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The Stolen Queen
Goodreads Choice Award
Nominee for Readers' Favorite Historical Fiction (2025)10 hours, 18 minutes
From New York Times bestselling author Fiona Davis, an utterly addictive new novel that will transport you from New York City’s most glamorous party to the labyrinth streets of Cairo and back.
Egypt, 1936: When anthropology student Charlotte Cross is offered a coveted spot on an archaeological dig in Egypt’s Valley of the Kings, she leaps at the opportunity. But after an unbearable tragedy strikes, Charlotte knows her future will never be the same.
New York City, 1978: Eighteen-year-old Annie Jenkins is thrilled when she lands an opportunity to work for iconic former Vogue fashion editor Diana Vreeland, who’s in the midst of organizing the famous Met Gala, hosted at the museum and known across the city as the “party of the year.” Though Annie soon realizes she’ll have her work cut out for her, scrambling to meet Diana’s capricious demands and exacting standards.
Meanwhile, Charlotte, now leading a quiet life as the associate curator of the Met’s celebrated Department of Egyptian Art, wants little to do with the upcoming gala. She’s consumed with her research on Hathorkare—a rare female pharaoh dismissed by most other Egyptologists as unimportant.
That is, until the night of the gala. When one of the Egyptian art collection’s most valuable artifacts goes missing . . . and there are signs Hathorkare’s legendary curse might be reawakening.
As Annie and Charlotte team up to search for the missing antiquity, a desperate hunch leads the unlikely duo to one place Charlotte swore she’d never return: Egypt. But if they’re to have any hope of finding the artifact, Charlotte will need to confront the demons of her past—which may mean leading them both directly into danger.
From New York Times bestselling author Fiona Davis, an utterly addictive new novel that will transport you from New York City’s most glamorous party to the labyrinth streets of Cairo and back.
Egypt, 1936: When anthropology student Charlotte Cross is offered a coveted spot on an archaeological dig in Egypt’s Valley of the Kings, she leaps at the opportunity. But after an unbearable tragedy strikes, Charlotte knows her future will never be the same.
New York City, 1978: Eighteen-year-old Annie Jenkins is thrilled when she lands an opportunity to work for iconic former Vogue fashion editor Diana Vreeland, who’s in the midst of organizing the famous Met Gala, hosted at the museum and known across the city as the “party of the year.” Though Annie soon realizes she’ll have her work cut out for her, scrambling to meet Diana’s capricious demands and exacting standards.
Meanwhile, Charlotte, now leading a quiet life as the associate curator of the Met’s celebrated Department of Egyptian Art, wants little to do with the upcoming gala. She’s consumed with her research on Hathorkare—a rare female pharaoh dismissed by most other Egyptologists as unimportant.
That is, until the night of the gala. When one of the Egyptian art collection’s most valuable artifacts goes missing . . . and there are signs Hathorkare’s legendary curse might be reawakening.
As Annie and Charlotte team up to search for the missing antiquity, a desperate hunch leads the unlikely duo to one place Charlotte swore she’d never return: Egypt. But if they’re to have any hope of finding the artifact, Charlotte will need to confront the demons of her past—which may mean leading them both directly into danger.
11 pages, Audible Audio
First published January 7, 2025
About the author
Fiona Davis
15 books10.2k followersFiona Davis is the New York Times bestselling author of eight historical fiction novels set in iconic New York City buildings, including The Stolen Queen, The Magnolia Palace, and The Lions of Fifth Avenue, which was a Good Morning America Book Club pick. She's also the author of Samantha: The Next Chapter, the first legacy novel for American Girl. She first came to New York as an actress, but fell in love with writing after getting a master's degree at Columbia Journalism School. Her work has appeared in The Wall Street Journal, Oprah magazine, and elsewhere, and her books have been translated into more than twenty languages. She's based in New York City.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 6,788 reviews
February 16, 2025
3.5 ⭐
You dangle ancient Egyptian curses in front of me, and I'm going to sign up every time. But I feel like The Stolen Queen wasn't quite what I was expecting.
At its core, this is more of a found family and coming-of-age story than anything else. Its characters were its strongest component, and it was satisfying to follow Charlotte through her archeological journey and Annie through her Met Gala adventures while seeing them gain confidence and grow into themselves.
Another thing the story got right was the atmosphere, from the dusty ancient archeological sites to the hushed reverence of the Met to the glamour and excitement of its party of the year. It makes you feel like you are really there.
While the story did keep me engaged throughout, I wouldn't say it was unputdownable at any point. The dual timeline is really more of a triple narrative, with Charlotte and Annie both in the present and Charlotte also in the past. That means anytime we build up momentum, we immediately switch to a different scene, which has the effect of slowing the pacing down.
Of course the Egyptian slant with its ancient history and antiquities and curses is what really drew me to this story in the first place. But before you get too excited, you should know there are no actual paranormal events in here. This takes place solidly in our physical world, and so all mysteries are precipitated by human actions.
If I were to point to one thing that fell short for me in here, it's that everything comes across just a smidge too superficial and wrap up a bit too nicely. There is this persistent feeling that nothing is on the line, that everything will work out for everyone. And because of that, it lacks the all-important tension that really propels a story forward and keeps the reader glued to the pages.
Nevertheless, I think historical fiction fans will find this enjoyable, and the ancient Egyptian angle certainly adds a compelling note to the whole thing. Just make sure you set expectations correctly going in that this is really more cozy than thrilling.
~~~~~~~~~~~~
✧ Connect with me ✧ Instagram ✧
You dangle ancient Egyptian curses in front of me, and I'm going to sign up every time. But I feel like The Stolen Queen wasn't quite what I was expecting.
At its core, this is more of a found family and coming-of-age story than anything else. Its characters were its strongest component, and it was satisfying to follow Charlotte through her archeological journey and Annie through her Met Gala adventures while seeing them gain confidence and grow into themselves.
Another thing the story got right was the atmosphere, from the dusty ancient archeological sites to the hushed reverence of the Met to the glamour and excitement of its party of the year. It makes you feel like you are really there.
While the story did keep me engaged throughout, I wouldn't say it was unputdownable at any point. The dual timeline is really more of a triple narrative, with Charlotte and Annie both in the present and Charlotte also in the past. That means anytime we build up momentum, we immediately switch to a different scene, which has the effect of slowing the pacing down.
Of course the Egyptian slant with its ancient history and antiquities and curses is what really drew me to this story in the first place. But before you get too excited, you should know there are no actual paranormal events in here. This takes place solidly in our physical world, and so all mysteries are precipitated by human actions.
If I were to point to one thing that fell short for me in here, it's that everything comes across just a smidge too superficial and wrap up a bit too nicely. There is this persistent feeling that nothing is on the line, that everything will work out for everyone. And because of that, it lacks the all-important tension that really propels a story forward and keeps the reader glued to the pages.
Nevertheless, I think historical fiction fans will find this enjoyable, and the ancient Egyptian angle certainly adds a compelling note to the whole thing. Just make sure you set expectations correctly going in that this is really more cozy than thrilling.
~~~~~~~~~~~~
✧ Connect with me ✧ Instagram ✧
January 10, 2025
This book was the literary equivalent of junk food: easily digestible, but utterly trashy, and not in a fun way. I totally get why some people are rating it higher. It’s clear the author put effort into plotting everything out, and usually, I’m all about appreciating a well-thought-through story. But The Stolen Queen was like a soap opera gone rogue, relying way too much on convenient coincidences, cartoonish twists, and wacky occurrences to move the plot along.
Let’s talk about suspension of disbelief. The number of times I had to just go with it was way too damn high. Random accidents kept happening to move the story forward, and characters tied clues together from the flimsiest of threads. If the timeline or circumstances shifted even slightly, most of those connections wouldn’t hold up. Honestly, it felt like the plot itself was held together by sheer luck. And don’t even get me started on the villain's dramatic, overly long exposition. It was giving “Saturday morning cartoon” vibes, not what I want from my historical fiction.
Oh, and the historical inaccuracies? Painful. Look, I know it’s fiction, but if you’re going to set your story in a specific historical era, at least make it feel authentic. Some things just didn’t fit the 1930s or 1970s timelines. For instance, an Egyptian hospital in the 1970s having a CT scanner? Yeah, no. That’s a tiny detail, but it’s one of soooo many. I can suspend disbelief for a sci-fi or fantasy novel, but if a book is billing itself as historical fiction, I need that history to check out. Otherwise, I can’t immerse myself in the story.
The non-communication trope in this book also drove me insane. So many conflicts could’ve been resolved if people just talked to each other. Like, imagine not telling your fiancé about one of the most life-defining events you’ve ever experienced just because your parents discouraged you from opening up. Make it make sense!
Another thing that felt off was the pacing. The main event teased in the premise? It doesn’t even happen until halfway through the book. Putting something in the synopsis that doesn’t show up until the 50% mark feels like putting a spoiler in there. And yes, it's the title, so it's even more awkward. I just feel like events that happen beyond the 25% mark in a book shouldn't be in the synopsis.
There were moments of redemption, though. The relationship between Annie and her mother genuinely pulled at my heartstrings. I really felt for Annie in those moments. But even there, the story undercut itself. Her role as a fashion assistant was handed to her way too easily. Like, I know the 1970s were all about networking, but this girl’s career break felt completely unrealistic. Nobody lands a job like that without serious effort, connections or not.
If you’re looking for some light, questionable entertainment, skip this book and just watch a comically bad movie instead. It’ll save you time and give you the same over-the-top drama without the frustration.
Let’s talk about suspension of disbelief. The number of times I had to just go with it was way too damn high. Random accidents kept happening to move the story forward, and characters tied clues together from the flimsiest of threads. If the timeline or circumstances shifted even slightly, most of those connections wouldn’t hold up. Honestly, it felt like the plot itself was held together by sheer luck. And don’t even get me started on the villain's dramatic, overly long exposition. It was giving “Saturday morning cartoon” vibes, not what I want from my historical fiction.
Oh, and the historical inaccuracies? Painful. Look, I know it’s fiction, but if you’re going to set your story in a specific historical era, at least make it feel authentic. Some things just didn’t fit the 1930s or 1970s timelines. For instance, an Egyptian hospital in the 1970s having a CT scanner? Yeah, no. That’s a tiny detail, but it’s one of soooo many. I can suspend disbelief for a sci-fi or fantasy novel, but if a book is billing itself as historical fiction, I need that history to check out. Otherwise, I can’t immerse myself in the story.
The non-communication trope in this book also drove me insane. So many conflicts could’ve been resolved if people just talked to each other. Like, imagine not telling your fiancé about one of the most life-defining events you’ve ever experienced just because your parents discouraged you from opening up. Make it make sense!
Another thing that felt off was the pacing. The main event teased in the premise? It doesn’t even happen until halfway through the book. Putting something in the synopsis that doesn’t show up until the 50% mark feels like putting a spoiler in there. And yes, it's the title, so it's even more awkward. I just feel like events that happen beyond the 25% mark in a book shouldn't be in the synopsis.
There were moments of redemption, though. The relationship between Annie and her mother genuinely pulled at my heartstrings. I really felt for Annie in those moments. But even there, the story undercut itself. Her role as a fashion assistant was handed to her way too easily. Like, I know the 1970s were all about networking, but this girl’s career break felt completely unrealistic. Nobody lands a job like that without serious effort, connections or not.
If you’re looking for some light, questionable entertainment, skip this book and just watch a comically bad movie instead. It’ll save you time and give you the same over-the-top drama without the frustration.
December 8, 2024
Fiona Davis masterfully combines history, mystery, and emotional depth in The Stolen Queen, a story that travels seamlessly between 1930s Egypt and 1970s New York City. At its heart are two unforgettable women: Charlotte, a former archaeologist whose promising career was shattered by a devastating loss, and Annie, a determined young assistant navigating the vibrant yet chaotic world of the Met Gala.
Charlotte’s quiet life as a curator at the Metropolitan Museum of Art is upended when a valuable artifact tied to Egypt’s enigmatic female pharaoh, Hathorkare, vanishes during the “party of the year.” The theft forces her to confront the ghosts of her past, as her journey with Annie leads them back to the Valley of the Kings and the secrets she thought she had left behind.
Davis excels at blending fact with fiction, crafting a tale rich in atmosphere and historical intrigue. The pacing is deliberate, allowing the vivid details of ancient Egypt and the opulent energy of 1970s New York to shine. While some plot twists were predictable, others delivered satisfying surprises that kept me invested until the very end.
Charlotte and Annie’s dynamic is a highlight, showcasing the strength of intergenerational friendships and the courage required to face one’s personal history. Fans of slower-burn mysteries with a strong historical foundation will appreciate the care with which Davis weaves together these two timelines.
While the resolution ties up a bit too neatly, the overall experience is immersive and rewarding. The Stolen Queen is a compelling exploration of the intersections between ambition, loss, and the allure of the past. I highly recommend it to readers fascinated by ancient Egypt, museum culture, and stories that bridge eras with grace and heart.
A huge thanks to NetGalley and PENGUIN GROUP Dutton for sharing this gripping historical fiction's digital reviewer copy with me in exchange for my honest feedback.
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Charlotte’s quiet life as a curator at the Metropolitan Museum of Art is upended when a valuable artifact tied to Egypt’s enigmatic female pharaoh, Hathorkare, vanishes during the “party of the year.” The theft forces her to confront the ghosts of her past, as her journey with Annie leads them back to the Valley of the Kings and the secrets she thought she had left behind.
Davis excels at blending fact with fiction, crafting a tale rich in atmosphere and historical intrigue. The pacing is deliberate, allowing the vivid details of ancient Egypt and the opulent energy of 1970s New York to shine. While some plot twists were predictable, others delivered satisfying surprises that kept me invested until the very end.
Charlotte and Annie’s dynamic is a highlight, showcasing the strength of intergenerational friendships and the courage required to face one’s personal history. Fans of slower-burn mysteries with a strong historical foundation will appreciate the care with which Davis weaves together these two timelines.
While the resolution ties up a bit too neatly, the overall experience is immersive and rewarding. The Stolen Queen is a compelling exploration of the intersections between ambition, loss, and the allure of the past. I highly recommend it to readers fascinated by ancient Egypt, museum culture, and stories that bridge eras with grace and heart.
A huge thanks to NetGalley and PENGUIN GROUP Dutton for sharing this gripping historical fiction's digital reviewer copy with me in exchange for my honest feedback.
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September 29, 2025
3.5 ⭐️ rounded up.
Set in both 1936 Egypt and 1978 New York City, The Stolen Queen by Fiona Davis is a dual timeline historical fiction novel with a mystery that ties the two narratives together.
On the night of the Met Gala, one of the most valuable artifacts from the Egyptian collection goes missing. Charlotte, an Egyptologist and associate curator at the Met, is forced to return to Egypt in an attempt to recover the stolen piece and confront the past she has long avoided.
Overall, this was an enjoyable and well written book, though it didn’t quite match what I was expecting. I love a good heist story, and this one delivered, but I was hoping for more emphasis on the curse of Hathorkare and the Egyptian history rather than the Met Gala setting. Still, I’d recommend this to fans of historical fiction since my lower rating came down to my own expectations. This was my first book by Fiona Davis, and I already have a few more of hers on my TBR that I’ll be checking out.
This was a buddy read with Ari, which made the experience even more fun. I always enjoy sharing theories with her, so be sure to take a look at her review.
Set in both 1936 Egypt and 1978 New York City, The Stolen Queen by Fiona Davis is a dual timeline historical fiction novel with a mystery that ties the two narratives together.
On the night of the Met Gala, one of the most valuable artifacts from the Egyptian collection goes missing. Charlotte, an Egyptologist and associate curator at the Met, is forced to return to Egypt in an attempt to recover the stolen piece and confront the past she has long avoided.
Overall, this was an enjoyable and well written book, though it didn’t quite match what I was expecting. I love a good heist story, and this one delivered, but I was hoping for more emphasis on the curse of Hathorkare and the Egyptian history rather than the Met Gala setting. Still, I’d recommend this to fans of historical fiction since my lower rating came down to my own expectations. This was my first book by Fiona Davis, and I already have a few more of hers on my TBR that I’ll be checking out.
This was a buddy read with Ari, which made the experience even more fun. I always enjoy sharing theories with her, so be sure to take a look at her review.
November 7, 2024
The Stolen Queen has a dual timeline, it alternates between 1936 and 1978 and is told from the points of view of the two main characters Charlotte Cross and Annie Jenkins.
Egypt, 1936: Charlotte is a young American anthropology student and she has the opportunity to take part in a dig in the Valley of the Kings. Here Charlotte falls in love for the first time, discovers a burial chamber and a broad collar necklace. When a tragic event happens Charlotte wonders if this has anything to do with the curse of the pharaohs and which is alleged to be cast upon anyone who disturbs the mummy of an ancient Egyptian, especially a pharaoh. A curse, which doesn’t differentiate between thieves and archaeologists.
Charlotte is now the associated curator of the Department of Egyptian Artifacts at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, and she’s researching Hathorkare or Hatshepsut a female pharaoh and most Egyptologists assume isn't important and Charlotte want's to prove them wrong.
New York City, 1978: Annie’s thrilled when she‘s asked to be former Vogue fashion designer Diana Vreeland new personal assistant leading up to the Met Gala and it's an opportunity to change her life. On the night of the gala, things don’t go as planned, Annie and Charlotte are caught up in the unfolding chaos when the Cerulean Queen one of the museums most valuable pieces goes missing and Charlotte has to do the one thing she swore she would never do and that’s return to Egypt.
I received a copy of The Stolen Queen from Edelweiss and Penguin Random House. Fiona Davis likes to write stories based on real people, objects and places and she does this superbly in her latest narrative. In Egypt, while trying to find the Cerulean Queen and how the broad collar necklace resurfaced after being lost years ago, Charlotte and Annie uncover a dangerous trail of deceit and lies and a trade in stolen artifacts. I love reading about Egypt and Cairo, tombs and mummy’s and Ms. Davis has written another five star masterpiece about lost treasure and a plot full of mystery and secrets.
Egypt, 1936: Charlotte is a young American anthropology student and she has the opportunity to take part in a dig in the Valley of the Kings. Here Charlotte falls in love for the first time, discovers a burial chamber and a broad collar necklace. When a tragic event happens Charlotte wonders if this has anything to do with the curse of the pharaohs and which is alleged to be cast upon anyone who disturbs the mummy of an ancient Egyptian, especially a pharaoh. A curse, which doesn’t differentiate between thieves and archaeologists.
Charlotte is now the associated curator of the Department of Egyptian Artifacts at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, and she’s researching Hathorkare or Hatshepsut a female pharaoh and most Egyptologists assume isn't important and Charlotte want's to prove them wrong.
New York City, 1978: Annie’s thrilled when she‘s asked to be former Vogue fashion designer Diana Vreeland new personal assistant leading up to the Met Gala and it's an opportunity to change her life. On the night of the gala, things don’t go as planned, Annie and Charlotte are caught up in the unfolding chaos when the Cerulean Queen one of the museums most valuable pieces goes missing and Charlotte has to do the one thing she swore she would never do and that’s return to Egypt.
I received a copy of The Stolen Queen from Edelweiss and Penguin Random House. Fiona Davis likes to write stories based on real people, objects and places and she does this superbly in her latest narrative. In Egypt, while trying to find the Cerulean Queen and how the broad collar necklace resurfaced after being lost years ago, Charlotte and Annie uncover a dangerous trail of deceit and lies and a trade in stolen artifacts. I love reading about Egypt and Cairo, tombs and mummy’s and Ms. Davis has written another five star masterpiece about lost treasure and a plot full of mystery and secrets.
November 26, 2025
This was a great read for me!
If you like Egyptology, Archeology, Mystery and a fast-paced read you’re in luck because this one is for you😁
I was very pleased with this book being my first by this author; I hope you will also enjoy it❣️
If you like Egyptology, Archeology, Mystery and a fast-paced read you’re in luck because this one is for you😁
I was very pleased with this book being my first by this author; I hope you will also enjoy it❣️
January 18, 2025
This was just... a mess. Four different stories threaded together and held with Scotch tape. Alternating chapters set in the past (but only enough to maintain it for half the book, and entirely unnecessary given how often characters repeat exactly what happened back then). Annie's home life. Charlotte's tiresome history. And lastly, treated with the absolute least importance, the meager plot that gives the book its title. The reddest of herrings, just an excuse to force characters to run around.
Also, you can't just say "this character is so clumsy" to justify the fact that she literally stumbles into multiple plot devices. Oh look, she tripped and fell and discovered a hidden chamber. Whoopsie, she tripped and knocked over a photograph that blew the story wide open. It was tedious and lazy.
Then the last 25% of the book, which was just characters standing in a circle tying up the plot threads in the least dynamic way possible. A series of monologues that explained the ending instead of actually HAVING an ending.
My last Fiona Davis book. She's not untalented, but she definitely needs to learn how to weave stories together better.
Also, you can't just say "this character is so clumsy" to justify the fact that she literally stumbles into multiple plot devices. Oh look, she tripped and fell and discovered a hidden chamber. Whoopsie, she tripped and knocked over a photograph that blew the story wide open. It was tedious and lazy.
Then the last 25% of the book, which was just characters standing in a circle tying up the plot threads in the least dynamic way possible. A series of monologues that explained the ending instead of actually HAVING an ending.
My last Fiona Davis book. She's not untalented, but she definitely needs to learn how to weave stories together better.
June 22, 2024
Thank you to Netgalley and Penguin group Dutton for the arc. The cover art is beautiful and the historical premise really captured me. The first half of the book was extremely strong, I was immediately hooked. Charlotte was a strong lead character, and Annie’s softness was admirable and sweet. They both had strong story lines and it was interesting to see their different perspectives from the same events, and how their stories intertwined initially without them noticing.
I love Egyptian history, and enjoyed the back and forth of the two different periods of time. I loved the heart breaking storyline of Charlotte’s past and seeing how it stuck with her into her later life. Annie’s story felt real and personal, and made me feel for her, easily wanting to root for her happiness and success.
Despite these initial thoughts, the middle half and ending of the book brought down the rating for me. I found it rather anticlimactic, and everything was wrapped up in a bow too quickly, and perfectly. I got to a point where I only continued because the beginning had been so capturing and I wanted to have the answers. I think that too many lose ends were tied up all at once so it didn’t give the reader the time to really sit with each revelation. They were also rather lacklustre and so convenient it didn’t feel realistic enough. The revelation of who was behind everything came out of no where, they weren’t characters that gave me the shock value I wanted. I would argue that some characters had more reason to have been behind it, and would of been shocking if it were someone we had seen more of.
Overall, I would recommend this book still but am disappointed and wish it kept the energy I initially felt toward the beginning as I had very high hopes for the rest of the story.
I love Egyptian history, and enjoyed the back and forth of the two different periods of time. I loved the heart breaking storyline of Charlotte’s past and seeing how it stuck with her into her later life. Annie’s story felt real and personal, and made me feel for her, easily wanting to root for her happiness and success.
Despite these initial thoughts, the middle half and ending of the book brought down the rating for me. I found it rather anticlimactic, and everything was wrapped up in a bow too quickly, and perfectly. I got to a point where I only continued because the beginning had been so capturing and I wanted to have the answers. I think that too many lose ends were tied up all at once so it didn’t give the reader the time to really sit with each revelation. They were also rather lacklustre and so convenient it didn’t feel realistic enough. The revelation of who was behind everything came out of no where, they weren’t characters that gave me the shock value I wanted. I would argue that some characters had more reason to have been behind it, and would of been shocking if it were someone we had seen more of.
Overall, I would recommend this book still but am disappointed and wish it kept the energy I initially felt toward the beginning as I had very high hopes for the rest of the story.
May 27, 2024
This novel centers on Met Gala, stolen art, a tragedy four decades earlier, travel, and an Egyptian curse. Repatriation law is one of my favorite legal topics and the first Monday of May is one of my favorite days of the year. As much as I loved the plot with its twists and resolutions, however, I may have actually loved the characters and their development more.
Once again, Fiona Davis delivers the ideal blend of fact and fiction. Davis’ research on Egyptology and the Met Gala is impeccable; the facts are easily verifiable and the fictional parts are disclosed in the Author’s Note. This is the kind of book I would especially love a high-school student to annotate for Davis’ rich use of figurative language. While noting the striking similes that I actually reread because they were so good, a bonus I would hope for the student would be to critically think about important issues such as beauty standards according to Vreeland, the scope of archaeology and professional expectations of women, or repatriation.
That said, repatriation is fascinating because of its nuances. Davis does an incredible job using characters to present both sides of the ethical debate without settling on the right answer, if there even is one in an imperfect world. This adds meaningful depth to the villains’ motivations in this story, though the illegality of their actions is of course clear.
This will certainly be one of my favorite books of the year and I recommend it to all. Thank you NetGalley and Penguin Group Dutton for this advanced copy. All opinions are my own.
Once again, Fiona Davis delivers the ideal blend of fact and fiction. Davis’ research on Egyptology and the Met Gala is impeccable; the facts are easily verifiable and the fictional parts are disclosed in the Author’s Note. This is the kind of book I would especially love a high-school student to annotate for Davis’ rich use of figurative language. While noting the striking similes that I actually reread because they were so good, a bonus I would hope for the student would be to critically think about important issues such as beauty standards according to Vreeland, the scope of archaeology and professional expectations of women, or repatriation.
That said, repatriation is fascinating because of its nuances. Davis does an incredible job using characters to present both sides of the ethical debate without settling on the right answer, if there even is one in an imperfect world. This adds meaningful depth to the villains’ motivations in this story, though the illegality of their actions is of course clear.
This will certainly be one of my favorite books of the year and I recommend it to all. Thank you NetGalley and Penguin Group Dutton for this advanced copy. All opinions are my own.
January 11, 2025
4.5 stars, rounded up. I love Fiona Davis’ NYC building-set historical novels & I think “the Stolen Queen” is her best yet!! It’s set partly in the Met during the Gala event & has duel time-lines of the late 1970’s (during Tut mania) and the mid-1930’s with a great deal is also set in Egypt𓂀, which was pretty cool. I really liked the two strong female MC’s a lot, especially older curator Charlotte, and I also enjoyed the mystery elements as well! Highly recommend!!!
February 14, 2025
Reading this book reminded me of the courage of character the women had in the Netflix show The Cable Girls. (I'm going to pretend that something got lost in translation with that title because the show as about WOMEN, not girls.) The two main women in this book have that same force of nature to stand up for themselves, against the patriarchy, and against toxic parents. They insist on living life on their terms and won't take no for an answer.
I have little interest in Egyptology, but I've always loved the Met and loved the mystery of what happens at the Met Gala. That was the hook for me. I loved that Diana Vreeland was a real character in the book and that her personality was accommodated for in the book. I actually have no idea what her personality might have been like, but given she is a real historic figure, I'm going to assume there was some ample evidence that even Anna Wintour might grow pale in her presence.
The story itself was fun enough to read, but it was Charlotte and Annie that make it worth reading. I loved their individual characters, and I loved their friendships. I kind of hope there's a sequel. I'd love to see Charlotte continue to dominate in her field and see how conventional or unconventional a life Annie chooses for herself.
I have little interest in Egyptology, but I've always loved the Met and loved the mystery of what happens at the Met Gala. That was the hook for me. I loved that Diana Vreeland was a real character in the book and that her personality was accommodated for in the book. I actually have no idea what her personality might have been like, but given she is a real historic figure, I'm going to assume there was some ample evidence that even Anna Wintour might grow pale in her presence.
The story itself was fun enough to read, but it was Charlotte and Annie that make it worth reading. I loved their individual characters, and I loved their friendships. I kind of hope there's a sequel. I'd love to see Charlotte continue to dominate in her field and see how conventional or unconventional a life Annie chooses for herself.
April 26, 2025
Not all bookworms like historical fiction books featuring dual time lines, but I’m a big fan of them. When done right, they’re pretty marvelous— and generally send me down a google rabbit hole to fact check the earlier time line.
But it wasn’t the good reviews or the dual time line that caught my eye, it was Egyptian tombs and the potential for tomb discoveries that did it. This book’s main character found adventure in the 1930s which later comes to haunt her later on in the 1970s (think disco-era) as she is assisting with the debut of the Tutankhamen exhibit in NYC and finishing up her own historical treatise on another long-gone (woman) ruler.
Throw in a naive young woman whose love for the Metropolitan Museum of Art is entwined with her family history, tomb curses, lost and found antiquities and secrets, so many secrets, that this was a really good read. I loved the name dropping from 1970s NYC, but the heart of this story is Charlotte and what happened all those years before in Egypt before World War II broke out.
The author smoothly weaves two stories together and I wholeheartedly approve of her ending which proves that people are more important than achievements! (Sadly, something that some people, not just those in books, will never learn.)
(Reviewed 4/26/25)
But it wasn’t the good reviews or the dual time line that caught my eye, it was Egyptian tombs and the potential for tomb discoveries that did it. This book’s main character found adventure in the 1930s which later comes to haunt her later on in the 1970s (think disco-era) as she is assisting with the debut of the Tutankhamen exhibit in NYC and finishing up her own historical treatise on another long-gone (woman) ruler.
Throw in a naive young woman whose love for the Metropolitan Museum of Art is entwined with her family history, tomb curses, lost and found antiquities and secrets, so many secrets, that this was a really good read. I loved the name dropping from 1970s NYC, but the heart of this story is Charlotte and what happened all those years before in Egypt before World War II broke out.
The author smoothly weaves two stories together and I wholeheartedly approve of her ending which proves that people are more important than achievements! (Sadly, something that some people, not just those in books, will never learn.)
(Reviewed 4/26/25)
January 11, 2025
I loved the idea of this book, and the setting, and the Egyptian artifacts and mummies. But boy, was this a mess. It needed a better editor.
I needed more detail at certain points. Charlotte’s theory about Hathorkare and its implications weren’t well explained. It isn’t until the end that she outright explains her idea, and it seems to almost disappear from the plot between the beginning and the end.
The circumstances of young Charlotte’s first trip to Egypt were a little murky (it was a study abroad program for school, but she applied through the museum? Was that something that would have even been open to girls in the 1930s? It was the Met’s program, but a bunch of British guys were there too? Were they living in America, or how did they come to apply? They’re all students but one of them is chosen to lead another team’s dig? Why/how?)
I actually think young Charlotte should not have even had her own storyline. She should have been an extended prologue to give backstory and nothing else.
I also don’t think Annie was necessary. Really, I think the entire book could have been older Charlotte tracking down Henry and Leon and figuring out what happened to the necklace.
And the plot itself… eh. Totally implausible in so many places and very Scooby Doo at the end. So much more telling than showing throughout. It just really needed a lot of work. The bones of a good story are here but it wasn’t executed well.
I needed more detail at certain points. Charlotte’s theory about Hathorkare and its implications weren’t well explained. It isn’t until the end that she outright explains her idea, and it seems to almost disappear from the plot between the beginning and the end.
The circumstances of young Charlotte’s first trip to Egypt were a little murky (it was a study abroad program for school, but she applied through the museum? Was that something that would have even been open to girls in the 1930s? It was the Met’s program, but a bunch of British guys were there too? Were they living in America, or how did they come to apply? They’re all students but one of them is chosen to lead another team’s dig? Why/how?)
I actually think young Charlotte should not have even had her own storyline. She should have been an extended prologue to give backstory and nothing else.
I also don’t think Annie was necessary. Really, I think the entire book could have been older Charlotte tracking down Henry and Leon and figuring out what happened to the necklace.
And the plot itself… eh. Totally implausible in so many places and very Scooby Doo at the end. So much more telling than showing throughout. It just really needed a lot of work. The bones of a good story are here but it wasn’t executed well.
June 8, 2025
In THE STOLEN QUEEN, an Egyptologist/museum curator (Charlotte) and a young museum assistant (Annie) team up to solve the mystery of an artifact missing from the Met, as well as the ancient mystery surrounding it. I love a good dual timeline story, especially when both times are in the past, and this one alternates between 1978 New York/Egypt and 1936 Egypt.
It's a perfect blend of historical fiction, adventure story, mystery, and family drama, and I enjoyed every minute. Lots of fun twists and emotional moments too. I loved the strong women characters and the dynamic between Charlotte and Annie. The book also addresses the problem of foreign museums possessing artifacts obtained without permission from their home country, which was important to include.
At the end of the audiobook, there's a lovely song included called "Forgotten Queen" by Jenny Bruce that was inspired by the novel. You can also find it on YouTube HERE.
It's a perfect blend of historical fiction, adventure story, mystery, and family drama, and I enjoyed every minute. Lots of fun twists and emotional moments too. I loved the strong women characters and the dynamic between Charlotte and Annie. The book also addresses the problem of foreign museums possessing artifacts obtained without permission from their home country, which was important to include.
At the end of the audiobook, there's a lovely song included called "Forgotten Queen" by Jenny Bruce that was inspired by the novel. You can also find it on YouTube HERE.
January 25, 2025
How is this book getting so many 5 star reviews I am gobsmacked right now. The writing is so dull, entire sequences happen in a single, bland sentence, and the characters were as flat as a piece of paper. Davis relies on convenience to move her story forward and inserts characters without thought or any reasonable point. What a bust.
January 3, 2025
Really good! The ending dragged out for me but I loved learning more the history of Egypt!
April 28, 2024
3.25 Stars ⭐️
The Stolen Queen goes from Cairo, Egypt to The Met in NYC. In begins in 1936 when Charlotte, an Anthropology Student, gets a spot doing an Archeological Dig that is an huge importunity for a young woman at the time. She learns much both professionally and in her personal life. Things seem to be coming together just as she wants. Skip forward several decades to 1978 and Charlotte now works at the Metropolitan Museum of Art and oversees Egyptian Art. She meets young, Annie Jenkins and she reminds her of her former self. Annie is working for famed Diana Vreeland who is putting on the Famous Met Gala that year. Yet, that leads to a famous Artifact getting stolen. The only way to figure things out is to go back to Egypt which Charlotte has avoided doing.
So, the premise was quite intriguing. Being involved in such an important part of history and all that goes along with that did change Charlotte’s life, but in many unforeseen ways. She is especially interested in Hathorkare, who is a Female Pharoah. It is rumored that she holds a curse and can ruin your life if you are involved with her.
I did enjoy listening to the Audio. For all the adventure and iconic locations, the book was a little slow in parts for me. I wasn’t as invested in the lives of the characters. I did appreciate that both Charlotte and Annie are ambitious and willing to work hard to achieve the life they seek. So, liked this one, but did not love it.
The Stolen Queen goes from Cairo, Egypt to The Met in NYC. In begins in 1936 when Charlotte, an Anthropology Student, gets a spot doing an Archeological Dig that is an huge importunity for a young woman at the time. She learns much both professionally and in her personal life. Things seem to be coming together just as she wants. Skip forward several decades to 1978 and Charlotte now works at the Metropolitan Museum of Art and oversees Egyptian Art. She meets young, Annie Jenkins and she reminds her of her former self. Annie is working for famed Diana Vreeland who is putting on the Famous Met Gala that year. Yet, that leads to a famous Artifact getting stolen. The only way to figure things out is to go back to Egypt which Charlotte has avoided doing.
So, the premise was quite intriguing. Being involved in such an important part of history and all that goes along with that did change Charlotte’s life, but in many unforeseen ways. She is especially interested in Hathorkare, who is a Female Pharoah. It is rumored that she holds a curse and can ruin your life if you are involved with her.
I did enjoy listening to the Audio. For all the adventure and iconic locations, the book was a little slow in parts for me. I wasn’t as invested in the lives of the characters. I did appreciate that both Charlotte and Annie are ambitious and willing to work hard to achieve the life they seek. So, liked this one, but did not love it.
December 30, 2024
4.25-4.5?
Ending was a little rushed/bow tie conclusion, but thoroughly enjoyed this one and that’s saying a lot for this HF fatigued reader! This definitely informs me that I need to find more HF written with Ancient Egypt in mind. LOVED this storyline as well as the background on the Met and Met Gala.
Definitely recommend you pick this one up and if you’re an audio fan, the audiobook was fantastic. Loved the narration and production value with the song at the end. Thought it was a really nice touch. Can’t wait to recommend this for years to come!
Thank you to Dutton Books for the gifted copy and prh audio for the gifted audiobook!
Review Date: 12/30/24
Publication Date: 01/07/25
Ending was a little rushed/bow tie conclusion, but thoroughly enjoyed this one and that’s saying a lot for this HF fatigued reader! This definitely informs me that I need to find more HF written with Ancient Egypt in mind. LOVED this storyline as well as the background on the Met and Met Gala.
Definitely recommend you pick this one up and if you’re an audio fan, the audiobook was fantastic. Loved the narration and production value with the song at the end. Thought it was a really nice touch. Can’t wait to recommend this for years to come!
Thank you to Dutton Books for the gifted copy and prh audio for the gifted audiobook!
Review Date: 12/30/24
Publication Date: 01/07/25
January 26, 2025
The Stolen Queen by Fiona Davis is a captivating historical fiction novel that is written on two timelines. Egypt, 1936, follows Charlotte Cross, an American anthropology student who seizes the opportunity to join an archaeological dig in Egypt’s Valley of the Kings. New York City, 1978, Annie Jenkins, an eighteen-year-old who becomes an assistant to Vogue fashion editor, Diana Vreeland. Annie is enters into preparations for the Met Gala at the Metropolitan Museum of Art.
This Historical Fiction novel is deeply researched and engaging with an edge of mystery.
This Historical Fiction novel is deeply researched and engaging with an edge of mystery.
December 29, 2024
I loved so many things about this novel including:
The dual timeline
The Egyptian history elements
A glimpse into women's roles in archeology and museum culture
The mystery of the Stolen Queen
Sisterhood
Found Family
The last part of the book wrapped up a little neatly, but the rest was fascinating, well-paced, and vibrant. I'd recommend this to all fans of historical fiction and books about women rising above their situation using grit, integrity, and wit.
The audiobook narration was excellent. Thanks to @prhaudio for the gifted book.
The dual timeline
The Egyptian history elements
A glimpse into women's roles in archeology and museum culture
The mystery of the Stolen Queen
Sisterhood
Found Family
The last part of the book wrapped up a little neatly, but the rest was fascinating, well-paced, and vibrant. I'd recommend this to all fans of historical fiction and books about women rising above their situation using grit, integrity, and wit.
The audiobook narration was excellent. Thanks to @prhaudio for the gifted book.
May 2, 2026
3.5 Antique Stars rounded up to 4 Antiquities Stars solely because not much "contemporary" fiction of any kind that I've encountered to date even rates 3.5 stars 😩🤦♀️.
AND
because this book, in spite of being fiction, clearly delineates the difference between "Antique" and "Antiquities", are you able to do the same 💛🧚♀️🙋🏼👍?
AND
because this book, in spite of being fiction, clearly delineates the difference between "Antique" and "Antiquities", are you able to do the same 💛🧚♀️🙋🏼👍?
February 27, 2025
Fiona Davis has done a wonderful job of researching information for this historical novel! If you read the book, don’t forget to read the “author’s note” section - it’s very interesting!
In 1937 nineteen year old Charlotte Cross traveled to Egypt as a member of an archaeological expedition. She was part of a group of archaeologists who made significant discoveries in the Valley of the Kings. In one particular excavation, she was the crew member who actually made the discovery. However, her role in the finding was downplayed because of her gender. After a tragedy occurred, Charlotte returned home to New York and was hired at the Metropolitan Museum of Art.
Forty years later, Charlotte was working on the King Tut display to be shown at the Museum. To her astonishment, the very piece she had unearthed arrived as a loan from a private donor to be shown at the exhibition. Charlotte knew that this item was supposed to be the property of the Egyptian Museum.
After a well executed heist during the Met Gala, Charlotte and a young assistant, Annie Jenkins, flew to Egypt to try to recover the stolen piece. The novel poses questions about the repatriation of antiquities.
Fiona Davis skillfully weaves a tale of archaeology and of two strong protagonists overcoming unhappy pasts and personal tragedy, to create an interesting and educational novel that will hold your interest and keep you guessing until the last pages.
Thank you to Goodreads giveaways, author Fiona Davis, and Penguin Random House publishers for giving me the opportunity to read the ARC of this well written historical novel!
In 1937 nineteen year old Charlotte Cross traveled to Egypt as a member of an archaeological expedition. She was part of a group of archaeologists who made significant discoveries in the Valley of the Kings. In one particular excavation, she was the crew member who actually made the discovery. However, her role in the finding was downplayed because of her gender. After a tragedy occurred, Charlotte returned home to New York and was hired at the Metropolitan Museum of Art.
Forty years later, Charlotte was working on the King Tut display to be shown at the Museum. To her astonishment, the very piece she had unearthed arrived as a loan from a private donor to be shown at the exhibition. Charlotte knew that this item was supposed to be the property of the Egyptian Museum.
After a well executed heist during the Met Gala, Charlotte and a young assistant, Annie Jenkins, flew to Egypt to try to recover the stolen piece. The novel poses questions about the repatriation of antiquities.
Fiona Davis skillfully weaves a tale of archaeology and of two strong protagonists overcoming unhappy pasts and personal tragedy, to create an interesting and educational novel that will hold your interest and keep you guessing until the last pages.
Thank you to Goodreads giveaways, author Fiona Davis, and Penguin Random House publishers for giving me the opportunity to read the ARC of this well written historical novel!
February 4, 2025
Fiona Davis has done it again. I have read many of her books and have enjoyed them all. She is a wonderful author. Her writing brings you back to the place and time.
This one is a dual time period set in New York City and Egypt. The chapters alternate between 1936 Egypt and 1978 New York City
Charlotte Cross was an anthropology student in 1936 when she was offered an opportunity to go to Eqypt’s Valley of the Kings. It was a wonderful experience digging for Eqyptian artifacts, but an unfortunate tragedy occurred sending Charlotte back to New York.
In 1978 New York City Charlotte is an assistant curator of the Metropolitan Dept. of Eqyptian Art. On the night of the famed gala a precious artifact goes missing.
Charlotte and Young Annie Jenkins, assistant of Diana Vrelland are on the case to find the missing art. But Charlotte may have to return to Eqypt a place she never wanted to see again
This is a beautifully written story bringing you from the sand swept desert to the fabulous Metropolitan Gala in 1978.
The book has everything mystery, intrigue and captivating characters.
Compelling Historical Fiction .
This one is a dual time period set in New York City and Egypt. The chapters alternate between 1936 Egypt and 1978 New York City
Charlotte Cross was an anthropology student in 1936 when she was offered an opportunity to go to Eqypt’s Valley of the Kings. It was a wonderful experience digging for Eqyptian artifacts, but an unfortunate tragedy occurred sending Charlotte back to New York.
In 1978 New York City Charlotte is an assistant curator of the Metropolitan Dept. of Eqyptian Art. On the night of the famed gala a precious artifact goes missing.
Charlotte and Young Annie Jenkins, assistant of Diana Vrelland are on the case to find the missing art. But Charlotte may have to return to Eqypt a place she never wanted to see again
This is a beautifully written story bringing you from the sand swept desert to the fabulous Metropolitan Gala in 1978.
The book has everything mystery, intrigue and captivating characters.
Compelling Historical Fiction .
April 30, 2025
I was intrigued by what this was about Egypt and realized I needed to read it.
It's not just a story about how a relic was stolen; it's the story of two women.
But it focuses more on Charlotte, whose past is set in 1936 and present in 1978, where she meets Annie, a girl trying to find what she wants to do.
I found it boring at first, but halfway through, I was invested and wanted to know what would happen.
It's a story about loss and reunion.
It had a great atmosphere, with moments in the museum, travels in Egypt, and attacks.
I enjoyed the interaction between Charlotte and Annie; I even wanted to read about another one of their adventures.
Idea: 4.5/5 (need more books about Egypt)
Plot: 4/5
Characters: 4/5
Emotions: 4/5
• Egypt
• Working in a museum
• Relics
• Loss of loved ones
It's not just a story about how a relic was stolen; it's the story of two women.
But it focuses more on Charlotte, whose past is set in 1936 and present in 1978, where she meets Annie, a girl trying to find what she wants to do.
I found it boring at first, but halfway through, I was invested and wanted to know what would happen.
It's a story about loss and reunion.
It had a great atmosphere, with moments in the museum, travels in Egypt, and attacks.
I enjoyed the interaction between Charlotte and Annie; I even wanted to read about another one of their adventures.
Idea: 4.5/5 (need more books about Egypt)
Plot: 4/5
Characters: 4/5
Emotions: 4/5
• Egypt
• Working in a museum
• Relics
• Loss of loved ones
January 22, 2025
This was a huge disappointment. I added this to my TBR after seeing it on Goodreads “Top Releases of 2025” because I thought the concept was interesting and it has a lot of great elements— I love ancient Egyptian history, a good art heist, the Met Gala— but this fell super flat for me. The writing is so dry. The dialogue is stilted and awkward at points. I think it is meant to have a lot of emotional depth, and while Charlotte locating her lost husband and daughter was touching, it felt like the only reason anything was touching or emotional was because Fiona Davis was TELLING you it was. I felt that way about a lot of aspects of the book, but particularly the relationships between characters. Annie’s relationship with her mother is complicated and strained because she basically TELLS us as much from her internal dialogue, and doesn’t let any of their interactions or actions speak for themselves. Several times I felt like the story was being rushed, or that there was a lack of detail that made everything in this book feel surface level, from the setting to the characters.
And maybe I’m just bad at reading mysteries— they are not my usual genre— but some of the threads connecting the clues together feel pretty fragile. Mona feels like a pretty out-of-the blue antagonist— she’s very forthcoming about her views on the repatriation of Egyptian artefacts when confronted, and yet that slipping out was never a problem before? So she was “radicalized” by her husband— why is he not even mentioned before that? Fatima being the lost Layla was equally baffling to me— I’m sorry but a large gray streak in your hair, especially in your 30s or 60s, doesn’t exactly feel like a huge breakthrough in identifying your lost daughter/mother.
Again, a great concept but a highly unsatisfying execution in my opinion. Hopefully the other books I added from that same Goodreads list are a little less disappointing.
And maybe I’m just bad at reading mysteries— they are not my usual genre— but some of the threads connecting the clues together feel pretty fragile. Mona feels like a pretty out-of-the blue antagonist— she’s very forthcoming about her views on the repatriation of Egyptian artefacts when confronted, and yet that slipping out was never a problem before? So she was “radicalized” by her husband— why is he not even mentioned before that? Fatima being the lost Layla was equally baffling to me— I’m sorry but a large gray streak in your hair, especially in your 30s or 60s, doesn’t exactly feel like a huge breakthrough in identifying your lost daughter/mother.
Again, a great concept but a highly unsatisfying execution in my opinion. Hopefully the other books I added from that same Goodreads list are a little less disappointing.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 1, 2025
Fiona Davis, Ms. New York, pulls it out again! She always just weaves a great tale. Great Job!
This one is set in the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Featuring the Egyptian Collection and a woman with a nightmare past left behind. Somehow, the past comes to meet her in the form of a Broad Collar belonging to a female pharoah.
And then there is a nineteen year old, her life was in tatters before it ever has a chance to begin. Abandoned by the worst mother imaginable, she also finds her way to the center of the action and mystery, and willfully Annie joins Charlotte on her search to reclaim the past.
This one is set in the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Featuring the Egyptian Collection and a woman with a nightmare past left behind. Somehow, the past comes to meet her in the form of a Broad Collar belonging to a female pharoah.
And then there is a nineteen year old, her life was in tatters before it ever has a chance to begin. Abandoned by the worst mother imaginable, she also finds her way to the center of the action and mystery, and willfully Annie joins Charlotte on her search to reclaim the past.
March 25, 2025
Set between the 1930s in Egypt and NYC in the 1970s, this incredible story about phenomenal main characters is quite the journey over time and place. It will also appeal to readers who love art. The story is sophisticated and multilayered, rich with detail but not overdone.
I think The Stolen Queen would make the perfect movie. It has all the ingredients because of how compelling and atmospheric it is. This is a must read for all historical fiction fans. I can’t stress enough how much I loved it.
I received a gifted copy of the book.
Many of my reviews can also be found on my blog: www.jennifertarheelreader.com and instagram: www.instagram.com/tarheelreader
I think The Stolen Queen would make the perfect movie. It has all the ingredients because of how compelling and atmospheric it is. This is a must read for all historical fiction fans. I can’t stress enough how much I loved it.
I received a gifted copy of the book.
Many of my reviews can also be found on my blog: www.jennifertarheelreader.com and instagram: www.instagram.com/tarheelreader
February 5, 2025
There are Scooby-Doo episodes written better than this book. You will probably have a more enjoyable experience watching those than reading this book.
The first half was intriguing and I liked the dual timeline, but it rapidly turned into an absolute trainwreck. The second half of the book was just a series of inplausible events. I mean one of the antagonists in the book goes on a long monologue explaining her whole life story and why she did what she did like a scooby-doo villion. Why have we not found more subtle ways to unravel a mystery. The whole “solving the mystery” aspect of the book was genuinly bad writing. It was just information dumping with the worst possible “clues.” The last 1/3 of the book was such a painful read, it was so hard to not DNF.
I get that it’s historical fiction, but it’s like she didn’t even try to understand the time periods in which she was placing her characters in. I am convinced the author has never left the US, much less visited or even seen pictures of Egypt. Her descriptions were subpar to put it nicely. Now, on to the characters, how she managed to make a character in their 60s and a 19 year old indistiguishable from each other baffles me. I could not differentiate between their POVs when reading the book because they were written the exact same way. They both fell flat and had so many cringey moments. I personally would not have incorporated girl boss feminism into a book about Egyptian archeologists set in the 30s and 70s, but to each their own, I guess. There were so many other ways to highlight female empowerment without making them sound like teenagers. Lastly, the book had weird imperalist undertones in the way it framed the discussion around repartiation and kept bringing up how the Met was a “superior” institution and how artificats belong to Western institutions. I get the attempt at highlighting an ongoing discussion about repatriation, but this was genuinly one of the worst attempts at doing so. Having a 19 year say one angsty line about how maybe artifacts should belong to the country of their origin and suddenly the main character is convinced is incredibly lackluster and this novel could have done without that entirely. It did not contribute to the storyline in a meaningful way. If anything, it detracted from the storyline with how poorly it was written in.
The first half was intriguing and I liked the dual timeline, but it rapidly turned into an absolute trainwreck. The second half of the book was just a series of inplausible events. I mean one of the antagonists in the book goes on a long monologue explaining her whole life story and why she did what she did like a scooby-doo villion. Why have we not found more subtle ways to unravel a mystery. The whole “solving the mystery” aspect of the book was genuinly bad writing. It was just information dumping with the worst possible “clues.” The last 1/3 of the book was such a painful read, it was so hard to not DNF.
I get that it’s historical fiction, but it’s like she didn’t even try to understand the time periods in which she was placing her characters in. I am convinced the author has never left the US, much less visited or even seen pictures of Egypt. Her descriptions were subpar to put it nicely. Now, on to the characters, how she managed to make a character in their 60s and a 19 year old indistiguishable from each other baffles me. I could not differentiate between their POVs when reading the book because they were written the exact same way. They both fell flat and had so many cringey moments. I personally would not have incorporated girl boss feminism into a book about Egyptian archeologists set in the 30s and 70s, but to each their own, I guess. There were so many other ways to highlight female empowerment without making them sound like teenagers. Lastly, the book had weird imperalist undertones in the way it framed the discussion around repartiation and kept bringing up how the Met was a “superior” institution and how artificats belong to Western institutions. I get the attempt at highlighting an ongoing discussion about repatriation, but this was genuinly one of the worst attempts at doing so. Having a 19 year say one angsty line about how maybe artifacts should belong to the country of their origin and suddenly the main character is convinced is incredibly lackluster and this novel could have done without that entirely. It did not contribute to the storyline in a meaningful way. If anything, it detracted from the storyline with how poorly it was written in.
July 16, 2025
fiona you MUST stop doing this to me
June 23, 2024
Fiona Davis is a go to author for me and I loved THE STOLEN QUEEN!!!
1936 Egypt ….Charlotte goes to Egypt as a college student to work on an archeological dig at THE VALLEY OF THE KINGS. Important discoveries will be made and personal relationships will also be made that will shape the lives of many.
1978 NY Charlotte is working as an associate curator at the MET in the Department of Egyptian Art. She has lots of responsibilities but has been researching for 3 years to prove something that she really believes in. Annie is a young girl working on the MET Gala and their worlds will collide on that night. Art is stolen and they will go to Egypt to try to recover it. But is that all Charlotte is returning to Egypt for after all of these years???
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 read for me!!! Loved it!!!
1936 Egypt ….Charlotte goes to Egypt as a college student to work on an archeological dig at THE VALLEY OF THE KINGS. Important discoveries will be made and personal relationships will also be made that will shape the lives of many.
1978 NY Charlotte is working as an associate curator at the MET in the Department of Egyptian Art. She has lots of responsibilities but has been researching for 3 years to prove something that she really believes in. Annie is a young girl working on the MET Gala and their worlds will collide on that night. Art is stolen and they will go to Egypt to try to recover it. But is that all Charlotte is returning to Egypt for after all of these years???
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 read for me!!! Loved it!!!
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