Cleopatra Confesses

Cleopatra Confesses

Company type	Novel
Industry	Publishing
Founded	2011-06-07
Founder	Carolyn Meyer
Products	Historical fiction novel
Parent	Simon & Schuster

Cleopatra Confesses is a historical fiction work authored by Carolyn Meyer and forms part of her Young Royals collection. The narrative unfolds in first-century Egypt, tracing the life of Cleopatra VII Philopator from her childhood at age 10 through to 22. It explores her challenges involving familial conflicts, political exile, and strategic relationships with key figures such as Julius Caesar. Released on June 7, 2011, by Simon & Schuster under the Paul Wiseman Books imprint, this novel is aimed at readers aged twelve and older.

Main characters

• Cleopatra VII Philopator (Cleopatra)
• Ptolemy XII Auletes, father of Cleopatra
• Charmion, a fictional character portrayed as a dancer
• Julius Caesar
• Tryphaena and Berenike, Cleopatra’s older sisters known for their rivalry
• Ptolemy XIII Theos Philopator, Cleopatra’s younger brother and co-ruler

Reception

The critical reception of Cleopatra Confesses has been varied. Evaluations from sources including Publishers Weekly, School Library Journal, Booklist, Library Media Connection, Children's Literature, Kirkus Reviews, and VOYA Magazine have pointed out both merits and drawbacks. For instance, Publishers Weekly mentioned that the "short chapters" occasionally create a disjointed reading experience but commended the prose for being "lush" and "rich in detail." The School Library Journal described the book as "engaging, well-structured, and informative," highlighting its diverse character ensemble and vivid settings. VOYA praised the storyline as "captivating," recommending it for enthusiasts of historical fiction centered on ancient Egypt as well as those intrigued by one of history’s most fascinating female rulers; it also suggested suitability for book clubs and social studies curricula.

Booklist cautioned that the extensive level of detail can sometimes overshadow the central plot. Library Media Connection provided a positive recommendation, whereas Children's Literature underscored its appeal to readers who enjoy historical fiction and seek empowering female protagonists. Kirkus Reviews characterized the first-person perspective as "somewhat compelling" but critiqued inconsistencies in voice and interruptions caused by historical exposition, noting that readers interested in comprehensive cultural background might appreciate the thorough supplementary material included.