The Double Crown – Secret Writings of the Female Pharaoh by Marié Heese (Signed)

The Double Crown: Secret Writings of the Female Pharaoh by acclaimed South African author Marié Heese is a richly imagined historical novel centred on Hatshepsut, one of the most remarkable women to rule ancient Egypt. Written as an intimate account of the female pharaoh’s life, the novel blends known history with carefully constructed fiction to recreate the political, religious and personal world of Egypt’s Eighteenth Dynasty.

Hatshepsut rose from royal daughter and queen to become pharaoh in her own right, ultimately assuming the full titles and symbols traditionally associated with male Egyptian rulers. Heese explores this extraordinary journey through Hatshepsut’s own imagined voice, portraying not only the ruler but also the woman behind the crown.

The Double Crown offers an accessible and atmospheric introduction to Hatshepsut’s world while retaining considerable appeal for readers already interested in Egyptology, ancient history and historical fiction. Themes of female authority, dynastic succession, religion, love, betrayal and political survival run throughout the narrative.

Published by Human & Rousseau in 2009, this copy of The Double Crown is particularly appealing as it has been signed by Marié Heese on the title page. A newspaper clipping concerning the book and its recognition is affixed to the half-title page, adding an interesting piece of provenance to the copy.

Condition – Good

Good 2009 paperback with a protective plastic covering. The half-title page has a newspaper clipping affixed to it, together with a previous owner’s inscription in ink and a gallery stamp. Signed by Marié Heese on the title page. Foxing is present internally, including on the preliminary pages. The book remains sound and suitable for reading or collection, with the author’s signature adding considerably to its interest.