The Curse of the Pharaohs

"The Curse of the Pharaohs" by Elizabeth Peters (the pen name of Egyptologist Barbara Mertz) is the engaging second installment in the beloved Amelia Peabody historical mystery series. Set in late 19th-century Luxor, the plot kicks off when the widow of Lord Baskerville begs the fiercely independent, Victorian archaeologist Amelia Peabody and her irascible husband, Radcliffe Emerson, to assume leadership of an excavation in the Valley of the Kings. Lord Baskerville died mysteriously just as he was on the verge of opening a lavish pharaonic tomb, prompting rumors of a deadly ancient curse. Armed with razor-sharp logic, fearlessness, and a sturdy parasol, Amelia travels to Egypt determined to prove that the "curse" is merely a cover for human malice and cold-blooded murder. Peters seamlessly combines authentic Egyptological details, witty banter, and classic whodunit suspense.

Because it offers an exceptionally fun blend of authentic Egyptian archaeology, Victorian-era adventure, witty humor, and a captivating murder mystery.

For fans of historical mysteries, archaeology enthusiasts, lovers of Victorian adventure fiction, and readers who enjoy smart, humorous, and fearless female protagonists.