Drake crams plenty into his plot - murder, court intrigue, a rogue army roaming the hidden valleys of the Middle East and a ruthless female warrior with the hots for his hero

In Drake's hands, ancient Egypt comes to life with all its treachery, vengeance, passion and power. A stunning achievement

Drake takes an ancient, long-lost civilization and makes it feel frighteningly familiar. I was captivated from first page to last

Richly imagined, fiendishly plotted, gruesomely evocative, this is the storytelling equivalent of 'shedeh' - the most prized of ancient Egyptian beverages

This much can be stated with assurance: this novel will be a huge hit with fans of the series, of Egypt-themed mysteries, of modern-day thrillers, and - what the heck - anyone not included in those groups

Gripping historic mystery

A story that is both moving and magical

The freshest and most thorough portrait of Gabaldon's multifaceted leading man . . . Deftly written, pleasantly concise

Gabaldon is a born storyteller

History comes deliciously alive on the page