Book Review: Tiy and the Prince of Egypt by Debbie Dee

Tiy and the Prince of Egypt by Debbie Dee is a historical fiction book for middle grade and young adult readers. Tiy a twelve year old growing up in Egypt. She has pale hair, which she covers with a wig, and freckle prone skin which she ties to hide in order to stay unnoticed. One day her desire to stay in the shadows is dashed when she rescues the prince from a sandstorm. Her reward is to attend the school in the palace with the other children of advisers and the royal family. She becomes fast friends with Prince Amenhotep and his sister, but faces jealousy and suspicion from most. Amenhotep and Tiy grow continually closer, but when he becomes Pharaoh their friendship might have to fade. Will Tiy and Amenhotep be able to find their way into the future together or will doubt, war, and emotions rise up to be more than the pair can stand?

Tiy and the Prince of Egypt is a well researched historical novel which includes information at the end of the story letting all readers know what real history inspired the tale and where the author was creating new characters and stories. I loved the character of Tiy. She was full of the self doubt and worry that most of us carry inside, particularly when they are different. However, she did not let her fears about herself affect the was she protected those close to her- particularly Amenhotep. Meanwhile, he just wanted the frank relationship that Tiy offered. Even though she was a little awed to be with royalty she never hesitated to save his life, take on a challenge, or exchange teasing barbs with him. This honest friendship is something they both needed, and I think readers of all ages can be a little envious of. The secondary characters were not flat, and even when they seemed to fit the stereotype of villain or hanger-on, managed to be complete and multi layered characters. I really enjoyed  the pacing and the combination of action and solid relationship development. The complete story, from Tiy and Amenhotep as children through standing tall as a famous and remarkable ruling pair, was wonderfully told.

I would recommend  Tiy and the Prince of Egypt to readers that enjoy historical fiction, tales of Egypt, coming of age stories, rags to riches tales, and stories that explore friendship and relationships. While I think that middle grade readers will enjoy the story the most, I think that young adults through adults can also find something to enjoy here.

Goodreads Book Giveaway

Tiy and the Prince of Egypt by Debbie Dee 

Giveaway ends October 31, 2013. 

See the giveaway details at Goodreads. 

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About the Author:

Debbie Dee recently moved to southern Idaho with her husband and three children where she is learning how to be a country girl in her favorite pair of blue heels. She adores fairy tales and happy endings, but secretly crushes on the bad guy now and then. 

As a dedicated musician who practices way too much, she never expected writing would sweep her off her feet until she jotted down a scene from a daydream, which turned into two scenes, which turned into a messy house and her first novel. Since then she hasn’t been able to let a day go by without writing. 

In addition to writing, she plays the piano, harp, violin, and gets in frequent fights with her cello. She loves to read and play board games - when she is winning. 


Debbie is the author of young adult novels, The Last Witch and The Underground.For more information check out her website: http://www.debbiedee.com/