Critical Praise

“Written in the Ashes is one of those rare novels that sets ‘history’ afire, to bathe readers in the glow of a greater, hotter truth. Fans of The Mists of Avalon will find this romantic/alchemical/feminist/spiritual epic equally captivating.” — Tom Robbins, Bestselling Author of Tibetan Peach Pie: A True Account of an Imaginative Life and Villa Incognito

“A stunning epic about the burning of the Great Library of Alexandria, Egypt from a brilliant young novelist whose depiction of the ancient world is sure to capture the hearts of readers everywhere.” — Mark R. Harris, Academy Award-Winning Producer (Crash, Gods & Monsters)

“Van Zandt’s vivid description of the Great Library instantly transported me to a lush fifth century Alexandria. Her lyrical writing style and breakneck storytelling kept me riveted to the very last page.” — Robin Maxwell, Bestselling Author of Jane: The Woman Who Loved Tarzan and Atlantos (The Early Erthe Chronicles)

“In her captivating debut novel, Van Zandt brings to life a fascinating and forgotten woman of history: Hypatia of Alexandria. If you’ve ever wondered what it was like to walk the streets of long ago Egypt, then look no further. You will be enthralled!” — Michelle Moran, Bestselling Author of Rebel Queen and The Second Empress: A Novel of Napoleons Court

“Written in the Ashes is a story that could have been ripped from today’s headlines. It opens the door into a magical, fascinating and frightening era in our history. With hope, it’s one we will not be doomed to repeat.” — Josh Conviser, Executive Consultant on HBO's Rome, and Author of Echelon and Empyre

“I found the story, with its rich historical backdrop to be thoroughly engaging. Furthermore, the narrative is ripe with interesting; well-rounded characters that... appeal to a wide audience while being symbolically relevant to the time period.” — Mike Medavoy, Academy Award-Winning Producer (Apocalypse Now, One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest)

“Engaging and provocative, this first volume of Van Zandt’s Mediterranean Trilogy delivers a story filled with mystery and intrigue. Transporting the reader back to fifth century Alexandria when Christianity emerges as the dominant religion of the Roman Empire, it is a tale filled with suspense and delight.” — Patricia Selbert, author The House of Six Doors

“Van Zandt may well be the rightful heir to the literary throne of Lawrence Durrell.” — Stuart Volkow, Vice President of Media and Entertainment Technology, Strategy, and Business Development at The Institute