The Memoirs of Cleopatra

By: Margaret George

Narrated by: Donada Peters

Length: 49 hrs and 51 mins

Publisher's summary

This novel allows the unscrupulous and proud Queen of the Nile to recount her own tale. A masterful recreation of history.

©1997 Margaret George (P)1998 Books on Tape

Critic reviews

"A thrilling story...[Cleopatra's] 'memoirs' are vivid and enthralling. Read them." (Washington Post)
"Readers looking to be transported to another place and time will find their magic carpet here." (Publishers Weekly)
"An extremely detailed historical novel....this accurate re-creation of a vastly interesting time and place will not disappoint." (Booklist)

The best by far

I’ve listened to many Cleopatra historical fiction novels, and this is by far the best one that I have come across. Despite the outdated nature of the front cover, which at first had me dissuaded, I realized that this saga was going to be well worth the 50 hour investment put into listening to it. The richness and detail of the content really speaks volumes for the author’s four years worth of research in the British Museum and during her travels. I can’t recommend this enough for anyone looking to walk hand in hand with Cleopatra and learn the depth of her story. Thank you so much, to the author and the narrator.

Fantastic!!

Any additional comments?

I loved this book. Never really knew the whole story of Cleopatra before. I Listened to this book in just a few days. Her story is wonderful. The narrator did a great job. Loved how it was written from her perspective. Looking forward to more books from this author!!

Beautiful, vivid telling of the life of this powerful woman in history! Magical

This old story brought to life so beautifully and touching by Margaret George. You can see the love and respect for this., And this queen that the author has and shares so brilliantly on the pages. Although I have read many accounts of Cleopatra, Anthony, And Caesar, none have compared to the spellbinding story laid out for you here. It made me wish as I was reading that history had turned out differently. Even though I knew the outcome of the battle I was on the edge of my seat Waiting to read what would happen. This has become one of my all-time favorite recounts of the magnificent Queen Cleopatra. May her memory continue to live on throughout history.

WOW!!!!

There wasn't one dull moment in this entire book!!!! The story flowed and the narrator was a pleasure to listen to. I enjoyed every detail and learning so much more about Cleopatra♡♡♡

A. Cleopatra novel

If you enjoy historical fiction of ancient times this is for you. Ms George does a wonderful job of weaving facts into a story of political maneuvering, basic human instincts and matters of the heart. It’s not the standard tale of Antony and Cleopatra, it’s much more.

Ambitious, Epic Historical Fiction

Would you consider the audio edition of The Memoirs of Cleopatra to be better than the print version?

I picked up the audio edition to complement the print edition and keep the narrative flowing while I was in the car or doing housework. I wouldn’t say that one is better than the other! Both writing and performance are excellent.

What was one of the most memorable moments of The Memoirs of Cleopatra?

Trying to choose one scene is difficult. The story of Cleopatra is rich source material, and there are so many memorable scenes. Cleopatra’s first banquet, meeting Caesar, the queen of Meroe, the Roman Saturnalia celebration... Too much to choose from.

Which character – as performed by Donada Peters – was your favorite?

Donada Peters’ portrayal of Cleopatra in the first person is stellar. I didn’t dislike any of her portrayals.

Was this a book you wanted to listen to all in one sitting?

If I could have listened to this in one sitting I would have. It took me 3 weeks to reach the conclusion of the 50 hour recording.

Excellent Recommendation

My daughter, a classical civilization major in college, recommended this book. It was quite long, but well worth the time. Can’t wait to read another Margaret George book.

Long but worthy

At first I thought the heavy English accent of the narrator was ridiculous to portray these characters but the narration isn't bad and the story is worth it in my opinion. I very much enjoy this author's ability to put herself in the mindset of Cleopatra and others I have read by her. She is excellent at setting the stage for the period and I really get carried away by her story telling. She also throws in subtle humor that I love.

loved it.

Cool and interesting way to tell the story we all know. The narrator's voice was easy to listen to.

Margaret George writes another Winner!

Another winner from Margaret George. So many of us learned about Cleopatra while at school and of course from the movies. Who could forget that scene with the great Elizabeth Taylor entering Rome in 'Cloth of Gold'?

If you were a teenager like me do you remember that scene when Cleopatra discovers her great love Anthony has married and her heart breaks. She stands on the steps of her villa and makes that guttural sound from her soul. Not a dry eye in the house.

But that is the movies. Margaret George does add a little drama but you cannot deny the facts. She has done her homework. Cleopatra is alive in this volume. The great Caesar LIVES. Anthony breathes. I feel safe when I walk into this world. I can almost hear the sounds of Upper and Lower Egypt. I am in Rome and I want to 'taste' the wine.
When Caesar was murdered I missed him but when Anthony leaves this earth his loss is palpable. However throughout every single scroll Cleopatra becomes stronger and stronger. Even as a captive she seems to become free. More liberated than ever. Her love for her children, rare in royals, cannot be denied.

The narrator is simply superb. I have no idea what I am going to listen to next.....this is going to be a very hard act to follow.