We start out in Cleopatra’s Egypt in the year 39 BC. Palace intrigue is at its most active, and Lydia, one of the palace servants, finds herself caught in the crossfire. She is the caretaker of Cleopatra’s young son, Caesarion, but events unfold that cause her to question her safety in Cleopatra’s court.
Several things happen at the same time. Herod makes his first visit to Cleopatra, and Samuel, a dear friend of Lydia’s, is attacked. While he lays dying, Lydia comes to him not realizing what has befallen him. Samuel shares with Lydia the shocking revelation that he is in possession of some ancient scrolls that must be safely delivered to someone in Jerusalem who will only be waiting once each year on a certain Jewish Holy Day.
Lydia is confused as to why Samuel feels that the mantle has fallen to her to deliver these scrolls; after all, she is not even of the Jewish faith. Meanwhile, Herod has decided that Lydia would make a perfect handmaid to his betrothed queen, Mariamme. So Lydia must leave little Caesarion, who she is extremely attached to, and go with Herod. But she does so because she knows that this will get her into Jerusalem and help her to honor her vow to Samuel to deliver the scrolls. And further, she feels that she is in danger at the palace, so getting away is probably best.
I love reading books that take place during Biblical Historical Times. I feel as though I learn so much, while at the same time, enjoying a good story. Author Tracy Higley has a superb command of history and detail, which makes this book extremely interesting. I did find it difficult to follow all of the historical figures that were mentioned, but in most cases, this did not detract.
Speak Your Mind