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Written in the Ashes Paperback – November 29, 2016

4.3 4.3 out of 5 stars 278 ratings

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"Written in the Ashes is one of those rare novels that sets 'history' afire, to bathe readers in the glow of a greater, hotter truth. Fans of The Mists of Avalon will find this romantic/alchemical/feminist/spiritual epic equally captivating."—Tom Robbins, bestselling author of Tibetan Peach Pie: A True Account of an Imaginative Life and Villa Incognito

In the bloody clash between Christians and pagans in fifth-century Alexandria, a servant girl becomes the last hope for preserving peace in this evocative and thrilling tale—a blend of history, adventure, religion, romance, and mysticism reminiscent of The Mists of Avalon.

After she is abducted from her home in the mountains of Sinai, Hannah is enslaved and taken to Alexandria, where she becomes the property of Alizar, an alchemist and pagan secretly working to preserve his culture. Revered for her beautiful singing voice, the young slave is invited to perform at the city's Great Library, where she becomes friends with the revered mathematician and philosopher, Hypatia, as well as other pagans who curate its magnificent collections. Determined to help them uphold pagan culture and traditions, Hannah embarks on a dangerous quest to unite the fractured pieces of the Emerald Tablet—the last hope to save the pagans and create peace.

On this odyssey that leads her to the lost oracles of Delfi and Amun-Ra and to rediscovered ancient cities and rituals, Hannah will experience forbidden loves, painful betrayals, and poignant reunions. But her efforts may be in vain. Returning to Alexandria, Hannah finds a city engulfed in violence, even as her own romantic entanglements come to a head. Now, it's not only her future, but the fate of all Alexandria that is at stake.

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Editorial Reviews

Review

Written in the Ashes is one of those rare novels that sets ‘history’ afire, to bathe readers in the glow of a greater, hotter truth. Fans of The Mists of Avalon will find this romantic/alchemical/feminist/spiritual epic equally captivating.” — Tom Robbins, Bestselling Author of Tibetan Peach Pie: A True Account of an Imaginative Life and Villa Incognito

“A stunning epic about the burning of the Great Library of Alexandria, Egypt from a brilliant young novelist whose depiction of the ancient world is sure to capture the hearts of readers everywhere.” — Mark R. Harris, Academy Award-Winning Producer (Crash, Gods & Monsters)

“Van Zandt’s vivid description of the Great Library instantly transported me to a lush fifth century Alexandria. Her lyrical writing style and breakneck storytelling kept me riveted to the very last page.” — Robin Maxwell, Bestselling Author of Jane: The Woman Who Loved Tarzan and Atlantos (The Early Erthe Chronicles)

“In her captivating debut novel, Van Zandt brings to life a fascinating and forgotten woman of history: Hypatia of Alexandria. If you’ve ever wondered what it was like to walk the streets of long ago Egypt, then look no further. You will be enthralled!” — Michelle Moran, Bestselling Author of Rebel Queen and The Second Empress: A Novel of Napoleons Court

Written in the Ashes is a story that could have been ripped from today’s headlines. It opens the door into a magical, fascinating and frightening era in our history. With hope, it’s one we will not be doomed to repeat.” — Josh Conviser, Executive Consultant on HBO's Rome, and Author of Echelon and Empyre

“I found the story, with its rich historical backdrop to be thoroughly engaging. Furthermore, the narrative is ripe with interesting; well-rounded characters that... appeal to a wide audience while being symbolically relevant to the time period.” — Mike Medavoy, Academy Award-Winning Producer (Apocalypse Now, One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest)

“Engaging and provocative, this first volume of Van Zandt’s Mediterranean Trilogy delivers a story filled with mystery and intrigue. Transporting the reader back to fifth century Alexandria when Christianity emerges as the dominant religion of the Roman Empire, it is a tale filled with suspense and delight.” — Patricia Selbert, author The House of Six Doors

“Van Zandt may well be the rightful heir to the literary throne of Lawrence Durrell.” — Stuart Volkow, Vice President of Media and Entertainment Technology, Strategy, and Business Development at The Institute

“As soon as Hannah’s story began, I was completely hooked. Fierce, brave and full of hope, Hannah’s character is instantly endearing. The journey that Hannah is sent on is full of high-stakes, adventure and cunning skill…History, magic, adventure and romance intersect in this epic tale.” — Stephanie’s Book Reviews

“If you like to read about strong women, this is a book you will greatly enjoy.” — Lisa’s Writopia

Written in the Ashes is so unique because it follows the story of a woman in a world and culture that was entirely male dominated…so vividly detailed that readers are nearly transported to the world of ancient Egypt. Buy this book and read it!” — Book Talk with Alana

“This book has all the elements of fantasy: magical tablets, pagan rituals, and science all intersect. I loved the blending of Egyptian, Greek and Roman cultures portrayed in Alexandria. I highly recommend this book.” — The Musings of a Book Junkie

“An epic and magical tale… If you like intelligent historical fiction with strong female characters, a glimmer of magic, and a fairly unique setting, you will enjoy Written in the Ashes.” — Fresh-Scraped Vellum

“I haven’t read a book that affected me this much since The Mists of Avalon. I never wanted it to end.” — Historical Novel Society

“A deftly crafted and absolutely riveting read from cover to cover, Written in the Ashes reveals K. Hollan Van Zandt’s genuine talent as an original and impressively talented novelist.” — Midwest Book Review

“Just as intriguing and un-put-down-able as I hoped it would be! The perfect mix of action, adventure, mysticism, history, and a strong female protagonist. Highly recommended!” — Passages to the Past Review

“Once in a very long while, there comes along a book that you wonder how you ever lived without it. Then Written in the Ashes comes along. I hate comparing any book to the great classics, but it wouldn’t be fair if I didn’t. It’s really just that good.” — Second Book to the Right

About the Author

K. Hollan Van Zandt was born and raised in Pacific Palisades, California. She has performed in a touring magic show, led yoga retreats to swim with wild dolphins, and teaches writing to students all over the world. She is a mother, a bird watcher, a pagan, and a graduate of Antioch University. Written in the Ashes is her first novel. Find out more at www.kaiavanzandt.com.

Product details

  • Publisher ‏ : ‎ HarperOne; Reprint edition (November 29, 2016)
  • Language ‏ : ‎ English
  • Paperback ‏ : ‎ 530 pages
  • ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 0062673688
  • ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-0062673688
  • Item Weight ‏ : ‎ 2.31 pounds
  • Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 5.25 x 1.33 x 8 inches
  • Customer Reviews:
    4.3 4.3 out of 5 stars 278 ratings

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K. Hollan Van Zandt
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K. Hollan Van Zandt (AkA Kaia Alexander) was born and raised in California. She has performed in a touring magic show, led yoga retreats to swim with wild dolphins, and teaches writing to students worldwide. She is a filmmaker, mother, surfer, Pagan, and a graduate of Antioch University. WRITTEN IN THE ASHES is her first novel. Visit her at www.ThisisKaia.com

Customer reviews

4.3 out of 5 stars
4.3 out of 5
278 global ratings

Top reviews from the United States

Reviewed in the United States on November 28, 2016
“Written in the Ashes” is an epic and magical tale centered around the Great Library of Alexandria, one of the wonders of the ancient world. Set in the early fifth century, the book introduces us to famous historical figures such as Hypatia of Alexandria, one of the most remarkable women and scientists of her age, and Bishop Cyril (later canonized a saint), who sought to cleanse the city of its Pagan roots, with Hypatia being the foremost Pagan among them.

The story’s main character, however, is Hannah, a slave who was kidnaped from her home in Sinai and sold in Alexandria. There, she is purchased by the son of a wealthy merchant named Alizar, who comes to appreciate Hannah’s intellect and gift for music. He arranges for her to study at the Great Library, where she’s introduced to Hypatia.

One of the most beautiful facets of this book is the way the author brings Alexandria, and especially the Great Library, to life. The library has its own zoo, a botanical garden, a chamber filled with butterflies, and secret doors accessible only from the maze-like, water-filled catacombs that flow beneath city the streets. The Great Library was a bastion of learning and science, and stands as a symbol of things readers today would hold precious. Though to the Christian clerics of that age, it was the epitome of Pagan heresy.

If Hannah is the protagonist, alongside Alizar and Hypatia, then Bishop Cyril and his mob of violent clerics, called the Parabolani, are the chief antagonists. Think of the Faith Militant in Game of Thrones, only historically real, though Bishop Cyril is more Tywin Lannister than High Sparrow. When Hannah observes the Parabolani killing women accused as witches and persecuting the city’s Jews, she cannot stand for it, and quickly runs afoul of the Parabolani, who end up hunting her for much of the tale.

The danger posed by Cyril’s clerics eventually causes Alizar to move Hannah to the Isle of Pharos, where she joins the Temple of Isis. Here is where the book ventures into the realm of historical fantasy, with the introduction of the Nuapar. They are sect of monastic warriors, founded in ancient India, who wield mystical powers. Their leader, Julian, one of Hannah’s love interests in the book, even sends her on a quest for the Emerald Tablet of Hermes Trismegistus, a mystical relic that Alizar believes will allow the Pagans to prevail against the Christians.

Religious tensions play a significant role in the novel, but that is a function of the period of history in which the story takes place. Mysticism also plays a big role, though nothing is as important as the hero’s journey Hannah undertakes in the classic Campbellian sense of the term (there’s even a visit to the Delphi Oracle). That journey, mixed with the fascinating settings and characters who inhabit the story’s world, is what makes this novel work so well. If you like intelligent historical fiction with strong female characters, a glimmer of magic, and a fairly unique setting, you will enjoy “Written in the Ashes.”
3 people found this helpful
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Reviewed in the United States on June 7, 2017
Hannah is a Jewish shepherdess living in Canaan. One night, she is kindapped and sold into slavery. She works in the household of an alchemist and vinter. She finds that her voice attracts many friends, including Hypatia. Eventually, she becomes embroiled in a fight against the pagans and the Christians. In order to restore peace and union between both Christians and pagans, Hannah must recover the two halves of the Emerald Tablet. However, the quest is harder than it looks. As she goes on her mission, tensions rise and the Great Library of Alexandria may be in danger.

It took a while for me to really warm to Hannah. She was perfect. She was a woman of extraordinary beauty, was very intelligent, and had a beautiful singing voice. She did not have any flaws.Therefore, she seemed like a Mary Sue. However, as I read about Hannah’s trials, I really came to admire her and found her to be an incredibly strong woman. She is a slave who does not have any freedom. However, she makes friends with one of the highest people in Alexandra society, Hypatia. She is also given a high education and is given the task to find the Emerald Tablet. I also liked how Hannah can fight, and she is a woman who can fend for herself. She also a very loyal woman and a compassionate friend. Thus, Hannah was proven to be a worthy heroine.

Overall, this book is about freedom, choices, loyalty, and restoring unity between religions. Hannah is a very well-rounded character, but the other supporting characters were very one-dimensional. However, the author did a great job of making fifth century Alexandria come alive. The writing was vivid with imagery and heavily detailed with facts. The only thing that I did not like about this book were the graphic scenes. I thought that they were unnecessary to the plot and could have been omitted. This could have been important to the story for characterization, but the author quickly glossed over the details, and if you are not paying much attention to the story, you could have easily missed those details. It did not really impact characterization for the novel. Still, there is enough adventure, romance, and action to keep you interested. I also learned that there is going to be a sequel. I will be very happy if it does happen! Hannah is a very loveable character, and I’m interested to see what the author has next in store! I recommend this for fans of The Tiger and The Dove Trilogy, The Confessions of X, and The Secret Scrolls.
(Note: I read this book as part of a blog tour.)
4 people found this helpful
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Reviewed in the United States on May 25, 2017
This well written and exciting book is a synthesis of legend, history and imagination. At first we meet Hannah a young shepherd girl who lives with her loving Jewish father. She is abducted one night and sold into slavery. She is raped and abused before a kind and wealthy man in Alexandria purchases her and brings her to his home where he treats her kindly. He even helps her get an education. She is sent to the Great Library where she's meets Hypatia, one of the last Greek philosophers who held great influence on matters of politics, science, mathematics and astronomy. A great battle is going on between Christianity and paganism. Now the excitement really begins as Hannah gets caught up in this battle. You will be in agony for her and then rejoice as she is pulled into several amazing adventures searching for the magic Emerald Tablet. Quite a fascinating book.
3 people found this helpful
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Reviewed in the United States on July 13, 2017
it was a good story, well written, but 'So.' annoying. So. is not a transition. I found that quite distracting.