11 Fantasy Books Inspired By Ancient Egypt
The allure of Ancient Egypt is undeniable—sun-drenched sands, towering pyramids, and an enigmatic pantheon of gods steeped in legend. It’s no wonder that this fascinating civilization has inspired countless fantasy worlds where magic swirls through the air and danger lurks in the shadows. From godlike rulers to forbidden tombs filled with secrets, these books transport readers to enchanting realms dripping with ancient mystique.
1. The Red Pyramid by Rick Riordan
🏺 A whirlwind of Egyptian gods and modern-day adventure.
Siblings Carter and Sadie Kane have lived separate lives—until their father unleashes ancient Egyptian magic, setting off a chain of events that plunges them into a thrilling journey through secret tombs, deadly traps, and battles against formidable gods.
💭 Why it’s unforgettable: Riordan’s signature humor and action-packed storytelling make this the perfect gateway into a world where modern life collides with ancient myth. Carter and Sadie’s sibling bond adds heart to this high-stakes adventure.
2. The City of Brass by S.A. Chakraborty
🌞 A dazzling tale filled with political intrigue, djinn, and ancient secrets.
In 18th-century Cairo, Nahri, a clever con artist, accidentally summons a warrior djinn and finds herself whisked away to the mythical city of Daevabad. What follows is a story teeming with political tension, magical battles, and forbidden love.
💭 Why it enchants: The richly layered worldbuilding and lush descriptions create an atmosphere as opulent and dangerous as the Egyptian deserts themselves. Nahri’s transformation from street hustler to powerful player is spellbinding.
3. The Chaos of Stars by Kiersten White
🌙 A romantic fantasy infused with ancient Egyptian gods.
Isadora, the human daughter of Egyptian gods Isis and Osiris, wants nothing to do with her divine lineage. But when danger threatens her family, she finds herself drawn back into their chaotic world—and into the arms of a swoon-worthy boy named Ry.
💭 Why it shines: This book is a delightful blend of mythology, modern romance, and teenage rebellion. Isadora’s witty voice adds charm to a story steeped in celestial intrigue.
4. Reign of the Fallen by Sarah Glenn Marsh
💀 A dark and spellbinding tale of necromancers and forbidden love.
In a world where necromancers raise the dead to rule, Odessa is a master at bringing kings back to life. But when a dark force threatens the kingdom, she must confront shadowy secrets—and her own growing feelings for a forbidden love interest.
💭 Why it haunts: With echoes of Egypt’s fascination with the afterlife, this novel explores grief, resurrection, and power. The vibrant characters and eerie atmosphere will grip you from the first page.
5. Servant of the Underworld by Aliette de Bodard
⚔️ A murder mystery set in an ancient world ruled by gods and magic.
In the heart of the Mexica Empire (inspired by Mesoamerican cultures, with Egyptian vibes), High Priest Acatl investigates a gruesome murder that threatens the delicate balance between gods and mortals.
💭 Why it intrigues: De Bodard’s meticulous world-building and compelling plot make this a captivating read. The book’s dark, ritualistic elements mirror the mysteries of Egypt’s ancient religious practices.
6. The Immortals of Meluha by Amish Tripathi
📜 A mythological fantasy with echoes of ancient civilizations.
While primarily inspired by Indian mythology, Tripathi’s portrayal of ancient kingdoms, divine beings, and a warrior chosen by destiny shares thematic parallels with Egyptian myth. Shiva’s journey echoes the transformative tales of legendary pharaohs.
💭 Why it’s fascinating: The story explores themes of power, love, and destiny with mesmerizing world-building and a strong, relatable hero.
7. Cleopatra’s Moon by Vicky Alvear Shecter
👑 The untold story of Cleopatra’s daughter.
Selene, the daughter of Cleopatra and Mark Antony, is taken to Rome after her parents’ tragic deaths. As she navigates political schemes and forbidden love, she dreams of reclaiming her Egyptian throne.
💭 Why it captivates: The blend of historical fiction and fantasy elements makes this a gripping tale of resilience and royal intrigue. Selene’s fierce determination is truly inspiring.
8. Anubis Gates by Tim Powers
🕰️ A mind-bending time-travel fantasy with Egyptian magic.
Professor Brendan Doyle finds himself thrust back in time to 19th-century London, where ancient Egyptian sorcery threatens to unravel the fabric of reality. With literary figures and mythical beings in the mix, chaos ensues.
💭 Why it’s unforgettable: The inventive plot and blend of Egyptian lore with time travel make this a must-read for fans of mind-bending fantasy.
9. House of Reeds by Thomas Harlan
🌍 A sci-fi fantasy hybrid with Egyptian-inspired elements.
Set in a future where ancient empires have evolved into interstellar powers, this book follows a team of operatives navigating a desert planet filled with deadly secrets and ancient ruins.
💭 Why it intrigues: The fusion of Egyptian aesthetics with futuristic technology creates a visually stunning and intellectually stimulating world.
10. The Mummy: Ramses the Damned by Anne Rice
🌺 A sensual and haunting tale of immortality and forbidden love.
Ramses the Great, awakened from his slumber, becomes entangled in a dangerous love affair and a modern world filled with intrigue.
💭 Why it’s iconic: Anne Rice’s lush, seductive writing brings ancient Egypt to life with a tantalizing blend of romance and danger.
11. Pharaoh’s Star by Olivia Gates
💞 A billionaire romance with an Egyptian twist.
When an archaeologist falls for a mysterious tycoon with ties to ancient Egypt, passion and danger intertwine in the sultry desert.
💭 Why it sizzles: The tension between love and destiny, combined with the opulence of Egyptian-inspired settings, makes this a guilty pleasure worth savoring.
Discover Your Ancient Love Affair 📚💫
Whether it’s gods meddling in mortal affairs, hidden tombs filled with ancient secrets, or love stories as timeless as the Nile, these books offer a gateway to fantastical worlds brimming with Egyptian inspiration.
Have you uncovered any treasures in the world of fantasy inspired by Ancient Egypt? Share your recommendations below—we’re always ready for another magical adventure!
