Review of Mithra

[Valeria Marigliano]

[Following is a volunteer review of "Mithra" by John M. Rattenbury.]

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3 out of 5 stars

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A family secret, an old and powerful sapphire bound to an ancient prophesy and the life of a teenage scholar in Alexandria: all of this is Mythra a fantasy historical novel written by John M. Rattenbury.
The story takes place in the cities of Alexandria and Memphis and is subsequent to the events that witness Augustus takes away Egypt from Cleopatra in 31 BC. Historians say Caesarion, the son of Cleopatra was killed by Augustus of Rome in 31 BCE. But what if he survived and fled to the Far East? What if he had a daughter?
The book tries to answer these questions, building a plot that mixes fantasy and reality in a journey of growth and awareness, immersed in the evocative and mysterious beauty of ancient Egypt.
The author skillfully captures the essence of this historical period, painting a vivid picture of life in Roman-occupied Egypt. The tension between the Egyptian population and their Roman oppressors is palpable, and the stakes are high as the people's hopes are pinned on Mithra, who is believed to be the savior foretold in the prophecy.
After reading the book, I think I can rate it 3 out of 5 since the plot holds, the characters of the novel are well inserted, have concreteness, and a specific reason to be there. Some are described with greater depth and three-dimensionality, with others you stay more on the surface, provided that it is with the protagonist that you establish the strongest bond. What makes "Mithra" particularly engaging is the multifaceted character of Mithra herself. As her powers and influence grow, so does her complexity. Her transformation from a young, unsuspecting scholar to a revered and powerful figure is expertly portrayed. The clash between her newfound status and the might of the Roman Empire creates a thrilling dynamic. Emperor Augustus, as the antagonist, is a formidable adversary. His struggle to maintain control over Egypt and its vital grain harvests, coupled with his fear of Mithra's growing power, adds layers of intrigue to the plot. The political and religious elements in the story are expertly woven together, creating a rich and multifaceted narrative.
The narration, on the other hand, has a rhythm that is sometimes slow and does not allow you to fully savor the story and other times, specifically in some highlights, it goes too fast and does not pause to make potentially interesting digressions.
Overall, it was a very pleasant read.

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Mithra
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