The novel is set in ancient Egypt during the reign of Akhenaten, the pharaoh who introduced monotheism to Egypt. It tells the story of Amenhotep, a young man who is caught up in the religious and political turmoil of the time.Amenhotep is born into a family of priests, but he is drawn to the new religion of Akhenaten. He becomes a follower of the Aten, the sun god, and he dedicates his life to spreading Akhenaten's teachings. However, he faces opposition from the old priesthood, who are determined to protect their power and wealth, as well as from the people, who are not ready to give up their traditional beliefs.Despite the challenges he faces, Amenhotep remains steadfast in his faith. He continues to preach the teachings of Akhenaten, and he eventually becomes one of his most trusted advisors. The novel follows Amenhotep's journey as he navigates the complex religious and political landscape of ancient Egypt.A Word, Only a Word is a well-written and engaging novel that provides a fascinating glimpse into ancient Egyptian culture and society. Ebers' vivid descriptions of people, places, and customs bring the story to life. The novel is also a thoughtful exploration of the themes of faith, courage, and conviction.