14 DECEMBER 1929, Page 32

THE LAUGHING QUEEN. By E. Barrington. (Harrap. 7s. 6d.)—As the

author says, in prefacing her new romance of Cleopatra : " There are few studies more ironical than hers, few in which history more definitely throws aside her almost invariable character of moralist and indulges in pure cynicism. Who but History would have ventured to make the existence of the Roman Empire the result of a girl's likes and dislikes ? Even those who may mistrust a blend of history and fancy will fmd it difficult to deny the charm of the author's Laughing Queen, who, though she may lack the dignity of the Cleopatra of their own imaginings, is tremendously vital. The story of her whims, extravagances, and ambitions is one that is well- suited to Mrs. Barrington's luxurious phraseology.