THE BOOK FAIR

Author:        Beryl Byman

Published:   2014

Genre:          Historical Novel

Cover:          E-Book

Pages:          422

The historical fiction presents a fascinating twist on the Biblical story of Esther, the Persian Queen, in the mid 400’s BCE.    The novel opens with two childhood friends, Mordechai and Haman, their differences in character quickly revealed.  Social events the young men share both bring them together, and drive them apart.  Ultimately, lies, deceit and betrayal separate them.  The book, narrated by Haman, reveals his climb to power and subsequent fall.

Byman depicts the historical figures in colorful, realistic, powerful scenes and describes the era in detailed imagery including architecture, culture, battles, foods and fashion.  The plot advances quickly, covers three decades and offers some history of the Persian Empire.