Interview with Maria Luisa Lang | Author of The Pharaoh's Cat

1. What is the name of your latest book? Tell us about it. 

The Pharaoh’s Cat. Here’s the blurb:

The Pharaoh’s Cat, narrated in the present tense by the cat himself, is the story of a free-spirited, quick-witted stray in ancient Egypt who suddenly finds himself with human powers joined to his feline nature.  

The cat immediately captures the attention of the seventeen-year-old Pharaoh, making him laugh for the first time since his parents' death, and is brought to live with him at the royal palace.

The cat also becomes friends with the High Priest of the god Amun-Ra and seeks his help in solving the mystery of his human powers and the supernatural manifestations that later plague him. He has an enemy in the Vizier—the Pharaoh's uncle and the second most powerful man in Egypt. The Vizier hates him for himself and even more for his relationship with the Pharaoh.

The cat participates in festivities at the royal palace, developing an insatiable appetite for good food, wine, and gossip. He later accompanies the Pharaoh on a trip through his kingdom, all the while renewing the Pharaoh’s ability to enjoy life and inspiring him to become a stronger leader. 

Between the cat and the Pharaoh a bond of love gradually forms which will determine Egypt's destiny.

The Pharaoh's Cat imaginatively blends Egyptology with comedy, drama, and even time travel--the cat and the High Priest will meet Elena, a resident of the twenty-first century and the daughter of a renowned Egyptologist.

2. How long have you been writing?

For the last few years, but I was toying with ideas long before.

3. Do you have any favorite books or authors that have influenced you?

Kingley Amis, especially Lucky Jim, and Bulgakov, The Master and Margarita

4. What is your favorite quote from The Pharaoh's Cat? 

It's comforting to lick my private parts when faced with adversity. 

5. So, this is always a little bit of dreaded question, but I have to ask, where did the idea for The Pharaoh's Cat come from?

My love of cats and my fascination with ancient Egypt

6. Can you tell us anything about what you're working on now?

I’ve nearly finished Lady of Mystery, the sequel to The Pharaoh’s Cat. It’s also set in ancient Egypt and New York City, but the cat goes to Bath and Stonehenge in England as well.

7. Do you have any advice for aspiring authors or anything more to say before you go?

Don’t try to please an imaginary reader. It will only inhibit you and your writing will reflect that. 

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