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Amelia Peabody #8
The Hippopotamus Pool
Amelia, her husband Emerson, their 13-year-old son Ramses, and their beautiful ward Nefret return to Egypt for an exciting excavation. The dig is at an undisturbed Royal Tomb, a true find--and an irresistible temptation for art thieves, jealous colleagues, looters, the press, and the countless evil-doers. As Ramses and Nefret rub elbows with thieves and thugs, Amelia finds herself faced with a surprising new villain who is every bit as clever and resourceful as the intrepid Amelia herself.
447 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published April 10, 1996
384 people are currently reading
3208 people want to read
About the author
Elizabeth Peters
185 books3,314 followersElizabeth Peters is a pen name of Barbara Mertz. She also wrote as Barbara Michaels as well as her own name. Born and brought up in Illinois, she earned her Ph.D. in Egyptology from the University of Chicago. Mertz was named Grand Master at the inaugural Anthony Awards in 1986 and Grand Master by the Mystery Writers of America at the Edgar Awards in 1998. She lived in a historic farmhouse in Frederick, western Maryland until her death.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 512 reviews
March 30, 2019
The Hippopotamus Pool opens at a ball celebrating the turn of the century and then follows Amelia and Emerson as they return to the pyramids and tombs of Egypt as they were in 1900.
Amelia is her usual feisty, self opinionated yet still delightful self. She and Emerson have their old relationship back and there is plenty of humour between the two of them. Ramses is growing up but is still getting in and out of trouble. In that he takes after his mother who manages to totally misjudge one situation in this story and very nearly pays the ultimate price!
Sometimes these books become a little bit too wordy and sometimes there are just too many characters and I struggle to work out who the bad guys are. This one however went very smoothly indeed. I followed the course of events with ease, thoroughly enjoyed all the family scenes and loved the historical information about the archaeological world in 1900. They even had Cook's Tours visiting the newly opened sites. Who would have guessed!
I am very glad I still have a number of books to go in this entertaining series.
Amelia is her usual feisty, self opinionated yet still delightful self. She and Emerson have their old relationship back and there is plenty of humour between the two of them. Ramses is growing up but is still getting in and out of trouble. In that he takes after his mother who manages to totally misjudge one situation in this story and very nearly pays the ultimate price!
Sometimes these books become a little bit too wordy and sometimes there are just too many characters and I struggle to work out who the bad guys are. This one however went very smoothly indeed. I followed the course of events with ease, thoroughly enjoyed all the family scenes and loved the historical information about the archaeological world in 1900. They even had Cook's Tours visiting the newly opened sites. Who would have guessed!
I am very glad I still have a number of books to go in this entertaining series.
October 16, 2009
I have already said how much I like this series. I like the things that stay the same; pretty predictable plot, mystery and romance between the unrivaled Amelia and her soul mate, the ever-manly Emerson. I also like the things that change; Ramses and Nefret growing up, the addition of new characters (David). As I have also said, I prefer to listen to these as narrated by Barbara Rosenblatt. I know the words were not written by her and credit should be given where credit is due, but Rosenblatt brings Amelia to life. She is a master at voices; I love listening to how Ramses changes as he grows up; he sounds more like his mother and father every day.
My favorite line; "It is impossible to be angry with a gentleman who pays you compliments, even impertinent compliments.....especially impertinent compliments."
I agree, my dear Amelia, I agree.
My favorite line; "It is impossible to be angry with a gentleman who pays you compliments, even impertinent compliments.....especially impertinent compliments."
I agree, my dear Amelia, I agree.
August 6, 2012
It gets harder with each book in this series to find different ways to say how wonderful the story is. I never tire of the very humourous, extremely intelligent and quirkily wonderful Emerson family and their many adventures, and this book is no different!
Nefret is now an established member of the family, showing the same tendancy as Ramses for both archeological fervour and an intelligence and maturity well beyond her years, so she fits right in with the unusual Emerson family.
In this chapter, the Emersons are back in Egypt for what Emerson fervently hopes will be an uncomplicated, uneventful archeological excavation season.
But as is so often the case with the Emersons, a peaceful excavation is not to be! Beween the acquiring into the Emerson entourage of a youthful forger/thief who is related to the Emerson's loyal foreman Abdullah, several criminal persons lurking about and raising Amelia's dectectival instincts - and consequently Emerson's ire - a couple of kidnappings, and some odd goddess-worshippers, the Emerson family is once again off on a merry series of adventures.
The best thing about these books continues to be the verbal sparring between Emerson and Amelia and the fast pace and the absolutely delightful humour Elizabeth Peters imbues these characters' interactions with is just fantastic. For my money, the dialogue between Amelia and Emerson is some of THE best writing anywhere and I simply cannot get enough of both of them!
Note: I listen to these books in audio version and if you have any interest in audio books, the narrator Barbara Rosenblat is just sensational in her rendition of these characters. Every character has a unique voice in Rosenblat's capable hands, and the various accents and quirks of the people come across pitch perfect, and as though they are right in front of you.
Nefret is now an established member of the family, showing the same tendancy as Ramses for both archeological fervour and an intelligence and maturity well beyond her years, so she fits right in with the unusual Emerson family.
In this chapter, the Emersons are back in Egypt for what Emerson fervently hopes will be an uncomplicated, uneventful archeological excavation season.
But as is so often the case with the Emersons, a peaceful excavation is not to be! Beween the acquiring into the Emerson entourage of a youthful forger/thief who is related to the Emerson's loyal foreman Abdullah, several criminal persons lurking about and raising Amelia's dectectival instincts - and consequently Emerson's ire - a couple of kidnappings, and some odd goddess-worshippers, the Emerson family is once again off on a merry series of adventures.
The best thing about these books continues to be the verbal sparring between Emerson and Amelia and the fast pace and the absolutely delightful humour Elizabeth Peters imbues these characters' interactions with is just fantastic. For my money, the dialogue between Amelia and Emerson is some of THE best writing anywhere and I simply cannot get enough of both of them!
Note: I listen to these books in audio version and if you have any interest in audio books, the narrator Barbara Rosenblat is just sensational in her rendition of these characters. Every character has a unique voice in Rosenblat's capable hands, and the various accents and quirks of the people come across pitch perfect, and as though they are right in front of you.
January 10, 2026
I loved this on my second re-listen! The mystery is good, and we get the full cast of characters. David is introduced and after a rough start quickly becomes blood brothers with the nearly 13-year old Ramses.
July 3, 2020: Another great re-listen.
November 26, 2021: Another great re-listen.
February 19, 2024: I did a quick re-listen after having Queen Tetisheri mentioned in an Egyptian archaeology class. Just about ready for a complete reread of the series.
January 10, 2026: Well, it took me a while but I am now in the midst of a reread (in audio) of the full series. This is a favorite, with the finding of Queen Tetisheri's tomb, but also the introduction of David into the mix. And we get to see a bit more of Evelyn and Walter.
July 3, 2020: Another great re-listen.
November 26, 2021: Another great re-listen.
February 19, 2024: I did a quick re-listen after having Queen Tetisheri mentioned in an Egyptian archaeology class. Just about ready for a complete reread of the series.
January 10, 2026: Well, it took me a while but I am now in the midst of a reread (in audio) of the full series. This is a favorite, with the finding of Queen Tetisheri's tomb, but also the introduction of David into the mix. And we get to see a bit more of Evelyn and Walter.
July 3, 2018
I just adore that Emerson family!!! <3
I'm trying to decide if I want to read ALL of the Peabody books now or keep some of them to savor later on... decisions decisions!
I'm trying to decide if I want to read ALL of the Peabody books now or keep some of them to savor later on... decisions decisions!
August 30, 2021
Very enjoyable, like all the others. Peters returns to the original formula: Amelia and Emerson battle gangs of grave robbers and antique dealers who are intent on stealing their latest discovery: the treasures of Queen Tetisheri’s tomb. This time the whole gang is present: Nefret, the Emerson’s new ward; Evelyn, Amelia’s friend from the first book; and Walter, her husband and Emerson’s brother. David, an Egyptian boy of great artistic talent is also added to the cast as Ramses’s blood brother and partner in shenanigans.
After giving birth to six children and losing her last baby, Evelyn is depressed and her marriage to Walter is on the rocks - thus Amelia and Emerson decides that what they need is some archeology in Egypt. It works, eventually - but only after deadly dangers narrowly avoided in dealing with ruthless criminals who dare to abduct Rameses. By the end we learn the meek and feeble Evelyn is quite capable with the handy parasol and a gun when her loved ones are threatened.
Another fun installment in my escape-by-audio series. And now I feel that I am ready for something else.
After giving birth to six children and losing her last baby, Evelyn is depressed and her marriage to Walter is on the rocks - thus Amelia and Emerson decides that what they need is some archeology in Egypt. It works, eventually - but only after deadly dangers narrowly avoided in dealing with ruthless criminals who dare to abduct Rameses. By the end we learn the meek and feeble Evelyn is quite capable with the handy parasol and a gun when her loved ones are threatened.
Another fun installment in my escape-by-audio series. And now I feel that I am ready for something else.
August 24, 2023
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.
August 16, 2016
I loved reading The Hippopotamus Pool, 8th in the Amelia Peabody series.
There are so many twists in this one! (Some of these books can feel a little repetitive in terms of what happens... an annual Egyptian archaeological dig, a dead body shows up somewhere, etc... but this one shakes things up!)
While working on site at a royal tomb, a body is found, not a mummy -- and one that died in anguish. The mysteries around this tomb start swirling and the intrigue builds from there. Emerson's brother Walter and his wife Evelyn make an appearance in Egypt, making the whole trip seem more like a party -- and adds extra unpredictability into the story for the reader to relish in. But above all, one of my favorite things is that devoted Emerson gives his wife the present of a lifetime -- it's so beautiful, there are likely tears in my eyes just thinking about it!
Of course, there's some of our other favorite characters in the book, and maybe some new enemies to build further intrigue. I can't wait to see who turns up again in the next volume.
Elizabeth Peters' books are addicting, humorous and simply... gripping!
There are so many twists in this one! (Some of these books can feel a little repetitive in terms of what happens... an annual Egyptian archaeological dig, a dead body shows up somewhere, etc... but this one shakes things up!)
While working on site at a royal tomb, a body is found, not a mummy -- and one that died in anguish. The mysteries around this tomb start swirling and the intrigue builds from there. Emerson's brother Walter and his wife Evelyn make an appearance in Egypt, making the whole trip seem more like a party -- and adds extra unpredictability into the story for the reader to relish in. But above all, one of my favorite things is that devoted Emerson gives his wife the present of a lifetime -- it's so beautiful, there are likely tears in my eyes just thinking about it!
Of course, there's some of our other favorite characters in the book, and maybe some new enemies to build further intrigue. I can't wait to see who turns up again in the next volume.
Elizabeth Peters' books are addicting, humorous and simply... gripping!
December 13, 2015
This was kind of a reunion book of sorts. It has a lot of the characters that I've grown to like over the years including Cyrus Vandergelt, Kevin O'Connell and Evelyn and Walter (who play a major role in solving a mystery for the first time since the initial novel). I have to admit that I don't really like Nefret. She tends to throw the dynamics off. I admit that I liked the way that Amelia, Emerson and Ramses interacted together much more when it was just the three of them.
July 4, 2023
This series just keeps drawing me back, mostly to follow the character arcs.
September 18, 2018
Whenever I need a little pick me up in life, I revisit this series. This book is one of the best. Here we have the return of Walter and Evelyn to Egypt, and David begins his relationship with the family (which is rocky at first). The cat Bastet plays an important role. And there is an underlying current that Amelia hasn’t even picked up on, but of course she will in a later volume. Perfect.
September 27, 2017
Another good entry in the Amelia Peabody series. The last few books were unusual in their setting, so it felt good to get back to the norm of the family on a dig in Egypt. Of course there were bad guys to be thwarted, and of course they were dispatched with by the end.
July 11, 2021
The eighth book in the Amelia Peabody series. The Emersons journey again to Egypt to excavate and trouble finds them once again when the death of Sethos leads to a power vacuum in the stolen antiquities market and two villainous forces try to gain control of it. Unfortunately (fortunately?) for the Amelia and Co., the royal tomb they wish to excavate is the target of both evil gangs of tomb robbers.
This is the first book where the Emerson's foster daughter, Nefret, really gets to play a role, which is nice. Also Amelia’s in-laws, Walter and Evelyn figure prominently in the second half of the book, which was also wonderful. Finally, Abdullah’s estranged grandson, David, is introduced and his bond with Ramses and Evelyn make me think that he will also play a permanent role in future books. For a long book (compared to previous entries in the series) with a pretty large cast, Peters does a good job of juggling the characters and keeping the plot simmering.
I listened to much of this as narrated by the incomparable Barbara Rosenblatt. But as I wrote above, it is very long so I ended up reading probably the last third in print for the sake of speed.
This is the first book where the Emerson's foster daughter, Nefret, really gets to play a role, which is nice. Also Amelia’s in-laws, Walter and Evelyn figure prominently in the second half of the book, which was also wonderful. Finally, Abdullah’s estranged grandson, David, is introduced and his bond with Ramses and Evelyn make me think that he will also play a permanent role in future books. For a long book (compared to previous entries in the series) with a pretty large cast, Peters does a good job of juggling the characters and keeping the plot simmering.
I listened to much of this as narrated by the incomparable Barbara Rosenblatt. But as I wrote above, it is very long so I ended up reading probably the last third in print for the sake of speed.
September 6, 2010
I think it's time to take a break from this series. I'm curious to see what happens with Ramses and Nefret, but I found myself skipping paragraph upon paragraph in this book. Rambling, rambling, rambling. I get tired of Elizabeth Peters talking about how handsome Emerson is and how well his muscular form is shown and how all the women fall at his feet... I get it. He's hot. ENOUGH ALREADY!
I'm also tired of being referred to as the "ignorant reader" or "less-intelligent reader". I'm not an archeologist, but I'm also not a complete idiot either... this book just felt like the same song, same verse, a little bit louder and a little bit worse... someone is kidnapped, then rescued, people die, they discover their mysterious enemy through some random (borderline ridiculous) clues, and all is well in the end.
Sorry... I just think I've read too many of these too close together. Like I said, time for a break from this series...
I'm also tired of being referred to as the "ignorant reader" or "less-intelligent reader". I'm not an archeologist, but I'm also not a complete idiot either... this book just felt like the same song, same verse, a little bit louder and a little bit worse... someone is kidnapped, then rescued, people die, they discover their mysterious enemy through some random (borderline ridiculous) clues, and all is well in the end.
Sorry... I just think I've read too many of these too close together. Like I said, time for a break from this series...
May 25, 2010
Amelia and Emerson finally find a royal tomb which brings at least two gangs of antiquities thieves out to steal their treasure. Loved the familiar characters, particularly the growing, Nefret and Ramses and the loyal American friend Cyrus Vandergelt. Glad Emerson's brother Walter and his wife Evelyn finally get back to Egypt. New character David is welcome as a friend for Ramses. This plot I found a little confusing and hard to follow. But the point of these books are to be with familiar friends with a little mystery and romance thrown added. Also, because of the wonderful narration of Barbara Rosenblat I am still giving it 4 stars.
May 14, 2020
This is a fairly standard Peabody adventure, but very enjoyable and easy to read. It includes Ramses and Nefret this time, with indications that Nefret is growing up (into a beautiful woman of course). And it's Ramses' last appearance as a child, so fans of young master Peabody will have to make the most of this one.
All the usual elements are present: an interesting excavation, a sinister villain, and lots of humorous and/or sexy action between Peabody and Emerson. It'll never be my favorite of the series but it rans smoothly and happily along and is a perfect relaxation book.
All the usual elements are present: an interesting excavation, a sinister villain, and lots of humorous and/or sexy action between Peabody and Emerson. It'll never be my favorite of the series but it rans smoothly and happily along and is a perfect relaxation book.
April 19, 2022
The Hippopotamus Pool by Elizabeth Peters is the 8th book in the Amelia Peabody Mystery series. Amelia and Emerson are about to be given information about an undiscovered royal tomb when the informant dies and when Amelia goes to get help, Emerson is attacked. A very entertaining book as we join the family on their adventures as they search for the tomb. Ramses has a new ally but manages to find trouble as always. The Audible narration by Barbara Rosenblatt is superb and her voices add to the enjoyment of this delightful and captivating mystery.
September 13, 2016
I alternately read and listened to this novel of the Emerson's next year of excavations in Egypt and it's a complicated plot with multiple villains to choose from as they uncover a tomb that others want very badly. The family addresses all dangers with wit and aplomb and Amelia's assertions about men and how they should be handled are, as always, quite amusing.
December 8, 2018
Lots here that is important in the arc of the series, but the story itself was overfull of enemies and subplots. Amelia, Emerson, Nefret, Ramses, and an odd governess set off to do archaeology despite being very worried about Evelyn and Walter’s psyches after the recent death of a baby. They find Tetisheri’s tomb, David, several competing enemies, near-death experiences (several), kidnappings (several), ill-advised expeditions (several), their Egyptian family just beginning to be real rather than caricatures, Evelyn’s heroism, and a very annoyingly changed Walter (Peter’s even has Amelia remark that something is like Walter or at least “like the man he had become”, which feels like an acknowledgment of his personality transplant which is portrayed less as the result of his grief but more as the fault of scholarship and lack of exercise.)
Still lovable and good, and superb as read by Rosenblat of course, whose ability to age Ramses but keep his voice recognizable through these early books is the most magnificent acting achievement I’ve ever heard.
Onward to “Stay away from tomb 20A”!
Still lovable and good, and superb as read by Rosenblat of course, whose ability to age Ramses but keep his voice recognizable through these early books is the most magnificent acting achievement I’ve ever heard.
Onward to “Stay away from tomb 20A”!
February 25, 2024
Rated 4 stars. #8 Amelia Peabody historical mystery set in 1900 Egypt. Read on Libby Kindle while listening to Hoopla Audio. Excellent narration by Barbara Rosenblat. Love this series!
October 12, 2025
It’s been a long time since I’ve read an Amelia Peabody novel, and I immensely enjoyed The Hippopotamus Pool. The mystery was less convoluted than in earlier books, and a few of the characters’ more irritating traits were toned down.
July 7, 2021
I just love Amelia Peabody, a feminist archaeologist before her time. In this story we see a lot of Ramses and Nefereti, her son and adopted daughter. And we also learn some mythology about a hippopotamus that was supposed to drink all the water from a pool per the deities command. Anything with Amelia Peabody is great in my book.
September 13, 2015
I'm in the process of re-reading the entire Amelia Peabody series again, from start to finish in one go. They are still some of my favorite books. They must be read with tongue firmly inserted in cheek. It also helps to have an interest in and some knowledge of Colonial-era exploration narratives, fiction like that of H. Rider Haggard, Orientalist studies, the competitive acquisitive zeal of western museums at the turn of the century, and the "gentlemen archaeologists" of the 19th century who brought more treasure-hunting fever than academic and historical interest to their digs. That is to say nothing of the insight into early seeds and outbreaks of unrest in the Middle East that find their way into the middle and later novels in the series. Add to this impressive list of "ingredients" a dash of early feminism, British upperclass manners, interesting plots, and especially the academically sound Egyptian history from a legitimate scholar (Elizabeth Peters had a PhD in Egyptology from the Oriental Institute at the University of Chicago) and you have the very best in historical fiction, enclosed within adventurous and funny plots led by engaging and memorable characters who, though immensely more enlightened than many of their time, nonetheless remain realistic people OF their time, seeing the world through glasses tinted by their own culture and class. Though they attempt to rise above prejudice, they cannot quite entirely do so. Elizabeth Peters showed immense wisdom of the human condition in this aspect of her characterizations, reminding us all that we cannot even be aware of - much less remove - ALL of our preconceptions through which we see the world around us. Even the best of us - like Amelia - can continually peel back the layers of lenses through which we see the world.
All these philosophical, aesthetic, academic, and historical reasons for loving the series are thus topped off with depth of characterization, imaginative storytelling, fast-paced plotting, excellent word-crafting, and an overall affectionate humor about the human condition - the whole coming together even better than the sum of its parts to make it one of my favorite series of all time. I might add that it's a series that I've read and re-read multiple times, something that I almost never do.
To be fair, my one criticism about the series is that the non-chronological nature of the last few books gets a big confusing even to me, someone who's read them multiple times. They're still very enjoyable, but holding the timeline and chronology of events in my head is not always easy. I plan to tackle the compendium "Amelia Peabody's Egypt" soon to see how that clears things up. Nonetheless, I'm waiting with bated breath for the book Elizabeth Peters was finishing at the time of her death to be published. I think it would be a great tribute to her career to publish it posthumously.
I have been really surprised when friends I've recommended the series to haven't been as enthusiastic as I am about Amelia Peabody. I think I can attribute that to the fact that my first go-round of the series was on audiobook and Barbara Rosenblat and Grace Conlin did such a marvelous job of giving the series the proper amount of irony and tongue-in-cheek humor and updated H. Rider Haggard-style adventure, that even today when I read the series I hear it in their voices in my head. If you are having trouble connecting, then, I recommend listening to at least the first several books on audiobook. It wouldn't hurt to do some quick Wikipedia research on Colonialism, Egyptology, Howard Carter, Wallace Budge, Orientalism, H. Rider Haggard, museum-sponsored archaeology of the latre 19th & early 20th centuries (especially the competitiveness between the British Museum & the Metropolitan Museum of Art(, WWI, pre-WWII espionage, dismantling of the Ottoman Empire... anything relating to history of the 19th century to early 20th century. All will add to your enjoyment of the novels as well as your appreciation for how deftly Elizabeth Peters wove history and real people throughout her fiction.
All these philosophical, aesthetic, academic, and historical reasons for loving the series are thus topped off with depth of characterization, imaginative storytelling, fast-paced plotting, excellent word-crafting, and an overall affectionate humor about the human condition - the whole coming together even better than the sum of its parts to make it one of my favorite series of all time. I might add that it's a series that I've read and re-read multiple times, something that I almost never do.
To be fair, my one criticism about the series is that the non-chronological nature of the last few books gets a big confusing even to me, someone who's read them multiple times. They're still very enjoyable, but holding the timeline and chronology of events in my head is not always easy. I plan to tackle the compendium "Amelia Peabody's Egypt" soon to see how that clears things up. Nonetheless, I'm waiting with bated breath for the book Elizabeth Peters was finishing at the time of her death to be published. I think it would be a great tribute to her career to publish it posthumously.
I have been really surprised when friends I've recommended the series to haven't been as enthusiastic as I am about Amelia Peabody. I think I can attribute that to the fact that my first go-round of the series was on audiobook and Barbara Rosenblat and Grace Conlin did such a marvelous job of giving the series the proper amount of irony and tongue-in-cheek humor and updated H. Rider Haggard-style adventure, that even today when I read the series I hear it in their voices in my head. If you are having trouble connecting, then, I recommend listening to at least the first several books on audiobook. It wouldn't hurt to do some quick Wikipedia research on Colonialism, Egyptology, Howard Carter, Wallace Budge, Orientalism, H. Rider Haggard, museum-sponsored archaeology of the latre 19th & early 20th centuries (especially the competitiveness between the British Museum & the Metropolitan Museum of Art(, WWI, pre-WWII espionage, dismantling of the Ottoman Empire... anything relating to history of the 19th century to early 20th century. All will add to your enjoyment of the novels as well as your appreciation for how deftly Elizabeth Peters wove history and real people throughout her fiction.
February 8, 2012
In this episode, Ramses is 12, Nefret is 15, and Emerson is about to make the discovery of his life--the almost-undisturbed royal tomb of Queen Tetisheri. Of course there are many people who will stop at nothing to get in first, including kidnapping any or all of the children--who soon number three, with the addition of the Egyptian boy David, discovered working for a local forger, but proving to be Abdullah's grandson and a talented artist.
This is such a fun series, and it's nice to go back to some of the earlier books after having read the ones set in the 1920s. I don't know that this was one of her better efforts mystery-wise, but lots of threads and characters that recur in later books get their start or continue here, including David, Sir Edward, the hidden villain. And it's nice for once for Emerson to have a real excavation, rather than the boring villages and Roman mummies his temper often lands him with.
Part of the delight of these books is listening to them on CD, with wonderful narration by Barbara Rosenblatt. How a woman can manage to convey the ultimate masculinity of Emerson I don't know, but she does it brilliantly.
This is such a fun series, and it's nice to go back to some of the earlier books after having read the ones set in the 1920s. I don't know that this was one of her better efforts mystery-wise, but lots of threads and characters that recur in later books get their start or continue here, including David, Sir Edward, the hidden villain. And it's nice for once for Emerson to have a real excavation, rather than the boring villages and Roman mummies his temper often lands him with.
Part of the delight of these books is listening to them on CD, with wonderful narration by Barbara Rosenblatt. How a woman can manage to convey the ultimate masculinity of Emerson I don't know, but she does it brilliantly.
April 19, 2016
I love this series a lot. It's full of hilarious characters and archaeological adventure and incredibly clever cats. The whole thing is totally ridiculous, yes - Amelia is an inadvertently hilarious character who often doesn't realise just how over the top she's being - but it's SO MUCH FUN.
This one was rather tamer than others, with no murders involved and instead a hunt for dodgy antique dealers and forgers in Luxor. But it's still a lot of fun, features the return of some characters that have been sadly missing for a while, and is totally silly but also really enjoyable reading.
Definitely not intellectual reading, but a series worth checking out regardless.
This one was rather tamer than others, with no murders involved and instead a hunt for dodgy antique dealers and forgers in Luxor. But it's still a lot of fun, features the return of some characters that have been sadly missing for a while, and is totally silly but also really enjoyable reading.
Definitely not intellectual reading, but a series worth checking out regardless.
January 22, 2013
Some series get "out of breath" so to speak really fast. This is not the case here. The Hippopotamus Pool is the eigth book in the Amelia Peabody series and the mystery and adventures are as fresh as in the first book. The plot was well constructed and I was surprised and delighted by the new kind of criminals she introduced in her book (I don't want to give much away). It's a real delight to see that family evolve in time and to feel the archaelogical fever through their eyes.
July 10, 2016
Yessssss!! Je l'ai fini! Dommage qu'il ait fallu autant de temps pour que l'histoire s'emballe et donc mon intérêt!
Sinon, je suis retombée amoureuse d'Emerson, Peabody est mon héroîne, Ramses ... il change et ... J'ai ENORMEMENT de mal avec Nefret!
J'ai beaucoup aimé voir Walter et Evelyn aussi!!!
Sinon, je suis retombée amoureuse d'Emerson, Peabody est mon héroîne, Ramses ... il change et ... J'ai ENORMEMENT de mal avec Nefret!
J'ai beaucoup aimé voir Walter et Evelyn aussi!!!
March 24, 2022
2022: Read chronologically, I think the books really hit their stride here. Most of the major characters have been introduced and while the plot is—in Amelia Peabody fashion—both predictable and fantastical, the formula has been perfected. I am both fully satisfied and want to start the next book immediately to see how characters continue to develop.
February 13, 2020
The dialog still manages to make me laugh, which is really awesome but this one dragged a little and wasn't as interesting as the other few novels in the series, it doesn't stand out. It was still an enjoyable read, though.
January 6, 2026
For various reasons I have jumped several books in this series, but I own the rest as ebooks, so I get to read straight through from here. This is where Nefret and Ramses really begin to grow up,, and we meet Abdullah's grandson David, who will join them in many adventures to come.
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