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maarkean's review against another edition
3.0
Overall decent, if campy, and it shows its age with some heavy colonialism and misogyny. Some of that is intentional, given the time period the book is set in. But it was okay enough that it's worth trying the later books in the series to see if gets better.
amymarchlawrence's review
adventurous
funny
mysterious
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
3.75
Content Warnings
Moderate: Colonisation
redowns1022's review
4.0
The quintessential Victorian lady adventurer detective. I had read several years ago, but having visited Egypt gave a nice added dimension. They kept talking about "afreet" or "little terrors" which is exactly what I call my cat. :)
mulvama3's review against another edition
4.5
Like a desert adventure version of Pride and Prejudice. Amelia Peabody and Radcliffe Emerson do a lovely little enemies-to-lovers in a super slow burn that takes enough of a backseat to the main mystery and adventure to be thoroughly entertaining. I especially loved that scene after he shot the snake when he gently kissed her closed eyes, cheeks, forehead and finally lips. So romantic.
sashapasha's review
3.0
2.5 stars.
The plot was transparent from the beginning, and Emerson seemed thoroughly unpleasant to be around, with no actual redeeming qualities. I did enjoy Amelia, however I could not quite understand her attachment to Emerson (misogynistic asshole that he was) , and I found it annoying that she always seemed to largely useless during the action sequences.
It should also be noted that the book is far from politically correct, containing some of the racism, sexism, and British elitism common of the time, however considering the accuracy of the sentiments and lifestyle for that age, it is a failing that can be understood and even appreciated.
The plot was transparent from the beginning, and Emerson seemed thoroughly unpleasant to be around, with no actual redeeming qualities. I did enjoy Amelia, however I could not quite understand her attachment to Emerson (misogynistic asshole that he was) , and I found it annoying that she always seemed to largely useless during the action sequences.
It should also be noted that the book is far from politically correct, containing some of the racism, sexism, and British elitism common of the time, however considering the accuracy of the sentiments and lifestyle for that age, it is a failing that can be understood and even appreciated.
lauraborkpower's review against another edition
3.0
I really enjoyed this. It wasn't exactly a mystery and it wasn't really a who-done-it, but the characters, dialogue, and setting were a lot of fun to get into. Also, the narrator was excellent. I'll keep old Peabody in mind if I need another retreat.
eni_iilorak's review against another edition
adventurous
funny
lighthearted
mysterious
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
ciusky's review against another edition
adventurous
lighthearted
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.5
jnicewinter's review
adventurous
funny
hopeful
lighthearted
mysterious
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
3.75
chaddnolen's review against another edition
4.0
3.5
Reading to prep for an upcoming trip so I appreciate the sense of place and the sprinkling of real knowledge of Egypt.
I enjoy Peabody … firm, smart, resourceful. Emerson gives off Holmes vibes … with a temper.
The conclusion was pretty easy to anticipate but fun nonetheless.
Cozy with a brain.
Reading to prep for an upcoming trip so I appreciate the sense of place and the sprinkling of real knowledge of Egypt.
I enjoy Peabody … firm, smart, resourceful. Emerson gives off Holmes vibes … with a temper.
The conclusion was pretty easy to anticipate but fun nonetheless.
Cozy with a brain.