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Jade del Cameron Mysteries #3
The Serpent's Daughter
Joining her mother for a holiday in the ancient port city of Tangier, American adventuress Jade del Cameron expects their trip will be far less dangerous than her safaris in East Africa. But soon after their introduction to a group of European tourists, Dona del Cameron goes missing- victim of an apparent kidnapping-and, shockingly, the French authorities seek to arrest Jade for the murder of a man whose body she discovered in a series of ancient tunnels. Now, Jade must call upon her friends to find her mother and expose the true villains, who have every intention of bringing about her own destruction...
352 pages, Hardcover
First published October 7, 2008
10 people are currently reading
312 people want to read
About the author
Suzanne Arruda
20 books73 followersSuzanne Arruda, a former zookeeper-turned-science teacher and freelance writer, is the author of several biographies for young adults. She has also published science and nature articles for adults and children and is a regular contributor to a weekly newspaper supplement. An avid hiker and outdoorswoman, she lives in Kansas with her husband, twin sons, and a small menagerie of pets.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 76 reviews
June 1, 2016
Many of the strengths of the first two novels in the Jade del Cameron series (which I've also read, and reviewed) are present in this third installment as well. However, at the end of the previous book, Stalking Ivory, Jade got a letter from her mother, inviting Jade to meet her in Tangier for a trip to Spain (to buy a stallion for the family's New Mexico ranch). That's the springboard for this book, which allows Arruda to introduce some new and fresh elements into the mix as well. This time, Jade is all the way across the African continent from her usual British East Africa milieu, and into a vividly-realized 1920 Morocco. Most of our usual supporting characters are left behind, and replaced by well-drawn new ones. For the first time, we get to meet Jade's Andalusian-born mom, Dona Inez Maria Isabella de Vincente del Cameron, a strong woman in her own right and a fascinating dynamic character, and learn more about Jade's background. This novel is as much concerned with exploring a complex, loving but fraught relationship between mother and daughter, as well as themes about being true to yourself and the possibilities of second chances and new beginnings, as it is about solving a mystery; and it gains in psychological depth as a result.
Nonetheless, there are very definitely mysteries to solve: a kidnapping, a murdered dead body that seems to be disconcertingly mobile for a corpse, the theft of an ancient amulet, and a sinister drug-smuggling operation. (Drug trafficking between Morocco and southern Europe didn't begin in recent times, though it's increased greatly today. :-( ) Having read the cover copy --which I don't recommend because, IMO, it gives away too much that the readers might wish to discover on their own-- I was sure I'd identified the villains in the first chapter; but I was still in the dark about some significant things, and Arruda managed to throw me a genuinely surprising curve ball I totally did not expect. I like that! Not having expected to need it in the urban setting of Tangier, Jade didn't bring her Winchester on this trip. But she still carries a knife in her boot sheath, and her resourcefulness and skill at fisticuffs haven't deserted her... and that's just as well, because they might be sorely needed. (And where resourcefulness is concerned, the apple didn't fall far from the tree!). Jade's deductive abilities, as in the first book, can be a little on the slow side; but she doesn't have to do much deduction here, and she figured out one key thing before I did.
A unique aspect of this book that I found fascinating was the detailed look at the traditional Amazigh culture of the people usually called by the appellation the ancient Greeks gave them, Berbers (from "barbarian," the Greeks' general term for non-Greeks --though, as one Imazighen man points out here, "It is an insult. We are not barbarians."). There's a rich cross-cultural flavor here, and a sense of place that's particularly strong. All in all, this is an excellent continuation of a series that's become a favorite of both my wife's and mine, which does more than just run in place; it provides significant developments in the overall story arc. Now, we're eager to continue Jade's adventures with the fourth series installment, The Leopard's Prey!
Nonetheless, there are very definitely mysteries to solve: a kidnapping, a murdered dead body that seems to be disconcertingly mobile for a corpse, the theft of an ancient amulet, and a sinister drug-smuggling operation. (Drug trafficking between Morocco and southern Europe didn't begin in recent times, though it's increased greatly today. :-( ) Having read the cover copy --which I don't recommend because, IMO, it gives away too much that the readers might wish to discover on their own-- I was sure I'd identified the villains in the first chapter; but I was still in the dark about some significant things, and Arruda managed to throw me a genuinely surprising curve ball I totally did not expect. I like that! Not having expected to need it in the urban setting of Tangier, Jade didn't bring her Winchester on this trip. But she still carries a knife in her boot sheath, and her resourcefulness and skill at fisticuffs haven't deserted her... and that's just as well, because they might be sorely needed. (And where resourcefulness is concerned, the apple didn't fall far from the tree!). Jade's deductive abilities, as in the first book, can be a little on the slow side; but she doesn't have to do much deduction here, and she figured out one key thing before I did.
A unique aspect of this book that I found fascinating was the detailed look at the traditional Amazigh culture of the people usually called by the appellation the ancient Greeks gave them, Berbers (from "barbarian," the Greeks' general term for non-Greeks --though, as one Imazighen man points out here, "It is an insult. We are not barbarians."). There's a rich cross-cultural flavor here, and a sense of place that's particularly strong. All in all, this is an excellent continuation of a series that's become a favorite of both my wife's and mine, which does more than just run in place; it provides significant developments in the overall story arc. Now, we're eager to continue Jade's adventures with the fourth series installment, The Leopard's Prey!
January 23, 2011
Reading books in a series can have two different effects: either you love the character, or their traits and characteristics grow tiresome, and you know that you need a break. With Suzanne Arruda's Jade del Cameron series I'm glad to say that it was the former effect. I continue to enjoy not only the heroine, Jade, but also the location and history provided in these books. Rather than writing a "cozy" mystery, Arruda has created a scrappy protagonist who while often charging ahead without thinking, is kind, generous, and loyal. Fortunately for the reader Arruda allows Jade to take us to historical locations where she effectively captures the sights, sounds, and feelings of that place. This particular book in the series takes Jade out of Africa (no pun intended), and into Morocco where she continues to learn about the mystical aspect of her life. Rather than being kitschy it adds a richness of character to Jade, and perhaps explains her boldness and uncanny luck. The reader can tell that Arruda has done extensive research before writing, and as with many successful books one only wants to learn more about the topic.
February 13, 2022
Didn’t like this story. Didn’t finish.
June 29, 2014
Suzanne Arruda has done it again! I’ve been a big fan of the ‘Jade Del Cameron Mystery’ series since reading Treasure of the Golden Cheetah, the fourth in a series of six books. I enjoyed it so much I read The Leopard’s Prey next, and finally decided to buy the whole series and start from the beginning with Mark of the Lion and Stalking Ivory.
Part of my interest in her story is how it takes place in Africa during the 1920s. I am currently writing a novel taking place in 1953 Africa during the golden age of African safaris and professional hunting. I chose her books as research for the lifestyles and I thought Ms. Arruda’s writing technique to be exceptional.
Her character Jade Del Cameron is a feisty World War I veteran who hails from New Mexico. After the Great War she travels to East Africa and earns her living as a writer for The Traveler. Her journeys place her in dangerous situations where her strong character utilizes every fiber to prevail.
The Serpent’s Daughter is Suzanne Arruda’s third book in this series. Here we find Jade Del Cameron visiting Tangier, Morocco with her mother, Inez, a beautiful, dedicated wife who somehow became estranged with her daughter years earlier. As the book develops you find much of Jade’s character in her mother and the two find themselves mixed in danger.
Jade comes across a dead body while searching for her mother, who goes missing in Tangier during their visit. She soon finds herself and mother accused of murder and drug smuggling, and must find her missing mother and clear their name. They soon realize they have been setup by someone with a vengeance to harm Jade. With the help of local tribes people, Jade embarks on a journey high in the Atlas mountains to search for a magical amulet that somehow plays into her dilemma. Along the way she finds her new friend, Sam Featherstone, has journeyed to Tangier to help her. But can they clear their name before a mysterious character brings them further harm?
Jade Del Character reminds me of the film actress Anne Hathaway, and Sam Featherstone reminds me of Jon Hamm. The mother Inez could be played by Angelina Jolie, and this would make one helluva film. Ms. Arruda writes with clarity and imagination. I find her books inspiring and took this on my vacation to Mexico. This book was a good companion on the flight and in my hotel room late at night. As I mentioned earlier, I started the series with the fourth and third book before starting with the first book. I love it so much my wife is now reading these books. Suzanne Arruda has done her research how life was in Africa during the 1920s. The language spoken, type of clothes worn, and characters are all a tribute to Ms. Arruda’s dedication as a writer who does her research and leave the reader with enjoyable books. I certainly hope she continues this series. I find it captivating!
David Lucero, author
www.LuceroBooks.com
Part of my interest in her story is how it takes place in Africa during the 1920s. I am currently writing a novel taking place in 1953 Africa during the golden age of African safaris and professional hunting. I chose her books as research for the lifestyles and I thought Ms. Arruda’s writing technique to be exceptional.
Her character Jade Del Cameron is a feisty World War I veteran who hails from New Mexico. After the Great War she travels to East Africa and earns her living as a writer for The Traveler. Her journeys place her in dangerous situations where her strong character utilizes every fiber to prevail.
The Serpent’s Daughter is Suzanne Arruda’s third book in this series. Here we find Jade Del Cameron visiting Tangier, Morocco with her mother, Inez, a beautiful, dedicated wife who somehow became estranged with her daughter years earlier. As the book develops you find much of Jade’s character in her mother and the two find themselves mixed in danger.
Jade comes across a dead body while searching for her mother, who goes missing in Tangier during their visit. She soon finds herself and mother accused of murder and drug smuggling, and must find her missing mother and clear their name. They soon realize they have been setup by someone with a vengeance to harm Jade. With the help of local tribes people, Jade embarks on a journey high in the Atlas mountains to search for a magical amulet that somehow plays into her dilemma. Along the way she finds her new friend, Sam Featherstone, has journeyed to Tangier to help her. But can they clear their name before a mysterious character brings them further harm?
Jade Del Character reminds me of the film actress Anne Hathaway, and Sam Featherstone reminds me of Jon Hamm. The mother Inez could be played by Angelina Jolie, and this would make one helluva film. Ms. Arruda writes with clarity and imagination. I find her books inspiring and took this on my vacation to Mexico. This book was a good companion on the flight and in my hotel room late at night. As I mentioned earlier, I started the series with the fourth and third book before starting with the first book. I love it so much my wife is now reading these books. Suzanne Arruda has done her research how life was in Africa during the 1920s. The language spoken, type of clothes worn, and characters are all a tribute to Ms. Arruda’s dedication as a writer who does her research and leave the reader with enjoyable books. I certainly hope she continues this series. I find it captivating!
David Lucero, author
www.LuceroBooks.com
February 10, 2015
Ever have a fun book that had both great characters AND an amazing story? This was one of those books for me. I loved everything about it, right down to the historical fiction like approach of the story.
Jade del Cameron is a photographer and adventurer. She's like Indiana Jones, but not so much into stealing archaeological artefacts. She's a scrapper, though, and uses every ounce of stubbornness to save her mum from an evil wench that has her eye on taking revenge on Jade... through her mum.
Alas, things turn sour when Jade shows up to rescue her mum, but in doing so gets caught herself. Then, she manages to escape. This is actually where it turns to be the most fun as the story doesn't drag on, but gets more interesting. There are lots of little twists, none of which are entirely predictable. (The traitor to the Berber camp is, but the rest of it not so much.)
Jade del Cameron is a photographer and adventurer. She's like Indiana Jones, but not so much into stealing archaeological artefacts. She's a scrapper, though, and uses every ounce of stubbornness to save her mum from an evil wench that has her eye on taking revenge on Jade... through her mum.
Alas, things turn sour when Jade shows up to rescue her mum, but in doing so gets caught herself. Then, she manages to escape. This is actually where it turns to be the most fun as the story doesn't drag on, but gets more interesting. There are lots of little twists, none of which are entirely predictable. (The traitor to the Berber camp is, but the rest of it not so much.)
March 5, 2009
Another very enjoyable read! Suzanne Arruda has created an appealing heroine in Jade del Cameron. She is feisty, daring. clever, and pretty lucky! In this 3rd installment of the series, Jade is in Morocco, reluctantly with her mother. They have a difficult relationship; Jade isn't the daughter Inez wishes for, and Jade feels she is never able to please her. Events move swiftly: Jade's mother is kidnapped, Jade is captured by a set of mysterious miscreants, there's a missing amulet, drug smuggling, and is Olivia Lilith Worthy back? This series reminds me a bit of Indiana Jones' films with Jade filling his role, not as an archeologist, but as the rough and tumble adventure out to avenge all wrongs.
July 5, 2008
If you enjoy Elizabeth Peter's story of Egypt in ealry 1900's then here's another author to add to your list. Suzanne Arruda has developed a spunky heroine in the likes of Amelia Peabody. Jade is a reporter in Africa after WW1 who stumbles on mysteries and bad guys and doesn't back away from a fight or someone in need of help. She is delightful, the books well researched and the plots strong. A very good read. This is book 3 and I'm looking forward to the next one.
June 28, 2008
This is Nancy Drew with a mother meets Pauline Hargrave. It was a lot of fun.
July 30, 2017
The Serpent's Daughter by Suzanne Arruda is the 3rd book of the Jade del Cameron mystery series, set in 1920 Morocco. Jade meets up with her mother in Tangier, for a vacation together before her mother heads to Spain. Jade's love for adventure and exotic cultures clashes with Inez's desire for Jade to be a perfect lady (the ultimate in boredom to Jade). But they love each other, so Jade attends a dinner with, and tries to tolerate, stuffy high-society people Inez met on a cruise. Next day Inez has disappeared, and Jade cannot convince the French authorities to take any action. She sets out to find her mother, with the aid of a Berber guide. To her horror, Jade discovers a dead man in underground tunnels, and overhears echoed whispers of a political plot. When she and her mother are wanted for the crime, Jade agrees to help the Berber in his own quest for justice, if he will help her find Inez. They journey covertly across Morocco to Marrakech; several day's journey in 1920, and eventually beyond to the Berber village in the Atlas mountain range. Beyond the pleasure of a spunky heroine and puzzling clues, the historical details of the mixture of cultures in Morocco, the heritage which Jade learns from her Berber guide along their journey, make this a fascinating read. Inez proves to be as spunky as her daughter, when confronted with danger, and regains her youthful joie de vivre along the way. Sam Featherstone, Jade's dear friend, comes to the rescue in the mountains, then helps Jade to obtain justice for the Berber clan. I enjoyed a bit of humor injected into the adventure: Sam wonders if he can handle a life of frequent crises (with Jade)....happily, he decides he can.
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January 20, 2025I find this book hard to assess. I did finish, but it took me a long time because I kept losing interest and putting it down. However, now that I have finished, I feel that it was actually quite a good book with an interesting plot, a fascinating setting, and characters who were interesting enough while still behaving in reasonable ways (I have a tendency to get annoyed with novels where the main character acts in absurd and stupid ways - these characters behaved in largely rational ways).
I think part of my problem was that I was expecting a mystery (it says on the cover "a Jade del Cameron mystery" so that seemed reasonable to expect), but it was more of an adventure novel than a mystery. It also was not really a stand-alone book in the way I expected. Usually when a book says it's a so-and-so mystery, that means it's part of a series but not the kind of series that needs to be read in order. Whereas having read this book, there's no real point in reading the earlier books because there's so many spoilers in this one. And it makes sense, given the way the plot develops based on the previous books, but it just wasn't what I expected based on the presentation.
I also think the setting did a lot to enhance this one. Aside from some unnecessarily offensive language (the author recognizes that Roma or Romani is the correct term for that population, yet persists in using the more common term, which is a slur, for no apparent reason as she obviously knows what the correct term is), the setting is really well researched and very engaging; I really feel like I understood what historical Morocco was like for the characters.
I think part of my problem was that I was expecting a mystery (it says on the cover "a Jade del Cameron mystery" so that seemed reasonable to expect), but it was more of an adventure novel than a mystery. It also was not really a stand-alone book in the way I expected. Usually when a book says it's a so-and-so mystery, that means it's part of a series but not the kind of series that needs to be read in order. Whereas having read this book, there's no real point in reading the earlier books because there's so many spoilers in this one. And it makes sense, given the way the plot develops based on the previous books, but it just wasn't what I expected based on the presentation.
I also think the setting did a lot to enhance this one. Aside from some unnecessarily offensive language (the author recognizes that Roma or Romani is the correct term for that population, yet persists in using the more common term, which is a slur, for no apparent reason as she obviously knows what the correct term is), the setting is really well researched and very engaging; I really feel like I understood what historical Morocco was like for the characters.
July 30, 2022
I love finding series that I enjoy reading and I am hopeful that I can somehow help others find them too with my reviews. I would so much rather read someone as wonderfully talented as Suzanne Arruda than some trite drivel that's out there and so very popular.
It's been a while since reading the first two books in the series so it took me a minute to catch myself up on the timeline but it didn't matter overall. It could be a standalone historical mystery too.
I liked meeting Jade's mother and their reunion for all that Dona del Cameron despairs of her daughter's wild ways of traveling, having a career in photography, not settling down and getting married and finding out what has happened to her from a book loosely based on her adventures.
What I really enjoyed was the meticulous research that Suzanne Arruda had to have done for this story to flow so wonderfully.
I like how resilient and resourceful Jade is without being over the top, at least to me. I could never be like this, so I like reading a character like Jade.
I can definitely recommend this book, series and author.
It's been a while since reading the first two books in the series so it took me a minute to catch myself up on the timeline but it didn't matter overall. It could be a standalone historical mystery too.
I liked meeting Jade's mother and their reunion for all that Dona del Cameron despairs of her daughter's wild ways of traveling, having a career in photography, not settling down and getting married and finding out what has happened to her from a book loosely based on her adventures.
What I really enjoyed was the meticulous research that Suzanne Arruda had to have done for this story to flow so wonderfully.
I like how resilient and resourceful Jade is without being over the top, at least to me. I could never be like this, so I like reading a character like Jade.
I can definitely recommend this book, series and author.
April 5, 2019
I was not familiar with this author. I picked up the book on one of my thrift store runs and was pleasantly surprised how much I enjoyed the book. I learned afterwards that it is part of a series and I am looking forward to reading the other books.
It has an outstanding female lead character, whom I find to be relatable. The square peg that won't fit in the round hole of what society and her mother expect her to be. I enjoyed the conflict between Jade and her mother, as I could identify.
I was enthralled by the setting of Morocco, as it is not a place I am used to encountering in the books I read. I felt like I learned something about the Berber culture which I knew nothing about and it felt like an added bonus.
The pace was fast moving. Jade's mother, Inez, has disappeared and the authorities believe her to be the suspect in a local murder. Jade sets of to find her mother and get to the bottom of things.
It has an outstanding female lead character, whom I find to be relatable. The square peg that won't fit in the round hole of what society and her mother expect her to be. I enjoyed the conflict between Jade and her mother, as I could identify.
I was enthralled by the setting of Morocco, as it is not a place I am used to encountering in the books I read. I felt like I learned something about the Berber culture which I knew nothing about and it felt like an added bonus.
The pace was fast moving. Jade's mother, Inez, has disappeared and the authorities believe her to be the suspect in a local murder. Jade sets of to find her mother and get to the bottom of things.
April 19, 2020
I think I would call this a cozy adventure mystery? There’s a lot of action but is written in such a way that there’s not a lot of suspense. There’s also a lot of drinking tea. I don’t think I realize that this is #3 in a series but it stands fine on its own. I’m not sure if it’s just the kindle version, but there is no transition between POVs which can be a little jarring.
The book ends with an authors note that includes a lot of further suggested reading on Morocco and the Amazigh (Berber) people, which I really appreciated because I do want to learn more. I’m giving it an extra star for this.
The book ends with an authors note that includes a lot of further suggested reading on Morocco and the Amazigh (Berber) people, which I really appreciated because I do want to learn more. I’m giving it an extra star for this.
March 17, 2024
#3 Jade Del Cameron set in 1920s Marakesh and Tangiers. I had read bk 1 although not #2 but the author included enough info about prior events/reltionships that I didn’t feel lost. More of an adventure story than a true mystery. There’s a search for a missing talisman, drug smuggling, kidnappings, a couple of deaths and an arch-villain to thwart. A little too overloaded and complex- overwhelming to get through. The last part was certainly exciting. So, not terrible; just a little tiring to read.
February 19, 2024
In this third volume in the series, we meet Jade's mother, Inez, who meets her in Morocco on the way to Spain to get a prize stallion for the New Mexico ranch. Inez meets several people on the boat & their association results in Inez being kidnapped & accused of murder. Jade tries a rescue with the help of a Berber tribe, & there are sorts of adventures & mayhem along the way. Another really good story with so much atmospheric detail & historical tidbits.
March 29, 2020
Set in Morocco, the heroine is a feisty Indiana Jones meets Lara Croft type from the 1920s. Framed for murder, she and her uptight mother have to prove their innocence, while (quelle surprise) coming to a kumbaya mother/daughter moment.
Insightful view of the Moroccan and Berber cultures, but overall plot was hardly believable. Very meah.
Insightful view of the Moroccan and Berber cultures, but overall plot was hardly believable. Very meah.
December 31, 2016
I am hooked on this new series. So like Maisie Dobbs in many ways. I keep thinking Kathleen Turner in Romancing the Stone 1 and 2, The Mummy, early Indiana Jones, Tarzan. Just really good rip roaring adventures. Oh where's my boots........
Toast
Toast
March 16, 2019
4 stars for setting and sense of fun; 3 stars for story.
November 22, 2019
Jade del Cameron meets up with her mother in Morocco.
December 12, 2019
I didn't enjoy the trip to Morocco as much as I have enjoyed being in Africa. However, this time we got to meet Jade's mom. Some of the usual characters are back.
January 12, 2020
Again, it's more about the crazy ride than the mystery itself.
January 1, 2021
Terrible - badly written I checked copyright date because I thought it just be really old and old fashioned.
June 22, 2021
Morocco
February 8, 2017
This series is getting more interesting. I think I will read more.
December 20, 2012
Jade del Cameron switches locales from British East Africa to Morocco in her latest adventure, for a meeting with her almost estranged mother in Tangier. They’ve barely had breakfast and their usual disagreement their first day there, however, before Jade’s mother goes missing. Since there isn’t much in Tangier in the way of authority, Jade takes matters into her own hands and starts searching by herself, though she sends a quick cable to her friends Beverly and Avery Dunbury, who are back in London awaiting the birth of their first child, to ask for their assistance. Not one to sit back and wait, Jade rents a car and follows a lead to Marrakech, where she finds a dead man’s body and has a bizarre experience in some tunnels. Jade’s only suspects in her mother’s disappearance are some of the shipmates with whom she traveled to Tangier from London, but it really raises her suspicions when she finds out that her mother has met her chief adversary, Lilith Worthy, the mother of her dead almost-fiance. When Jade is reunited with her mother, they hide out in a Berber mountain village, and then help from the Dunburys finally arrives in the form of Jade’s love interest from her last adventure, Sam Featherstone. Together, Jade, Sam, her mother, and some of her new friends unravel the mystery of what Lilith is up to, but it is no easy task, as Lilith is determined to do away with Jade once and for all.
It was easy to slip back into Jade del Cameron’s African life, even though she was visiting a different part of the continent for this novel. Descriptions of the places and people were as vivid as ever, but this time out, Jade seemed to spend more time getting captured and escaping from her enemies than actually solving a mystery, as if that part of the story was more of an afterthought. The conflict between Jade and her mother was laid on a trifle thick, as well, but it was fun to finally meet Inez. Though the mystery aspect in this book was weaker than in the other Jade del Cameron novels, this was still a very engaging story with rich descriptions of Morocco. The asides on Berber culture and its difference from Arab culture were also points of interest. As usual, though, it was Jade herself who made the novel so much fun to read. She’s down to earth, fearless, and always ready for adventure, so I can’t wait until her next one.
It was easy to slip back into Jade del Cameron’s African life, even though she was visiting a different part of the continent for this novel. Descriptions of the places and people were as vivid as ever, but this time out, Jade seemed to spend more time getting captured and escaping from her enemies than actually solving a mystery, as if that part of the story was more of an afterthought. The conflict between Jade and her mother was laid on a trifle thick, as well, but it was fun to finally meet Inez. Though the mystery aspect in this book was weaker than in the other Jade del Cameron novels, this was still a very engaging story with rich descriptions of Morocco. The asides on Berber culture and its difference from Arab culture were also points of interest. As usual, though, it was Jade herself who made the novel so much fun to read. She’s down to earth, fearless, and always ready for adventure, so I can’t wait until her next one.
December 5, 2014
The Serpent's Daughter is the third book in the Jade del Cameron series. This series is, in my opinion best read in order (there are spoilers for the two previous books) though you can read it as a standalone (though it may not make as much sense to you there is some background information from the previous books). I'd forgotten how much I enjoyed these books until I finally got back around to this series.
If you like historical mysteries with wonderful attention to detail, adventure, action and surprising twists and turns with just a hint of romance, this one is for you. I always enjoy the way Ms. Arruda captures and portrays the details and atmosphere in her novels. With these books you never know quite what kind of an adventure (or trouble) Jade is going to get herself into and this time Mom is along for the ride. There is a decent amount of action, twists and turns that surprised me when I figured them out (usually just before they were unveiled in the book; e.x.).
I was also delighted to see Jade again. A woman ahead of her time that knows her own mind, fiercely determined and independent, it was great to catch up with her and meet Inez, her mother. At first it seems the two of them are like fire and ice, but as the book goes on and we get a deeper look at both of them and their relationship it becomes clear they are two peas in a pod. This wasn't just Jade's story, it was Inez's too. It was fascinating to watch them both individually and together. Their's is a case of a relationship appearing complicated that when it really comes down to it - isn't. So, I liked the family relationship that we saw in this book.
There were still some questions left unanswered by the end of the book but I expect it may continue into future books. Somehow I don't think we've seen the last of this villain - in fact I think nothing but death will stop this particular villain.
Overall, I enjoyed this adventure into Jade's ever exciting life and look forward to seeing where her travels take her next.
If you like historical mysteries with wonderful attention to detail, adventure, action and surprising twists and turns with just a hint of romance, this one is for you. I always enjoy the way Ms. Arruda captures and portrays the details and atmosphere in her novels. With these books you never know quite what kind of an adventure (or trouble) Jade is going to get herself into and this time Mom is along for the ride. There is a decent amount of action, twists and turns that surprised me when I figured them out (usually just before they were unveiled in the book; e.x.).
I was also delighted to see Jade again. A woman ahead of her time that knows her own mind, fiercely determined and independent, it was great to catch up with her and meet Inez, her mother. At first it seems the two of them are like fire and ice, but as the book goes on and we get a deeper look at both of them and their relationship it becomes clear they are two peas in a pod. This wasn't just Jade's story, it was Inez's too. It was fascinating to watch them both individually and together. Their's is a case of a relationship appearing complicated that when it really comes down to it - isn't. So, I liked the family relationship that we saw in this book.
There were still some questions left unanswered by the end of the book but I expect it may continue into future books. Somehow I don't think we've seen the last of this villain - in fact I think nothing but death will stop this particular villain.
Overall, I enjoyed this adventure into Jade's ever exciting life and look forward to seeing where her travels take her next.
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December 4, 2013When my daughter asked me, "What's that book about?" and I began trying to summarize the plot, I discovered just how complicated it was. Jade and her mother meet in Morocco. Jade has a job writing for a travel magazine, but her true calling seems to be having adventures, getting into and out of trouble with fearless level-headedness. Jade's mother is a Spanish rancher's daughter turned American rancher's wife who has forgotten that she herself used to ride wildly in the mountains and dance with gypsies, and now just wants to impress polite society, and wants Jade to do the same. Jade's mother is kidnapped. Jade looks for her in the underground tunnels, where she finds a dead man, and has what may be a spiritual vision. The police are no help, because they accuse Jade's mother of the murder. Jade escapes by night to solve the mystery herself. That involves being adopted by a tribe of Berbers in the mountains who have a matrilineal tradition of female healers and sages. Promising to help them find their missing amulet, she also uncovers a drug-smuggling ring, gets captured, but escaped by letting the rats chew through her leather bonds, gets captured, but escapes by crawling through abandoned water pipes, gets captured but escapes a few more times. She knows the bad, bad Lilith Worthy, British lady, and mother of Jade's dead ex-boyfriend is behind it all, but can Jade prove it? Along the way, Jade's new boyfriend, a wooden-legged American pilot, shows up, and Jade's mom recovers her old adventuresome spirit. The point of the book, if it has a point, is the adventure. It's the marketplaces, the camels, the henna tattoos, the foods and slippers and robes, the curved daggers and ruined palaces, the fear of jinnis, and the evocation of a place and time (1920) that was dangerous, exotic, and exciting.
October 6, 2016
What if Indiana Jones were a woman? No, this isn't about a spicy gender revelation, but rather a rip-roaring adventure set in North Africa in the 1920s. Jade del Cameron drove an ambulance in France during World War I. After the war, she went to Africa instead of returning to the United States. In this third book in the series--Mark of the Lion and Stalking Ivory are the first two--she travels to Morocco to attempt a reconciliation with her Spanish-born mother, Doña Inez Maria Isabella de Vincente del Cameron.
Things don't go well. Doña Inez disappears, Jade discovers a dead body, and she just might be hearing voices from hundreds of years ago. After Jade gets out of the Caves of Hercules, watch out. There are escapes and rescues from crumbling mansions, arduous journeys, wise women, slave traders, and mystical symbols in abundance. Jade is strong, smart, and an expert at using whatever comes to hand: at one point, a rather annoyed snake.
This is the kind of book I would have devoured at fifteen, or twenty-five. It is full of women. Women who regret. Women who reflect. Women who act. Women who keep secrets. Women who hold power. Women who are generous, selfish, silly, nefarious, and brave.
I admit to having a bit of trouble with the style at first. In fact, I had previously tried Stalking Ivory, and put it down after a few chapters. When I realized that the author had adopted a story-telling method to reflect the way stories were written in the 1920s, I fell in love with the book. I'm anxious, now, to go on to the other two in the series.
Things don't go well. Doña Inez disappears, Jade discovers a dead body, and she just might be hearing voices from hundreds of years ago. After Jade gets out of the Caves of Hercules, watch out. There are escapes and rescues from crumbling mansions, arduous journeys, wise women, slave traders, and mystical symbols in abundance. Jade is strong, smart, and an expert at using whatever comes to hand: at one point, a rather annoyed snake.
This is the kind of book I would have devoured at fifteen, or twenty-five. It is full of women. Women who regret. Women who reflect. Women who act. Women who keep secrets. Women who hold power. Women who are generous, selfish, silly, nefarious, and brave.
I admit to having a bit of trouble with the style at first. In fact, I had previously tried Stalking Ivory, and put it down after a few chapters. When I realized that the author had adopted a story-telling method to reflect the way stories were written in the 1920s, I fell in love with the book. I'm anxious, now, to go on to the other two in the series.
February 2, 2015
I kind of skipped over the second book of this series (basically, I got the urge, and book three was on the library shelf, while the second wasn't, so I went for book three), but I kind of picked up on details of what happened in book two. I'm not sure that having the same villain showing up over and over again is such a good idea.
Jade is meeting up with her mother in Tangier, since her mother was heading from the US to Spain on business, and Morocco was a goodplace to meet in the middle. There, Jade is disappointed to find herself still at odds with her mother over the fact that she refuses to be a 'proper lady'. Then her mother is abducted and accused of murder, and Jade has to go chasing to Marrakech to rescue her.
I did find the sorta mystical elements a bizarre combination with historical (between the World Wars) mystery. And for a white woman, Jade is accumulating quite the number of tattoos. I very much enjoyed the interplay between Jade, who refuses to be 'proper', and her mother Inez, who once was the same, but has become very proper, to the disappointment of her daughter and (it is hinted) her husband. The relationship was the highlight of the book.
I also found the historical elements very nicely drawn, including the casual racism and sexism of the era without making me want to grind my teeth in reaction.
I look forward to reading the other books in the series eventually, even though I feel no urge to go out and grab the next one right away.
Jade is meeting up with her mother in Tangier, since her mother was heading from the US to Spain on business, and Morocco was a goodplace to meet in the middle. There, Jade is disappointed to find herself still at odds with her mother over the fact that she refuses to be a 'proper lady'. Then her mother is abducted and accused of murder, and Jade has to go chasing to Marrakech to rescue her.
I did find the sorta mystical elements a bizarre combination with historical (between the World Wars) mystery. And for a white woman, Jade is accumulating quite the number of tattoos. I very much enjoyed the interplay between Jade, who refuses to be 'proper', and her mother Inez, who once was the same, but has become very proper, to the disappointment of her daughter and (it is hinted) her husband. The relationship was the highlight of the book.
I also found the historical elements very nicely drawn, including the casual racism and sexism of the era without making me want to grind my teeth in reaction.
I look forward to reading the other books in the series eventually, even though I feel no urge to go out and grab the next one right away.
June 19, 2013
Jade meets her mother in Tangier before the two of them are to travel on to Spain. Before they can go on, however, Jade's mother is kidnapped and Jade finds herself accused of murder and theft. With the help of a Berber man, Bachir, she is able to locate her mother only to then find herself drawn into a promise to help Bachir's remote mountain village. Then there are the matters of shutting down the smuggling ring and clearing their names from the murder charge.
I so enjoy this series. It is so well written and I suspect true to the period. Jade's character is probably ahead of her time, but I like her guts and adventurous outlet. Yes, she tends to get herself into some scrapes, but what good mystery doesn't have some situations that look next to impossible that you know must somehow be escapable? This is the first of the series to feature Jade's mother and it is easy to see where Jade gets her forge ahead mindset from. It's also interesting to read this and see the mother / daughter relationship and the way it develops throughout the story.
I so enjoy this series. It is so well written and I suspect true to the period. Jade's character is probably ahead of her time, but I like her guts and adventurous outlet. Yes, she tends to get herself into some scrapes, but what good mystery doesn't have some situations that look next to impossible that you know must somehow be escapable? This is the first of the series to feature Jade's mother and it is easy to see where Jade gets her forge ahead mindset from. It's also interesting to read this and see the mother / daughter relationship and the way it develops throughout the story.
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