In the second volume of Cleopatra, the titular queen continues her struggle to maintain her power in the face of Roman threats. She is forced to make a number of difficult decisions, including marrying the Roman general Mark Antony in an attempt to secure an alliance. However, her plans are ultimately thwarted by Octavian, who defeats Antony and Cleopatra at the Battle of Actium. Cleopatra and Antony both commit suicide, and Egypt falls under Roman rule. The novel is historical fiction, and Ebers takes great care to accurately portray the historical events of the time. He also provides a vivid and detailed description of the culture and society of ancient Egypt. As a result, Cleopatra is a fascinating and informative read that provides a unique perspective on one of the most famous women in history. In addition to the historical accuracy, Cleopatra is also a well-written and engaging novel. The characters are complex and believable, and the plot is full of suspense and intrigue.