Michelle Moran Books In Order

Publication Order of Egyptian Royals Books

Publication Order of Standalone Novels

About Michelle Moran

The American novelist Michelle Moran is well known thanks to her many historical novels, which combine both accuracy and storytelling. Over the years she has made a name for herself as an author with a lot to say, creating characters that have become highly iconic in their own right. Creating her own series as well, she has managed to maintain a momentum throughout her career that has picked up over time. With reader worldwide returning to her books time and time again, she really manages to write in a manner that is direct and to the point. Showing an insight that many writers aspire to, she definitely gets to the heart of her subject matter in a straightforward and direct style.

Early and Personal Life

Born in 1980 on the 11th of August, the future author to be Michelle Moran was born and raised in San Fernando Valley in California. From an early age she would take to writing, as she would write in to the ‘Writer’s Market’, submitting stories and pieces on a regular basis. This would then pave the way for a lifelong interest in the form, showing a keen passion that would grow in the intervening years. At only twelve years of age she would be submitting her stories to publishers, as she would dedicate herself to her art and craft.

Attending Pomona College, she would later major in literature, as she would come to harness her skills as a writer to an even greater degree. Following this she spent a summer in Israel, whereby she worked as a volunteer archaeologist, before later going on to receive an MA from Claremont Graduate University. Using her experiences from her time spent working upon the archaeology sites, she would take her knowledge and apply it to her stories. Currently living and writing to this very day in California, she has also worked as a teacher at a public high-school for over six years too.

Writing Career

Starting out back in 2007, Michelle Moran would quickly rise in prominence after the publication of her first book ‘Nefertiti’. This would also be the first in the series of ‘Egyptian Royals’ novels, as they’d introduce her love of history, showcasing what she’s truly capable of. These would incorporate her past working in archaeology, as it would lend her work a high-degree of precise accuracy. The characters would also be well drawn too as, regardless of their period in history, they would resonate with readers on a universal level.

Later in 2011 she would come to write her first stand-alone novel titled ‘Madame Tussaud’, along with publishing the omnibus edition of her series. Her debut stand-alone title would also go on to be optioned for a miniseries that same year by none other than Gaumont, as a script would be written for it. This has seen her become one of the most sought after authors to date, with a whole host of literary titles to her name. With a lot more to follow, she has plenty still left to come, as she continues to gain acclaim from critics and the general public alike.

Cleopatra’s Daughter

Marking the third title in the ‘Egyptian Royals Collection’ of novels, these books would chart an era in ancient Egyptian history. Looking at the dynasties of the time, this was first brought out in 2009 through the Quercus publishing label to much acclaim. Whilst the novels aren’t connected by directly, they still span over generations of history, charting the many events that would happen at the time.

Taking place at the dawn of the Roman Empire, this sees the daughter of Egypt finding the son of Rome. With Selene’s parents gone, she has been taken to the city of Rome bound in chains, as all that remains of her once legendary family is her and her brother Alexander. Attempting to make herself useful in this new environment, she tries to please the Caesar there, as she soon discovers the heir to the empire. It is then that they find themselves in potential danger, as a figure known only as the ‘Red Eagle’ is looking to end slavery. Will this be liberation for them both? Does the figure mean their death? What will become of Cleopatra’s daughter?

Rebel Queen

This time released through Atria Books, this would come out on the 3rd of March in 2015 to much acclaim. Telling the story of another historical event, this time taking place in nineteenth century India, it looks at the occupation of the country by the British Empire. Portraying real characters from the period, it brings the country to life, really allowing the setting and the locations to shine through.

Defending her kingdom against the might of the British Empire, Queen Lakshmi is India’s answer to Joan of Arc. Set in the mid-nineteenth century, this sees her defending one of the Indian kingdoms, the Kingdom of Jhansi, as they expect to defeat her quickly. With two armies, one male and the other female, she refuses to surrender her land to the might of the British army and their weaponry. Looking at the story through the perspective of Sita, the most favored companion and soldier to Lakshmi herself. Will they be able to hold back the British forces? Can they retain their kingdom? What will become of the rebel queen?

Mata Hari’s Last Dance

Another historical novel, this one is set in 1917 Paris, as it tells the story of Mata Hari, an exotic dancer, courtesan and possible spy. Seeing her held in a cell, she could be facing death, as she appears to be confused about the charges of treason that she’s facing. Charged with the death of many thousands of French soldiers, she awaits her fate as she recounts the events leading up to her incarceration. Going back over her life to a reporter, she tells of the many exciting things that she’s seen and experienced during the course of her life. How did she come to be incarcerated here? Will she ever see freedom again? What will become of Mata Hari’s last dance?

One Response to “Michelle Moran”

1. Cheryl Brusuelas: 6 months ago

   Dear Ms. Moran, I’ve read all your books and loved each one! I’m currently looking for a good historical novel about Sacajawea and wondered if you could recommend one?

   Thank you!

   Reply