সকল হিব্রু ছেলে শিশুকে নীল নদে ছুড়ে ফেলার নির্দেশ দেয়… আর এমন সময়ে আনিপ্পি বুঝে উঠতে পারে না সে কি করবে… একদিন সে নীল নদে ভেসে আসে একটা ঝুড়ি …আর সেটাতে একটা ছোট্ট শিশু… আর তখনই আনিপ্পি প্রতারণার জাল বুনতে থাকে… নীলের জলে ভেসে আসা হিব্রু শিশুটিকে তার নিজের সন্তান বলে প্রতিষ্ঠিত করার জন্য যা যা করা দরকার সব কিছু একের পর করতে থাকে…এতে করে সে তার নিজেকে, তার সন্তান এবং তার সন্তানের সত্যিকারের পরিবারকে ব্যাপক বিপদের মুখে ফেলে দেয়…
  মিশরের রাজনৈতিক অবস্থা এ সময়ে এক চরম দূর্যোগের সম্মুখীন হয়… আনিপ্পি ভাবে তার ছেলে মেহি কি , যাকে তাঁর দাসী মোজেস বলে ডাকে, কোনদিন মিশরের ফারাও হতে পারবে? নাকি তার আসল দেবতা, হিব্রু দেবতা এল-শাদ্দাই, তার জন্য অন্যরকম পরিকল্পনা করে রেখেছে?
  পুরো উপন্যাসে অনেক গুলো চরিত্র আছে… মেসু এন্ড্রুজ সব গুলো চরিত্রকেই সমান ভাবে ফুটিয়ে তুলেছেন… পুরো উপন্যাসের সময়কাল প্রায় ৫০ বছর… মূসা (আঃ) কে নীল নদে পাওয়ার পর তিনি ফারাও এর প্রাসাদে বড় হয়ে উঠেন…তারপর আবার নিজ গোত্রের পক্ষ নিয়ে ফারাও এর বিপক্ষে দাড়ান… কিন্তু এই দুইটা সময়-বিন্দুর মাঝে কি হয়েছিল, মোজেস এর শৈশব থেকে শুরু করে বড় হয়ে উঠার গল্প এই উপন্যাসে চমতকারভাবে তুলে ধরা হয়েছে, তবে ফিকশনাল…
• 
  Sheila

  Pharaoh’s Daughter is a beautiful historical novel, set in ancient Egypt, telling of a time when war and politics were beginning to drive a thriving nation apart. Rich Egyptians live in gorgeous riverside villas. Favored slaves reside close by in well-ordered dorm-style long-houses. And the discarded poor eke out lives of misery. Poor Hebrew slaves suffer their short days in claypits and mines, while those of better fortune might run weaving mills or serve in a rich household. It’s all very convincing and well-researched, and it builds into an image of real people living dangerous lives at a very real historical time.
  
  Enter the new young Pharaoh, guided by wisdom on one side and greed on the other. Gods might decree who will fight and who will die, and the Pharaoh might even be a god, but he’s also a man making foolish decisions, a child grown too soon, and a brother whose folly brings pain to his devoted sister—daughter of the previous Pharaoh, and adoptive mother to a child she saves from the water.
  
  Why would a rich man demand that male slaves be killed? Why would a rich woman adopt the child of a slave? Why would a boy brought up Egyptian return to his slave-bound roots? This novel offers intriguing and convincing answers, while creating a world of epic dimensions, and grounding it all in the human frailty of a girl who has seen too much death in her early years.
  
  I loved meeting and recognizing familiar characters, Biblical and historical, in this tale, and I loved the sense of mystery generated by knowing only half of what’s to come. The author’s research is pleasingly convincing, and nicely laid out in a short author’s note at the end. I will eagerly await more of this series.
  
  Disclosure: Blogging for Books provided this book to me for free in exchange for an honest review.
  
• 
  ClaraBelle

  Last April, I thought Jill Eileen Smith’s book on Ruth was the best biblical fiction book ever but now I’ve changed my mind!
  Plot: Egyptian Princess Anippe, who would be known later as Queen Hatshepsut, think she survives by sheer grit and the luck of the Gods in the tumultuous world of King Tut’s reign, despite the corrupt influence on her adopted half-brother/stepson by his viziers, grandfather in-law Aye and General Horemheb. Married against her will to powerful soldier Sety at age 15, her marriage has been semi happy despite his deployments and their lack of a child. But that all changes when she finds a Hebrew baby boy in a basket in the Nile and makes the dangerous decision to keep him as her own despite pharaoh Tut’s edict to kill all Hebrew baby boys. Will this child cost her her life, royal title, or marriage? Or is the Hebrews God using her kindness to save the Hebrews future exodus leader?
  What I loved: most everything save the graphic description of Horemheb’s cruelty to royal rivals and the myth that Moses was cruel to his Hebrew birth family
  Rating: 10.5 stars
  Fun fact:*Spoiler* the author has found out that the Pharoah that killed the Hebrew baby boys except for Moses was....*dirge please *…KING TUT! Also, history suggests that Hatshepsut may have accepted Jehovah as the one true God and even married a Hebrew slave after her husband, Sety, died as he murdereD Tut’s widow’s Hittite fiancée.
• 
  Laura Grace

  Anippe's story was a tough one to read for me. The beauty of the setting and story telling made me want to keep reading, but it was hard to see the deception that Anippe consistently did. However, I could relate to her prime reasoning for why she did it in almost every situation: fear. There was always some kind of fear motivating her choices or decisions.
  
  I also really loved how Mesu shares the importance of letting go of fear and having faith in El-Shaddai. God doesn't let Anippe live in a world of fear if she so desires it. I know it took me going through what was a hard story to read in realizing that many times I let fear dictate my actions.
  
  Once again I'm amazed at the political intrigue that Mesu can weave into a story! It's interesting to see how everything pans out based on certain connections between people of power or potential power. Some of the characters I didn't expect to do what they did in there lust for power.
  
  Overall, another insightful novel that is filled with political intrigue and faith in the Creator. Can't wait to read book two!
  
  *(Thank you Mesu Andrews for sending me a personal copy of this novel for my enjoyment. All thoughts expressed are my own and I was not required to write a positive review.)*
• 
  Sierra Faith

  Genre: Biblical Fiction, Christian.
  
  Favorite Quote: "A god could never fill the longing for your one true love."
  
  "No, Bithiah. A man can never fill the longing for my one true God."
  
  Age Range: 16+ for violence and romance.
  
  POV: Second person, switches between Anippe and Mered.
  
  Stars: 3/5
  
  
  
  Pros:
  
  The characters in Pharoah's Daughter were well developed and unique.
  
  The book covers a fifty year time span, and I appreciated that Mesu would fast forward the story 3-5 years to the main/important events. Instead of making it tedious by stretching it out.
  
  Cons:
  
  I enjoyed the book when I started, but the middle part made me hate the main character, Anippe. She was manipulative and it didn't quite fit her personality.
  
  Even though she did a good job of giving each character their own personality, I very overwhelmed by the amount of characters. Also, I was confused by the many characters that started with an "A" . I would have liked fewer names thrown at me.
  
  
  
  Overall:
  I liked the book and will be picking up the next one in the series when it comes out.
  
  **I received this book from Blogging for Books in exchange for my honest review**
• 
  Emilie Chase

  This book was the first book by Mesu Andrews that I have ever read, and it most definitely will NOT be the last.
  
  Annipe’s character resonated with me. I have so many fears and anxieties in life that I just need to give to my God because He is there with outstretched arms just waiting for me to tell Him about my fears. Just as Annipe was confused at the beginning of the book, so am I right now in my stage of life, though I am trying to trust El Shaddai because His way is the best way! Just as Annipe was in such a dark place in life where she just wanted everything to end, I was there as well, and let me just say, IT WILL GET EASIER. You may end up struggling with depression or even anxiety your whole life but as you “draw nigh to God He will draw nigh to you!”
  
  All of the characters were obviously well researched and well thought out. It even felt as if the fictional characters were real characters. So I really enjoyed this book so much!
  
  Overall I would give this book 5/5 stars. It was honestly perfection and it taught such a powerful lesson: Faith is stronger than fear!
• 
  Katie

  Mesu Andrews is a hit or miss author for me. I really enjoyed "Love in a Broken Vessel" but the others were just okay. But I LOVE the story of Moses and was too impatient to wait for my library so I bought it. And I am so glad I did!
  
  Andrews wove history and the Bible together flawlessly. I am convinced that Moses was raised during the time period Andrews chose and am interested in reading more about the Pharoahs.
  
  I do HIGHLY suggest that you read the author's note. It adds more depth to the story. I will be pre-ordering the next book!
• 
  Charity U

  A complex story, but biblically accurate and fascinating to read. Highly recommended for lovers of biblical fiction.
• 
  Erin Laramore

  4.5 stars for this biblical historical fiction by Mesu Andrews. She never fails to bring stories from scripture to life. This one did a great job of delving into not only the scriptural history, but also ancient Egyptian history to delve into the history of Pharaoh's daughter. While I'm intrigued by the Egyptian customs and found that fascinating, I was really hoping for more scriptural depth at the time of this reading and so this one was not my favorite of this author's (right now that's a toss-up between Of Fire and Lions and In the Shadow of Jezebel). To be fair, the book is primarily from the perspective of the Pharaoh's daughter, who at the time believed in many gods. The book was incredibly authentic in that regard.
  
  I did really enjoy the story-line and the way the author tied in various passages of scripture, both from Genesis and Exodus as well as later passages in Chronicles. One of my favorite characters that I was certain was completely fiction, ended up in the genealogy in the first chapters of Chronicles that I typically skim through. I would strongly recommend reading the author's notes at the end as she explains why she reached the conclusions she did on who was who and how they meshed in to the timing of the story in history. I liked her take on who Pharaoh's daughter was and her role both before and after she pulled a basket from the Nile that held a Hebrew baby. I found Ms. Andrews' speculation on why she did so to be completely plausible and loved how God provided even before she knew the name of El Shaddai. I've read several historical fiction accounts of the Exodus, but this is the first one I've read about the time of slavery before the plagues. It makes me sad to know that the adults in this book likely never saw the deliverance that came through the Exodus (of if they did, they were extremely old). If you enjoy Biblical historical fiction and/or find ancient Egypt to be a fascinating part of history, this is one I would strongly recommend!
• 
  thereadingowlvina (Elvina Ulrich)

  "She'd been terrified as Meryetaten-tasherit, betrayed as Anippe, and abandoned as Amira."
  
  Pharaoh's Daughter, the first book of the Treasures of the Nile series, is a poignant tale about Anippe, the daughter of Pharaoh Akhenaten who later found and raised Moses as her own son. It is a retelling of Moses' early life and how Anippe's decision to love Moses sets a ripple effect on future events where her secret can only stay safe through the web of lies and deception she has inadvertently learnt to weave.
  
  I enjoyed this story immensely! It's atmospheric, rich with historical and biblical details. I really appreciate how Andrews stay true to the Word of God while using her talent as a storyteller to give us one epic story about Anippe and Moses. This story spans over several years and major shifts in both Anippe and Moses' life - from Anippe's early life as the adopted daughter of General Horemheb to Amira of Avaris; and from Moses' birth to young adulthood.
  
  There are a lot of characters in this story and Andrews gives so much depth and dimensions in each character, especially Shiphrah and Puah (the Hebrew midwives who obeyed God - Exodus 1:15) and Mered. Because this story centers around the life of Anippe, so naturally her character shines the most. She is one deceptive woman but a deeper look will reveal the reasons. Her unconditional love for Moses/Mehy compels her to make those decisions; she would do anything to protect Moses' identity. We also get to know Moses' sister, Miriam in this story. I believe her story here will set the stage for the next book - Miriam.
  
  The writing is phenomenal! I especially enjoyed reading the part about Mered's job in the first few chapters. Andrews descriptive writing was so well done that it is like watching a movie!
  
  In a nutshell, this is one historical fiction that you do not want to miss out! It is rich with history, drama, suspense, twists and plots . It has the right mix of fact and fiction and I've learnt a lot about both the Egyptian and Hebrew culture. A well-researched, well-written and well-paced story and I enjoyed every page I read! Now I'm going to read the next book of this series - Miriam.