Michelle Griep's latest novel is a gem.
From the Publisher:
In 1888 Victorian England, Ami Dalton navigates a clandestine dual life. By day, she strives to establish herself as a respected Egyptologist, overcoming the gender biases that permeate academia. But with a heart for rescuing black-market artifacts, she is most often disguised as her alter ego, the Shadow Broker. After eight years in India, Oxford's most eligible bachelor, Edmund Price, has come out of the shadows to run for Parliament and is in search of an Egyptologist to value a newly acquired collection. Expecting a renowned Oxford professor, Edmund instead finds himself entangled with Ami, the professor's determined daughter. As they delve into the treasures, their connection deepens, but trouble emerges when a golden griffin--rumored to bear the curse of Amentuk--surfaces and they're left to wonder if the curse really is at play, or if something more nefarious is hiding among the shadows. . . . Award-winning author Michelle Griep weaves a tale of love, mystery, and intrigue set against the backdrop of the gaslit streets of Oxford, England.
My Thoughts:
It was so nice to read such a fresh, enthralling narrative. The setting, the plot, the intrigue—oh it was so captivating. Of course, a bookish spinster dedicated to study and Egyptian research was a perfect heroine. When set with against a handsome, wealthy man with unusual and unexpected problems of his own to face, Ms. Griep wrote a winning narrative that will keep readers up too late if read at night!
The research that was put into this novel gives it an air of authenticity even though we know it is fiction. Character development was good for Ami and Edmund, but also for another character or two. There were some good hints foreshadowing the plot development, but they were not conclusive. Everything in the book kept one guessing at the mysterious curse.
It was perfect for escaping to a quieter, if not calmer, era. I'm happy to give this book five stars. I'll be watching for the second in the Time's Lost Treasures Saga.
It's a rainy day here. If I hadn't finished this book, I'd be spending time with it this afternoon!
Remember to take time for reading!
Laura of Harvest Lane Cottage
I use the Goodreads star system.
★ Did not like it
★★ It was okay
★★★ Liked it
★★★★ Really liked it
★★★★★ It was amazing
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*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
