More than 2,000 years ago a girl of 17 became Queen of Egypt. There seemed little hope that this young queen, known simply as Cleopatra, would rule for long. At home her brother and sister were plotting to overthrow her, while across the Mediterranean the greedy rules of the mighty Roman Empire eyed the wealthy Egyptian kingdom with longing.

But the amazing and bewitching Cleopatra outwitted all her enemies. Not only did she become absolute ruler of her kingdom, but she managed to win the support and affection of two of the mightiest conquerors of her time—Julius Caesar and Mark Antony.

Cleopatra's story is one that captures the imagination. Few facts about her have been recorded, yet she is one of the most famous women in history. Leonora Hornblow, who has used all her skill as a novelist in writing this account of the life and times of Cleopatra, says: "There are some people so extraordinary that they leave their stamp upon the world and are not ever forgotten. Cleopatra is one. Her name has become a symbol of romance and excitement and fascination."

From the dust jacket