A review of Christine Dillon’s book.

To take a well-known story (like Moses and the 10 Plagues of Egypt) and invent a fictional tale around it while remaining faithful to biblical events and doing it entertainingly takes exceptional talent. Christine Dillion is such a talented author. 

Plagues and Papyrus is the second book in her Light of Nation series. Yet, it is a stand-alone story with engaging characters, a thoughtful plotline, and historical accuracy all wrapped together in a beautiful read. When I finished one chapter, I could not wait to read the next.

Interwoven in the story are small details (such as the making of papyrus boats and Egyptian living) with major historical characters (such as Moses and Pharaoh). The author also found a delightful way of introducing additional biblical characters to provide the storyline context. She likewise went with a “more Hebraic-anglicized version of familiar names” which afforded the reader a more realistic reading, making the conversations seem genuine. Thus, Moses becomes “Mosheh” and Abraham becomes “Avraham”.

An additional feature is that the book opens with a list of character and place names to familiarize the reader with fictional as well as historical characters and places in Egypt shortly before the exodus. At the end of the book there are also some historical notes, and a list of questions that are excellent for book groups. 

Plagues and Papyrus is a brilliant example of what historical fiction should be, you will love the characters and enjoy the story. Although as a reviewer I received a digital copy of the book, I also purchased a printed copy for my wife to read who is also greatly enjoying it.  I highly recommend reading Plagues and Papyrus by Christine Dillon.  

This book is available through Amazon, Good Reads, and other book dealers.