So in the story, Selene consents to Augustus since she wants to reclaim her mother's kingdom of Egypt. (Especially the children of two of his greatest enemies). It has been written that he would condemn people who would not be of pure Roman value and virtue, so I cannot think he would find it acceptable to rape his own ward. I have read many books about Augustus, and even though he was somewhat evil and manipulative, he was still responsible for bringing the Golden Age of Rome. Yes, this is fiction, but there are some liberties that I just can't accept. In this novel, Dray turns on the creepy factor and has Augustus RAPE Selene and possibly impregnate her. After this event, the book goes completely bonkers!įirst of all, Selene has a prior yet interesting relationship with Emperor Augustus. On her wedding day, Selene dresses proactively and most of Rome is up in arms since it signifies that she is Augustus' whore. In Song of the Nile, Selene is married to her tutor, Juba, and they are awarded Mauretania as a kingdom.

This series includes a magical aspect, and Selene is portrayed as very haughty albeit royal girl with mysterious wind powers. The first book focused on Cleopatra and Marc Antony's children: Alexander Helios, Cleopatra Selene, and Philadelphus as they were taken to Rome after their parents suicide. I enjoy reading about Cleopatra and Augustus, and this novel infuriated me.

I read Dray's first novel, Lily of the Nile and was excited for the follow-up. I was extremely disappointed in this second book in the Cleopatra's Daughter series.

Song of the Nile by Stephanie Dray