Ancient Egypt, Soul Magic, and Storytelling: Meet the Author of Soul Thief

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This month’s giveaway will transport you to a world of ancient gods, hidden secrets, and the power of the human soul.

I’m thrilled to feature the author of Soul Thief, a novel set in ancient Egypt, where beliefs about the afterlife, identity, and destiny shape every decision—and every danger. Blending historical detail with mystery and a touch of the supernatural, this story explores what it truly means to protect one’s soul in a world where it can be taken.

What Did Ancient Egyptians Believe About the Soul?

I sat down with the author, Leah Moyes, to talk about the inspiration behind Soul Thief, the fascinating spiritual traditions of ancient Egypt, and what it’s like to write across vastly different time periods—from the pyramids to World War II. She also shares insight for aspiring writers (and I know many of you in my Wise Ones Newsletter will appreciate that part!)

Soul Thief – April 2026 giveaway prize!

Interview Questions

Soul Thief transports readers into the world of ancient Egypt. What first inspired you to tell this story?

I have always loved Ancient Egypt and its mysteries. For years I studied and researched different aspects of the culture and felt it was time to write a book about it.

Ancient Egypt has such a strong connection to the afterlife and the soul. How did those beliefs shape the themes of Soul Thief?

I love that Ancient Egyptians believe that death is not final and merely a doorway to another life. My main character struggles between preserving that belief and using the amulets/treasures to help the dying poor around her.

Your novel blends history with elements of suspense and the supernatural. How do you strike the balance between historical accuracy and storytelling?

The thing about historical accuracy is there is always an element of perspective. Since we were not there to witness life first hand, we have to research all we can, then fill in the blanks. I try hard to be as true to the culture as possible but when I alter something for the sake of storytelling, I make sure I explain why in the Afterword.

What kind of research did you do to bring ancient Egypt to life? Did anything surprise you along the way?

I studied a half dozen books by historians and archaeologists, but also visited the Valley of the Kings, Karnak Temple complex, Luxor, and other ancient Egyptian sites in person. While poor treatment of women in ancient cultures is not a surprise, I was saddened to learn that women were forced to marry their rapists to save their family honor.

Many readers love strong, complex heroines. What can you tell us about your main character and what drives her?

Most all of my historical fiction books feature a strong female lead. In Soul Thief, I loved taking the aspect of a deadly and dangerous role and giving it to a young, privileged and determined young woman. While Akila was born to a noble lifestyle, she did not see herself above those around her and when her dear friend succumbed to a deadly disease, she was driven to find a way to help the poor of Set Ma’at. Historically, both Pharaoh Ramses III and his father Sethnakht, had neglected their duty of distributing food and medicine to the tomb maker’s village and ignored their suffering. Akila refused to stand by and watch that happen, risking her life by raiding royal tombs.

Was there a particular scene or moment in Soul Thief that was especially challenging for you to write?

Without spoiling the scene, you will know it when you come to it, if you read the book, Akila’s relationship with Moises, her Nubian protector, is very touching. They face a great deal together and I am sure I wept through most of this particular scene.

You’re currently pitching your WWII novel The Polish Nurse as a TV series, which is incredibly exciting. How has the process of adapting a story for the screen differed from writing a novel?

Oh very different. My screenwriter, thankfully he is the one who has formatted the work, reminds me often that a screenplay is more dialogue than world development and that’s vastly different from what we do as novelists as we create those worlds for our readers. For the screen, the director takes on that role and I admit it is difficult to let go of.

Historical fiction often brings overlooked stories to light. What draws you to writing stories set in different time periods like ancient Egypt and WWII?

I look for the unknown story told within the bigger event like World War II. For The Polish Nurse, I researched the abduction, breeding program the Nazis developed to advance their pure race and with Ancient Egypt, I discovered that there was only one documented revolt from the people of Set Ma’at and that was during the time of Ramses III. I love looking for the underserved stories.

A large portion of my Wise Ones Newsletter readers are aspiring writers. What is one key piece of advice you would give someone who is working on their first novel?

Just write. Put your thoughts down. Commit to thirty minutes a day, preferably around the same time to create a routine. You can worry about editing, formatting, publishing at a later time, just get those thoughts and stories down so you don’t forget them.

What’s next for you—more historical fiction, more supernatural elements, or something entirely new?

I have both Historical Fiction and Historical Romance books on deck, they are the two main genres I write in. Both future books are parts of different series, so I hope to have them out by the end of the year.

What’s the best way for readers find you and your books?

Amazon for eBooks and Kindle Unlimited. My website, leahmoyes.com for personalized paperback copies.
Instagram- @authorleahmoyes Facebook- @Berlinbutterfly Website- leahmoyes.com

A huge thank-you to Leah for sharing her process, her passion for history, and a glimpse into the world behind Soul Thief.

April Giveaway

If you love historical fiction with a mystical edge, this is a story you won’t want to miss.

And yes! you can win a copy in this month’s giveaway which includes: a signed paperback of Soul Thief, some ancient Egyptian swag like book marks, stickers, and charms, and a discount code for any future books purchased through Leah’s website. (US residents only).