When I tell you that I finished this book last night, laid in back, and couldn't stop thinking about it despite having to be up early for work - I mean it.

I am a newcomer to historical fiction that spans so far back into history. I will be the first to admit that I was unfamiliar with the story of Assyria's only recorded solely ruling queen. I will even admit that I have not been so acquainted with Mesopotamian societies in my life (since middle school). All of this to say, this was everything I could have possibly wanted from a novel about Semiramus and the society she belonged to.

Casati is genius in revealing Assyrian customs, behaviors, and attitudes. They are so beautifully woven in to the story that it never felt like I was being spoon-fed information. The creative liberties that she took in order to write this incredible novel left me even more impressed. Her prose and scene-setting are unforgettable (hence, my inability to sleep). Admittedly, I am late to the game as far as her work goes and I plan to pick up her other book asap.

Semiramus is a character that I believe will stay with me for a long time. She is driven, resilient, charming, clever, and yet still swathed in mystery. Her beginnings are humble as an abandoned orphan baby but these parameters never seem to keep her caught anywhere for long. As far as powerful literary women, I easily cast her into my personal hall of fame.

The other characters are equally intoxicating. I normally struggle to keep up with so many at a time, but I genuinely never found a moment where the perspective or story-telling felt as though it was lagging or filling space. Every character felt real and multi-layered. Everybody had a stake in the plot. No character ever felt as though they were simply there to serve Semiramus, Onnes, or Ninus and that is something I really appreciated.

With that being said, a five star read for my first novel of 2025 was a bit of a shock! In a good way, of course. Setting the bar high already. I do think that this will bring me back to my mythology obsession era (which I have not seen since middle school either lol). I am already beyond ready to read Casati's other novel and any work she publishes in the future.

I greatly appreciate Netgalley and Sourcebooks Landmark for the opportunity to read this novel!

I received this arc from netgalley, and if I'm being honest I did not connect with this book. for me it was a struggle day in and day out to complete. personally I never had much interest in the Assyrian empire and that made it much harder to connect with the story since i do now know or really care about the history. the story definitely had some interesting twists and turns for Semiramis and both onnes and ninus. I would still recommend the book but I would also recommend starting with the authors notes and the little history lesson that was at the end of the book before diving in.

I loved Casati's first novel, Clytemnestra, so much that I was thrilled to receive an ARC of this one. This one was good, but I didn't love it as much as Clytemnestra. I enjoyed getting to learn about a historical figure that I didn't know much about, and I loved the characters. As with Clytemnestra, the writing was lush and alluring. I didn't know as much about Assyrian culture as I do about Ancient Greek, so it was really cool to submerse myself in that world.

I think that this one was just a little too slow in the plot for me. I am not saying that it was bad, as I enjoyed it a lot, just that it didn't live up to the first novel, in my opinion. If you loved her first novel, I definitely think you should pick this up, as it has the same feminist take on an ancient story. Just be prepared for some slower moments in this one.

A very ambitious but ultimately top heavy read. I couldn’t gain entrance into this story. Felt very heavy on text and background. It was just too cumbersome to get through!

This was my first novel by Costanza Casati, so I didn't know what to expect. While the story unfolded eloquently and well, I found the prose and writing not my style. I adored the third person perspective, however some of the political themes and gruesome details were cumbersome to get through and almost unrelenting. I found myself having to take a break to read something else. I also struggled connecting with a lot of the characters. So while overall, I occasionally enjoyed this book, I'm not sure this genre is meant for me and that's okay! I really wished I could have loved it more. It gets 3 stars from me because it wasn't for me but I would rate it 3.5 stars because it is a very well written book, even if it was cumbersome at times.

Thank you NetGalley and Sourcebooks Landmark for the e-ARC copy in exchange for a honest review.

Thank you to NetGalley for sending and ARC in exchange for an honest review.

I really enjoyed this book. The writing was done really well. This has given me an interest in other genres as well since I liked this book so much!

This book was everything. Casati did it again. The characters were to die for. The writing was tragically good and love interests achingly beautiful. The plot and world building was exceptional and transported me.

Babylonia is a novel about Semiramis, a queen of ancient Assyria. Her story starts when she’s a young abused orphan girl in a country village and ends with her ruling the land of Assyria and being known as the “whore-Queen”. Semiramis falls in love with two powerful men and outwits powerful political players in her journey to power.


I received my copy from Netgalley!

Wow... just wow!!!!
Costanza Casati has done it again. Babylonia is such a beautifully written story about Semiramis, her dedication, and her journey to power. Semiramis's character is simply exquisite... wondrous, resourceful, complex, and so deeply beautiful. The realness and complexity of these characters really gives the reader the opportunity to perceive these relationships as real and beautiful, no matter how flawed.

If you enjoy mythological retellings or historical fiction, you will most definitely love this book. I was simply blown away and I hope you will be too. Casati has left her mark on this genre and I cannot wait for *hopefully* more mythological retellings... they have become favorites of mine because of this author.

Thank you NetGalley and Penguin Random House for this ARC!!

In Babylonia, Costanza Casati delivers a gripping historical novel about Semiramis, the only female ruler of the Assyrian Empire. The story follows her journey from a lowly orphan to a powerful queen, navigating a brutal world of politics, power struggles, and complex relationships.

Raised on the fringes of the empire, Semiramis rises through sheer intelligence, strength, and cunning, making enemies and allies along the way. Her relationships with two men—Ninus, the king, and Onnes, her husband—are fraught with love, betrayal, and ambition. As Semiramis learns the deadly game of diplomacy and war, she works toward securing her safety and power in a court full of vipers.

Casati’s writing is immersive, beautifully blending myth with history. Semiramis emerges as a compelling, multifaceted character, whose journey is both empowering and tragic. This novel is a must-read for fans of historical fiction and strong female protagonists.

This is an enthralling look into the world of the ancient Assyrian Empire. Semiramis is a fascinating perspective to follow throughout her life. I appreciate how much research Costanza Casati has done to create such a lush and immersive picture of this historical moment. The three perspectives of Semiramis, Ninus, and Ribat create a well-rounded image of one woman's life and rise to power. Semiramis's beginnings in a small town, and eventual ruling of the Assyrian Empire convey the strength and practicality of one woman born into a world of danger and political maneuvering. I strongly recommend this as an incredible story of feminine power and expansion of the historical record.

Thank you to NetGalley and Sourcebooks for providing an eARC in return for my honest thoughts.

Costanza Casati has once again delivered a stunning historical reimagining, following up her acclaimed Clytemnestra with Babylonia—a lyrical, immersive, and thought-provoking novel that delves into the life of Semiramis, the only recorded female ruler of the Assyrian Empire. This book is not just a story; it is an experience, masterfully blending history, myth, and human emotion.

Semiramis, also known as Sammuramat in her native Assyria, rises from an orphaned commoner to a queen of legendary stature. Casati portrays her as a multifaceted protagonist: resilient, cunning, power-hungry, and deeply human. Her relationships, particularly with her husband, Onnes, and King Ninus, form the emotional heart of the story. The love triangle between the three is rich in complexity, exploring themes of love, loyalty, ambition, and betrayal. This dynamic is both gripping and unconventional, presenting a rare portrayal of queerness and human vulnerability in an ancient context.

Casati’s meticulous research shines through every page. Drawing from historical records and the Epic of Gilgamesh, she reconstructs the brutal and opulent world of ancient Assyria with vivid detail. From the splendor of palaces to the horrors of war, she captures the grandeur and brutality of a society that shaped its rulers and subjects alike. The integration of mythology and historical accuracy enhances the narrative, lending it the aura of an epic while grounding it in a richly imagined past.

The writing is both sparse and evocative, inviting readers to savor each line. The pacing, however, can feel uneven. While the slower sections effectively build the world and set up the complex web of relationships, the final quarter feels somewhat rushed, leaving some character arcs—particularly Ribat’s—underexplored. Despite this, the payoff is emotionally resonant and satisfying, especially for readers who appreciate deep dives into character motivations and societal structures.

Notably, Babylonia does not shy away from the rawness of its setting. The violence, while graphic, is never gratuitous, serving instead to underscore the trauma and resilience of its characters. This unflinching portrayal of brutality mirrors the harsh realities of the Assyrian Empire and adds depth to the narrative.

For fans of historical fiction, mythology retellings, or anyone who loves stories of powerful, complex women, Babylonia is a must-read. It is a tale of ambition, survival, and the price of power that will stay with you long after the final page.

Thank you to NetGalley and Sourcebooks Landmark for the opportunity to read this incredible book in advance.

*Title: Babylonia-a standalone

*Release date: 1/14/25 | Read 12/29/24

*Author: Costanza Casati-new to me author

*Format:  E-book 448 pgs.

 *Thanks to NetGalley, Sourcebooks Landmark and Costanza Casati for this ARC 👑! I voluntarily give an honest review, and all opinions expressed are my own.

*Setting: Ancient Assyria/Mesopotamia - 823 BC

*Genre: Historical Fic, Fantasy, Adult Fic, Romance 

*Tropes: mythology retelling, royal romance, love triangle

*Look out for: murder, suicide, physical abuse, PTSD

*POV: 3rd person, multiple

*Synopsis:  This is the rise of Semiramis -an orphan beaten and unwanted- to a governor's wife and later Queen. It is filled with political intrigue, betrayal, and ambition.

*Characters

* Derceto-Semiramis's mother(deceased), father unknown and deceased
* Semiramis- an orphan, always in trouble, and wants to leave town. 
* Onnes- the new governor of Eber-Nari, close friend/half-brother to King Ninus
*Amos- Semiramis's adoptive brother*
*Simmas-Semiramis's adoptive father, a shepherd in the village of Mari
*Ninus- the 2nd son of Shalmaneser and the new King of Assyria
*King Ashurnasirpal-Ninus's grandfather(deceased)
* King Shalmaneser-Ninus's father (deceased)
* Assur-Ninus's brother, the 1st son of Shalmaneser
* Nisat-Ninus and Assur's mother
*Sosane-Ninus's daughter with a scribe
*Ilu-commander-in-chief of Assyrian army and member of King's council
*Ribat-one of Onnes's slaves
*Sasi-eunuch spymaster and member of the King's council
*Marduk-prince turned King of Babylon

*Review: Once I got all the characters straight, this was an adventurous dive into a world of war and passions. Semiramis' rise to power reminded me of Cersei from Game of Thrones with love that rivaled Song of Achilles. King Ninus and Onnes were trusted brothers in love but had a sadness that could never be cured. I felt for Onnes's battle within himself, especially after the battle in Bacteria. King Ninus's decisions weren't always the best or strongest, and it turned him mad. Nisat and Semiramis constantly battled each other in scheming and wit, while Sasi gave off serious Varys vibes. This was a historical journey I was happy to take!  

☠️Beware: there are different spellings for the same names which got a little confusing.

*Rating:  5/5 
 
*Spice level- 3/5 -nothing explicit, most off page

First, thank you NetGalley, the publishers, and the author for the opportunity to read this book. What a beautifully written story it was.

Historical fiction is a genre that I always enjoy reading and Costanza Casati does this genre so well. The story of Semiramis is one of struggle and adversity. It’s more than just a rags to riches retelling. Casati’s beautiful prose helps see things through Semiramis’ eyes and actually feel what she is going through.

I did feel that there are times when the pace was off and the book was slow at times, but then Casati would draw you back in to the story. Overall if you are a fan of historical fiction, especially this time period then I highly recommend this book.

4/5 ⭐️
Greek Mythology is something I really enjoy reading, but if you add a strong female character, and I am for sure in! And this book did not disappoint. Costanza Casati does an espectacular job at researching and making this wonderful story about Semiramis, an orphan who becomes a ruler and a powerful warrior. This book will be released on January 14, 2025. Thank you NetGalley and Sourcebooks Landmark for this ARC

Babylonia is a retelling of the story of Semiramis, the Queen of Assyria whose rule became a legendary tale. From an orphan in a farming village, to battle warrior, to ruler, Costanza Casati brings Semiramis’s story to life.

Many trigger warnings for this book including war related violence and mutilation, ending the life of small humans on page, self-induced death, and physical abuse of women.

Third-person present is not my favorite narration style and I’m going to say that is why it took me the first third of this book to find a rhythm for reading. The language feels self-important and overwrought at times, however after that first 30% I feel like the pace of the story picked up greatly and reading it became more enjoyable.

Semiramis is a strong woman and a wonderful character to read on page. Overall I enjoyed the book, even with the difficult topics at times.

I couldn't get into this book - I think I just couldn't get a good feeling for the characters quickly enough. Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC. #sponsored

When it comes to historical fiction in the greek mythology realm I think there are very few authors who can bring such a strong hold into the realm, but Casati proves why she is up to task with a rich and vivid world drawn from myth and placed into her careful hands. A point of contention I saw for this novel was the love triangle however I think it strengthened much of the bonds and character growth. I hope there is much more to come!

GORGEOUS. I adored this novel. This story follows the tumultuous life of Semiramis, the governor she marries, and her husband. All three characters are deeply flawed and exceedingly human. Casati perfectly blends fascinating mythology and history in a way that feels as though you are in Ancient Assyria yourself.

Bloodlust, ambition, heartbreak, betrayal, triumph - all wrapped in stunning prose. This story has it all.

Huge thank you to NetGalley and Sourcebooks Landmark for the chance to read this ARC in exchange for my honest thoughts.

Semiramis, the only female ruler of the Assyrian empire, should be as well knowns as Cleopatra or Eleanor of Aquitaine, but instead has largely been forgotten by history. Costanza Casati brings her to life in this gripping tale of survival and strength amidst the cutthroat world of the Assyrians.
This story is full of heartbreak and sorrow but underneath all of that is Semiramis and her will to not only survive but to thrive in the brutal world of the Assyrians. Like Casati's previous work, Clytemnestra, the characters are drawn from history but the author masterfully makes them her own. The backdrop of political intrigue and the fight for power makes this story impossible to put down.

Many thanks to Sourcebooks Landmark and Netgalley for the ARC.

I was lucky enough to have an ARC of this. When I hit about 80% of the book, I became so bereft because I realized I was running out of book! That’s how good the book is. You don’t want to put it down and you don’t want it to end.

Last year, I fell in love with the epic of Gilgamesh, and am incredibly pleased that this draws heavily on it. This homage to Gilgamesh and Enkidu plays out with Ninus and Onnes, and is written beautifully.

This is so well researched. There is strength, cunning, and horror. It’s everything you expect from great novels. Semiramis is not an obscure name, and her story should be one no one forgets.