Fires of Alexandria

By: Thomas K. Carpenter

Narrated by: Elizabeth Klett

The greatest mystery of the ancient world remains the identity of whoever set fire to the Great Library in Alexandria.

One hundred years later, Heron of Alexandria - the city's most renowned inventor and creator of Temple miracles - receives coin from a mysterious patron to investigate the crime. Desperate to be free of the debts incurred by her twin brother, she accepts and sets in motion a chain of events that will shake the Roman Empire and change the course of history forever.

©2011 Thomas K. Carpenter (P)2012 Thomas K. Carpenter

A fun way to get into this time of history.

What made the experience of listening to Fires of Alexandria the most enjoyable?

Listened to the audio version. This book has plenty of intriguing action-- definitely an impossible revision of history, but does make you aware of the some of the tensions of the day. Very good desert chase scenes and excellent creativity with respect to the inventiveness of the protagonist. She invents basically the forerunner of a steam locomotive.

A little bit far-fetched, but fun and interesting. This book is more for adults--- though not too bawdy.

Who was your favorite character and why?

Heron is one gutsy woman! She perseveres in extremely painful difficult impossible circumstances.

What about Elizabeth Klett’s performance did you like?

Elizabeth is a really good reader! Her pace allows you to be creative with the emotions and she doesn't try to over engineer it.

Great novel with strong heroine

This is the start to a great series. The author imagines that a real person, the brilliant inventor Heron of Alexandria, was actually a woman in disguise. This is a great premise, and Elizabeth Klett is the perfect narrator to voice this exciting story.

VERY ENTERTAINING!

Enjoyed it very much. The author held the listener's attention throughout the story.

Awesome!

This was a phenomenal book! The history, inventions, mystery, and intrigue were amazing! I've always been intrigued by this time period and the technological advances of in this area of the world. This was everything I could've asked for and more! A must read! Narration was excellent.

Wisdom / Power: Longevity and Value

Loved the balance of science and learning within the political constraints of ancient Alexandria. Somewhat philosophical approach to politics, religion, slavery, sexism and learning. All the problems weren't resolved - the characters still lived within the constraints of their world but progress was made.

Enjoyed the characters and the plot. You have to pay attention to catch the more subtle points. Would have enjoyed more. Very good read.