Throne of Khetara: His Face is the Sun: Book 1

By Michelle Jabès Corpora

Reviewed by Lauren Spencer

Michelle Jabes Corpora describes herself as ‘a humble student of Egyptology.’ With her Egyptian heritage spanning two generations, her passion for Ancient Egypt developed early in life. Michelle notes in her author’s note that writers were highly regarded in ancient times, and their work was considered to have magical power. So, it’s no surprise that after writing fifteen novels as both author and ghostwriter, His Face is the Sun stands out as one of Michelle’s most ambitious and sophisticated mixes of magical realism and fantasy, inspired by ancient prophetic writings dating back to 4 C.E.

His Face is the Sun splits the chapters between four main characters whose lives slowly become intertwined. Seventeen-year-old Princess Sitamun (Sita), a triplet born into the kingdom of Khetara, has a sinister secret and struggles against the weight of its burden. Thirteen-year-old Nefermaat (Neff), daughter of a merchant, has her prophetic visions whisk her away from her family to the Temple of Amun. Nineteen-year-old Raetawy (Rae) is the feisty and rebellious farmer’s daughter who joins the resistance, and the nineteen-year-old, tomb raider from the Redlands, Karim, who awakens an almighty evil.

The culmination of events marks the turning points for the character-driven story, linking them all to the divine prophecy that has waited centuries to unite them. The character arcs unfold gradually, which might frustrate some readers, but the pace helps build the tension needed to create engaging and relatable characters. Some scenes of intimacy are subtly implied and, fortunately, don’t detract from the main plot. Corpora’s extensive research is clear in how she has crafted a detailed world, full of political upheaval, complex family relationships, ancient prophecy, and traditions, bringing this coming-of-age fantasy to life. I particularly enjoyed the use of the palace cats as a literary device in the prologue and epilogue. The felines roam the kingdom, taking in their surroundings while, by chance, stumbling upon characters and revealing motives through instinctive behaviour and observations.

At 500 pages, His Face is the Sun is the first book in the Kingdom of Khetara trilogy, with the next book due for release in 2026. This book is sure to satisfy fantasy lovers and is a great introduction for those just dipping their toes into the genre. Recommended for advanced YA readers.

Hodder Children’s Books 2025

Michelle Jabès Corpora