DAUGHTER OF EGYPT is set ten years after O’Banyon’s other novels LORD OF THE NILE and SWORD OF ROME, but can be read as a stand alone. DAUGHTER follows the adventures of Thalia, from when she is a thief and beggar on the streets of Rome to eight years later in Egypt where she is living as the adopted daughter of the noble Lady Adhenia and finally to the island country of Bal Forea, where her birthright is revealed.

The historical detail put into the novel is wonderful, giving readers a glimpse into both Rome and Egypt during a tumultuous time in both countries’ histories. Unfortunately, the island country of Bal Forea sometimes falls flat due to this; the details not vivid enough to paint as strong a picture of this made-up country.

Thalia is a believable and likeable character. Her actions are sometimes confusing and ill-managed, but given how quickly her circumstances change, they are understandable. In a relatively short span of time Thalia’s life undergoes many upheavels, most of which require her to take strangers on faith that they won’t hurt her.

Our hero, Count Ashtyn, I was less intrigued by. There was nothing wrong with him, I just wasn’t interested. I was far more interested in finding out about Bal Forea and Thalia’s family. Their chemistry together picks up closer to the end, when everything is out in the open and Thalia is more comfortable.

Overall I enjoyed the historical aspect of this novel more so then the romantic elements, but do want to read the first two books to see if together the three are more enjoyable. ( )