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The Artifact Guardians #1
The Stolen Papyrus
Leila's first excavation in Egypt is off to the perfect start. Until the man who killed her father joins the team.
Among whispers of a papyrus that mysteriously vanished, Leila must find clues to the whereabouts of an ancient tomb with the help of the man she can never trust. Secrets start to surface, revealing a deadly plot against them that goes back eight years to her father’s death.
From the scorching sands of the Saqqara necropolis to the dark, winding tunnels below, Leila must give up the secret her father died to protect. If she doesn’t… she might share her father’s fate.
Among whispers of a papyrus that mysteriously vanished, Leila must find clues to the whereabouts of an ancient tomb with the help of the man she can never trust. Secrets start to surface, revealing a deadly plot against them that goes back eight years to her father’s death.
From the scorching sands of the Saqqara necropolis to the dark, winding tunnels below, Leila must give up the secret her father died to protect. If she doesn’t… she might share her father’s fate.
368 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 30, 2024
57 people are currently reading
145 people want to read
About the author
Cate M. Turner
5 books93 followersCate M. Turner is an author from the heart of Ohio who’s fueled by tea, wanderlust, and a passion for all things historical and linguistic. When she's not plotting her next story, you’ll find her poring over dusty archives, dreaming up her next travel adventure, or researching yet another language. Whether uncovering untold stories from the past or creating new worlds, she loves weaving together threads of mystery, archaeology, and romance. Join Cate on this adventure—she promises it’ll be steeped in intrigue and brewed to perfection!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
July 16, 2019
Did you know you needed an archaeological romance-mystery on your shelf? Well, now you do.
Firstly, can we all take a moment to revel in the color scheme, composition, and blend of symbolism and action in this cover. !!! Such pretty!
The couple’s intimate pose, however, is misleading. It implies an acknowledged relationship that remains internally stable over the course of the book (and possibly, as another reviewer stated, that clothes are optional). Nothing could be further from the truth.
I’ve made myself a reputation as a picky romance reader. To some people, it may even appear I don’t like romance. After all, I’m Verity A. Buchanan, famous (in very small circles) for her familial/platonic relationships! In reality, I love romance. I love squealing at the cute moments and screaming at the oblivious characters to KISS ALREADY!!1!!11! I love me a good romance. It just has to be… good, you know?
And Cate M. Turner delivers.
Balanced, dynamic personalities (for BOTH parties)? Check.
Attraction that moves at a believable rate without bypassing obvious obstacles like so much pixie dust? Check.
Characters have a life outside one another? Check.
Character growth is necessary before the relationship can fully blossom? (Why else is Pride and Prejudice such a classic?) Check.
Bonus points for NOT being a teen romance. It’s refreshing to read about mature adults well into their twenties for a change (although the definition of mature may be called into question here…. didn’t I say there was character growth?)
I’d be remiss, however, if I didn’t mention the book’s other qualities. It’s hardly a one-sided romance novel. As a matter of fact, Turner from the first page swings us into a world of adventure. Pyramids. Desert chases. Hidden tombs. As I left my computer in preparation to go to work, I found myself wailing, “But I don’t want to stop reading!”
Leila Sterling, the main character, reads very well. She has an engaging, fluid voice; occasionally a turn of phrase stuck out to me as clunky or trite, but that was the exception rather than the norm. I loved following her and getting to know people through her (sometimes prejudiced) eyes. The Stolen Papyrus actually has a wide cast of characters, perhaps wider than many authors would try to take on at a time, yet the introductions were seamless and I never felt lost or clueless as to anyone’s identity. Each person is unique, well-defined, and a delight to read. I particularly grew fond of Xander, Leila’s nemesis/love interest, who reminded me on occasion of one of my own stubborn (dare I say pig-headed) characters.
The well-researched, effortlessly incorporated archaeology details make this not only an entertaining read, but a fascinatingly educational one. Some of my favorite parts were the tomb excavations and experiencing with Leila, Xander, and Soliman the exultant thrill of discovery. Touching things that have lain untouched for thousands of years. Connecting with the pages and people of history.
In final summary, The Stolen Papyrus is a gripping, vivid, page-turning read, well worth your money. I got my digital copy free, but I’m buying a physical as soon as possible, and look forward to the coming sequels. A very clean read language-wise, several non-graphic kisses. Recommended for ages 12+ due to intense scenes.
Firstly, can we all take a moment to revel in the color scheme, composition, and blend of symbolism and action in this cover. !!! Such pretty!
The couple’s intimate pose, however, is misleading. It implies an acknowledged relationship that remains internally stable over the course of the book (and possibly, as another reviewer stated, that clothes are optional). Nothing could be further from the truth.
I’ve made myself a reputation as a picky romance reader. To some people, it may even appear I don’t like romance. After all, I’m Verity A. Buchanan, famous (in very small circles) for her familial/platonic relationships! In reality, I love romance. I love squealing at the cute moments and screaming at the oblivious characters to KISS ALREADY!!1!!11! I love me a good romance. It just has to be… good, you know?
And Cate M. Turner delivers.
Balanced, dynamic personalities (for BOTH parties)? Check.
Attraction that moves at a believable rate without bypassing obvious obstacles like so much pixie dust? Check.
Characters have a life outside one another? Check.
Character growth is necessary before the relationship can fully blossom? (Why else is Pride and Prejudice such a classic?) Check.
Bonus points for NOT being a teen romance. It’s refreshing to read about mature adults well into their twenties for a change (although the definition of mature may be called into question here…. didn’t I say there was character growth?)
I’d be remiss, however, if I didn’t mention the book’s other qualities. It’s hardly a one-sided romance novel. As a matter of fact, Turner from the first page swings us into a world of adventure. Pyramids. Desert chases. Hidden tombs. As I left my computer in preparation to go to work, I found myself wailing, “But I don’t want to stop reading!”
Leila Sterling, the main character, reads very well. She has an engaging, fluid voice; occasionally a turn of phrase stuck out to me as clunky or trite, but that was the exception rather than the norm. I loved following her and getting to know people through her (sometimes prejudiced) eyes. The Stolen Papyrus actually has a wide cast of characters, perhaps wider than many authors would try to take on at a time, yet the introductions were seamless and I never felt lost or clueless as to anyone’s identity. Each person is unique, well-defined, and a delight to read. I particularly grew fond of Xander, Leila’s nemesis/love interest, who reminded me on occasion of one of my own stubborn (dare I say pig-headed) characters.
The well-researched, effortlessly incorporated archaeology details make this not only an entertaining read, but a fascinatingly educational one. Some of my favorite parts were the tomb excavations and experiencing with Leila, Xander, and Soliman the exultant thrill of discovery. Touching things that have lain untouched for thousands of years. Connecting with the pages and people of history.
In final summary, The Stolen Papyrus is a gripping, vivid, page-turning read, well worth your money. I got my digital copy free, but I’m buying a physical as soon as possible, and look forward to the coming sequels. A very clean read language-wise, several non-graphic kisses. Recommended for ages 12+ due to intense scenes.
December 11, 2022
REREAD 2022: Just as exciting as the first read. I love the adventure and intrigue! Check out my full review on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2x6Lh...
FIRST READ 2019: Ancient Egypt. This is a topic that has always intrigued me. Add the thrill of adventure, a dash of clean romance and you have a very entertaining read.
While I'm not a big fan romance, and there was more in this book than I normally tolerate, it wasn't awful.
My favorite parts were the descriptions. Breathtaking, captivating, descriptions. Leila easily got lost in the past and often imagined or tried to visualize what it was like back in that era, and it was so easy to follow her thoughts. It's obvious that the author has either experienced working on a dig or has done her research thoroughly.
Overall, I had trouble putting it down and I'm eager for the next one!
FIRST READ 2019: Ancient Egypt. This is a topic that has always intrigued me. Add the thrill of adventure, a dash of clean romance and you have a very entertaining read.
While I'm not a big fan romance, and there was more in this book than I normally tolerate, it wasn't awful.
My favorite parts were the descriptions. Breathtaking, captivating, descriptions. Leila easily got lost in the past and often imagined or tried to visualize what it was like back in that era, and it was so easy to follow her thoughts. It's obvious that the author has either experienced working on a dig or has done her research thoroughly.
Overall, I had trouble putting it down and I'm eager for the next one!
November 23, 2021
At first, I wanted to strangle Xander for being a horrible person and I couldn't believe Leila still wanted to be with him. But by the end of the book, I want to hug Xander because he needs a BIG hug.
And that's called fantastic writing.
And that's called fantastic writing.
Want to read
October 11, 2019🎁 FREE on Amazon today (10/11/2019)! 🎁
Want to read
July 14, 2023I received this complimentary ARC, courtesy of Cate M. Turner, in exchange for an honest review.
July 10, 2019
So this arrived in the mail yesterday, and I made the mistake of reading the first chapter before getting back to work. I never got back to work, so thanks, Cate. 🙄
I ❤ romances, I ❤ mysteries, and (as my BA in Anthropology implies) I ❤ archaeology! If you are like me, you will ❤ this book.
Also it channels some serious The Mummy vibes.
Do not let this cover fool you! Something about that smoldering gaze makes it seem like clothing will be optional. Steaminess is set at a 3 out of 10: 1 being longing glances, 2 being holding hands, and 3 is locking lips. While our heroine is certainly implied to be a Christian, this book does not preach and will appeal to all interested in a "sweet" romance that is built more on character development than getting physical.
While this is no Game of Thrones, it can be somewhat bloody/violent at times, and lives are at stake. For the mystery lovers, there are a few major twists in this story which will keep you interested, and also feeling a little bit stupid, as only good mysteries will do.
Cate does a great job at making these not-so-perfect people learn and grow from each other. Our narrator, Leila Sterling, is a half-Egyptian, American archaeologist going on a dig in Egypt. She's got some trust issues to work through, and when we soon see why, we totally understand. British Egyptologist Xander Harrison is the perfect mix of is-he-a-bad-boy-or-not, and if he is, maybe that's... good? He's a bit of a scoundrel, and I mean that in the very best way.
Sooo many enemies-to-lovers romances out there either have the male love interest portrayed as an egotistical jerk whom no woman in her right mind would like to be around (and yet she falls for him), or they have a nice guy whom the woman just can't stand (because she's awful). Xander is hard to pin down right away but keeps us intrigued.
My only critique: the "scarab beetles" idiom instead of "butterflies in her stomach" used several times in the book. It would be cute, if not for certain scenes in The Mummy that have scarred me for life (if you've seen it, you know what I'm talking about).
I also want to explore more about Leila's Egyptian background, but seeing as this is only book one of a series (!!!) hopefully we'll get to see more!
I also need to send a quick shout out to Karl, because
I ❤ romances, I ❤ mysteries, and (as my BA in Anthropology implies) I ❤ archaeology! If you are like me, you will ❤ this book.
Also it channels some serious The Mummy vibes.
Do not let this cover fool you! Something about that smoldering gaze makes it seem like clothing will be optional. Steaminess is set at a 3 out of 10: 1 being longing glances, 2 being holding hands, and 3 is locking lips. While our heroine is certainly implied to be a Christian, this book does not preach and will appeal to all interested in a "sweet" romance that is built more on character development than getting physical.
While this is no Game of Thrones, it can be somewhat bloody/violent at times, and lives are at stake. For the mystery lovers, there are a few major twists in this story which will keep you interested, and also feeling a little bit stupid, as only good mysteries will do.
Cate does a great job at making these not-so-perfect people learn and grow from each other. Our narrator, Leila Sterling, is a half-Egyptian, American archaeologist going on a dig in Egypt. She's got some trust issues to work through, and when we soon see why, we totally understand. British Egyptologist Xander Harrison is the perfect mix of is-he-a-bad-boy-or-not, and if he is, maybe that's... good? He's a bit of a scoundrel, and I mean that in the very best way.
Sooo many enemies-to-lovers romances out there either have the male love interest portrayed as an egotistical jerk whom no woman in her right mind would like to be around (and yet she falls for him), or they have a nice guy whom the woman just can't stand (because she's awful). Xander is hard to pin down right away but keeps us intrigued.
My only critique: the "scarab beetles" idiom instead of "butterflies in her stomach" used several times in the book. It would be cute, if not for certain scenes in The Mummy that have scarred me for life (if you've seen it, you know what I'm talking about).
I also want to explore more about Leila's Egyptian background, but seeing as this is only book one of a series (!!!) hopefully we'll get to see more!
I also need to send a quick shout out to Karl, because
July 20, 2019
A great debut novel by this author!
Wow! What's not to like? Egyptian pyramids...a discovery thousands of years in the making...and an intense character driven plot. The character and unfolding plot drama keeps you on edge, especially the way the author crafts her cliffhangers. Overall, the book was exceptional. Hard to put down, filled with suspense and danger. A highly recommended read. I look forward to book two when it comes out in the future.
Wow! What's not to like? Egyptian pyramids...a discovery thousands of years in the making...and an intense character driven plot. The character and unfolding plot drama keeps you on edge, especially the way the author crafts her cliffhangers. Overall, the book was exceptional. Hard to put down, filled with suspense and danger. A highly recommended read. I look forward to book two when it comes out in the future.
July 16, 2019
This book had everything I look for in a good read, excitement, adventure, and of course romance. My stomach clenched wondering what would happen next as I found myself so caught up in Leila and Xander's lives. I just finished this morning and now I can't imagine what I'm going to do with my day without the promise of reading more at night. I'm hoping Cate M. Turner gets Book 2 out soon.
September 29, 2024
This was an excellent book. It was very easy to read and kept my interest. (Which is hard) I found the nod to Egyptian history fascinating and the characters likable.
July 20, 2019
I really really wanted to like this and I was looking forward to reading the novel after seeing all the rave reviews but unfortunately I just couldn't click with the story despite loving the "Mummy Return" vibes I got from this. This typical romance is the usual that I would seek out to yet I was having a difficult time connecting with the story and the leading characters. Sadly me and this novel wasn't a good fit and I had to bury this in my dropped pile.
July 17, 2019
The Stolen Papyrus is an extremely hard to categorize book for me. The best way I can possibly describe it is The Mummy meets National Treasure.
Leila sets out on a VERY exciting archaeological dig and is practically giddy and completely in her element doing so. But nothing can be easy for too long, now can it?
Enter Xander, a British Egyptologist (and let me clarify a super important detail, Leila is half Egyptian so when my man Xander waltzes up in the dig with all his swagger and confident knowledge well…) and Leila’s nemesis.
The Stolen Papyrus has so many twists and turns I felt like I was on a roller coaster that was barreling through the sky at night because I had NO clue what could possibly come next.
A fair warning, there are many graphic scenes in this book featuring violence and well descripted battles. Possibly not for the faint at heart.
While there is a fabulous enemies-to-lovers romance thread throughout the book (and I am a sucker for a good “I hate you/I love you” romance) the much stronger story is the mysterious shroud surrounding the excavation and danger that Leila and Xander find themselves in over and over.
I was equally impressed with the personal growth that each of our main characters had throughout the story and seeing them find their paths, not only together, but individually.
Well… that is if they survive this dig…
Leila sets out on a VERY exciting archaeological dig and is practically giddy and completely in her element doing so. But nothing can be easy for too long, now can it?
Enter Xander, a British Egyptologist (and let me clarify a super important detail, Leila is half Egyptian so when my man Xander waltzes up in the dig with all his swagger and confident knowledge well…) and Leila’s nemesis.
The Stolen Papyrus has so many twists and turns I felt like I was on a roller coaster that was barreling through the sky at night because I had NO clue what could possibly come next.
A fair warning, there are many graphic scenes in this book featuring violence and well descripted battles. Possibly not for the faint at heart.
While there is a fabulous enemies-to-lovers romance thread throughout the book (and I am a sucker for a good “I hate you/I love you” romance) the much stronger story is the mysterious shroud surrounding the excavation and danger that Leila and Xander find themselves in over and over.
I was equally impressed with the personal growth that each of our main characters had throughout the story and seeing them find their paths, not only together, but individually.
Well… that is if they survive this dig…
July 29, 2024
This book should have been a slam dunk for me - and the fact that it wasn’t makes me so sad!
I absolutely love adventure stories with vibes of “The Mummy” or Uncharted and this sounded right up my alley. Unfortunately, I had trouble connecting with the characters, especially the main character Leila. The writing style didn’t really work for me either. There were a lot of time jumps that I wasn’t expecting (one was an entire year!).
I loved the idea of a race against time to find the Egyptian tomb first, and there were some exciting moments, but the immaturity of the main character made the whole thing somewhat lackluster. It was also very obvious who the spy was. I guessed that person almost immediately.
**read for Book Scavenger Hunt — a book with an epilogue**
I absolutely love adventure stories with vibes of “The Mummy” or Uncharted and this sounded right up my alley. Unfortunately, I had trouble connecting with the characters, especially the main character Leila. The writing style didn’t really work for me either. There were a lot of time jumps that I wasn’t expecting (one was an entire year!).
I loved the idea of a race against time to find the Egyptian tomb first, and there were some exciting moments, but the immaturity of the main character made the whole thing somewhat lackluster. It was also very obvious who the spy was. I guessed that person almost immediately.
**read for Book Scavenger Hunt — a book with an epilogue**
December 2, 2024
This was so entertaining!!! It felt like watching a classic archeological action movie like The Mummy or Indiana Jones. While there are no supernatural elements, it’s no less exciting. I loved the history and learning more about ancient Egypt, and there is an intriguing mystery that keeps you hooked. I loved the cast of characters, and there was just the right amount of romance without being over the top. Chelsea Elizabeth did a great job narrating all the characters, making each voice distinct and giving a great performance on a variety of accents. I highly recommend for anyone who loves a good adventure!
July 18, 2019
📚 📚 📚 Action and Adventure in Egypt 📚 📚 📚
I’d been looking forward to this book, and once started, I was firmly entrenched in the plot, needing to read it in one hit, even with a massive headache, it was that good.
To be honest, I was expecting a romance, because well, that cover! While it doesn’t induce any ideas of hot moments, it certainly does give the impression of some love going on there. Not so, however, this book definitely fits in the adventure / suspense area with some action thrown in. If you have some low key Indiana Jones thoughts going on, you’re in the ball park. Well, that’s what I thought anyway.
Leila Sterling and Xander Harrison, the main characters, are strong individuals with a tragic common history, but as with all suspense, there is so much more to the event. Eight years later, they’re together again on the same dig of some huge significance in the world of Egyptology and for the country’s history as a whole. Leila’s attraction back then had been that of a school girl, turned to horror and anger at Xander’s involvement in the car accident that killed her father at the time. Now, it’s inconvenient given their close working quarters, and with the insidious events that are happening, she doesn’t trust him, no matter how often he gives his hurt apologies.
As for the technical aspects of the archeological dig, I just loved the descriptive writing, especially when in Chapter 15, they entered the Queen’s sealed tomb. The protocol, and my only experience is what I’ve seen in the Indiana Jones movies(!), was aptly described, and I felt the excitement and action of Leila and the crew as I read the book. It was enough without being onerous.
I can’t imagine what it would have been like to be the first in 3,000 years to enter a sealed tomb of an Egyptian Queen, but my heart was in my throat and my breath held as I read the written description of Leila’s find and her reaction. To describe the immensity of the situation; words would’ve failed me.
If you’re looking for romance, this is not the book for you, but, if you’re willing to go on an archeological adventure with Leila and Xander then I highly recommend this read. It’s not my usual, and I loved it! It doesn’t end on a cliff-hanger, but an adversary shows his hand in the epilogue, so I know that Leila has more complications coming, and I’m looking forward to book two. 4.5 Stars.
I’d been looking forward to this book, and once started, I was firmly entrenched in the plot, needing to read it in one hit, even with a massive headache, it was that good.
To be honest, I was expecting a romance, because well, that cover! While it doesn’t induce any ideas of hot moments, it certainly does give the impression of some love going on there. Not so, however, this book definitely fits in the adventure / suspense area with some action thrown in. If you have some low key Indiana Jones thoughts going on, you’re in the ball park. Well, that’s what I thought anyway.
Leila Sterling and Xander Harrison, the main characters, are strong individuals with a tragic common history, but as with all suspense, there is so much more to the event. Eight years later, they’re together again on the same dig of some huge significance in the world of Egyptology and for the country’s history as a whole. Leila’s attraction back then had been that of a school girl, turned to horror and anger at Xander’s involvement in the car accident that killed her father at the time. Now, it’s inconvenient given their close working quarters, and with the insidious events that are happening, she doesn’t trust him, no matter how often he gives his hurt apologies.
As for the technical aspects of the archeological dig, I just loved the descriptive writing, especially when in Chapter 15, they entered the Queen’s sealed tomb. The protocol, and my only experience is what I’ve seen in the Indiana Jones movies(!), was aptly described, and I felt the excitement and action of Leila and the crew as I read the book. It was enough without being onerous.
I can’t imagine what it would have been like to be the first in 3,000 years to enter a sealed tomb of an Egyptian Queen, but my heart was in my throat and my breath held as I read the written description of Leila’s find and her reaction. To describe the immensity of the situation; words would’ve failed me.
If you’re looking for romance, this is not the book for you, but, if you’re willing to go on an archeological adventure with Leila and Xander then I highly recommend this read. It’s not my usual, and I loved it! It doesn’t end on a cliff-hanger, but an adversary shows his hand in the epilogue, so I know that Leila has more complications coming, and I’m looking forward to book two. 4.5 Stars.
October 14, 2019
The Stolen Papyrus, by Cate M. Turner, is one of the best mysteries I have read in a long time. The author is a true wordsmith that brings the scenery of modern Egypt to life. The characters are compelling, believable, and engaging. The author's use of dialogue is skilled and seamless, and the technical context of the story is accurate in a way that suggests that this author took the time to research the subject matter that she wrote about, which is a major plus for this reviewer.
I don't want to reveal much of the plot, but I will say that you will be carried into the mysterious and intriguing world of black market antiquities through a story that spans the greater part of a decade. Leila's family has been torn apart, and now she has to work side by side with the man that destroyed her life. An amazing discovery that should have been the opportunity of a lifetime puts her directly in harm's way, and brings her face to face with a powerful family out for revenge at any cost. Not everyone is as they seem in this story of retribution and redemption. The plot twists and turns, with a magnificent reveal at the very end. This is a must read for every mystery lover.
The author says that this is a work that was eight years in the making, but she also called it Book One. Cate, please don't make us wait eight years for Book Two.
I don't want to reveal much of the plot, but I will say that you will be carried into the mysterious and intriguing world of black market antiquities through a story that spans the greater part of a decade. Leila's family has been torn apart, and now she has to work side by side with the man that destroyed her life. An amazing discovery that should have been the opportunity of a lifetime puts her directly in harm's way, and brings her face to face with a powerful family out for revenge at any cost. Not everyone is as they seem in this story of retribution and redemption. The plot twists and turns, with a magnificent reveal at the very end. This is a must read for every mystery lover.
The author says that this is a work that was eight years in the making, but she also called it Book One. Cate, please don't make us wait eight years for Book Two.
July 17, 2019
Yes this is a romance but it is so much more It is a rollicking adventure story along the lines of some of the great archaeological story tellers that are more positioned as adventure stories But this one has it all
Our characters have lives of their own they don't fall in instant love they grow and mature as a couple during the story and they have to handle plenty of suspense and drama in the process
Leila is super excited to get a chance to join dig that could establish her name in archaeology but she will also have to put up with Xander a man who she has a tumultuous past with Yes they will form a relationship eventually but that isn't what this book is mainly about That is the adventure that the two of them manage to bounce their way along think Indiana Jones
Our characters have lives of their own they don't fall in instant love they grow and mature as a couple during the story and they have to handle plenty of suspense and drama in the process
Leila is super excited to get a chance to join dig that could establish her name in archaeology but she will also have to put up with Xander a man who she has a tumultuous past with Yes they will form a relationship eventually but that isn't what this book is mainly about That is the adventure that the two of them manage to bounce their way along think Indiana Jones
July 16, 2019
I received the ARC of The Stolen Papyrus from Cate M Turner and although I had read this book as one of the early beta readers, I loved reading it all over again.
The story has enough twists and turns taking the reader on a wonderful adventure, parts of which reminded me of Indiana Jones and The Mummy. The characters are well rounded and flawed making them very realistic. Leila shows quiet determination and ambition while Xander plays the role of an intriguing archaeologist aka trouble perfectly.
Together they lead the reader through a gripping narrative and well-crafted prose. A thoroughly enjoyable read.
The story has enough twists and turns taking the reader on a wonderful adventure, parts of which reminded me of Indiana Jones and The Mummy. The characters are well rounded and flawed making them very realistic. Leila shows quiet determination and ambition while Xander plays the role of an intriguing archaeologist aka trouble perfectly.
Together they lead the reader through a gripping narrative and well-crafted prose. A thoroughly enjoyable read.
July 16, 2019
I loved this exciting archaeological mystery. The characters were fabulous with lots of chemistry. There are a number of twists that will leave you guessing and the adventure is amazing.
I am looking forward to the next story in The Artifact Guardians series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I am looking forward to the next story in The Artifact Guardians series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 24, 2021
“The Stolen Papyrus” is the first instalment on “The Artifact Guardians” series by Cate M Turner (and to my knowledge her debut work), an archeological adventure set in Egypt with an underlying romantic plot that loosely reminds of the ‘Wilde and Chase Adventures’ series by Andy McDermott, without by any means being a ‘new version of them’ a plus in my book. And for full disclosure, I admit to have been living under a rock, and no, there is not excuse, this book was originally published back in July 2019, long before anyone had a reason to seek their own rock, thus shame on me 😊. As an Egyptology ‘aficionado’ this book should have been on my shelves long ago, and on so glad I am to finally have finally found it!
The mix of Egyptology, archeological background, adventure, suspense, thriller on occasion, and an underlying enemies-to-lovers romantic plot, that for once! it’s realistic and very well constructed. The story is told from Leila’s POV, who is a 24-year old woman working in a dig, who as a half-Egyptian had a direct knowledge of the land. Xander Harrison is the quintessential ‘wittier than thou’ British Egyptologist, who walks into Leila’s dig with that confidence only a born and breed (literary or not) British archeologist can display. To make things even more complex, Leila and Xander share a common past that ended in tragedy years ago (and whose details you will have to find for yourself, because there is not point in stealing even the smallest joy of this fantastic adventure).
As the story evolves Xander’s reasons to join the dig, as well as an outside deadly plot to steal all knowledge about a still undiscovered tomb, come to light and the fast-paced race to find said tomb and save its contents begin, bringing Leila and Xander slowly together as the unite forces against the outside threat.
Cate M Turner has a compelling, fresh, and modern writing style that suits the adventure portion of the tale, and is however capable to easily bring across the archeological specifics of the dig process to any layperson, and still meet the specifications of those acquainted with the field. The story is a real page-turner, a fast-paced adventure, whose romantic subplot feels real and makes the characters relatable at all times, with a sole warning ahead… cliff 😉 The fortunate collateral of have being living under the aforementioned rock is that the next instalment is just about to be published 😊 Cate M Tuner is a serious contender to Elizabeth Peters often challenged and never before reached throne.
The mix of Egyptology, archeological background, adventure, suspense, thriller on occasion, and an underlying enemies-to-lovers romantic plot, that for once! it’s realistic and very well constructed. The story is told from Leila’s POV, who is a 24-year old woman working in a dig, who as a half-Egyptian had a direct knowledge of the land. Xander Harrison is the quintessential ‘wittier than thou’ British Egyptologist, who walks into Leila’s dig with that confidence only a born and breed (literary or not) British archeologist can display. To make things even more complex, Leila and Xander share a common past that ended in tragedy years ago (and whose details you will have to find for yourself, because there is not point in stealing even the smallest joy of this fantastic adventure).
As the story evolves Xander’s reasons to join the dig, as well as an outside deadly plot to steal all knowledge about a still undiscovered tomb, come to light and the fast-paced race to find said tomb and save its contents begin, bringing Leila and Xander slowly together as the unite forces against the outside threat.
Cate M Turner has a compelling, fresh, and modern writing style that suits the adventure portion of the tale, and is however capable to easily bring across the archeological specifics of the dig process to any layperson, and still meet the specifications of those acquainted with the field. The story is a real page-turner, a fast-paced adventure, whose romantic subplot feels real and makes the characters relatable at all times, with a sole warning ahead… cliff 😉 The fortunate collateral of have being living under the aforementioned rock is that the next instalment is just about to be published 😊 Cate M Tuner is a serious contender to Elizabeth Peters often challenged and never before reached throne.
September 3, 2022
SO MUCH FUN!
Cate sweeps you away in this fast-paced, layered mystery with brilliant settings and scenery! I constantly found myself marveling at the amount of research Cate much have done for this book because it felt SO REAL. Everything from her characters to the settings to the archeological dig and historical facts...it was all very well-done and pulled me so deep into this story that I still think about it years later!
Leila, our heroine, is one of the most realistic characters I've ever read. Down-to-earth, awkward, funny, and determined, I'd follow her wherever her quests lead us! She's one of my all-time favorite MCs, without a doubt.
And Xander...he's the perfect enemies-to-lovers bad-boy. I love how his character came to life and the slow-burn romance building between him and Leila throughout the story, despite their many mistakes and problems. These two had me laughing the entire time.
LOVE this book and HIGHLY RECOMMEND!!
Cate sweeps you away in this fast-paced, layered mystery with brilliant settings and scenery! I constantly found myself marveling at the amount of research Cate much have done for this book because it felt SO REAL. Everything from her characters to the settings to the archeological dig and historical facts...it was all very well-done and pulled me so deep into this story that I still think about it years later!
Leila, our heroine, is one of the most realistic characters I've ever read. Down-to-earth, awkward, funny, and determined, I'd follow her wherever her quests lead us! She's one of my all-time favorite MCs, without a doubt.
And Xander...he's the perfect enemies-to-lovers bad-boy. I love how his character came to life and the slow-burn romance building between him and Leila throughout the story, despite their many mistakes and problems. These two had me laughing the entire time.
LOVE this book and HIGHLY RECOMMEND!!
August 18, 2021
The Stolen Papyrus
The most exciting book I have read in a long time. I have been in love with Egypt since I was a little girl and have dedicated many days, months and years to educate myself on its history, geography, rulers ,and the amazing Nile River. This book brought all my studies together and fulfilled my hunger for the land of the Pharaohs. I loved the book and will highly recommend it to anyone who is interested in mysterious ancient religions specially Egyptology.
The most exciting book I have read in a long time. I have been in love with Egypt since I was a little girl and have dedicated many days, months and years to educate myself on its history, geography, rulers ,and the amazing Nile River. This book brought all my studies together and fulfilled my hunger for the land of the Pharaohs. I loved the book and will highly recommend it to anyone who is interested in mysterious ancient religions specially Egyptology.
April 2, 2023
I finally got to this book, which I’ve had on my shelf forever, and it was different than I expected. It was marketed as a romance heavy book from the cover and first person blurb? But I was pleasantly surprised by a brilliantly plotted and characterized suspense novel with a romantic subplot. The writing is engaging and somewhat nostalgic because it took me back to my fascination with Egyptology and a time when the world didn’t seem so messed up. In fact, this book helped me tune out the noise for a while. I recommend it for readers who enjoy suspense and an infusion of culture.
March 8, 2021
I loved it but didn’t realize until the last chapter it would end on a cliffhanger. I thought it was a Christian book but other than a reference to a Bible and a calling to a higher power when a character nearly dies I would not categorize it as a Christian book. There is an element of clean romance and lots of suspense and action as well as plot twists. Given the opportunity, I would read the sequel.
August 21, 2020
The Stolen Papyrus (The Artifact Book 1)
I really enjoyed this book it's great . It will keep you on the edge of your seat with action suspense and a little mystery and murders and a little romance .
I really enjoyed this book it's great . It will keep you on the edge of your seat with action suspense and a little mystery and murders and a little romance .
August 3, 2024
fun read. interesting subject. recommend to other.
I’ve been looking for a series that compares well to elizabeth Peters Amelia Peabody series (I really enjoyed the WWI setting of those books). This is not quite there but it has the starting of it. Interesting characters, archaeology, mystery. I’m looking forward to the next book!
I’ve been looking for a series that compares well to elizabeth Peters Amelia Peabody series (I really enjoyed the WWI setting of those books). This is not quite there but it has the starting of it. Interesting characters, archaeology, mystery. I’m looking forward to the next book!
May 1, 2020
Great
This was a great book! Lots of adventure and mystery plus a little romance! It was wonderfully written! Looking forward to the next book!
This was a great book! Lots of adventure and mystery plus a little romance! It was wonderfully written! Looking forward to the next book!
Read
July 22, 2020I just loved the book. I wonder if Turner has more??
October 22, 2023
I absolutely loved this book, it has so much excitement, I couldn't put this down!
May 30, 2025
Wow!
What an adventure! Loved this book. Quite a bit of action, at least Leila has learned to be a bit less judgmental.
What an adventure! Loved this book. Quite a bit of action, at least Leila has learned to be a bit less judgmental.
May 27, 2020
Okay, I'm just going to get it out of the way and say my biggest gripe before entering the book... I really don't get why the summary is in first person when the book is in third xD The way I've always learned it, summaries are best in third present. Because of that, I fully expected the book to be first person. Then it wasn't. And yeah... Know it's not going to change, but honestly, that really bugged me and I would love to know the reason it was done that way to satisfy my gripes.
Since I started on negatives, I'm just going to stick there for a moment. Most of it being Leila could feel somewhat weak at times and I would want to whack her during the Xander interactions. I give her a bit of leeway because Xander was being a vague butt, but I felt like it went the will-they-won't-they route a tad too long. Other than that, just sometimes felt like the archaeology specific scenes with a lot of special terminology could be a turn off for people. Like, I appreciated the crap out of it and all the knowledge, so this is more just a general negative of maybe some people being turned off and bored by those scenes.
Otherwise... I really enjoyed it. I read parts of the prequel and it had me eager and watching for familiar names (the Daniel to Landon switch really did throw me off for a bit, not gonna lie <.<).
Leila had a true love for archaeology, which really showed through with her choices throughout the book and some of her wording (scarabs instead of butterflies amused me xD). Even if sometimes I wanted to whack her, it made me root for her because what she was doing came from a true passion in her heart.
Xander acted as a fun love interest for her, with his teasing way paired with his growing bluntness. Though, again, sometimes wanted to whack the vagueness out of him, even if I kinda understood xD And he was pretty cool there are the end. You know where I mean.
Plot wise, I enjoyed the mystery, and I legit couldn't tell sometimes what side Xander fell on. I like how that mystery and the action mixed with the mundane, making it so we were on edge as much as Leila. It would have been so easy to fall into a sense of ease if not for knowing it was a book and already having my own interactions with a certain person in the prequel.
Speaking of, the son of said person was very fun to read about in a bad way xD What can I say? A sucker for villains that treat people like mice.
I was a bit bummed because I can't tell if I saw the twist coming or not because a review I read may have already pointed me in that direction... But I had a feeling of what the twist was coming, so hah! Take that.
Overall a fun read. Hoping to see Leila grow, and the summary of the next book has me very intrigued.
Since I started on negatives, I'm just going to stick there for a moment. Most of it being Leila could feel somewhat weak at times and I would want to whack her during the Xander interactions. I give her a bit of leeway because Xander was being a vague butt, but I felt like it went the will-they-won't-they route a tad too long. Other than that, just sometimes felt like the archaeology specific scenes with a lot of special terminology could be a turn off for people. Like, I appreciated the crap out of it and all the knowledge, so this is more just a general negative of maybe some people being turned off and bored by those scenes.
Otherwise... I really enjoyed it. I read parts of the prequel and it had me eager and watching for familiar names (the Daniel to Landon switch really did throw me off for a bit, not gonna lie <.<).
Leila had a true love for archaeology, which really showed through with her choices throughout the book and some of her wording (scarabs instead of butterflies amused me xD). Even if sometimes I wanted to whack her, it made me root for her because what she was doing came from a true passion in her heart.
Xander acted as a fun love interest for her, with his teasing way paired with his growing bluntness. Though, again, sometimes wanted to whack the vagueness out of him, even if I kinda understood xD And he was pretty cool there are the end. You know where I mean.
Plot wise, I enjoyed the mystery, and I legit couldn't tell sometimes what side Xander fell on. I like how that mystery and the action mixed with the mundane, making it so we were on edge as much as Leila. It would have been so easy to fall into a sense of ease if not for knowing it was a book and already having my own interactions with a certain person in the prequel.
Speaking of, the son of said person was very fun to read about in a bad way xD What can I say? A sucker for villains that treat people like mice.
I was a bit bummed because I can't tell if I saw the twist coming or not because a review I read may have already pointed me in that direction... But I had a feeling of what the twist was coming, so hah! Take that.
Overall a fun read. Hoping to see Leila grow, and the summary of the next book has me very intrigued.
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