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Whyborne & Griffin #4
Necropolis
alternate cover edition of ISBN 9781941230046
Introverted scholar Percival Endicott Whyborne has spent the last few months watching his lover, Griffin Flaherty, come to terms with the rejection of his adoptive family. So when an urgent telegram from Christine summons them to Egypt, Whyborne is reluctant to risk the fragile peace they’ve established. Until, that is, a man who seems as much animal as human tries to murder Whyborne in the museum.
Amidst the ancient ruins of the pharaohs, they must join Christine and face betrayal, murder, and a legendary sorceress risen from the dead. In the forge of the desert heat, the trio will either face their fears and stand together—or shatter the bonds between them forever.
Necropolis is the fourth book in the Whyborne & Griffin series, where magic, mystery, and m/m romance collide with Victorian era America.
Introverted scholar Percival Endicott Whyborne has spent the last few months watching his lover, Griffin Flaherty, come to terms with the rejection of his adoptive family. So when an urgent telegram from Christine summons them to Egypt, Whyborne is reluctant to risk the fragile peace they’ve established. Until, that is, a man who seems as much animal as human tries to murder Whyborne in the museum.
Amidst the ancient ruins of the pharaohs, they must join Christine and face betrayal, murder, and a legendary sorceress risen from the dead. In the forge of the desert heat, the trio will either face their fears and stand together—or shatter the bonds between them forever.
Necropolis is the fourth book in the Whyborne & Griffin series, where magic, mystery, and m/m romance collide with Victorian era America.
200 pages, ebook
First published January 1, 2016
83 people are currently reading
1019 people want to read
About the author
Jordan L. Hawk
84 books2,634 followersJordan L. Hawk is a trans author from North Carolina. Childhood tales of mountain ghosts and mysterious creatures gave him a life-long love of things that go bump in the night. When he isn’t writing, he brews his own beer and tries to keep the cats from destroying the house. His best-selling Whyborne & Griffin series (beginning with Widdershins) can be found in print, ebook, and audiobook.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 536 reviews
August 26, 2019
4.25 stars
-Writing excellent.
-Characters amazing, Whyborne and Griffin have grown so much as characters.
- The mysteries keep getting creepier.
- Loved Daisy and Whyborne.
Overall. It was enjoyable.
-Writing excellent.
-Characters amazing, Whyborne and Griffin have grown so much as characters.
- The mysteries keep getting creepier.
- Loved Daisy and Whyborne.
Overall. It was enjoyable.
June 1, 2020
If you want to earn brownie points with one Percival Whyborne, you need only to give him a complex ancient scroll to translate and lock him in his office. For bonus points, consider locking his boyfriend in there as well.
What you do not do is request his presence at a fundraising gala, nor cite him to a family Christmas dinner. NO, not even if you're charitable enough to invite his boyfriend.
And I'm not just saying that because I like him, but Whyborne's train of thoughts tends to veer in dangerous directions when bored. Don't blame me, if you find yourself running from a freak windstorm in a crowded ballroom, or evading a toppling giant Christmas tree...
Also, since you've been his best friend for quite a while, you should know not to ask him to join you half-way 'round the world. He might just... give in, and help you out of a rather sticky situation? Smart girls can wield the power of emotional blackmail most ably.
Given the genre of the series, not having an adventure set in an Egypt would've been most suspicious. And yes, there's prophecies, and daemons, and bad guys who get foreshadowed by their smell, and there's even enough time to squeeze in some romance for Christine...
... erm the very beginning of one, at any rate. Always good to see an M/M romance that spares some rewards to the 'sidekick'... not that anyone would dare call her that to her face, heh.
My personal favorite part though, was the Whyborne family dinner. Although our long-suffering hero may be firmly convinced that no one save his mother tolerates his presence there, the reader can definitely see signs to the contrary from his father. Rather endearing really, in light of his previous treatment. Can't wait to see how it evolves in the following books.
Score: 3/5 stars
The mystery was still engaging if a bit predictable, by now we all know that anything that can go wrong will do so in the most spectacular manner. But then that's part of the series' charm.
==========================================
Review of book 1: Widdershins
Review of book 1.5: Eidolon
Review of book 2: Threshold
Review of book 3: Stormhaven
Review of book 3.5: Remnant: A Caldwell & Feximal/Whyborne & Griffin Mystery
Review of book 5: Bloodline
Review of book 6: Hoarfrost
Review of book 7: Maelstrom
Review of book 8: Fallow
Review of book 8.5: Undertow
Review of book 9: Draakenwood
Review of book 10: Balefire
Review of book 11: Deosil
What you do not do is request his presence at a fundraising gala, nor cite him to a family Christmas dinner. NO, not even if you're charitable enough to invite his boyfriend.
Father had been involved in a cult which first unjustly confined Griffin to a madhouse, then tried to sacrifice him to an undead abomination. I rather thought it beyond kind for Griffin to respond to the invitation at all, instead of just flinging it into the fire.
And I'm not just saying that because I like him, but Whyborne's train of thoughts tends to veer in dangerous directions when bored. Don't blame me, if you find yourself running from a freak windstorm in a crowded ballroom, or evading a toppling giant Christmas tree...
Also, since you've been his best friend for quite a while, you should know not to ask him to join you half-way 'round the world. He might just... give in, and help you out of a rather sticky situation? Smart girls can wield the power of emotional blackmail most ably.
Given the genre of the series, not having an adventure set in an Egypt would've been most suspicious. And yes, there's prophecies, and daemons, and bad guys who get foreshadowed by their smell, and there's even enough time to squeeze in some romance for Christine...
... erm the very beginning of one, at any rate. Always good to see an M/M romance that spares some rewards to the 'sidekick'... not that anyone would dare call her that to her face, heh.
My personal favorite part though, was the Whyborne family dinner. Although our long-suffering hero may be firmly convinced that no one save his mother tolerates his presence there, the reader can definitely see signs to the contrary from his father. Rather endearing really, in light of his previous treatment. Can't wait to see how it evolves in the following books.
Score: 3/5 stars
The mystery was still engaging if a bit predictable, by now we all know that anything that can go wrong will do so in the most spectacular manner. But then that's part of the series' charm.
==========================================
Review of book 1: Widdershins
Review of book 1.5: Eidolon
Review of book 2: Threshold
Review of book 3: Stormhaven
Review of book 3.5: Remnant: A Caldwell & Feximal/Whyborne & Griffin Mystery
Review of book 5: Bloodline
Review of book 6: Hoarfrost
Review of book 7: Maelstrom
Review of book 8: Fallow
Review of book 8.5: Undertow
Review of book 9: Draakenwood
Review of book 10: Balefire
Review of book 11: Deosil
April 24, 2014
I love this series. I love this installment. Hot, scary, vividly written, terrific setting, wonderful development of the ongoing story, delightful characters. I am *consumed* with jealousy at how Jordan handles ongoing series. I think she must plan them or something. Cow.
Obviously, having co-written a crossover story Remnant: A Caldwell & Feximal/Whyborne & Griffin Mystery involving these characters, I am not what you might call impartial. But the reason I'm not impartial is that I flipping love these stories. Proper massive pulp fun of the kind that far too rarely comes our way.
Obviously, having co-written a crossover story Remnant: A Caldwell & Feximal/Whyborne & Griffin Mystery involving these characters, I am not what you might call impartial. But the reason I'm not impartial is that I flipping love these stories. Proper massive pulp fun of the kind that far too rarely comes our way.
April 18, 2019
***3.5 - 4 Stars***
Not my favorite in this series since I kept mixing up all the Egyptian names, legends and whatnot in my head and I wished for a bit more together time for Whyborne and Griffin - their romance came up a bit short here in my opinion -, but I still enjoyed it a great deal and Whyborne's interaction with the hat-munching, neck-nuzzling Daisy was priceless!
Oh, and thanks to Whyborne I'll remember to keep an umbrella at the ready whenever I'm about to meet an half-human/half-animal jackal... It's the small things in life that sometimes make a deep impact after all. ;-)
Not my favorite in this series since I kept mixing up all the Egyptian names, legends and whatnot in my head and I wished for a bit more together time for Whyborne and Griffin - their romance came up a bit short here in my opinion -, but I still enjoyed it a great deal and Whyborne's interaction with the hat-munching, neck-nuzzling Daisy was priceless!
Oh, and thanks to Whyborne I'll remember to keep an umbrella at the ready whenever I'm about to meet an half-human/half-animal jackal... It's the small things in life that sometimes make a deep impact after all. ;-)
July 21, 2018
Man oh man! Was this an exciting installment or what?!? Whyborne and Griffin travel to Egypt to help Christine out. It is action packed to say the least. And yes, as other reviews have said, it reminds me of The Mummy in some ways but it's also different in a lot of ways. And since that is a favorite of all time movie of mine, I'm not complaining at all.
Poor Griffin. He just can't escape his worst nightmare. Thankfully Whyborne is there to help him. I love these two so much. I can definitely say they are on my favorite couple shelf.
I was happy to see a softer side of Christine. I liked getting a little more background into her family but I felt so bad for her too. I love her dearly and I want her to have a HEA as well. I just knew there would be someone out there made especially for her. (I'm still holding on to my girl-crush though)
Things just keep getting better and better in this series. And yes, Lorraine, I'm STILL kicking myself for not reading this sooner. Much thanks to Meags and Anne for encouraging me to read it and supporting me as I go. I can't stop myself from reading and I'm already anticipating a serious book hangover when it's all said and done. On to the next adventure!
Poor Griffin. He just can't escape his worst nightmare. Thankfully Whyborne is there to help him. I love these two so much. I can definitely say they are on my favorite couple shelf.
I was happy to see a softer side of Christine. I liked getting a little more background into her family but I felt so bad for her too. I love her dearly and I want her to have a HEA as well. I just knew there would be someone out there made especially for her. (I'm still holding on to my girl-crush though)
Things just keep getting better and better in this series. And yes, Lorraine, I'm STILL kicking myself for not reading this sooner. Much thanks to Meags and Anne for encouraging me to read it and supporting me as I go. I can't stop myself from reading and I'm already anticipating a serious book hangover when it's all said and done. On to the next adventure!
March 31, 2018
Rating: 4* of five
Book four in a series is a tricky point. There's a reason most of the fantasy/genre publishing world has been dominated by trilogies: We're mostly sick of the joke by the time we get to book three. Even of characters that are delightful and daisy-fresh and involved in unique endeavors, by the time we've read 300,000 words-plus about them, we're in full fatigue mode. It's the same reason there are danger points in marriages, cliffs that TV shows fall over, serial entrepreneurs.
We get bored.
So in a series of books that's about a pair of lovers becoming a couple, learning about themselves, each other, their families, and oh yeah by the way those monsters under your bed? totally real, how do we do the Bore-Me-Not Rhumba? At about the pace the men involved do it, per Author Hawk. Whyborne's antics in the first three books have led his gawky, scholarly self down some most unusual paths, and Griffin is deeply concerned for the safety and sanity of his mate. Their adventure in this book leads them to follow Christine, the token real girl, to the deserts of Egypt in order to thwart Nyarlathotep coming to Earth. (That's one of Lovecraft's Elder Gods, in case you're wondering.)
But the trip to Egypt is Whyborne's worst nightmare! Griffin, well, traveling is nothing to his former-Pinkerton self. He's quite looking forward to it...except he's worried about his beloved Whyborne, whose studies in sorcerous spells make him much more than a little nervous:
Welcome to marriage, Whyborne. Griffin is completely invested in you, your health, your survival. His happiness depends on your maintenance of all those things. He's going to argue with you about your behaviors when he sees you acting counter to what he knows is your best interest. That it isn't what you think is your best interest is what keeps marriages alive.
As is also bog-standard normal for long-term love, Party of the first part might as well be looking at a fun-house mirror for all the resemblance their self-image bears to Party of the second part's vision of them:
The bright face of being in love. How common a feeling, to want the beloved to be pleased with us! And how seldom we see that the beloved is looking squarely at us and seeing the strength that it takes to move in the face of fear. Griffin sees Whyborne's best in seeing his behaviors and knowing the fears and failings behind them:
And how often the beloved already is, far more than we ever credit or even believe when we're told as Griffin directly says to Whyborne above, possessed of our secrets and infatuated by our strength in the face of them.
It's a pallid but similar investment that the series reader makes in the series. This danger point, book four, sinks many a series under the weight of its tics and crotchets. Whyborne, our PoV character, is monumentally self-absorbed. A lady's woman-ness isn't really an excuse for Whyborne's inability to see her, a new character in this book's, interest in him:
And thus is a silly git shocked, shocked I say, by the mere existence of women aware of his desirability! It's played for comedy, and truthfully I've been Whyborne more than once in my life (it shames me to admit), but it's part and parcel of Whyborne's least appealing trait. It's very much at the fore here. It's a crotchet that could sink the series easily, as I found my eyes rolling without conscious volition...except Author Hawk got there ahead of me.
One of Griffin's refrains has been his concern for the effects of Whyborne's researches on his safety. Whyborne's counter is always, "look at how many times it's saved our bacon!" And this point is inarguable, but to one side, of Griffin's concern. Deflecting attention is a survival thing for Whyborne, growing up in a terribly dysfunctional family. It's been working fine until now, but Griffin and Christine are in much more danger than ever from multiple sources. All the sources are magical. All of them demand that Whyborne override Griffin's loving concern for his safety. All of the threats also demand that he de-absorb himself in his own head and notice, really and truly notice *in*the*moment* that his friends are real even when he's not paying attention to them.
About this time, most authors of series fail. They don't let the character that needs to grow make the leap. Author Hawk does, I'm very happy to say, and does so very explicitly. It is the reason I will read books five and up. I've included the quote as a spoiler, so look no farther down unless you're game for a spoiler.
Book four in a series is a tricky point. There's a reason most of the fantasy/genre publishing world has been dominated by trilogies: We're mostly sick of the joke by the time we get to book three. Even of characters that are delightful and daisy-fresh and involved in unique endeavors, by the time we've read 300,000 words-plus about them, we're in full fatigue mode. It's the same reason there are danger points in marriages, cliffs that TV shows fall over, serial entrepreneurs.
We get bored.
So in a series of books that's about a pair of lovers becoming a couple, learning about themselves, each other, their families, and oh yeah by the way those monsters under your bed? totally real, how do we do the Bore-Me-Not Rhumba? At about the pace the men involved do it, per Author Hawk. Whyborne's antics in the first three books have led his gawky, scholarly self down some most unusual paths, and Griffin is deeply concerned for the safety and sanity of his mate. Their adventure in this book leads them to follow Christine, the token real girl, to the deserts of Egypt in order to thwart Nyarlathotep coming to Earth. (That's one of Lovecraft's Elder Gods, in case you're wondering.)
But the trip to Egypt is Whyborne's worst nightmare! Griffin, well, traveling is nothing to his former-Pinkerton self. He's quite looking forward to it...except he's worried about his beloved Whyborne, whose studies in sorcerous spells make him much more than a little nervous:
If the man couldn’t make an argument one way, he’d find another.
Welcome to marriage, Whyborne. Griffin is completely invested in you, your health, your survival. His happiness depends on your maintenance of all those things. He's going to argue with you about your behaviors when he sees you acting counter to what he knows is your best interest. That it isn't what you think is your best interest is what keeps marriages alive.
As is also bog-standard normal for long-term love, Party of the first part might as well be looking at a fun-house mirror for all the resemblance their self-image bears to Party of the second part's vision of them:
Griffin had once called me brave, but I couldn’t imagine how he would possibly think it. I feared everything: talking to strangers, leaving Widdershins, humiliating myself in public…the list went on and on. There was nothing for a man such as Griffin, who as a Pinkerton foiled bank robberies and chased down hardened criminals, to admire in me. But he thought otherwise, mad as it sounded, and his belief made me want to be that man, the one he could admire.
The bright face of being in love. How common a feeling, to want the beloved to be pleased with us! And how seldom we see that the beloved is looking squarely at us and seeing the strength that it takes to move in the face of fear. Griffin sees Whyborne's best in seeing his behaviors and knowing the fears and failings behind them:
How you burn, bright enough it almost blinds me. But I can’t look away.
And how often the beloved already is, far more than we ever credit or even believe when we're told as Griffin directly says to Whyborne above, possessed of our secrets and infatuated by our strength in the face of them.
It's a pallid but similar investment that the series reader makes in the series. This danger point, book four, sinks many a series under the weight of its tics and crotchets. Whyborne, our PoV character, is monumentally self-absorbed. A lady's woman-ness isn't really an excuse for Whyborne's inability to see her, a new character in this book's, interest in him:
Her smile offered me no clues. “Very good indeed,” she affirmed, before turning back to the wall and leaving me to my confusion. ... I opened my mouth to ask what she meant. At the same moment, she leaned forward and kissed me.
And thus is a silly git shocked, shocked I say, by the mere existence of women aware of his desirability! It's played for comedy, and truthfully I've been Whyborne more than once in my life (it shames me to admit), but it's part and parcel of Whyborne's least appealing trait. It's very much at the fore here. It's a crotchet that could sink the series easily, as I found my eyes rolling without conscious volition...except Author Hawk got there ahead of me.
One of Griffin's refrains has been his concern for the effects of Whyborne's researches on his safety. Whyborne's counter is always, "look at how many times it's saved our bacon!" And this point is inarguable, but to one side, of Griffin's concern. Deflecting attention is a survival thing for Whyborne, growing up in a terribly dysfunctional family. It's been working fine until now, but Griffin and Christine are in much more danger than ever from multiple sources. All the sources are magical. All of them demand that Whyborne override Griffin's loving concern for his safety. All of the threats also demand that he de-absorb himself in his own head and notice, really and truly notice *in*the*moment* that his friends are real even when he's not paying attention to them.
About this time, most authors of series fail. They don't let the character that needs to grow make the leap. Author Hawk does, I'm very happy to say, and does so very explicitly. It is the reason I will read books five and up. I've included the quote as a spoiler, so look no farther down unless you're game for a spoiler.
February 10, 2020
If I say this is my favorite, can I change my mind later? I have a feeling I might repeat this sentiment again. But I really really loved this one! It wasn’t just traveling to Egypt, although that was rather impressive, impulsive and foolhardy. It wasn’t simply that their undefeated monster streak continues, while I will admit I was bewitched until the very end. What knocked this one straight to the top for me was the growth and strength of…the essence of this series, Whyborne & Griffin. I was delighted with how their bond has tightened, their connection fortified and their love has proven unbreakable. This is exactly why I adore series with the same couple so very much. The advancement of ‘them’ brings me great joy. They trust one another implicitly and would be willing to make the ultimate sacrifice for their beloved. *sigh* There’s something so profound when such declarations take place. Praise be, they weren’t necessary. But those selfless moments burn bright and I can’t wait to continue to see what else the universe has in the stars for them. But first…Egypt!
What's to like: Whyborne receives a plea for help, okay, more like demand, from Christine. She’s on-site in the midst of her excavation and requires the services of her best friend. Much to his dismay, she’s unable to explain much of anything through the post. Knowing how difficult travel and the rustic conditions are sure to be for him, Christine is calling for quite the boon. Griffin is acutely aware that what Christine cannot say is everything he should fear. Seeing how they have cast their lot together, come what may, *another sigh* he insists on accompanying Whyborne to this faraway wilderness. Which is a relief all the way around. They have demonstrated they are a formidable force…together. Especially when it comes to all three of them. Perhaps Christine will find her missing link and complete their family? Hmmmm…one never knows.
What's to love: Without a doubt, my favorite part of this exhilarating adventure was Whyborne and his loyal partner, Griffin. I am powerless to their charms. I relish in their affection and can’t seem to get enough of them. Whyborne is absolutely adorable flailing so far out of his element. I love him when he’s shy and daring, vulnerable and courageous and apparently when he’s cranky and cross. Luckily, Griffin loves him sweet and saucy and enjoyed this new vinegary side the dessert brings out in his precious Ival as well. There is a LOT going on with ancient curses and superstitions. I had to concentrate on names and balancing everything else with my love struck glaze. Except for Daisy, I’ll never forget her! Despite the fast clip and eerie ghouls, I was pleasantly surprised that I was never truly lost. Of course, I chalk that up to the mastermind behind this series. Hawk delivers another stupendous installment in my new favorite fantasy world and I’ll be hot on their heels to wherever they’re headed next!
Beware of: The desert is full of dangers and threats…shadows from the past and those that would rather they have no future. Family betrayal cuts deep…but the monsters try to cut deeper. Crypt crashing doesn’t always leave time for romance but never fear, they couldn’t be more in love.
This book is for: Naturally, Whyborne and Griffin fans. And if you’re fashionably late to this party (nothing wrong with that!) be prepared to indulge in some of the best PNR around.
Book UNfunk
What's to like: Whyborne receives a plea for help, okay, more like demand, from Christine. She’s on-site in the midst of her excavation and requires the services of her best friend. Much to his dismay, she’s unable to explain much of anything through the post. Knowing how difficult travel and the rustic conditions are sure to be for him, Christine is calling for quite the boon. Griffin is acutely aware that what Christine cannot say is everything he should fear. Seeing how they have cast their lot together, come what may, *another sigh* he insists on accompanying Whyborne to this faraway wilderness. Which is a relief all the way around. They have demonstrated they are a formidable force…together. Especially when it comes to all three of them. Perhaps Christine will find her missing link and complete their family? Hmmmm…one never knows.
What's to love: Without a doubt, my favorite part of this exhilarating adventure was Whyborne and his loyal partner, Griffin. I am powerless to their charms. I relish in their affection and can’t seem to get enough of them. Whyborne is absolutely adorable flailing so far out of his element. I love him when he’s shy and daring, vulnerable and courageous and apparently when he’s cranky and cross. Luckily, Griffin loves him sweet and saucy and enjoyed this new vinegary side the dessert brings out in his precious Ival as well. There is a LOT going on with ancient curses and superstitions. I had to concentrate on names and balancing everything else with my love struck glaze. Except for Daisy, I’ll never forget her! Despite the fast clip and eerie ghouls, I was pleasantly surprised that I was never truly lost. Of course, I chalk that up to the mastermind behind this series. Hawk delivers another stupendous installment in my new favorite fantasy world and I’ll be hot on their heels to wherever they’re headed next!
Beware of: The desert is full of dangers and threats…shadows from the past and those that would rather they have no future. Family betrayal cuts deep…but the monsters try to cut deeper. Crypt crashing doesn’t always leave time for romance but never fear, they couldn’t be more in love.
This book is for: Naturally, Whyborne and Griffin fans. And if you’re fashionably late to this party (nothing wrong with that!) be prepared to indulge in some of the best PNR around.
Book UNfunk
May 2, 2014
3.5 stars
If you haven't read Jordan L. Hawk's Whyborne & Griffin series...why the heck not?
I LOVE this series so much. Percival Endicott Whyborne is just one of my favorite characters in books today. He's funny and unfortunate, grouchy and sweetly uncertain...and I love reading about him and his love, Griffin Flaherty. They make me HAPPY!!!!! For someone who used to read neither historicals nor paranormal books, the W&G series has converted me.
Necropolis is book 4 in the series and that alone makes it a must-read for me. Jordan L. Hawk tells some AMAZING tales and they usually prove equal parts sweet, hot, entertaining, scary, and mysterious.
Necropolis is set in Egypt where Whyborne & Griffin answer the call from their friend Christine, to come visit her at an ancient dig site. Reading about Whyborne in an uncomfortable desert setting was hysterical. He had some classic moments with a camel and a fez and those alone had me in stitches. There were also some really sweet, tender, and openly transparent moments between the 2 lovers, and I could not have been more touched by these scenes.
I did, however, struggle with a few things. One being the overcomplicated storyline about an ancient Egyptian king, his queen, and some hideous dog-like/human-like creatures. Whether it be the difficult names or just the layered back lore, I found myself kind of lost. Though it was definitely scary, as this series tends to be, it was not entirely easy to understand.
The other being the simple fact that Griffin played a very secondary, almost tertiary role in this story and it put the...balance...off a bit. Griffin was not around much on page other than supporting Whyborne's effort. I love that unwavering support, but throughout the book, I kept thinking, "Where's Griffin?"...even in scenes when he was technically present. I like them together, as equal partners, helping each other and love each other. Too much to ask? :)
It was fun to read Christine get a bit of her own story. It felt a little like it was her book, to be honest. I love Christine, so I didn't mind it much. But, I was just craving a little bit more of Whyborne AND Griffin by the end.
All in all, it's a must-read for fans of the series. But, I have to admit it was my least favorite of the first 4 books (and short story) to date.
March 23, 2017
Written September 7, 2014
3.7 Stars - a tremendous adrenaline rush among the mummies in Egypt
Book #4
Necropolis is the fourth part in the adventurous, and often spooky scary, historical Whyborne & Griffin series by Jordan L. Hawk.
A week later..
I'm glad and happy. ~ This was a always a well made, exciting and a good continuation of an engaging love story. Possibly more of adventure than romance book, but anyway nice reading.
***********************************************
The former Pinkerton Detective, Mr Griffin Flaherty, is a quite newcomer (a year ago) in the small, a bit strange, town Widdershins. A very experienced gentleman, with thick skin and a dramatic, slightly dark past history from the big city.
Griffin's lover, is a lovely tall slender younger man, Dr Percival Endicott Whyborne (aka Ival). Our main character in these books.
About the MC's, events etc before this fourth installment:
***********************************************
...a trip to Egypt
Our two gentlemans dear friend, Dr. Christine Putnam is on a archaeological tomb excavations in Egypt. This part start around Cristmas time when they get a short telegram from Christine asking Whyborne for his help. After some grumbling, worrying and some persuasive talking from Griffin are they on board a large ship to London to start.
Arriving in Cairo begins immediately an adventures with mysterious deaths, night attacks, discoveries of secret underground rooms, the smelly camel Daisy who happily eats hats (W's are her favorites...), and of course old legends and stories about since long ago pharaohs, their angry wifes etc etc.
Gosh yes, this is a fast-paced Indiana Jones-like adventure. These three Widdershins friends meet both creepy just awakening mummies and also a travel company of friends that do not turn out to be precisely those they claim to be.
I must admit I was not entirely captivated by the adventure and the topic this time even though I am fascinated by the ancient cultures of Egypt Pharaoh. (not a story spoiler)
***********************************************
Though as always, are these characters so very well-made, fun to meet and constantly evolving in their life and relationship. These intense and tender love-meetings between Griffin and Ival (as W is then called) are among the best and most steaming hot, in the giant pile of M / M romances right now, in my opinion.
...Maybe it will soon also begin to brighten on the romantic field for their dear female friend, too, and it feels promising.
I look forward to the next part #5 - Bloodline in October.
I LIKE - irresistible grand love as always
****
# Buddyread Necropolis with Sofia and Bev. ~ Thanks my lovely reading friends!!
# The Whyborne & Griffin series:
3.7 Stars - a tremendous adrenaline rush among the mummies in Egypt
Book #4
Necropolis is the fourth part in the adventurous, and often spooky scary, historical Whyborne & Griffin series by Jordan L. Hawk.
A week later..
I'm glad and happy. ~ This was a always a well made, exciting and a good continuation of an engaging love story. Possibly more of adventure than romance book, but anyway nice reading.
***********************************************
The former Pinkerton Detective, Mr Griffin Flaherty, is a quite newcomer (a year ago) in the small, a bit strange, town Widdershins. A very experienced gentleman, with thick skin and a dramatic, slightly dark past history from the big city.
Griffin's lover, is a lovely tall slender younger man, Dr Percival Endicott Whyborne (aka Ival). Our main character in these books.
“You smell like a clean wind of the sea. Like salt and ambergris.” His hand trailed along the line of buttons on my shirt. “Like home. Like every good thing in this world.”
About the MC's, events etc before this fourth installment:
***********************************************
...a trip to Egypt
Our two gentlemans dear friend, Dr. Christine Putnam is on a archaeological tomb excavations in Egypt. This part start around Cristmas time when they get a short telegram from Christine asking Whyborne for his help. After some grumbling, worrying and some persuasive talking from Griffin are they on board a large ship to London to start.
Arriving in Cairo begins immediately an adventures with mysterious deaths, night attacks, discoveries of secret underground rooms, the smelly camel Daisy who happily eats hats (W's are her favorites...), and of course old legends and stories about since long ago pharaohs, their angry wifes etc etc.
Gosh yes, this is a fast-paced Indiana Jones-like adventure. These three Widdershins friends meet both creepy just awakening mummies and also a travel company of friends that do not turn out to be precisely those they claim to be.
‘Daisy, stood there, still bearing her saddle and packs, regarding me with soft, curious eyes.’
I must admit I was not entirely captivated by the adventure and the topic this time even though I am fascinated by the ancient cultures of Egypt Pharaoh. (not a story spoiler)
***********************************************
Though as always, are these characters so very well-made, fun to meet and constantly evolving in their life and relationship. These intense and tender love-meetings between Griffin and Ival (as W is then called) are among the best and most steaming hot, in the giant pile of M / M romances right now, in my opinion.
...Maybe it will soon also begin to brighten on the romantic field for their dear female friend, too, and it feels promising.
I look forward to the next part #5 - Bloodline in October.
I LIKE - irresistible grand love as always
****
# Buddyread Necropolis with Sofia and Bev. ~ Thanks my lovely reading friends!!
# The Whyborne & Griffin series:
December 11, 2018
Poor Whyborne. He thought traveling to Virginia was rough...
I haven't yet read any of Lovecraft's Egyptian stories so I don't know how much research he did, but if this is an accurate representation I'm guessing not a dang lot.
That's fine, though: the vibe here is definitely the 1999 action film "The Mummy" not, you know, real mummies. No actual history was harmed in the making of this novel.
This was good fun, and more adventure than romance -- which is true for all this series, but this one is light enough on the sex and romance that it would probably fine for someone who doesn't like those elements (although not for a complete homophobe, obviously; Whyborne and Griffin's need to hide their relationship is still a plot point, especially with the lack of privacy while camping in tents).
I haven't yet read any of Lovecraft's Egyptian stories so I don't know how much research he did, but if this is an accurate representation I'm guessing not a dang lot.
That's fine, though: the vibe here is definitely the 1999 action film "The Mummy" not, you know, real mummies. No actual history was harmed in the making of this novel.
This was good fun, and more adventure than romance -- which is true for all this series, but this one is light enough on the sex and romance that it would probably fine for someone who doesn't like those elements (although not for a complete homophobe, obviously; Whyborne and Griffin's need to hide their relationship is still a plot point, especially with the lack of privacy while camping in tents).
April 22, 2015
Lon Chaney is ready for his resurrection.
Quality entertainment in this W&G Monster of the Week episode in EGYPT! Hurrah for an exotic locale, which Whyborne being the consummate city boy, means a dreadful subtraction in the creature comforts.
Half the fun is seeing what's coming and going, "No!" Or, "Look behind you." And, "Don't trust that person, did you fall off the turnip truck yesterday?" So, appropriate carnage and terror as they probe the depths of Christine's excavation site and find more than they bargained for.
Nice developments for Griffin, Ival and Christine. Same charming humor and wit. But the big mystery for the series is what is going on with Whyborne? Indeed, most intriguing and peculiar.
Favorite quote:
Quality entertainment in this W&G Monster of the Week episode in EGYPT! Hurrah for an exotic locale, which Whyborne being the consummate city boy, means a dreadful subtraction in the creature comforts.
West Virginia marked the farthest I’d ever strayed from Widdershins. I’d hated the heat and mosquitos, but at least we’d had a hotel and other civilized amenities. What if Christine expected me to sleep in a tent?Poor Ival, no one seems to care that he is not made for this. But he does meet a faithful companion during his sojourn who lightens things up, Daisy.
Half the fun is seeing what's coming and going, "No!" Or, "Look behind you." And, "Don't trust that person, did you fall off the turnip truck yesterday?" So, appropriate carnage and terror as they probe the depths of Christine's excavation site and find more than they bargained for.
Nice developments for Griffin, Ival and Christine. Same charming humor and wit. But the big mystery for the series is what is going on with Whyborne? Indeed, most intriguing and peculiar.
Favorite quote:
“I cast my lot with yours, if you recall. I may not always be happy with the direction you take us, but it does not change what I said.”
September 4, 2014
3.5 stars
This was a very welcome instalment in this series for me. I needed to unwind after some heavy reads and what better way to do that then with Why and Griff et la belle companie….
I had
Egypt
Camels
Ghuls
Daemons
Mummies
all wrapped into one. Yes, a fun read for me.
On a more serious note, I liked how the relationship between Why and Griff continues to develop. Slowly but surely, love that. I also enjoyed the developments on the Christine side. Yeah go girl go.
I want to thank my buddy readers Bev and Ingela for making this more enjoyable. Thanks Girls.
This was a very welcome instalment in this series for me. I needed to unwind after some heavy reads and what better way to do that then with Why and Griff et la belle companie….
I had
Egypt Camels Ghuls Daemons Mummiesall wrapped into one. Yes, a fun read for me.
On a more serious note, I liked how the relationship between Why and Griff continues to develop. Slowly but surely, love that. I also enjoyed the developments on the Christine side. Yeah go girl go.
I want to thank my buddy readers Bev and Ingela for making this more enjoyable. Thanks Girls.
March 24, 2017
4 Stars
In this gripping installment, Whyborne and Griffin travel to Egypt, where Whyborne finds himself in a great battle of wills against a possibly possessed camel that has set his eyes (and mouth) on Whyborne’s newly acquired and spectacularly fashionable fez.
...Okay, maybe that wasn’t the main plot, but it did happen!
What actually went down once Whyborne and Griffin arrived in Egypt (where they’d been summoned for help by the always fabulous Christine), involved a lot of ancient Egyptian references – how many were made up or based on historical fact, I have no idea – but many of which went right over my head and left me confused a lot of the time. I didn’t mind though because I got the main gist of what was happening and was otherwise preoccupied by my love for Whyborne and Griffin, and, of course, Christine.
It was all very fun and adventurous, that much I know. In truth, it was reminiscent of the 1999 movie, The Mummy. Much like the film, there were a group of world saving protagonists who almost unwittingly unleashed an ancient (evil) power. I mean, the story even had a group of sacred protectors who worked to stop the innocents (in this case Whyborne and co.) from unleashing said ancient evil.
So, yeah, this was basically a book version of The Mummy, what with the ancient evil bitch trying to be resurrected, plus all the camels and the sand, but this version has a swoon-y and lovable gay couple leading the charge, alongside their awesomeno longer a spinster friend. It was fun and spooky and romantic all in one.
Overall, another solid win for this fabulous series.
In this gripping installment, Whyborne and Griffin travel to Egypt, where Whyborne finds himself in a great battle of wills against a possibly possessed camel that has set his eyes (and mouth) on Whyborne’s newly acquired and spectacularly fashionable fez.
...Okay, maybe that wasn’t the main plot, but it did happen!
What actually went down once Whyborne and Griffin arrived in Egypt (where they’d been summoned for help by the always fabulous Christine), involved a lot of ancient Egyptian references – how many were made up or based on historical fact, I have no idea – but many of which went right over my head and left me confused a lot of the time. I didn’t mind though because I got the main gist of what was happening and was otherwise preoccupied by my love for Whyborne and Griffin, and, of course, Christine.
It was all very fun and adventurous, that much I know. In truth, it was reminiscent of the 1999 movie, The Mummy. Much like the film, there were a group of world saving protagonists who almost unwittingly unleashed an ancient (evil) power. I mean, the story even had a group of sacred protectors who worked to stop the innocents (in this case Whyborne and co.) from unleashing said ancient evil.
So, yeah, this was basically a book version of The Mummy, what with the ancient evil bitch trying to be resurrected, plus all the camels and the sand, but this version has a swoon-y and lovable gay couple leading the charge, alongside their awesome
Overall, another solid win for this fabulous series.
May 3, 2014
I have always been honest about my love for Jordan L. Hawk’s writing. She’s delivered fantastical and well crafted stories time and time again. In Necropolis, the fourth in the Whyborne & Griffin series, Hawk once again shows why she is a master of her craft.
Simply put, she uses the RIGHT words, threads them together so the whole is so much greater than the sum of its parts. Or rather to go with the “true” phrasing; The whole is other than the sum of the parts.
I think Hawk’s books are in fact a damned good representation of the concept of “gestalt”. The primary construct of words into phrases bring to rise secondary tangible concepts and reactions for a reader to shift through and experience. The layering of her main characters’ motivations, fears and — even if I dare say it—loves, bring the reader to a world only Hawk could have imagined up. Even seated in the real world with a bare toe-dip into our own history, Hawk reveals a reality hidden in the shadowy folds of what-ifs.
That being said, while her world might be a few steps out of physical sync with our own universe, it is her fully-realized characters that drive home to the reader that we are all human—regardless of what surrounds us at that time.
In Necropolis, Whyborne and Griffin are transported to a time in Egypt when wholescale looting of tombs for the entertainment of the world’s rich was par for the course. It is a time when no one thought anything of burning a mummy in a fireplace because that’s what one did to amuse one’s guests or perhaps even grind up a forgotten Princess’ remains to be mixed into a tincture to cure a cough. The starkness of this time is laid down carefully, a lace of realism sewn over the satiny pleasure of Hawk’s main characters’ existence. To see Whyborne and Griffin embellished in this location only serves to strengthen who they are in the book and cements their bond in ways that would satisfy even the most particular of readers.
I cannot wait to re-read this book. I finished it a few days ago and am even now, craving for the taste of Hawk’s words again. Her stories are an opiate and I for one, am always glad to walk into her Den.
Simply put, she uses the RIGHT words, threads them together so the whole is so much greater than the sum of its parts. Or rather to go with the “true” phrasing; The whole is other than the sum of the parts.
I think Hawk’s books are in fact a damned good representation of the concept of “gestalt”. The primary construct of words into phrases bring to rise secondary tangible concepts and reactions for a reader to shift through and experience. The layering of her main characters’ motivations, fears and — even if I dare say it—loves, bring the reader to a world only Hawk could have imagined up. Even seated in the real world with a bare toe-dip into our own history, Hawk reveals a reality hidden in the shadowy folds of what-ifs.
That being said, while her world might be a few steps out of physical sync with our own universe, it is her fully-realized characters that drive home to the reader that we are all human—regardless of what surrounds us at that time.
In Necropolis, Whyborne and Griffin are transported to a time in Egypt when wholescale looting of tombs for the entertainment of the world’s rich was par for the course. It is a time when no one thought anything of burning a mummy in a fireplace because that’s what one did to amuse one’s guests or perhaps even grind up a forgotten Princess’ remains to be mixed into a tincture to cure a cough. The starkness of this time is laid down carefully, a lace of realism sewn over the satiny pleasure of Hawk’s main characters’ existence. To see Whyborne and Griffin embellished in this location only serves to strengthen who they are in the book and cements their bond in ways that would satisfy even the most particular of readers.
I cannot wait to re-read this book. I finished it a few days ago and am even now, craving for the taste of Hawk’s words again. Her stories are an opiate and I for one, am always glad to walk into her Den.
August 22, 2022
March 2, 2020
I loved it! I guess it's a mix of mood + knowing what I know now of Whyborne that made this read much more enjoyable than the previous time.
It's hard to believe it's been five years already (to the day!) since the last time I've read it.
March 1, 2015
This was... not at all and exactly what I expected.
It had everything I hoped for - mystery (though it was a bit obvious), action, Whyborne whom I absolutely adore, we get to know Christine much better, sexy times and romantic times with Griffin... I didn't anticipate Daisy the comical camel, but I loved her too.
But in the end, I just couldn't get into it as much as I did other books in the series. Don't get me wrong, I loved this book... but compared to the others? It was kinda meh :/
I loved it! I guess it's a mix of mood + knowing what I know now of Whyborne that made this read much more enjoyable than the previous time.
It's hard to believe it's been five years already (to the day!) since the last time I've read it.
March 1, 2015
This was... not at all and exactly what I expected.
It had everything I hoped for - mystery (though it was a bit obvious), action, Whyborne whom I absolutely adore, we get to know Christine much better, sexy times and romantic times with Griffin... I didn't anticipate Daisy the comical camel, but I loved her too.
But in the end, I just couldn't get into it as much as I did other books in the series. Don't get me wrong, I loved this book... but compared to the others? It was kinda meh :/
May 2, 2021
Whyborne & Griffin travel to Egypt at Christine's request.
Whyborne meets Daisy and it's love at first sight.
Then Nitocris be like:
... and then the desert goes boom! The end.
My second favorite from the series so far!
Whyborne meets Daisy and it's love at first sight.
Then Nitocris be like:
... and then the desert goes boom! The end.
My second favorite from the series so far!
September 30, 2015
Whyborne and Griffin are back and better than ever! This is one of my favorites in the series. I love anything to do with Egypt and I love anything to do with Ival so when you put them together? Well, that makes JL a happy, happy person! I loved seeing a stronger side of Ival and I adore seeing Griffin get jealous. He's so growly! The story was, as always, fast paced and highly entertaining. I wish she would write more of these two.
January 6, 2020
3.5*
Another enjoyable read. I’ll admit the Egyptian names kinda ran into each other at times. But this was entertaining. We knew almost from the get go that there was a lot more to Whyborne than we first thought. And with each passing book he develops and grows.
I love him and Griffin together.
Christine is a woman before her time and I was so happy to see her ... well I’m not giving spoilers. But it was good.
Another enjoyable read. I’ll admit the Egyptian names kinda ran into each other at times. But this was entertaining. We knew almost from the get go that there was a lot more to Whyborne than we first thought. And with each passing book he develops and grows.
I love him and Griffin together.
Christine is a woman before her time and I was so happy to see her ... well I’m not giving spoilers. But it was good.
September 29, 2021
Whyborne being forced out of the museum into Egypt, crossing the desert on a camel. What more do you need? Of course there's more, bad guys, magic, evil, Griffin and Christine (and her backstory). I'm really enjoying these books!
February 5, 2016
When I think of Whyborne and his fez, all I can see is this: 
This was, once again, a fantastic ride! This time, Hawk takes us all the way to Egypt, where we find ghuls and a demon and long lost sister , mummies an ancient Egyptian queen, and magic, and thrills and chills! But through it all, we have Percival and Griffin, who just shine so bright, no matter what is happening around them. I think these two are fast becoming my favorite couple, and I can't wait to read the next book in this series.
This was, once again, a fantastic ride! This time, Hawk takes us all the way to Egypt, where we find ghuls and a demon and long lost sister , mummies an ancient Egyptian queen, and magic, and thrills and chills! But through it all, we have Percival and Griffin, who just shine so bright, no matter what is happening around them. I think these two are fast becoming my favorite couple, and I can't wait to read the next book in this series.
June 27, 2017
Review On Prism Book Alliance, where the Pharaohs Run Amok!
Ahh, Ival and Grif. They’re now a year into their cohabitation and enjoying it greatly. It isn’t long before the next cause for adventure becomes clear: they’re needed in Egypt, Christine having sent a short and nearly desperate sounding telegram, imploring them to come and help on her latest dig, her first as leader. So what’s a Whyborne to do? Make his way to Cairo, of course, with Griffin accompanying his dear in order to help their friend.
That’s one of the best things about this book, and the series: how friendship is treated, appreciated and given the time and space to develop and show its importance, joy and challenges. Christine and Whyborne, of course, but also Christine and Griffin, and the element of true friendship within Ival and Grif’s relationship. As a trio, they’re a strong force of nature and amusement. As usual, the “bickering” between Whyborne and Christine is pointedly honest and as snicker inducing as ever. Griffin agrees. Love it!
There is a lot of detail about Egyptian history, the team’s current locations and the mythical creatures they find themselves battling. Now, I eat that stuff up like an endless supply of green m&m’s, so it was fun to become totally immersed in all of it. However, it did bring to light one thing that I felt sometimes took a backseat to the story as a whole: that connection and display of friendship between Christine, Griffin and Whyborne. Whenever a gloriously comical or emotional scene would come up, I found myself thinking “oh! Yes! That’s what I’m looking for!” During the longer stretches between the major interactions between the three, the story felt like it lost a bit of its footing, turning in on itself.
For all of his deeply embedded uncertainty and (seemingly) shallow knowledge of his self-worth, Whyborne shows incredible strength and determination when it comes to those he loves, especially Christine and Griffin. He’s had a lifetime of being told by nearly every corner and facet of society that he is weak, unimportant and unworthy. He’s had a scant number of months, maybe a couple of years at this point, of friendship and love, of Christine and Griffin specifically telling him the exact opposite is true. It takes a long time to make those kinds of changes inside of yourself, to start to believe and make it all real inside your heart. No matter how adamant your loves are in demonstrating that worth, that importance and strength, no matter how much you value their love, it’s a very difficult thing to accomplish and Whyborne is slowly making progress.
Ival & Grif are as beautiful, sweet, sexy, and vocal as ever. They know each other rather well at this point, so their little gestures displayed and interpreted went right to my heart. However, despite how much they’ve learned about each other, they do still have differences, like we all do, and try to work through them, even if success doesn’t come right away.
It does take a while but the story builds momentum and takes a rather unexpected turn. Exciting! And impactful, and it can only result in change, both in perception and relationships.
And then, just as I felt a bit settled after that, there’s yet another twist! And an action sequence worthy of any Indy Jones adventure. My heart was pounding! And, thanks to Ms Hawk’s as always fantastically detailed descriptions, I could picture and smell and hear everything. Intense!
The greatest result of these events is Percival Endicott Whyborne coming to the realization and acceptance of who and what he truly is. Woohoo! Seriously, that’s what it felt like. :)
This is the sort of series for which I would recommend reading the books in order. Each story itself is stand-alone but the character development is so very important in each of them and your reading experience would take a hit of you started in the middle. Besides, you now have FOUR books (and a short story crossover with a certain other couple of investigators) in which to completely lose yourself with Whyborne and Griffin. I definitely recommend you do just that. ;)
The author kindly provided a review copy in exchange for my honest review.
Ahh, Ival and Grif. They’re now a year into their cohabitation and enjoying it greatly. It isn’t long before the next cause for adventure becomes clear: they’re needed in Egypt, Christine having sent a short and nearly desperate sounding telegram, imploring them to come and help on her latest dig, her first as leader. So what’s a Whyborne to do? Make his way to Cairo, of course, with Griffin accompanying his dear in order to help their friend.
That’s one of the best things about this book, and the series: how friendship is treated, appreciated and given the time and space to develop and show its importance, joy and challenges. Christine and Whyborne, of course, but also Christine and Griffin, and the element of true friendship within Ival and Grif’s relationship. As a trio, they’re a strong force of nature and amusement. As usual, the “bickering” between Whyborne and Christine is pointedly honest and as snicker inducing as ever. Griffin agrees. Love it!
There is a lot of detail about Egyptian history, the team’s current locations and the mythical creatures they find themselves battling. Now, I eat that stuff up like an endless supply of green m&m’s, so it was fun to become totally immersed in all of it. However, it did bring to light one thing that I felt sometimes took a backseat to the story as a whole: that connection and display of friendship between Christine, Griffin and Whyborne. Whenever a gloriously comical or emotional scene would come up, I found myself thinking “oh! Yes! That’s what I’m looking for!” During the longer stretches between the major interactions between the three, the story felt like it lost a bit of its footing, turning in on itself.
For all of his deeply embedded uncertainty and (seemingly) shallow knowledge of his self-worth, Whyborne shows incredible strength and determination when it comes to those he loves, especially Christine and Griffin. He’s had a lifetime of being told by nearly every corner and facet of society that he is weak, unimportant and unworthy. He’s had a scant number of months, maybe a couple of years at this point, of friendship and love, of Christine and Griffin specifically telling him the exact opposite is true. It takes a long time to make those kinds of changes inside of yourself, to start to believe and make it all real inside your heart. No matter how adamant your loves are in demonstrating that worth, that importance and strength, no matter how much you value their love, it’s a very difficult thing to accomplish and Whyborne is slowly making progress.
Ival & Grif are as beautiful, sweet, sexy, and vocal as ever. They know each other rather well at this point, so their little gestures displayed and interpreted went right to my heart. However, despite how much they’ve learned about each other, they do still have differences, like we all do, and try to work through them, even if success doesn’t come right away.
It does take a while but the story builds momentum and takes a rather unexpected turn. Exciting! And impactful, and it can only result in change, both in perception and relationships.
And then, just as I felt a bit settled after that, there’s yet another twist! And an action sequence worthy of any Indy Jones adventure. My heart was pounding! And, thanks to Ms Hawk’s as always fantastically detailed descriptions, I could picture and smell and hear everything. Intense!
The greatest result of these events is Percival Endicott Whyborne coming to the realization and acceptance of who and what he truly is. Woohoo! Seriously, that’s what it felt like. :)
This is the sort of series for which I would recommend reading the books in order. Each story itself is stand-alone but the character development is so very important in each of them and your reading experience would take a hit of you started in the middle. Besides, you now have FOUR books (and a short story crossover with a certain other couple of investigators) in which to completely lose yourself with Whyborne and Griffin. I definitely recommend you do just that. ;)
The author kindly provided a review copy in exchange for my honest review.
August 29, 2019
Reread in 2019
4.5 stars, again
I don’t have much to add to my original review, except that one of the things I love most about this series is the relationship between Whyborne and Christine and I’d forgotten that this book in particular has some amazing moments between them.
Also, after my first read I didn’t think of mentioning Daisy, which feels like a serious overlook on my part. So, mention of honor for the wonderful Daisy and her curious choice of diet. :D
-------
Original review in 2017:
4.5 stars
This series gets better and better with every book and Necropolis had more of everything I like about it.
The Egyptian setting was stunning and, though I guessed from the beginning that something wasn’t right with , the “mystery” was very well executed.
I liked that we got to learn more about Christine’s past and to see her in an usual vulnerable position.
I also liked the relationship development between Whyborne and Griffin, they’re going in the right direction, talking to each other about doubts and comparing expectations.
They disagree about things, but they’re also learning how to live with that disagreement and that’s very promising, because from how things are shaping up with Whyborne’s powers, I think Griffin will need to be the counterbalance to Whyborne’s exploration.
4.5 stars, again
I don’t have much to add to my original review, except that one of the things I love most about this series is the relationship between Whyborne and Christine and I’d forgotten that this book in particular has some amazing moments between them.
Also, after my first read I didn’t think of mentioning Daisy, which feels like a serious overlook on my part. So, mention of honor for the wonderful Daisy and her curious choice of diet. :D
-------
Original review in 2017:
4.5 stars
This series gets better and better with every book and Necropolis had more of everything I like about it.
The Egyptian setting was stunning and, though I guessed from the beginning that something wasn’t right with , the “mystery” was very well executed.
I liked that we got to learn more about Christine’s past and to see her in an usual vulnerable position.
I also liked the relationship development between Whyborne and Griffin, they’re going in the right direction, talking to each other about doubts and comparing expectations.
They disagree about things, but they’re also learning how to live with that disagreement and that’s very promising, because from how things are shaping up with Whyborne’s powers, I think Griffin will need to be the counterbalance to Whyborne’s exploration.
May 25, 2014
This book was positively full of gross, icky monsters.
The last two books have relied heavily, even hinged upon, TSTL storylines, and this one was refreshingly devoid of that. This story was very much more a mystery/adventure story than a romance, as has been the pattern in this series. The big twist was clear to me very, very early in the book, which might have spoiled a little bit of my fun, but this is part of my frustration with the mystery genre, and not necessarily a reflection on Ms. Hawk's storytelling or writing, both of which are awesome.
I'd say this was the most icky-gross fun I've had reading these books yet, and I prefer this over the previous two in the series, though Widdershins, with its sexual tension and romance storyline, remains my favorite.
Recommended for fans of icky monsters, mysteries, and Christine.
The last two books have relied heavily, even hinged upon, TSTL storylines, and this one was refreshingly devoid of that. This story was very much more a mystery/adventure story than a romance, as has been the pattern in this series. The big twist was clear to me very, very early in the book, which might have spoiled a little bit of my fun, but this is part of my frustration with the mystery genre, and not necessarily a reflection on Ms. Hawk's storytelling or writing, both of which are awesome.
I'd say this was the most icky-gross fun I've had reading these books yet, and I prefer this over the previous two in the series, though Widdershins, with its sexual tension and romance storyline, remains my favorite.
Recommended for fans of icky monsters, mysteries, and Christine.
June 1, 2025
4th re-read May 2025
_____________
Still amazing!!!
_____________
Still amazing!!!
March 15, 2016
I’m pretty sure I’ve said this after each one of these but here I go again. This one is my favourite. For realz this time.
‘Necropolis’ had it all going on. From the first sentence to the last I was totally sucked in. I mean how could I not be? You take Whyborne who complained about going to West Virginia in ‘Threshold’ and send him to Egypt. To sleep in a tent!
Taking Whyborne out of his comfort zone is always hilarious. He is so not a people person and he really likes his routine, he is starting to adapt much faster now but he is still proper and rigid enough that the period of adaptation is pretty damn funny.
We also get loads and loads and loads of Christine and she is still being her usual badass self but we also get to learn a lot more about her and we see a much more vulnerable side to her.
”You know I love you, don’t you?” I felt stupid, saying the words aloud. But Christine had always been more of a sister to me than the one who I shared my blood.
She punched me lightly on the arm.
“Yes, yes. I love you, too. Now let’s see if we can get out of here.”
It was great to learn so much more about her and this book really made it feel much more like it was Whyborne, Griffin and Christine as a team as opposed to just Whyborne and Griffin.
”Whyborne, Ival. You don’t have to do anything to replace my family. You are my family I hope to find my brothers. I hope they are happy in their lives and will be happy for me in mine. But they’ll never take the place of you, or Christine, or Heliabel.”
The drama in this was fantastic and a few times I really was up in the air about who could be trusted. I loved it. I’ve mentioned before that I get a real B-movie vibe from these books and that was even more the case in this one. So much fun and kind of gross and a little terrifying at times. This is Egyptian black arts we are dealing with. Shit got REAL a few times. It had it all.
Sandstorms:
Crazy goddess lady:
Weird and creepy undead things:
The running for your life moments:
And the so sweet I’m gonna cry moments:
"He took my hand-then used it to pull me to him, tilting his head back to kiss me softly, Christine stood only a few feet away, and I wanted to protest against such intimacy in front of her.
But I wanted the kiss more."
And most importantly of all, we had some much loved camel action with the lovely Daisy:
”What’s its name?” I asked Iskander. “The camel, I mean.”
Iskander shrugged. “It doesn’t have one, as far as I know. Call it whatever you want.”
“Daisy,” I decided, after a quick glance to confirm it a female.
“What an absurd name for a camel,” Christine said as her mount heaved to its feet.
“Daisy and I don’t care.” I replied loftily.
Which led to Whyborne adopting a new look. I liked it and hope he wears it back at Widdershins.
I did feel like I was going to fall out with Whyborne a few times during this, he was incredibly unreasonable at times and I really felt for Griffin. But in the end Whyborne sorted his stubborn ass out so all is forgiven. It was touch and go there for a few chapters, thought I’d have to step in and give him a slap!!
Another great addition to this series.
Onwards!!
November 24, 2023
Reread - Nov 2023, October 2019 - great addition to the series. I love how this story basically revolves around Christine, Whyborne and Griffin's friendship, especially Christine and Whyborne. I love it! I love them!
Review
Ew. This was gross, it's not bad enough having people who eat people, but people (sort of) who eat dead rotting corpses *shudders* yuck! This series is so deliciously (terrible pun) scary and disturbing and even though I can easily guess who is the bad guy quite early on now, I still get super nervous waiting to see how it unfolds, which is what I love about this series.
I love Whyborne's general obliviousness of normal social situations, he is the epitome of the absent minded professor. His reaction to Daphne was priceless!
I loved seeing and hearing more about Christine and can't wait for the next one to see what's going on with Whyborne and his magical powers.
Griffin and Whyborne's love steals my heart! They are beautiful together!!
Review
Ew. This was gross, it's not bad enough having people who eat people, but people (sort of) who eat dead rotting corpses *shudders* yuck! This series is so deliciously (terrible pun) scary and disturbing and even though I can easily guess who is the bad guy quite early on now, I still get super nervous waiting to see how it unfolds, which is what I love about this series.
I love Whyborne's general obliviousness of normal social situations, he is the epitome of the absent minded professor. His reaction to Daphne was priceless!
I loved seeing and hearing more about Christine and can't wait for the next one to see what's going on with Whyborne and his magical powers.
Griffin and Whyborne's love steals my heart! They are beautiful together!!
May 7, 2020
4.5 Stars!! So far this is my favorite book in the series...maybe it’s the archeologist in me (OK, I only studied it in uni), or maybe it’s having visited the great pyramids, and Luxor, and the Valley of Kings. Whatever the reason, I have a thing for archaeology and Egyptology and this one hit all my buttons. Lovers, curses, mysterious robed men, half-eaten bodies, secret cellars, hat-eating camels, baby-stealing jackals, cobras, daemons, and magic. Oh, ya, sexy times, too :).
This is a truly fun and riveting series to read and enjoy!
This is a truly fun and riveting series to read and enjoy!
April 27, 2019
Reread review 4/27/19:
I remembered the camel And of course, knowing where things end up with Griffin and
The ending's a bit more rushed than I remember or would like, a little too summarized.
Original review 7/15/15:
4.5 stars
Tomb raiding/excavation and all the tropes that come with aren't exactly my favorite things ever. Sometimes they can be good cheesy fun (The Mummy trilogies for instance) but otherwise they're predictable and just tend to be there. Ms. Hawk does manage to avoid a lot of the tropes, but not all of them. As a result, the setting was only halfway interesting to me. What I did enjoy was the whodunit. Suspicion was cast on one person early on by Griffin and Whyborne, and then I kind of forgot about it. Suspicion is also cast, though in this case by the narrative itself, on another person also early on, and then I kind of forgot about it. The ah-ha! moments felt earned then, even if I knew from the start that there was something I didn't know.
I also appreciated the focus on each of the three main characters here. This is more Christine's story than Whyborne's or Griffin's, even if the story is still from Whyborne's POV. We meet Christine's long-lost sister, Daphne, and a potential love interest in Christine's assistant, Iskander. We learn that Christine's grant to excavate is under attack by uptight white dudes who don't like a woman playing in their sandbox, and Christine just generally continues to be awesome and kick butt.
Whyborne continues to grow his powers, which continues to be a point of conflict with Griffin. Thankfully, they've learned to talk - or at least argue constructively - about these things rather than letting them fester out of control. Men who talk to each other! So refreshing. Griffin has a subplot that seems more like setup for the next book, there's a camel obsessed with hats (fezzes are cool), lots of wild shenanigans in the desert, and the occasional hot sex scene. All in all, a very entertaining read.
I remembered the camel And of course, knowing where things end up with Griffin and
The ending's a bit more rushed than I remember or would like, a little too summarized.
Original review 7/15/15:
4.5 stars
Tomb raiding/excavation and all the tropes that come with aren't exactly my favorite things ever. Sometimes they can be good cheesy fun (The Mummy trilogies for instance) but otherwise they're predictable and just tend to be there. Ms. Hawk does manage to avoid a lot of the tropes, but not all of them. As a result, the setting was only halfway interesting to me. What I did enjoy was the whodunit. Suspicion was cast on one person early on by Griffin and Whyborne, and then I kind of forgot about it. Suspicion is also cast, though in this case by the narrative itself, on another person also early on, and then I kind of forgot about it. The ah-ha! moments felt earned then, even if I knew from the start that there was something I didn't know.
I also appreciated the focus on each of the three main characters here. This is more Christine's story than Whyborne's or Griffin's, even if the story is still from Whyborne's POV. We meet Christine's long-lost sister, Daphne, and a potential love interest in Christine's assistant, Iskander. We learn that Christine's grant to excavate is under attack by uptight white dudes who don't like a woman playing in their sandbox, and Christine just generally continues to be awesome and kick butt.
Whyborne continues to grow his powers, which continues to be a point of conflict with Griffin. Thankfully, they've learned to talk - or at least argue constructively - about these things rather than letting them fester out of control. Men who talk to each other! So refreshing. Griffin has a subplot that seems more like setup for the next book, there's a camel obsessed with hats (fezzes are cool), lots of wild shenanigans in the desert, and the occasional hot sex scene. All in all, a very entertaining read.
May 23, 2014
This series is absolutely amazing!!! This book has so many things that I love: mystery, fantasy, fabulous scenarios, history, great characters and most of all, a beautiful and honest love!
Whyborne and Griffin have my whole heart! Their relationship is growing and becoming stable... They can't imagine their life without each other. Insecurities disappear, fears of losing the other vanished, and their love is strong and amazing!
“You’re the world to me.”
Once again, I have to mention Christine! She is one of the most amazing female characters that I've read about. She's is intelligent, strong, she has personality, and the way I see it, she is important for the plot as is Whyborne or Griffin. So it's a pleasure to find such a character.
I don't know if there will be more books in this series, but I sincerely hope so... I don't get tired of this trio!
Whyborne and Griffin have my whole heart! Their relationship is growing and becoming stable... They can't imagine their life without each other. Insecurities disappear, fears of losing the other vanished, and their love is strong and amazing!
“You’re the world to me.”
Once again, I have to mention Christine! She is one of the most amazing female characters that I've read about. She's is intelligent, strong, she has personality, and the way I see it, she is important for the plot as is Whyborne or Griffin. So it's a pleasure to find such a character.
I don't know if there will be more books in this series, but I sincerely hope so... I don't get tired of this trio!
February 18, 2016
4.5 stars
Whyborne & Daisy. That is all.
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