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A review by laurenjodi
The Hippopotamus Pool by Elizabeth Peters
3.0
The Hippopotamus Pool
3.5 Stars
The Emersons return to Egypt, this time with their son, Ramses, and ward, Nefret, in tow. A strange visit from a man claiming to know the whereabouts of an undiscovered royal tomb exposes the daring duo, their family and friends to various threats - jealous colleagues, nefarious criminals, and intrepid reporters. Will they survive the attacks, kidnappings and shenanigans to find Queen Tetisheri's tomb?
Series not: While each mystery in the series is a standalone, there are numerous recurring characters as well as references to people and events from previous installments as well as one or two ongoing story arcs. Thus, the books should be read in order.
As always, Elizabeth Peters's knowledge of ancient Egyptian history and mythology is unsurpassed, and it is a joy to learn of the details both large and small that she provides throughout the narrative. Moreover, the subtle contrast between the majesty of the Pharaohs lives (and deaths) and the suffering of everyday Egyptians during the Colonial setting of the series is impossible to ignore.
In terms of the characters, it is always amusing to watch Emerson and Peabody's interactions, and this time there is also the compelling character development for Ramses and Nefret, whose sibling rivalry provides interesting insight into their relationship. There are also appearances by Evelyn and Walter, the ever-faithful Reis, Abdullah, Cyrus Vandergelt, and the annoying yet rather helpful Kevin O'Connell amongst many others.
Once again, the mystery is the weakest element. There is just so much going on that it is difficult to keep track of all the parties involved and their differing/conflicting agendas. Nevertheless, the last few chapters are intense and exciting as all the plot points ultimately converge.
Overall, this is an entertaining series well worth the read for the characters despite the lackluster mysteries.
3.5 Stars
The Emersons return to Egypt, this time with their son, Ramses, and ward, Nefret, in tow. A strange visit from a man claiming to know the whereabouts of an undiscovered royal tomb exposes the daring duo, their family and friends to various threats - jealous colleagues, nefarious criminals, and intrepid reporters. Will they survive the attacks, kidnappings and shenanigans to find Queen Tetisheri's tomb?
Series not: While each mystery in the series is a standalone, there are numerous recurring characters as well as references to people and events from previous installments as well as one or two ongoing story arcs. Thus, the books should be read in order.
As always, Elizabeth Peters's knowledge of ancient Egyptian history and mythology is unsurpassed, and it is a joy to learn of the details both large and small that she provides throughout the narrative. Moreover, the subtle contrast between the majesty of the Pharaohs lives (and deaths) and the suffering of everyday Egyptians during the Colonial setting of the series is impossible to ignore.
In terms of the characters, it is always amusing to watch Emerson and Peabody's interactions, and this time there is also the compelling character development for Ramses and Nefret, whose sibling rivalry provides interesting insight into their relationship. There are also appearances by Evelyn and Walter, the ever-faithful Reis, Abdullah, Cyrus Vandergelt, and the annoying yet rather helpful Kevin O'Connell amongst many others.
Once again, the mystery is the weakest element. There is just so much going on that it is difficult to keep track of all the parties involved and their differing/conflicting agendas. Nevertheless, the last few chapters are intense and exciting as all the plot points ultimately converge.
Overall, this is an entertaining series well worth the read for the characters despite the lackluster mysteries.