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The Time Travel Chronicles #1
Secrets of the Nile
"Although Secrets of the Nile is, technically, a YA novel, this 40-something reader loved every moment." Lisa Fox, award-winning author of Core Truths.
"The thrilling adventure inside the pharaoh's tomb...read like a fast-paced movie." Beth Greenberg, award-winning author of Cupid's Fall series.
If you're reading this, it may mean I don't exist any more. Time travel's like that. Here today, erased tomorrow.
16-year-old Madison Bryant is escaping an awkward romance when she leaps into her friend Riley's latest invention--a time machine--as it blasts off on its maiden voyage to Ancient Egypt. Setting down by the Nile in a swirl of sand, the pair plan to stay for a day or two and observe, not interact with anyone. But when a local girl invites them to her family home, they're drawn into village dramas and can't resist using future knowledge to help.
An epidemic of dental troubles? Riley introduces toothpaste to the ancient culture. The vizier's teenage son drowning in a hippo-filled river? Maddy rescues him using life-saving techniques acquired on a Sydney beach and breaks Time Travel Rule No.1 -- Don't Mess With the Timeline!
Now a 17yo boy who should be dead is alive. And the rest...is no longer history.
A high-stakes fast-paced journey through the mysterious land of Ancient Egypt.
"The thrilling adventure inside the pharaoh's tomb...read like a fast-paced movie." Beth Greenberg, award-winning author of Cupid's Fall series.
If you're reading this, it may mean I don't exist any more. Time travel's like that. Here today, erased tomorrow.
16-year-old Madison Bryant is escaping an awkward romance when she leaps into her friend Riley's latest invention--a time machine--as it blasts off on its maiden voyage to Ancient Egypt. Setting down by the Nile in a swirl of sand, the pair plan to stay for a day or two and observe, not interact with anyone. But when a local girl invites them to her family home, they're drawn into village dramas and can't resist using future knowledge to help.
An epidemic of dental troubles? Riley introduces toothpaste to the ancient culture. The vizier's teenage son drowning in a hippo-filled river? Maddy rescues him using life-saving techniques acquired on a Sydney beach and breaks Time Travel Rule No.1 -- Don't Mess With the Timeline!
Now a 17yo boy who should be dead is alive. And the rest...is no longer history.
A high-stakes fast-paced journey through the mysterious land of Ancient Egypt.
344 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 18, 2023
28 people are currently reading
2438 people want to read
About the author
Paulene Turner
24 books35 followersI am the author of a six-book YA time travel series, called The Time Travel Chronicles. Secrets of the Nile, book one in the series, will be released on 18 July, 2023. I hope to release books two and three by the end of the year and the final three in 2024.
Creating this series has been the most fun I’ve ever had as a writer. It took me over a decade to write, involved researching five historical periods and tapping out over half a million words!
The process for each book began with research. I spent a couple of months reading as much as I could on each new period and taking notes. I usually filled an A4 notebook and more with details — not of historic events or real characters — but of the way people lived. I focused on the food, the homes, the social order, courting rituals, the general vibe of a place, ferreting out as many true details (especially the gory ones) as I could find. Only when I felt I had inhaled the essence of each period did I sit down to write.
Once I had a completed manuscript, I edited it multiple times, before giving it to my family to read — they’re all good writers and structural editors. They gave me notes. Then my script editor went over it…more notes. And some people from my writing group looked at parts of it…notes, notes, notes. I also had input from my writing teachers at the Faber Academy. Plus sensitivity readers when cultural issues arose. The proof reader mopped up what was left!
And so…after that looong process of writing and revising, I’m now here, preparing to launch my first baby out into the world.
Creating this series has been the most fun I’ve ever had as a writer. It took me over a decade to write, involved researching five historical periods and tapping out over half a million words!
The process for each book began with research. I spent a couple of months reading as much as I could on each new period and taking notes. I usually filled an A4 notebook and more with details — not of historic events or real characters — but of the way people lived. I focused on the food, the homes, the social order, courting rituals, the general vibe of a place, ferreting out as many true details (especially the gory ones) as I could find. Only when I felt I had inhaled the essence of each period did I sit down to write.
Once I had a completed manuscript, I edited it multiple times, before giving it to my family to read — they’re all good writers and structural editors. They gave me notes. Then my script editor went over it…more notes. And some people from my writing group looked at parts of it…notes, notes, notes. I also had input from my writing teachers at the Faber Academy. Plus sensitivity readers when cultural issues arose. The proof reader mopped up what was left!
And so…after that looong process of writing and revising, I’m now here, preparing to launch my first baby out into the world.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
July 30, 2023
Thank you so much to the author for the arc of 𝐒𝐞𝐜𝐫𝐞𝐭𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐍𝐢𝐥𝐞! This was such a fun story, and absolutely perfect for middle-grade readers who enjoy sci-fi fantasy and a little bit of history.
Our story follows our FMC Maddy and her best friend Riley, two teenagers navigating adolescent life in Sydney, Australia. They’ve been best friends forever, and Maddy has always embraced Riley’s quirkiness and total devotion to science. Except now, other girls are embracing his nerdiness too, and everyone is noticing his surfer-boy good looks and charm. Everyone except Riley himself. He’s too focused on his science fair project, which he’s even keeping a secret from Maddy.
When she stubbornly finds him one day in his ‘lab’—his parents backyard shed—as he’s about to literally time travel, she jumps into the side car of his Time Machine and off they go. And they land in ancient Egypt.
The adventurous quest they embark on is one of friendship, patience, understanding and love. The dialogue between characters was heartfelt and funny, and each character brought something unique to the story. There was a fantastic mix of sci-fi and historical fiction, with just a tad of innocent romance too.
I also really loved the vivid Australiana culture that the author brought to the story; from the Sydney Harbour Bridge to the Great Barrier Reef, to the mention of Little Nippers and hot chips.
A great start to a series, ‘Secrets of the Nile’ is the first of a six-book series, and I’m looking forward to continuing the adventure!
Our story follows our FMC Maddy and her best friend Riley, two teenagers navigating adolescent life in Sydney, Australia. They’ve been best friends forever, and Maddy has always embraced Riley’s quirkiness and total devotion to science. Except now, other girls are embracing his nerdiness too, and everyone is noticing his surfer-boy good looks and charm. Everyone except Riley himself. He’s too focused on his science fair project, which he’s even keeping a secret from Maddy.
When she stubbornly finds him one day in his ‘lab’—his parents backyard shed—as he’s about to literally time travel, she jumps into the side car of his Time Machine and off they go. And they land in ancient Egypt.
The adventurous quest they embark on is one of friendship, patience, understanding and love. The dialogue between characters was heartfelt and funny, and each character brought something unique to the story. There was a fantastic mix of sci-fi and historical fiction, with just a tad of innocent romance too.
I also really loved the vivid Australiana culture that the author brought to the story; from the Sydney Harbour Bridge to the Great Barrier Reef, to the mention of Little Nippers and hot chips.
A great start to a series, ‘Secrets of the Nile’ is the first of a six-book series, and I’m looking forward to continuing the adventure!
July 10, 2023
This book was a fun read! I enjoyed learning about ancient Egypt through the eyes of the protagonist. The characters are likeable, the science and history are sound, and the writing is strong and confident. An added plus is that the author is Australian; as an American, I also enjoyed the small moments where our cultural differences came through in the voice. I recommend this book for anyone interested in time travel, YA, or Egypt!
June 25, 2023
I was very honoured to be an ARC reader for this book. Now I have to start by saying that I never finish a book I’m not enjoying, but that was never a worry whilst I was reading Secrets of the Nile.
Join Madison and Riley as they travel to Ancient Egypt, then navigate the twists and turns of time travel and the challenges it brings. Paulene Turner has delivered an engaging adventure, one where you can envisage yourself there in the land of the Pharaohs.
This book is aimed at young adults, but to be honest, anyone with an interest in Ancient Egypt will enjoy the journey back in time. Without giving too much away, you will marvel at the well-considered time travel tropes and you will find it difficult to put the book down as the young explorers deal with their challenges.
I’m really looking forward to Book 2 in the series, I’m hooked.
Join Madison and Riley as they travel to Ancient Egypt, then navigate the twists and turns of time travel and the challenges it brings. Paulene Turner has delivered an engaging adventure, one where you can envisage yourself there in the land of the Pharaohs.
This book is aimed at young adults, but to be honest, anyone with an interest in Ancient Egypt will enjoy the journey back in time. Without giving too much away, you will marvel at the well-considered time travel tropes and you will find it difficult to put the book down as the young explorers deal with their challenges.
I’m really looking forward to Book 2 in the series, I’m hooked.
June 24, 2023
First of all I was hooked by the idea of Ancient Egypt and time travel. Right way the characters Riley and Madison reeled me in with the sassiness and attitude. The questionable scientific idea that is constantly talked about in time travel whether we travel to the past what happens in the present or future. As I was reading I was thinking who I could get this book for once it's published or who I could recommend it to.
Riley is a science geek in Australia who always wins contests and Madison aka Maddie his his best friend. They are in high school and kind of get into trouble sometimes but Riley is a prize student. For a school trip they go to a local Egyptian museum where Riley's scientist mind is stirring.
Thanks to Riley Madison ends up with him on a Time Travel incident in Ancient Egypt. Although the interest in time Travel they soon find out they aren't the only people. Snarky attitude, sass and curious. These characters are lovable, relatable and makes you feel for them.
I highly recommend this book, this Arc was given to me by BookTunnel with the Authors permission. All thoughts are my own and I am grateful for the chance to read and review it.
Riley is a science geek in Australia who always wins contests and Madison aka Maddie his his best friend. They are in high school and kind of get into trouble sometimes but Riley is a prize student. For a school trip they go to a local Egyptian museum where Riley's scientist mind is stirring.
Thanks to Riley Madison ends up with him on a Time Travel incident in Ancient Egypt. Although the interest in time Travel they soon find out they aren't the only people. Snarky attitude, sass and curious. These characters are lovable, relatable and makes you feel for them.
I highly recommend this book, this Arc was given to me by BookTunnel with the Authors permission. All thoughts are my own and I am grateful for the chance to read and review it.
October 24, 2025
Today is #review day!☺️
I want to thank the author, Paulene Turner,for not only giving me an e-arc ( a long time ago 😅, sorry for the long wait 🙏) but also for very kindly sending me physical copies of this #book and its sequel!☺️
I cannot begin to explain how much this means to me 🥹...my first physical books from an author!😆🥳
I'll forever be grateful!🤩
Note : all thoughts on this title are my own.
From me, #secretsofthenile by #pauleneturner gets 3 ⭐!🙂
General info : this is the start of a 6 book #yasciencefiction series with a healthy #historicalfiction undertone; it's a #timetravel adventure series well suited for #readers right at the edge between #middlegrade and #youngadult; it's action-heavy and mainly focused on showing how the majority of people were living in those times, with a fun story to complement it.
CW: mentions and depiction of slavery, brutal executions and misogyny in society.
#bookthoughts
I don't want to hear anyone say that 3 stars is too low of a #rating 😑...let's not discuss once again why stars don't actually mean anything...😒...
...instead let's focus on the fact that, this novel, despite not being targeted at me, managed not only to keep me intrigued but also entertain me AND give me reasons why it's really good for those young adults it actually addresses.
It's very clear that the author wanted to create an adventure with high stakes, while also sharing some lesser known information about the everyday life of the people of the past.
We get to see how they lived, how and what they worked, the rules of the society, the issues they have ( personal and communal) ; the roles they assume and why; the shortcomings due to knowledge.
I must say I really appreciate this in books and it definitely gives it the upper edge when I recommend stories to young people. ☺️
In terms of the story, we follow Maddie and her best friend, Riley, the time machine inventor, travel through time, as they decide to fix a health-related issue for the ancient world.🤭
I didn't give you the complete synopsis as I really find the reason very funny and quite surprising if you don't know in advance.🙃
These two start as everyday teenagers, one - a high-energy girl who's struggling with her crush and trying to get through school, and the other - an awkward genius boy who's soft-spoken, really anxious and who really hates to lose.🙂 Don't you worry, Riley's fixation with his friend, quickly gives him ideas🤣, and these 2 leave behind regular teenage stuff in order to make the world better.😌
I really enjoyed Maddie in this book. She's well-rounded and very active in the plot. She's quickly painted as a bleeding heart ( for those who read, remember how she meets Peterson 🥲) and safe to say she has multitudes! She understands when and how she may be a burden, and takes matters into her own hands, and is willing to do want needs to be done despite feeling disgusted / embarrassed / the unwilling center of attention.
Riley is more complicated for me..he has good moments, but, in some instances, his intellect and ambition stops him from recognizing when he hurts those around him.( The way he was ok with the bet for the vizir's attention didn't sit well with me, but I understand this was a way to show his lack of awareness to things outside his domain)
I'm glad the narrative shows him why these decisions were wrong, but it affected my view of him.😢
Besides these 2 MCs, the others aren't really developed 😅...I can understand with the age category, scope of the book and the length of it, but I wanted more. 🫣
Maybe the 2nd volume is better in this regard 🤞.
Don't get me wrong, many will care about Sahara's fate and if she can keep together her family, about Amunet and Razi, even Phoenix 👀......I just wanted more character development for them.
The plot is tied to my second issue 😅...from the first moment we get to Ancient Egypt, we know what our goal is, how we are feeling about it, and what the character are supposed to do in order to achieve it. Here's the thing...I don't know if this is typical of upper middle grade or not, but the action was fast and a lot 🫢...I wanted to sit a little with some events and explore some more through discussions, instead of getting the abridged version of why this happened, why it's normal, and if you can actually change this.🤷🏼♀️
We saw slavery, we saw taxes used to abuse family, we saw laws that aren't good to today's standards, we saw how nature and animals are seen and interacted with, but we mostly watched as one does with a documentary.🤔... Not bad, just not what I want.👀
The intrigue I had developed later on into the book with the consequences of our MCs actions really saved the day!😁..and actually made me put this series as one to finish for when I want a fun story with additional info about a time period and place that's lesser known to the public.🙃
I'm really curious how and why Azizi did what he did ( and who he is, obviously 😆)..I have theories 🤭.
I want to know more about Peterson, is there a connection between Phoenix and Jamie???👀 🤔...how Maddie and Riley will navigate their situation and friendship 😆.
As for the #scifi elements...they're really scifi 🤣...don't focus on them😉...they're not the point.😌
In conclusion, I highly recommend you try this if you want an all-action adventure in the past for the teenager in you.😆 ( or if you're looking for recommendations for one)...especially if you want to learn some things alongside having a great time!😁
I want to thank the author, Paulene Turner,for not only giving me an e-arc ( a long time ago 😅, sorry for the long wait 🙏) but also for very kindly sending me physical copies of this #book and its sequel!☺️
I cannot begin to explain how much this means to me 🥹...my first physical books from an author!😆🥳
I'll forever be grateful!🤩
Note : all thoughts on this title are my own.
From me, #secretsofthenile by #pauleneturner gets 3 ⭐!🙂
General info : this is the start of a 6 book #yasciencefiction series with a healthy #historicalfiction undertone; it's a #timetravel adventure series well suited for #readers right at the edge between #middlegrade and #youngadult; it's action-heavy and mainly focused on showing how the majority of people were living in those times, with a fun story to complement it.
CW: mentions and depiction of slavery, brutal executions and misogyny in society.
#bookthoughts
I don't want to hear anyone say that 3 stars is too low of a #rating 😑...let's not discuss once again why stars don't actually mean anything...😒...
...instead let's focus on the fact that, this novel, despite not being targeted at me, managed not only to keep me intrigued but also entertain me AND give me reasons why it's really good for those young adults it actually addresses.
It's very clear that the author wanted to create an adventure with high stakes, while also sharing some lesser known information about the everyday life of the people of the past.
We get to see how they lived, how and what they worked, the rules of the society, the issues they have ( personal and communal) ; the roles they assume and why; the shortcomings due to knowledge.
I must say I really appreciate this in books and it definitely gives it the upper edge when I recommend stories to young people. ☺️
In terms of the story, we follow Maddie and her best friend, Riley, the time machine inventor, travel through time, as they decide to fix a health-related issue for the ancient world.🤭
I didn't give you the complete synopsis as I really find the reason very funny and quite surprising if you don't know in advance.🙃
These two start as everyday teenagers, one - a high-energy girl who's struggling with her crush and trying to get through school, and the other - an awkward genius boy who's soft-spoken, really anxious and who really hates to lose.🙂 Don't you worry, Riley's fixation with his friend, quickly gives him ideas🤣, and these 2 leave behind regular teenage stuff in order to make the world better.😌
I really enjoyed Maddie in this book. She's well-rounded and very active in the plot. She's quickly painted as a bleeding heart ( for those who read, remember how she meets Peterson 🥲) and safe to say she has multitudes! She understands when and how she may be a burden, and takes matters into her own hands, and is willing to do want needs to be done despite feeling disgusted / embarrassed / the unwilling center of attention.
Riley is more complicated for me..he has good moments, but, in some instances, his intellect and ambition stops him from recognizing when he hurts those around him.( The way he was ok with the bet for the vizir's attention didn't sit well with me, but I understand this was a way to show his lack of awareness to things outside his domain)
I'm glad the narrative shows him why these decisions were wrong, but it affected my view of him.😢
Besides these 2 MCs, the others aren't really developed 😅...I can understand with the age category, scope of the book and the length of it, but I wanted more. 🫣
Maybe the 2nd volume is better in this regard 🤞.
Don't get me wrong, many will care about Sahara's fate and if she can keep together her family, about Amunet and Razi, even Phoenix 👀......I just wanted more character development for them.
The plot is tied to my second issue 😅...from the first moment we get to Ancient Egypt, we know what our goal is, how we are feeling about it, and what the character are supposed to do in order to achieve it. Here's the thing...I don't know if this is typical of upper middle grade or not, but the action was fast and a lot 🫢...I wanted to sit a little with some events and explore some more through discussions, instead of getting the abridged version of why this happened, why it's normal, and if you can actually change this.🤷🏼♀️
We saw slavery, we saw taxes used to abuse family, we saw laws that aren't good to today's standards, we saw how nature and animals are seen and interacted with, but we mostly watched as one does with a documentary.🤔... Not bad, just not what I want.👀
The intrigue I had developed later on into the book with the consequences of our MCs actions really saved the day!😁..and actually made me put this series as one to finish for when I want a fun story with additional info about a time period and place that's lesser known to the public.🙃
I'm really curious how and why Azizi did what he did ( and who he is, obviously 😆)..I have theories 🤭.
I want to know more about Peterson, is there a connection between Phoenix and Jamie???👀 🤔...how Maddie and Riley will navigate their situation and friendship 😆.
As for the #scifi elements...they're really scifi 🤣...don't focus on them😉...they're not the point.😌
In conclusion, I highly recommend you try this if you want an all-action adventure in the past for the teenager in you.😆 ( or if you're looking for recommendations for one)...especially if you want to learn some things alongside having a great time!😁
August 12, 2023
First of all, I just have to say this is a fun read and exactly what I am into. We follow Maddy and Rylie. Rylie has won the science fair nearly every year and this year is set to be no exception. In his constant improvements to better himself and his projects, not to mention an obsession for winning this coveted award, he has built a time machine! Yes, a time machine! So the adventure begins when he starts the machine and Maddy hops in, not fully knowing that she will be going to a far away place, a very far way place. They end up in Ancient Egypt, where Rylie hopes to set in motion the idea of toothpaste, because he is also a humanitarian.
I'm really keen on time travel and love the genre and all the repercussions that go with it. It really feels like a newer version of the movie Back to the Future, but unique and original to the author's imagination. I love Ancient Egypt and it was fun to go on this ride with the characters of this book. Some twists and excitement and an urge to find out what will happen next kept me in a constant page turning read. I also enjoyed that the chapters were fairly short too, because I like to end on a chapter and when I pick it up again, being a new. So I really enjoyed that part about it. There is also a particular song in this book that became an ear worm to me, lol. But I didn't mind at all. If you enjoy time travel, definitely pick this one up. It's a clean story that can be enjoyed by any age and would be perfect for a family read night. Pick it up today, because you never know when tomorrow might be erased.
I'm really keen on time travel and love the genre and all the repercussions that go with it. It really feels like a newer version of the movie Back to the Future, but unique and original to the author's imagination. I love Ancient Egypt and it was fun to go on this ride with the characters of this book. Some twists and excitement and an urge to find out what will happen next kept me in a constant page turning read. I also enjoyed that the chapters were fairly short too, because I like to end on a chapter and when I pick it up again, being a new. So I really enjoyed that part about it. There is also a particular song in this book that became an ear worm to me, lol. But I didn't mind at all. If you enjoy time travel, definitely pick this one up. It's a clean story that can be enjoyed by any age and would be perfect for a family read night. Pick it up today, because you never know when tomorrow might be erased.
Read
August 9, 2023...if time were a person, it would be a mugger, waiting in an alley. And you'd never see it coming.
This was a wild time travel jaunt to Egypt. I was surprised to find the teenage protagonists actually felt like teens, not adults, with their making mistakes and questionable decisions, as well as their teen insecurities. Hormones come into play quite a bit, though there's no content that most parents will fret over.
I enjoyed learning about ancient Egypt, although I wondered if some parts were more historical fantasy. (The author does say, "Let's face it, if I stuck too closely to reality, this would be a history book! And Madison, a girl, wouldn't have had any of these adventures in time.")
Once the charaters got into meddling with history, I found the time travel elements to be quite compelling. There's a satisfying ending, but lots of mysteries are left up in the air, along with an ongoing problem that gives a plausible and compelling explanation for the series continuing.
I think people who like fanciful time travel stories, and especially teens and others who enjoy the teen struggles with boys and such, will especially enjoy this book.
(I received this book free in a giveaway, but I had no obligation to review, and my opinions are my own.)
This was a wild time travel jaunt to Egypt. I was surprised to find the teenage protagonists actually felt like teens, not adults, with their making mistakes and questionable decisions, as well as their teen insecurities. Hormones come into play quite a bit, though there's no content that most parents will fret over.
I enjoyed learning about ancient Egypt, although I wondered if some parts were more historical fantasy. (The author does say, "Let's face it, if I stuck too closely to reality, this would be a history book! And Madison, a girl, wouldn't have had any of these adventures in time.")
Once the charaters got into meddling with history, I found the time travel elements to be quite compelling. There's a satisfying ending, but lots of mysteries are left up in the air, along with an ongoing problem that gives a plausible and compelling explanation for the series continuing.
I think people who like fanciful time travel stories, and especially teens and others who enjoy the teen struggles with boys and such, will especially enjoy this book.
(I received this book free in a giveaway, but I had no obligation to review, and my opinions are my own.)
July 31, 2023
Absolute must read - I just LOVED it!!! This book made me fall in love with reading again - I just could not put it down!! A masterful but effortless balance of funny and lighthearted, but still thrilling enough to make your heart race. The storyline is so creative and unpredictable, I was on my toes the whole time. The character and story development is just incredible. I can’t recommend this book enough, I’m dying for Book 2 to be released soon!!
July 18, 2023
"If you’re reading this, it may mean I’m in trouble. Or that I don’t exist anymore. Time travel’s like that. Here today, erased tomorrow." So begins this fantastical time travel journey by Paulene Turner. From the very start, quick-witted 16-year-old Madison (aka Maddy) Bryant is a hoot. I adored hearing this story from inside her head - especially when she shares her unfiltered opinions on her classmates and all the characters she and her fellow traveler, Riley Sinclair, meet along the way. Riley, the adorably clueless genius who invents the time machine, has an air of innocence and calm that Maddy does not possess. Together, the two make the perfect team - and if Riley has his way, they may make the perfect couple by the time this series gets into full swing. Their dialogue crackles but in a very natural way and had me laughing out loud more than once.
In addition to her engaging characters, the author brings the Ancient Egyptian setting to life by seamlessly weaving in interesting (and sometimes gross) facets of daily life. While the science takes a back seat to action and adventure (and perhaps a touch of romance), Turner does account for many of the technical challenges the time travelers encounter. For example, Riley and Maddy swallow a large pill that allows them to communicate with the natives in Egypt. The time travel mechanism is described in broad strokes that are satisfying enough for YA readers without being too heavy.
YA readers will enjoy the thrilling adventure inside the pharaoh's tomb, which read like a fast-paced movie. Personally, my favorite aspect of the story was the banter (and wonderful chemistry) between Maddy and Riley. I love that this first book explored their friendship, with a hint of something more. And I'm excited because there are 5 more books in the series to watch this budding relationship blossom.
Thank you to Salty Dog Press for providing an ARC. All opinions expressed are my own honest reflections of the story.
In addition to her engaging characters, the author brings the Ancient Egyptian setting to life by seamlessly weaving in interesting (and sometimes gross) facets of daily life. While the science takes a back seat to action and adventure (and perhaps a touch of romance), Turner does account for many of the technical challenges the time travelers encounter. For example, Riley and Maddy swallow a large pill that allows them to communicate with the natives in Egypt. The time travel mechanism is described in broad strokes that are satisfying enough for YA readers without being too heavy.
YA readers will enjoy the thrilling adventure inside the pharaoh's tomb, which read like a fast-paced movie. Personally, my favorite aspect of the story was the banter (and wonderful chemistry) between Maddy and Riley. I love that this first book explored their friendship, with a hint of something more. And I'm excited because there are 5 more books in the series to watch this budding relationship blossom.
Thank you to Salty Dog Press for providing an ARC. All opinions expressed are my own honest reflections of the story.
May 12, 2023
Many thanks to the publisher for providing me an advance reviewer copy (ARC).
Secrets of the Nile is an absolute delight! From the wonderfully engaging characters (Riley and Madison, as well as the various supporting players in Egypt and Sydney) to the high-stakes conflicts to the pacing and well-drawn descriptions of ancient Egypt, every aspect of the author's debut novel sings. It's the type of book you don't want to put down because you can't wait to see what happens next--either in the future, present, alternate present, or the past. I particularly enjoyed the chemistry established between Riley and Madison, the clever ways in which the two navigate several unique challenges in a land and time far from their own, and the relationships built as together they grapple with how to do the right thing without ruining the world as we know it in the process!
Although Secrets of the Nile is, technically, a YA novel, this 40-something reader loved every moment. It's the type of book that can be enjoyed across all age groups and something parents can read along with their kids. This book is a whirlwind of fun; I highly recommend it (and I can't wait to read the next book in the series!)
Secrets of the Nile is an absolute delight! From the wonderfully engaging characters (Riley and Madison, as well as the various supporting players in Egypt and Sydney) to the high-stakes conflicts to the pacing and well-drawn descriptions of ancient Egypt, every aspect of the author's debut novel sings. It's the type of book you don't want to put down because you can't wait to see what happens next--either in the future, present, alternate present, or the past. I particularly enjoyed the chemistry established between Riley and Madison, the clever ways in which the two navigate several unique challenges in a land and time far from their own, and the relationships built as together they grapple with how to do the right thing without ruining the world as we know it in the process!
Although Secrets of the Nile is, technically, a YA novel, this 40-something reader loved every moment. It's the type of book that can be enjoyed across all age groups and something parents can read along with their kids. This book is a whirlwind of fun; I highly recommend it (and I can't wait to read the next book in the series!)
May 9, 2023
Thank you to Salty Dog Press for providing an ARC. The author, Paulene Turner, has an excellent grasp of what it would be like to live in ancient Egypt. Her description of life back then amuses, horrifies and engages my imagination.
The main characters (Madisen) Maddy and Riley are best friends and their travels through time make them see each other in a different light. I have always wondered what could happen if we ever changed something in history. The ramifications of just a word here or there or even helping them improve their lifestyle and how it could impact our lives is an eye-opener. It’s the simple things in life that can change the world as we know it.
I am looking forward to the next installment. I know this is written for a different age group, but it is a fun and light read for anyone who needs a break from their regular genres.
The main characters (Madisen) Maddy and Riley are best friends and their travels through time make them see each other in a different light. I have always wondered what could happen if we ever changed something in history. The ramifications of just a word here or there or even helping them improve their lifestyle and how it could impact our lives is an eye-opener. It’s the simple things in life that can change the world as we know it.
I am looking forward to the next installment. I know this is written for a different age group, but it is a fun and light read for anyone who needs a break from their regular genres.
October 2, 2023
I absolutely loved this story & would highly recommend it to anyone interested in YA fiction, time-travel, or ancient Egypt.
The story centers around the two main characters, Madison and Riley, and follows their adventures through time as they attempt to fix both the past and present. This adventure brings them to ancient Egypt, teleporting the reader back in time along with them. I enjoyed the detail the author put into the description of ancient Egyptian town layouts, outfits, and family values. I especially loved the detailed account of Egyptian markets, both in regards to what was being sold and the way in which people bartered.
Overall- this is an amazing book & I’m looking forward to getting my hands on a copy of the next one! I think Madison and Riley still have some more adventures to go on.
My favorite quote:
“They say the best revenge is living well.” (105)
The story centers around the two main characters, Madison and Riley, and follows their adventures through time as they attempt to fix both the past and present. This adventure brings them to ancient Egypt, teleporting the reader back in time along with them. I enjoyed the detail the author put into the description of ancient Egyptian town layouts, outfits, and family values. I especially loved the detailed account of Egyptian markets, both in regards to what was being sold and the way in which people bartered.
Overall- this is an amazing book & I’m looking forward to getting my hands on a copy of the next one! I think Madison and Riley still have some more adventures to go on.
My favorite quote:
“They say the best revenge is living well.” (105)
June 1, 2023
I was lucky enough to get my hands on an ARC of this book. I loved it! Nope, I'm not a young adult, but I have read a lot of YA and this one hits all the marks. Likeable, realistic characters, a fun story with lots of twists and turns, great chemistry between the main characters with only a hint of romance (will they/won't they/does he/does she??) The story was very well written and flowed really well. I have to say, at some points I had to put the book down and walk away for a few hours because the suspense of their predicament and the entanglement of time-travel was too real. I couldn't imagine a way that it would all work out. But the author makes it happen and brings it to a realistic conclusion (in a YA fantasy time-travel kind of way) that has me wondering when will Book 2 come?
June 29, 2023
A fantastic, action-packed adventure that the YA market is crying out for! You won’t find mopey teens without any agency here, Maddy and Riley are plucky, smart, innovative, and caring. What starts as a quest to help out the people and win the school science fair along the way becomes a race against the clock to save a family from destitution. I am not usually a lover of YA, as the protagonists are so often snide, cruel, and self centred. Not so with our hero Maddy, who cares about her family and her friends, has a strong moral compass, and isn’t afraid to wing it, in the best way possible. A fun read that I really needed right now. I’ll be reading this again with my 11 year old to learn about Ancient History, and the importance of friendship and sticking up for what you believe in.
December 9, 2024
This is a great introduction to the Chronicles - quick read, relatable characters. I know this is considered a YA book, but, as a 60-year old female engineer, I loved it! The science in here is believable. The interactions between the characters is spot-on for the (original) time frame this is written in.
Found this author while responding to other authors I follow on Twitter - the concept behind these books intrigued me, so I bought the first 2 books in the series. The writing, story-telling, out-of-this-world (but still firmly on Earth) plot had me hooked.
Books 3 - 6 were ordered, devoured, and I am a satisfied reader. Highly recommended for 10 + years old (I am a 60-year old engineer, and love quick reads with captivating stories).
Found this author while responding to other authors I follow on Twitter - the concept behind these books intrigued me, so I bought the first 2 books in the series. The writing, story-telling, out-of-this-world (but still firmly on Earth) plot had me hooked.
Books 3 - 6 were ordered, devoured, and I am a satisfied reader. Highly recommended for 10 + years old (I am a 60-year old engineer, and love quick reads with captivating stories).
May 8, 2023
As an ARC Reader, I received a free copy of this novel, and I must say it hooked me from the first page. I have a love for all things Ancient Egypt, and this was a wonderful ride through history. The characters and story are engaging, and the twists and turns kept me on the edge of my seat. The writer imparts information on history and science while taking us along on a rollicking good adventure. She engages our senses with sights and smells, making the reader feel like we are a part of the land of ancient Egypt. The romantic subplot adds just the right note of sweetness to the story. I can't wait for the next installment!
August 25, 2023
Absolutely loved this book! I would recommend it to everyone. It was wonderfully imaginative and the descriptions were amazing. I could picture myself there, and could feel the characters emotions. I cannot wait until I get the next one in the series! I'm not usually a time traveler fan in either movies or books, but I'm so happy I gave this one a chance, as now I'm hooked! She had me from page one all the way to the last page. I felt like I too traveled to ancient Egypt....thankfully it was only in the book, it was the best way to see a different culture and experience it. Thank you for sharing this with the world!
Read
November 28, 2023This is a great clean fiction book for teens. I started it a couple weeks ago and had to put it down because life got crazy busy. I traveled over the holiday and it was the perfect thing for a long car ride. I enjoyed the main characters, and their plight. I really enjoyed that I was kept guessing throughout. Usually, I find that I guess what is going to happen every time, but this one had little twists that I didn't expect. At the end there is a string left hanging for the next book - awesome! I found that I wanted to get that next book right away. Great choice for teens - especially those that can identify with a strong female protagonist. Loved it!
March 27, 2024
I heard Paulene Turner read an excerpt from Secrets of the Nile on a social media platform and I was hooked. I realized it was a YA novel she had written, but I was in just that type of mood for something like this, and I certainly was not disappointed. Try following two teens to the Nile! What fun and mischief they found. I am certainly going to delve into the next book in the series just because I enjoyed this first trip so much. No, I don't want to time travel, let the others do it, but I will be happy to read about it. Way to go Paulene!
December 31, 2024
The first in the series, Secrets of the Nile, how the adventures start, with the risk of "Here today, erased tomorrow." Between Riley and Madison, can they adventure all the way back to Ancient Egypt, learn about the people, but not cause a ripple that will follow them through time? Of course not! And so the adventure begins. Liked this enough that I bought all the others as well.
Writing this WAY too long after I read, when I try to get my 2024 books listed before year's end. Hence super short.
Writing this WAY too long after I read, when I try to get my 2024 books listed before year's end. Hence super short.
July 12, 2023
This read had me hooked in from the very first few lines.
I loved the combination of a young voice, a science experiment and Egyptian history. This is a great mix for a brilliant read.
The story is so fun and explorative and told through the lens of such innocent eyes.
Any fans of any age can't help but adore this Egyptian story, particularly if interested in this time period.
Entertaining.
I loved the combination of a young voice, a science experiment and Egyptian history. This is a great mix for a brilliant read.
The story is so fun and explorative and told through the lens of such innocent eyes.
Any fans of any age can't help but adore this Egyptian story, particularly if interested in this time period.
Entertaining.
February 11, 2024
Secrets of the Nile is an exciting book in a captivating series. I came across this author on X (Twitter), seeing her posts about her books and figured I'd give it a try, along with some other authors on X. This was one of my favorites. Madison and Riley, the main characters, are developed and likeable. The setting is rich and vivid. It was a fun adventure and I'm glad I discovered this author's books. Can't wait to read more in this series.
June 20, 2024
I don’t usually like either YA or time travel but this offering from Paulene Turner managed to suck me in - enough that I want to read the next book in the series. Both Madison and Riley are annoying (to this adult reader) but also likeable. Madison has the makings of a true leader, so it will be interesting to see how she develops over the next book.
July 11, 2023
I may be a bit biased, as I did design the cover for this one, but I had as much fun reading the book as I did designing the cover.
And stay tuned, because there are many more adventures where this one came from!
And stay tuned, because there are many more adventures where this one came from!
August 8, 2023
A delightful read, done with dedication to the research. The author entwines an intriguing tale of time travel with a plot that draws you deep into the story. I would be surprised if she hadn't time travelled to ancient Egypt, purely to write this book.
Read
January 11, 2024Such a fun series about time travel adventures to young adults,here to ancient Egypt, combines science/fiction History in a good story. The best part to me was the female friendship and the dance group formed by Maddie, the main character. Ready for the next book.
August 6, 2023
Good read
I liked this book. It was entertaining. If I was still teaching I’d definitely have a copy in my room. The book is full of action and you are left wanting to read more.
I liked this book. It was entertaining. If I was still teaching I’d definitely have a copy in my room. The book is full of action and you are left wanting to read more.
December 4, 2023
This book was an amazing read. I found it as a great blend of historical fiction, a bit of sci-fi and romance. I can't wait for the rest of the series!
January 8, 2024
Enjoyable. Fast paced. Can’t wait to read the next!
June 7, 2025
Cute, middle-grade book. Well written and I liked the story.
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