THE MOON THAT FELL FROM HEAVEN

A Bronze Age Syrian kingdom is a hub for seedy politics and outright murder in Holmes’ historical novel.

It’s 1213 B.C.E., and Ehli-nikkalu is the eldest daughter of the emperor of Hatti Land (modern Turkey). The 35-year-old woman is suffering as the queen of the maritime kingdom of Ugarit (modern Latakia, Syria): The king resents her, as she’s borne no children, and he soon becomes physically abusive. When Ehli-nikkalu discovers evidence that her spouse plans to betray Hatti Land, she sends an urgent message to her father, only for someone to kill the courier; now she’s wary of what the king, or his equally deplorable dowager queen mother, may know. Ehli-nikkalu takes in the late courier’s children—teenage Amaya and her siblings, 8-year-old fraternal twins—mostly out of concern for their safety. Amaya becomes Ehli-nikkalu’s ally, as do the kingdom’s chief scribe, Ili-milku; and Amaya’s uncle, Teshamanu. Ehli-nikkalu needs people on her side, as her husband and mother-in-law are not above using kidnapping and murder to get what they want. Holmes puts this cast of characters through many difficult circumstances, including blackmail, torture, and conflict with an especially tenacious pretender to the throne. Ehli-nikkalu is an easy protagonist to admire, as she shows considerable strength despite wielding little political power. She’s also a sensitive soul, taking the blame for Amaya’s father’s death and harm that comes to an ally. Taut prose moves the plot briskly forward, whether it’s recounting a shocking demise, a tragic backstory, or moments of romance. Surprising turns abound, as when Ehli-nikkalu doesn’t get the support she anticipated, or a natural disaster rattles the kingdom. Throughout, the author packs the narrative with place and character names, often forgoing context at first; however, nearly every chapter ends with helpful notes that offer elaboration.

A detailed and engaging thriller set in ancient times.