The River's Deception

by Elora Maxwell

Lillian Bach has known the world of archaeology since she was a child. Being born to parents in the British oligarchy with a pension for adventure would make that sort of experience easy for a young girl. Everything she learned in the sands of Egypt and the classrooms of Oxford has prepared her for her family’s latest adventure.

Deep in the Amazon rainforest a secret of great importance resides. Whispers of a lost colony, brutal death, and a weapon of destruction calls to her in the wind. Allegiances become twisted when the Germans get involved and Lillian’s mother hires an American with a secret to safeguard her own deception. Lillian quickly finds herself caught in the middle of family alliances and growing romantic feelings.

The young adventurer’s initial excitement to prove herself quickly turns to self preservation, because the more that is revealed to her in visions and clues, the more she’s realizing that some things lost to history are never meant to be found again.

The River’s Deception is the first book in the Necklace & Dagger duology. Dive into this historical adventure series spanning a decade that’s perfect for fans of The Mummy and Indiana Jones.

Genres: Historical Fiction

387 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 29, 2025

About the author

Elora Maxwell is an independent historical fiction author. She writes historical things, romantic things, fantastical things, and sometimes devastatingly sad things. When she’s not traveling through time, she likes visiting amusement parks, watching movies, and forcing everyone around her to listen to Taylor Swift.

You can find her on Instagram and TikTok @author_eloramaxwell

Reviews

[jenny reads a lot]

Rec via Candice

| IG | TikTok |

[Elora Maxwell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Author's Note:

The River's Deception is a love letter to the things that raised me. Long live the adventure films like Indiana Jones and the 1999 cinematic masterpiece, The Mummy. Long live adventurous and spooky theme park attractions like Jungle Cruise and Tower of Terror. Long live the feeling of butterflies you get while watching a slow burn unfold like Scully and Mulder in The X-Files.

At the end of the day I hope this novel made you feel a quarter of what those things listed above made me feel throughout my life. Lillian and Ben belong to you now, I hope you enjoy their story!

[quietpageturner · Rating 3 out of 5]

When I heard this had elements of The Mummy I was hooked! But this story is so much more than that! Elora Maxwell gave well-developed characters, angst, suspense, and high stakes all within one novel! This was the perfect palette cleanser because it’s unlike anything I’ve read recently and it’s made me excited to jump back into the world of books!

[Meghan W. (Bookswithmegh) · Rating 5 out of 5]

BOOK REVIEW: THE RIVER’S DECEPTION // ELORA MAXWELL

MY THOUGHTS: This whole book felt like playing an adventure game. I could see all the similarities from franchises like Tomb Raider, Uncharted, Indiana Jones and The Mummy, where action and the supernatural meet together into this beautifully crafted story. I loved the history aspect too, as this was set in the roaring 1920’s, right after WWI, when the Nazi’s had already entered the picture and were causing trouble. I could feel the tension in each chapter. The setting in the jungle was so unique, too. Overall, a great story and I am very excited for book two!

CONTENT: Medium. Some horror content, some language, kisses, gun violence, Nazis, supernatural aspects

WHAT I LIKED: The romance was played off well. I liked how it was a dialed-back enemies-to-lovers trope.

WHAT I DIDN’T LIKE: I wish it was longer! I know book two is coming in 2026, but I have so many questions. I felt in the dark about a lot, like Lillian and Ben felt for most of the book. I also wish Lillian’s mother was more forthcoming. I was becoming very irritated with her, along with her dad.

GENRE: Action Adventure Historical Fiction

PAGES: 387

RATING: 4.5☆

WOULD I RECOMMEND THIS?: Absolutely! Great for those who love action-adventure games, and movies with a hint of supernatural.

[Laine · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this story, it literally felt like I was in an Indiana Jones movie with some supernatural twists and turns! It’s the best slow-burn/adventure combo and the last couple of chapters had me white knuckle gripping my kindle 😅 I can’t wait for the second book of this duology.. I NEED ANSWERS!

[Katelyn M · Rating 4 out of 5]

I had the great honor of receiving an ARC of The River’s Deception, and I was immediately swept into its world of ancient puzzles, hidden artifacts, and a mysterious lost colony. Fans of The Mummy will feel right at home with the adventurous tone and archeological intrigue that Elora Maxwell weaves into this story.

The dynamic between Lillian and Ben is a true highlight — their slow burn romance is laced with well-written tension that builds naturally throughout the book. The plot offered a number of unexpected twists that genuinely surprised me. I often find myself predicting where stories like this are headed, but The River’s Deception kept me guessing and even had me staying up late to see what would happen next.

That said, I did feel the pacing could have been tighter in places. Some sections moved a bit slowly, and there were moments where the wording and continuity felt slightly disjointed, which occasionally pulled me out of the story.

Overall, this was an engaging and adventurous read with a compelling romance at its heart. I’m excited to see where Lillian and Ben’s journey takes them in the next installment.

[Sydney · Rating 4 out of 5]

This one was so much fun. It was action packed, fast paced and I devoured it over 24 hours. 

The blurb promised 'The Mummy' vibes. I love that movie, the cheesiness, the 90s ambiance, and of course Brendan Fraser, so I decided to give this ARC a go. While Fraser isn't a character in tow I still found myself completely drawn in and was not disappointed with the comparison. The writing was engaging, the characters well developed, and the magical realism paired thriller well done.

If you're looking for a fun summer read where romance is a part of but not the whole plot, I recommend this one. And it will be a part of Kindle Unlimited if you have that! 

Thank you to Pen pal PR and the author for the ebook in exchange for an honest review.

[Juliana Kemege · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to the author and PenPal PR for a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

This was a quick and fun read. It definitely delivered on the promise of The Mummy/Indiana Jones movie vibes, and the book read a lot like an action movie. It was fast paced, and exciting, and overall just a good time. I liked the twists and turns and how everything was woven together, and I really appreciated how well-researched this book seemed.

I will admit that this story took me some time to get in to, and that there times that I was frustrated because it felt like too many things were being kept secret from me. Like, I know it’s supposed to be mysterious, but there is a fine line between fun mystery and just feeling a bit confused.

But, the story did really pick up in the second half, and I liked the resolution/ending. Overall, I think this was a good story, and I'm really looking forward to the next book in the series.

"She is not crying out in fear or sadness; she is rather stark raving mad. The kind of anger only a man can induce. "

[Becky Passner · Rating 4 out of 5]

Do you wish you could read a book that made you feel like The Mummy (1999) does? Look no further!

This was a fun summer read, I finished it in just a few days. The writing felt immersive, I could see everything play out and I enjoyed getting to know Lilian and Ben (dislike to lovers ❤️) The mystery had me hooked, can’t wait for book two!

Vibes: historical romance, 1920s, archeology, mystery

Thanks to PenPal PR and the author for the ebook in exchange for a honest review.

[Amber’s TBR Adventure · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.75 stars?

I appreciate the emphasis on Brazilian culture and folklore. The character development and magic were interesting. The touches of "horror" were good.

My problem was that it felt a bit disconnected at times. I feel like the pacing is on the slower side and I would often nod off. It took much longer of me to read because the first 60% of the book was not as engaging for me.

[Ashley · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was really excited to read this one; I absolutely loved the author's last historical fiction novel.

This was fell a little bit short for me. I wasn't as committed to the MCs as I wanted to be and the story took a while to get going. There was a lot of backstory required to understand the plot and the MC's motivations.

But the writing is good, sharp. I like this author's work and will definitely read more.

[Juliana Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

LOVED EVERY SECOND!!

[Ariana Ochoa · Rating 5 out of 5]

The River’s Deception was an incredibly riveting book and reminiscent of Indiana Jones, The Mummy, and a bit of Elizabeth Peter’s Amelia Peabody series.

Set after The Great War, this enchanting book is an adventurous historical mystery that will keep you captivated until the very last page.

Lillian Bach was born into the world of archaeology. After graduating from Oxford, she is summoned to Brazil by her parents Isadora and Archibald to take part in their next dig, but what she finds buried in the secrets of the Amazon could lead her down a treacherous path.

I absolutely enjoyed the mystery of the necklace and dagger. The book had so many plot twists, danger, a touch of romance, and pure adventure. There is a bit more of the supernatural in this book that is a bit like The Mummy. If you are familiar with Elora Maxwell’s writing, you know you’re in for a treat.

5 stars!

Many thanks to the publisher and author for the ARC. This review is voluntary and all thoughts are my own.

[Sachin Karnik]

🌿 The River’s Deception by Elora Maxwell – My Journey Through a Jungle of Secrets
As someone who’s always drawn to historical fiction that blends mystery, romance, and adventure, The River’s Deception by Elora Maxwell felt like a thrilling expedition into the unknown. From the moment I met Lillian Bach, I knew I was in for a cerebral yet cinematic ride. This review dives into my personal experience with the book—its strengths, surprises, and why it deserves a spot on your reading list.

When I picked up The River’s Deception, I expected a historical adventure with a dash of romance. What I didn’t expect was to be completely swept into the dense, dangerous heart of the Amazon, following a heroine who’s as sharp as she is brave.

Lillian Bach instantly intrigued me. Raised among British aristocrats but shaped by archaeological expeditions, she’s not your typical damsel. She’s resourceful, intelligent, and emotionally layered. I found myself rooting for her from the very first page—especially as the story plunged into a world of lost colonies, cryptic visions, and wartime secrets.

Elora Maxwell’s writing is vivid and immersive. The jungle isn’t just a backdrop—it’s a living, breathing force in the story. I could almost feel the humidity, hear the rustling leaves, and sense the danger lurking behind every vine-covered ruin. The historical details are woven in seamlessly, and the tension builds with every chapter.

What I appreciated most was the balance. The romance is subtle but meaningful, never overshadowing the plot. And while the pacing starts a bit slow, once the expedition gets underway, it’s a thrilling ride. The American ally—enigmatic and morally grey—adds another layer of intrigue, though I did wish his backstory had been fleshed out a bit more.

By the end, I was left with a mix of satisfaction and curiosity. There’s clearly more to come in the duology, and I’m eager to see where Lillian’s journey leads next.

⭐ Final Verdict:
If you enjoy historical fiction with strong female leads, atmospheric settings, and a touch of suspense, The River’s Deception is worth diving into. It’s a cerebral adventure with emotional depth—and one I won’t forget anytime soon.

Would you like me to help you adapt this into a shorter version for Amazon or a carousel script for Instagram? I can also suggest hashtags and SEO keywords to boost visibility across platforms.

[Meaghan · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC Review - Huge thanks to Elora Maxwell and Pen Pal PR for the opportunity to receive a review copy of The River’s Deception!

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5 - I really enjoyed this book! It’s billed as a 1920s historical fiction with a heavy dose of inspiration from Indiana Jones and The Mummy - and it delivers! If you’re a 1923 fan, you’ll also feel the Spencer/Alex vibes.

I did find the first half of the book a little slow moving in sections, but once things really got going after the 50% mark, I couldn’t put it down!

I feel like we could have used a bit more background on how Lillian’s mother - who is from a village within the Amazon - ended up with her aristocratic British father. This couple feels ill-matched throughout the book, and I wonder if more than the brief mention of him visiting her village and her deciding to go with him would have contextualized their relationship a little better.

This theme of Lillian’s mother being a complex woman that we know and understand little about remains throughout the book and at the end, I was still left feeling like I was in the dark about a lot of what motivated her despite her playing a central role in the story. I know this book is the first in a duology, so perhaps we’ll learn more about this woman and her intentions in the second book?

Something I wasn’t expecting was for this book to take on a bit of horror level violence and gore. Maybe that seems odd of me given the sources of inspiration, but I feel that the book is marketed as more romance-driven. The author’s mention of the horror genre in her note at the end was not something I feel is strongly advertised about the book.

Readers coming for the historical romance aspect should be aware that there are a handful of pretty graphic scenes, a lot of blood, and violence toward women present in this book. While there is absolutely a romantic vibe between the MCs which develops over the course of the story, it is not the central driver of the plot in my opinion, but rather something secondary.

[Parker Jane · Rating 5 out of 5]

Warning - Review may contain (very) slight spoilers🙃

I didn't discover and fall in love with the adventure genre until I was practically an adult; but when I did boy, did I fall HARD!!! If you are looking for the quintessential adventure story to finish out your summer The River's Deception is the book you NEED! Packed with action, intrigue, and romance; this book will keep you wondering long after the last page.
As a heroine, I loved Lillian😍 She is strong, capable, and educated; but not at the expense of her softer, feminine side. One aspect of her character I particularly liked was the fact that she thinks before she speaks. So many spunky FMCs let their mouths get ahead of themselves and cause more trouble than necessary. However Lillian, while absolutely full of spunk, takes time to calculate and lay plans.
Ben Reed is the type of tortured hero we love to adore. An always ready defender of those in need whose hardened layers house a heart of gold.
The Bach family as a whole is complicated to say the least. As a wife and mother I don't fully understand many of Isadora's choices or the reasoning behind them, but I respect her character's strength and poise. Archibald, on the other hand, is a despicable worm of the male species not worthy of being called a man, much less a father.
The River's Deception is 100% clean as far as content goes, but it does contain a bit of language. However given the gritty, heart-pounding setting that is to be expected.
This book has been one of my most anticipated reads of the year, and as always Elora Maxwell did not disappoint! I absolutely CANNOT WAIT for the next installment in this duology😁 Go grab your copy of this incredible, edge-of-your-seat tale today!!!

[Rebecca · Rating 4 out of 5]

Having read Elora Maxwell’s previous book, Where the Wildflowers Lay, I couldn’t wait to read this book. The River’s Deception was highly engaging with many twists and turns to create the perfect mixture of suspense with just a touch of The Mummy vibes. Even though it was slow at parts in the beginning, I was wrapped up in this adventure set amongst the Brazilian Amazon in the 20’s.

Lillian Bach has been raised around archaeology by her parents. After studying at Oxford, she travels with her parents to the Amazon not sure what she’s in for. It’s no match for anyone with the dangers that are lurking around the camp. Ben, her mom Isodora’s bodyguard, grows a close bond with her in wanting to keep her safe. Many secrets are kept from her but that doesn’t stop her from finding the clues to the lost colony and ancient artifacts. She’s the holder to a magical necklace that protects her while searching the the ruins.

I could tell that Elora put a lot of research into writing this captivating story with well developed characters and plot. I can’t wait for the conclusion of this story to see what happens with Lillian and Ben. I received an advanced copy from the publisher. I was under no obligation to leave a positive review. All opinions stated here are my own.

Favorite quotes:
“Though the road ahead remains shrouded in the unknown, deep in my heart I know that the adventure has only just begun.”

“I’m glad you’re here with me.” I’m glad you’ve been here with me since the beginning.”

[Darcy DecantingBooks · Rating 4 out of 5]

Archaeology + historical fiction + love + adventure + supernatural elements + secrets? Sign me up! The River’s Deception is a fascinating story centering on Lillian and, to a lesser extent, Ben, set in between the World Wars. Lillian’s parents are famous archaeologists, and she’s following in their footsteps. When they send for her to join them in the Amazon, she’s absolutely elated. Little does she know what’s in store for her when she arrives.

Lillian’s parents are clearly keeping secrets from her—and from each other. There are some serious bad vibes going on throughout the camp and some very bad people involved. She gets the idea quickly who she can trust and who she can’t, and what she’s looking for. Plus, what are these visions she keeps having? Is Ben one of the people she can trust?

The River’s Deception was fascinating! I loved the historical setting, Lillian and Ben’s characters, and the adventure. I was on edge the entire time, with danger following them everywhere, amazing discoveries in their grasps, and the chance to lose everything in the snap of a finger. There were elements of everything in this story, and the magical realism was done so well. Lillian and Ben are a fantastic pair (no steam), with their relationship very slowly building. I am excited to read the next book in this series!

[Candi.Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you pen Pal Pr for the Arc read✨✨✨

What drew me in:
The blurb had me hooked with promises of secrets, ancient civilizations, and a family mystery. I dove in expecting twists—and it delivered!

POVs:
Told through Lillian and Ben’s alternating POVs, which gave great perspective into the personal tension building between them.

Early Setup:
• From the jump, something felt off—divided agendas, family secrets, and distrust.
• Mom secretly hopes Lillian will uncover a lost civilization, while keeping that from Dad due to distrust of his workers.

Halfway Thoughts:
• The writing style is easy to fall into.
• There’s a slow-burn mystery and adventure vibe that kept me hooked.
• I started to question Ben—something just felt off, and I wasn’t sure who Lillian could trust.

Final Takeaway:
This book gave Indiana Jones energy in the best way—but with heart.
What I really appreciated was how the author took time to explore Brazilian culture and folklore—it added a beautiful, grounded layer to the adventure.
It’s a thoughtful, gripping read with a great balance of mystery, exploration, and emotional tension.

🔍 If you’re into:
✅ Hidden civilizations
✅ Family secrets
✅ Adventure stories with actual cultural depth
✅ A touch of romance and mystery…

👉 Then The River’s Deception is well worth your time!

[Julia Rachelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

💚The River’s Deception💚

“The land will reveal the truth to us when it’s ready, not the other way around.”

I’ve been looking forward to this book since it was announced and started reading it as soon as it came in the mail(sorry not sorry to the other 2 books I’m reading💀😂)

I loved this book so much! Firstly, I grew up in the Brazilian Amazon, actually only a few days by boat from where this book takes place. The amount of care and research from the author was clearly evident which I really appreciated. I sent several messages to my family with snippets of the book saying “look! Someone actually knows about this!”

As for the story itself, the author used comps like Indians Jones and The Mummy and I think those perfectly capture the vibes of the story. Combine the horror and romance elements from The Mummy with the archeological adventure and danger of Indiana Jones and you’ve got The River’s Deception.

I won’t spoil any of the book, but this story follows Lillian Bach as she joins her parents at a mysterious dig site in the Amazon. Rumors of an ancient Lost Colony surface, and Lillian doesn’t know who she can trust or what their true motive at the dig site is. Throw in a Rick O’Connell style American bodyguard, and you have a disastrous recipe for a good time😁

Can’t wait for Book 2!!!!

[Ysabeau · Rating 4 out of 5]

😍 I was so excited for this one, a story of adventure and romance and secrets in the Amazon forest with magical necklaces, daggers, and voices, paranormal shadows and occurrences, all set in the 1920's Brazil. Elora Maxwell never ceases to impress with her research of historical facts. I mean, wow! 🤩

Lilian is joining her archeologist/historian parents in the middle of a dig in the Amazon Forest, looking for something mysterious. Ben, her mother's bodyguard and confidant is tasked to bring Lilian to safety. Ancient voices, protective tribes, evil Germans and a mountain no one should come close to make Ben and Lilian come closer than ever. Until only the two (really? 👀) remain of the expedition...

Favorite quotes out of context:
☀️ "Without waiting for anything else to happen, he reaches across my stomach and throws me over his shoulder." 🤭
☀️ "You can ask anything of me, Lilian. But you must never ask me to leave." 🥺

Tropes include:
🟢 Historical adventure
🟤 Horror/paranormal
🟢 Dual POV
🟤 He protects her
🟢 An ominous mountain
🟤 Visions and dreams
🟢 He flings her over his shoulder
🟤 Sacred artifacts
🟢 Family Drama
🟤 First in a Duology
🟢 Ends on a cliffhanger

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Spice: 0,5 🌶️ (one kiss)

[Beth · Rating 3 out of 5]

Synopsis: Lillian was born into a family of archeologists. After completing her studies, she is called to the jungles of Brazil to assist her family in the search for the Lost Colony. Along the way you are wrapped up in the mystery of the jungle and meet morally gray characters along the way. Will Lillian be able to solve the mystery before it is too late?

Review: The author spends a good portion of the novel laying the ground hunting for the Lost Colony, which honestly lost me in the process. I found it hard to keep track of the mystery with each character having a piece of the puzzle, but never sharing it, making all parties only slightly in the know.

The characters themselves were surface level and did not have much development. I would have enjoyed getting to know them a little more.

The redeeming part of this book was the Epilogue. I found that to be the most engaging and a place that answered some of my questions. It made me consider picking up the second book when it comes out to find out what happens.

I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review. Thank you, Pen Pal PR for the opportunity.

[Manasa Jandhyala · Rating 5 out of 5]

The story is set in 1920 and follows Lillian, whose love for excavations and archeology began from her childhood. She inherited this passion for exploring from her parents. She journeys from London to jungles in Brazil to join her parents in an excavation. But soon, she finds out secrets that are dangerous along with visions and whispers. Ben, her mother's bodyguard, tries his best to protect Lillian. But with family tensions, an enemy amongst them, and secrets of the lost colony, will he be able to protect her? will they find out the truth?

I absolutely enjoyed this book. It's been so many days since I've read an adventure/mystery book, so I was excited to read this. The characters, the story, the adventure, the mystery, and everything about this book were just so good. The writing was so immersive, it felt like I was actually exploring the Amazon rainforest. Even when I wasn't reading the book, I couldn't stop thinking about Lillian and Ben and their adventures- I was completely hooked. Overall, it was a great read for me, and I can't wait for the next book.

[Stephanie Rhamstine · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was such a delight — action-packed, fast-paced, and so immersive I devoured it in under 24 hours.

Lillian Bach grew up surrounded by archaeology, adventure, and privilege, but nothing could fully prepare her for the mystery and danger that unfolds on her family’s latest expedition. With a colorful cast of characters, an atmospheric setting, and a slow-burn romance full of tension, class differences, and yearning, this story swept me away from the first page.

I didn’t expect the depth of the supporting characters, each with layered backstories that pushed the plot forward and kept me turning pages, desperate to know more. The adventure and mystery were gripping, the stakes felt real, and the writing brought it all to life beautifully.

If you’re looking for an adventurous historical romance with danger, longing, and richly drawn characters, this one is absolutely worth picking up.

Thank you to @penpalpr and the author for the ebook in exchange for an honest review!

[Birch · Rating 5 out of 5]

"I'd come prepared to face any number of dangerous animals, plants, or humans, but I hadn't counted on ancient curses or supernatural killers."

The River's Deception is book one of a duology, book two, A Mountain’s Shadow, I will patiently be waiting for.
I really enjoyed this well paced and clearly researched book. The details of the Amazon, archeological dig sites and camps makes you feel like you are on this spooky, mysterious adventure.
Lillian is an Oxford educated young woman with spunk and curiosity, in a 1920s world where woman are typically overlooked. While Ben seems at first just a gruff hired hand, you learn he has this hard exterior for a reason, but he also has a protective, caring heart.
Definitely adventure vibes from 90s movies, as the author said, if you enjoyed The Mummy or Indiana Jones this is a book for you. It had me pulling out two of my favourite movies, Romancing the Stone and The Jewel of the Nile.
Also who knew having your boot laces tied was swoony, equivalent to hair combing in my opinion.
I'd have to say with name like Elora, this author was born to write adventurous, supernatural books.

“I think you might be one of those very things without a traditional explanation, Ben.”

Mummy Vibes
Dual POV
She's Oxford educ
He's American
Dislike to lovers
Ancient secrets
Slow burn
Nonstop adventure

Thank you Elora Maxwell and PenPal PR for this ARC.
I received an advanced reader copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Rachel Self · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book! The teaser promising The Mummy and Indiana Jones vibes is what hooked me from the start! The story is unique, full of adventure, and gives a slow, dislike to lovers burn.

It’s 1928, and Lillian Bach just graduated from Oxford University with a degree in History and Archeology. She is headed to Brazil to join her parents as they search for a lost colony deep in the Amazon Rainforest.

Ben Reed was hired by Lillian’s mother, Isadora, as a bodyguard during their expedition. When asked to escort Lillian as she arrives, the grumpy American makes it known he is no one’s babysitter.

As the two work together, it becomes clear there is more to this expedition than uncovering a lost colony. Lillian must decide who to trust - her mother, father, or the man she just met, who she may or may not have feelings for …

The River’s Deception is sure to sweep you off your feet into a world of mystery, intrigue, magic, and love!

[Alyssa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you PenPal PR & Elora Maxwell for the ebook in exchange for my honest review!

A fast past adventure set in 1920s Brazil that pulled me in from the very first page. I felt completely immersed in this world thanks to the beautiful prose and descriptive writing style.

Truthfully I was drawn to this book with the promise of vibes of “The Mummy” and it certainly lived up to expectations!

Ben & Lillian are perfect compliments to each other, a California Cowboy meets soft hearted Oxford Scholar. Their wit, slow burn, and intense chemistry are a perfect mirror to one of my all time favorite movie couples, Rick & Evelyn.

The mystery of the Amazon had just as much pull on me as it did with Lillian. There’s betrayal, family secrets, and magic. I can barely wait for book two - I can’t wait to find out how much deeper this goes, where Lillian fits in, & the lengths Ben will go to protect her.

[Jade. · Rating 4 out of 5]

𝐀𝐑𝐂 𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰
𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐑𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐫'𝐬 𝐃𝐞𝐜𝐞𝐩𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧
𝐛𝐲 𝐄𝐥𝐨𝐫𝐚 𝐌𝐚𝐱𝐰𝐞𝐥𝐥
𝐑𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞: 𝐎𝐔𝐓 𝐍𝐎𝐖!

- - -
Read this if you like:
□ The Mummy vibes
□ dislike to lovers
□ slow-burn romance
□ ancient secrets
□ non-stop adventure

Thank you, Pen Pal PR, for the ARC! I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

The way I instantly clicked on request ARC when I read that it has The Mummy vibes! It's one of my favorite movies.

Oh gosh, this book was magnificent. The beginning was a bit slow, but once the action started, it's a wild ride with lots of twists and turns.

The banter between Lillian and Ben made me laugh, chuckle, and squeal. They reminded me so much of the main characters from The Mummy. I am obsessed!

I almost threw my phone across the room when I read the last sentence. What do you mean this is the end of book one? I have so many questions, and I need the answers now! I definitely will read the second book.

[Bookish girly · Rating 3 out of 5]

Quick and easy read!

This book is made for The Mummy and Indiana Jones fans and it really shows! The book was written like a real life adventure movie. I quite liked it.

I also liked how cozy the book was since it was set in the past and in the jungle. Seeing the bits and bits of the mystery unravel in this book was so interesting. I totally didn't expect it to move in the direction that it did, I quite liked seeing how the author wrote the certain things that happened to the fmc! It was so original and fit so well with the plot and setting.

The author did her research and the history parts were really well written.

I only wish I could have connected a bit more to the main characters and that the main characters had a bit more tension building / relationship building scenes leading up to their romance.

Overall I would recommend this book if you like historical or adventure filled books with a Rick and Evelyn (from The Mummy) type of main characters.

Thank you so much to the author and Booksirens for an e-arc of this book!

[Ashley von B · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a wonderful adventure of a book. Absolutely 1000000% The Mummy vibes in all of the best ways. If this was a movie, it would automatically become a comfort movie for me.

Lillian was such an interesting character. Very prim and proper and yet still a badass woman on a mission.

Ben. Oh Ben. Oh I love him. While reading I couldn’t help but picture him as young Brendan Fraser. Especially with the suspenders and hair that fell in his face.

The overall story was super interesting as well. Particularly with the whole aspect of the German Reich and Ivo (haaaaaaate Ivo).

I can not wait for the next one, especially since I can definitely see their relationship getting more in depth, and I just know they are going to have more swoon worthy moments.

Absolutely loved this ARC, thank you so much Elora ❤️