A River in the Sky

Despite this addition to the series being atypical (not taking place in Egypt, not having much archeological excavation, not nearly as long as the others), I rather enjoyed it. Peters was near the end of her life when writing this one, and I am impressed at her ability to write so well late into her life. I think it would have been better when read chronologically, as it is kind of a side adventure, but the plot was solid. The characters have had more charm and Sethos is sadly missing, but I enjoyed it all nevertheless.

This is actually quite a different Amelia Peabody and Co. mystery than usual. We've traded in the usual Egypt for Palestine. There is less archaeology and more spies. There is also a good deal more narrated from Ramses' point of view than all except the chronologically newest books. I have heard some people being a little upset by all this, but it was honestly very timely for me. I loved the spy aspect in this story and how well it ties into Ramses and David's characters.

I really only had two, very small, problems. One was that I wished the characters had been all together for more of the book. They were split up for a good portion of it, the story being told both from Amelia and Ramses point of view. Also, my other complaint would be that I missed Egypt. I do understand why this story wasn't in Egypt, but it's obvious that no one - not the characters and not even Ms. P. herself - is as interested in Palestine as Egypt.

(Originally posted on my blog: http://pagesofstarlight.blogspot.com/)

A good old fashioned archeological mystery!