What do you think?
Rate this book
Blood Sisters #1
Reflections
No longer available
Seventeen-year-old Lilly and her beloved father eagerly jump at the chance to join a group for the rare opportunity to examine the pyramids, little knowing how this trip will change them forever.
Along the way, they stumble upon an illegal slave market where Lilly rescues Bala, a young African girl. While Lilly is sensitive and naive with a childlike trusting innocence, Bala trusts no one, conceals her emotions, and, though illiterate, is highly intelligent. The two girls are as different as night and day and do not even speak the same language, yet they end up forming an unbreakable bond of friendship and trust due to the difficult trials they are forced to endure and the tough decisions they have to make.
The group of explorers is unexpectedly invited to investigate a newly discovered tomb in the Sudan, which unbeknownst to them, turns out to contain a mummy that has been cursed. Could it be the curse that is causing the mysterious illnesses and terrible misfortune running rampant throughout the camp?
Seventeen-year-old Lilly and her beloved father eagerly jump at the chance to join a group for the rare opportunity to examine the pyramids, little knowing how this trip will change them forever.
Along the way, they stumble upon an illegal slave market where Lilly rescues Bala, a young African girl. While Lilly is sensitive and naive with a childlike trusting innocence, Bala trusts no one, conceals her emotions, and, though illiterate, is highly intelligent. The two girls are as different as night and day and do not even speak the same language, yet they end up forming an unbreakable bond of friendship and trust due to the difficult trials they are forced to endure and the tough decisions they have to make.
The group of explorers is unexpectedly invited to investigate a newly discovered tomb in the Sudan, which unbeknownst to them, turns out to contain a mummy that has been cursed. Could it be the curse that is causing the mysterious illnesses and terrible misfortune running rampant throughout the camp?
- GenresFiction
359 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2014
462 people want to read
About the author
Joe Krakovsky
6 books283 followersWe got married right out of high school and have been together ever since. Most things we have done together and we prefer it that way. We worked together at a private club and ran a very successful martial arts program for 15 years. Now we are trying our hand at writing books. Oh, did I mention the kids and grandkids? And there is a donkey, goat and cat too!
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
April 1, 2018
* My thanks to Joe Krakovsky for sending me a paper copy of Reflections ( Blood Sisters ). I have given an honest review in exchange*
I've had a fascination with ancient Egypt for as long as I can remember, so when I was offered the chance to read this book and saw the trigger words, newly discovered tombs, mummies, curses and mysterious illnesses, I was in! So I settled down in my favourite armchair, and was taken on a journey of mystery, excitement and discovery without leaving said armchair.
The story begins in ancient Egypt, but primarily most of the action takes place in the 19th century. 17 year old Lilly is a very well to do young lady, but unlike most girls of her standing she has a really adventurous side, so when she and her father, Sir Arthur Billingsley, get the chance to join an expedition to the pyramids in Egypt and, more to the point, search for undiscovered tombs, they seize the opportunity with both hands.
During their travels, Lilly stumbles upon an illegal slave market, and is appalled by the treatment of a young African girl, being pulled and prodded by prospective buyers. She ensures that her bid is higher than anyone else's, and gives the young girl Bala, a rosier future than she would have had. Bala is distrustful of these white people, having been taken from her homeland in order to be sold into slavery. However, Lilly is kind and patient with her, and slowly teaches her to read, and eventually Bala sees Lilly as someone who is to be trusted and whom she will protect from danger whatever that may be, furthermore the girls form a bond that would have seemed impossible given their diverse backgrounds.
As it turns out, these two girls from vastly different cultures, will work together against the many dangers and enemies that they will encounter throughout this expedition.
I thoroughly enjoyed the storyline, filled as it was with non-stop, life threatening scenarios. The characters were believable, and I loved the way the authors Joe and Ruth Krakovsky developed Lilly's character, indeed it's very much a coming of age for both Lilly and Bala. Although Bala was from a very primitive culture, she is astute and extremely intelligent.
The book was well written, and I appreciate the immense research that went into providing the many interesting facts that we were furnished with throughout.
Mummies, tombs, curses, mysteries, and thrill a minute action - what's not to like? Loved it!
I've had a fascination with ancient Egypt for as long as I can remember, so when I was offered the chance to read this book and saw the trigger words, newly discovered tombs, mummies, curses and mysterious illnesses, I was in! So I settled down in my favourite armchair, and was taken on a journey of mystery, excitement and discovery without leaving said armchair.
The story begins in ancient Egypt, but primarily most of the action takes place in the 19th century. 17 year old Lilly is a very well to do young lady, but unlike most girls of her standing she has a really adventurous side, so when she and her father, Sir Arthur Billingsley, get the chance to join an expedition to the pyramids in Egypt and, more to the point, search for undiscovered tombs, they seize the opportunity with both hands.
During their travels, Lilly stumbles upon an illegal slave market, and is appalled by the treatment of a young African girl, being pulled and prodded by prospective buyers. She ensures that her bid is higher than anyone else's, and gives the young girl Bala, a rosier future than she would have had. Bala is distrustful of these white people, having been taken from her homeland in order to be sold into slavery. However, Lilly is kind and patient with her, and slowly teaches her to read, and eventually Bala sees Lilly as someone who is to be trusted and whom she will protect from danger whatever that may be, furthermore the girls form a bond that would have seemed impossible given their diverse backgrounds.
As it turns out, these two girls from vastly different cultures, will work together against the many dangers and enemies that they will encounter throughout this expedition.
I thoroughly enjoyed the storyline, filled as it was with non-stop, life threatening scenarios. The characters were believable, and I loved the way the authors Joe and Ruth Krakovsky developed Lilly's character, indeed it's very much a coming of age for both Lilly and Bala. Although Bala was from a very primitive culture, she is astute and extremely intelligent.
The book was well written, and I appreciate the immense research that went into providing the many interesting facts that we were furnished with throughout.
Mummies, tombs, curses, mysteries, and thrill a minute action - what's not to like? Loved it!
July 10, 2018
”This ‘thing’ emanated a suffocating malevolence that tainted the air with a heaviness so stifling it was an effort just to draw a deep breath.”
That mummy! I swear that mummy creeped me out big time! *shakes head and shudders* Not that I’m usually scared of things like that but the way it was described!! Well, let’s just say I’m glad I have a strong stomach because some scenes really caused me to wince and frown and coming from me that actually means something! The “eww” factor and revulsion was pretty strong in this one. *lol* At least at some parts that involved the mummy, but enough of that!
This book is definitely so much more than just a story about an ancient Egyptian tomb! It’s a story about an unconventional friendship, strong women, biased men, an adventure, fatherly love, a love triangle (yeah you read right!!! Joe you actually went for a love triangle?! *lol*), bravery, injustice and hope. In short this was quite an awesome story that captured my interest big time.
”Bala couldn’t remember ever having such a violent physical reaction to her fear. Gooseflesh was raised over her whole body, and even though she was cold, she had broken out in a sweat. Her knees felt wobbly and weak, and her heart was pounding erratically."
There were a few things I found really intriguing and I think I’ll just take my time to point them out. For instance I was very fascinated by the idea of different POVs. I know that’s nothing new but the way it was implemented certainly was something new for me. I mean we all know those books where the important characters have their own chapters and POVs. Well, not in this book. Sure, they had their POVs but they changed during the chapters and you got to hear the thoughts of everyone who was currently present in the chapter. At first this was a little confusing, because the POVs jumped so fast I had a tough time to get used to it, once I got into it I began to like and appreciate it though. =)
It’s a different style of narration than I’m used to, but it was a really nice change to the chapter wise POVs I usually read. ;-) So thank you, Joe! You did a great job and since we’re already speaking about the different POVs we might as well jump to the characters of the story as well. I think I liked them all. Well except of Richard of course! XD Gosh, I hated that man! He was such a coward and a numpty and to think that Lilly was supposed to marry him?! URGH!! I guess it’s good they made that journey to Egypt! >_<
”At times she found it frustrating when men assumed that just because she was a woman, she wasn’t interested, or wasn’t capable of understanding what went on in the world of men. Sometimes she thought if she had been born a male, she would have been able to outsmart them all; but because she was a female, she would never have the opportunity to be taken seriously.”
The two men I liked the most were definitely Charles and Sir Billingsley! I loved Charles for being such a sweet person and even though he was a product of his time and also thought that a woman needed a man to take care of her he was still ready and willing to change his attitude. He was an open-minded and gentle person and I loved that about him! Well, and Sir Billingsley? It was obvious he adored his daughter and it was so nice to see their close relationship! Which is the reason I didn’t like the ending!!!
”The thought that he had let her down was like a physical pain in his chest. He wished he would have looked into her eyes and had the strength and conviction to say he believed her and supported her no matter what. Right then and there, he vowed that if ever given another chance, he would never fail her again.”
I think Lilly and Bala went through a lot as well and by the end of the book I adored them both. They were such strong women and I loved that they decided to live their lives the way they wanted to! They took the opportunity to become more than what they had been destined to be and I admired them for their strength and courage to start a new life! I’m sure there will be a lot of hardships along their way, but I’m more than just certain that they’ll manage to deal with them all! They are so strong together and I’m pretty certain there is nothing they wouldn’t be able to deal with! *lol*
There was a sadness behind her winning smile, and a new look of maturity in her emerald eyes. Lilly had lost that touch of childlike innocence, and literally, overnight, had stepped into the serious, sometimes frightening, world of adulthood.”
”Lilly never lost her angelic countenance or her love for her fellow man, but she could become a hardened force to be reckoned with in order to shield those of whom she chose to protect.”
All told, I really enjoyed this story! I was kind of surprised to realise that I loved Sir Billingsley so much and I was even more surprised to notice that my intense hatred for Richard seems to be off the chart! *lol* So even though there was no swoon worthy romance in this book I still had to deal with a lot of emotions. The strongest of them apparently being anger, disgust and regret. XD (No regret that I read the book, mind you! I’m glad I got a chance to read this!!! <3)
I think it’s safe to say that I liked this book a lot! =) I know one day there’s going to be a sequel so yeah, Joe if you write it, can you please think of me? *lol* I’d really appreciate it! *makes huge puppy eyes* ;-P
On a more serious (and personal) note: I’m thankful you sent me your story! It was a pleasure to read it and I loved all the details you put into it. It’s obvious you have a lot of knowledge about the military and ancient Egypt and I relished every second of it! You know your stuff, that’s for certain! So thank you once again! It was an amazing and sometimes even educational ride! ;-)
”A strong wave of love and unity surged through them both as they saw their own reflections in each other’s eyes as though they had entered the body and soul of the other. They knew this was an important turning point in their relationship, binding them together forever."
That mummy! I swear that mummy creeped me out big time! *shakes head and shudders* Not that I’m usually scared of things like that but the way it was described!! Well, let’s just say I’m glad I have a strong stomach because some scenes really caused me to wince and frown and coming from me that actually means something! The “eww” factor and revulsion was pretty strong in this one. *lol* At least at some parts that involved the mummy, but enough of that!
This book is definitely so much more than just a story about an ancient Egyptian tomb! It’s a story about an unconventional friendship, strong women, biased men, an adventure, fatherly love, a love triangle (yeah you read right!!! Joe you actually went for a love triangle?! *lol*), bravery, injustice and hope. In short this was quite an awesome story that captured my interest big time.
”Bala couldn’t remember ever having such a violent physical reaction to her fear. Gooseflesh was raised over her whole body, and even though she was cold, she had broken out in a sweat. Her knees felt wobbly and weak, and her heart was pounding erratically."
There were a few things I found really intriguing and I think I’ll just take my time to point them out. For instance I was very fascinated by the idea of different POVs. I know that’s nothing new but the way it was implemented certainly was something new for me. I mean we all know those books where the important characters have their own chapters and POVs. Well, not in this book. Sure, they had their POVs but they changed during the chapters and you got to hear the thoughts of everyone who was currently present in the chapter. At first this was a little confusing, because the POVs jumped so fast I had a tough time to get used to it, once I got into it I began to like and appreciate it though. =)
It’s a different style of narration than I’m used to, but it was a really nice change to the chapter wise POVs I usually read. ;-) So thank you, Joe! You did a great job and since we’re already speaking about the different POVs we might as well jump to the characters of the story as well. I think I liked them all. Well except of Richard of course! XD Gosh, I hated that man! He was such a coward and a numpty and to think that Lilly was supposed to marry him?! URGH!! I guess it’s good they made that journey to Egypt! >_<
”At times she found it frustrating when men assumed that just because she was a woman, she wasn’t interested, or wasn’t capable of understanding what went on in the world of men. Sometimes she thought if she had been born a male, she would have been able to outsmart them all; but because she was a female, she would never have the opportunity to be taken seriously.”
The two men I liked the most were definitely Charles and Sir Billingsley! I loved Charles for being such a sweet person and even though he was a product of his time and also thought that a woman needed a man to take care of her he was still ready and willing to change his attitude. He was an open-minded and gentle person and I loved that about him! Well, and Sir Billingsley? It was obvious he adored his daughter and it was so nice to see their close relationship! Which is the reason I didn’t like the ending!!!
”The thought that he had let her down was like a physical pain in his chest. He wished he would have looked into her eyes and had the strength and conviction to say he believed her and supported her no matter what. Right then and there, he vowed that if ever given another chance, he would never fail her again.”
I think Lilly and Bala went through a lot as well and by the end of the book I adored them both. They were such strong women and I loved that they decided to live their lives the way they wanted to! They took the opportunity to become more than what they had been destined to be and I admired them for their strength and courage to start a new life! I’m sure there will be a lot of hardships along their way, but I’m more than just certain that they’ll manage to deal with them all! They are so strong together and I’m pretty certain there is nothing they wouldn’t be able to deal with! *lol*
There was a sadness behind her winning smile, and a new look of maturity in her emerald eyes. Lilly had lost that touch of childlike innocence, and literally, overnight, had stepped into the serious, sometimes frightening, world of adulthood.”
”Lilly never lost her angelic countenance or her love for her fellow man, but she could become a hardened force to be reckoned with in order to shield those of whom she chose to protect.”
All told, I really enjoyed this story! I was kind of surprised to realise that I loved Sir Billingsley so much and I was even more surprised to notice that my intense hatred for Richard seems to be off the chart! *lol* So even though there was no swoon worthy romance in this book I still had to deal with a lot of emotions. The strongest of them apparently being anger, disgust and regret. XD (No regret that I read the book, mind you! I’m glad I got a chance to read this!!! <3)
I think it’s safe to say that I liked this book a lot! =) I know one day there’s going to be a sequel so yeah, Joe if you write it, can you please think of me? *lol* I’d really appreciate it! *makes huge puppy eyes* ;-P
On a more serious (and personal) note: I’m thankful you sent me your story! It was a pleasure to read it and I loved all the details you put into it. It’s obvious you have a lot of knowledge about the military and ancient Egypt and I relished every second of it! You know your stuff, that’s for certain! So thank you once again! It was an amazing and sometimes even educational ride! ;-)
”A strong wave of love and unity surged through them both as they saw their own reflections in each other’s eyes as though they had entered the body and soul of the other. They knew this was an important turning point in their relationship, binding them together forever."
June 26, 2018
3.5 stars
This book begins with an ancient battle and the death of a prominent general in ancient Egypt. His mummification and burial should be done with honor and great care - but a woman who feels wronged by him is put in charge of the mummification process and she takes her revenge and has his body moved. Cursed for all time as are those who may find his body.......
Seventeen-year-old Lily and her father, Sir Arthur Billingsley, are given the opportunity to join an expedition to the ancient pyramids of Egypt. She yearns for adventure and can't wait to explore and hopes to find hidden tombs, see mummies, and go on the adventure of a lifetime. Little does she know that this trip will indeed be the adventure of a lifetime but not the adventure she was hoping for. Hungry crocodiles become the least of their worries as the journey begins.
Lily quickly learns that life in other areas of the world are not as idyllic as the life she led in England. She witnesses a slave market and rescues a young slave named Bala. Eventually they overcome their language barrier, their differences and form a friendship and learn to rely on each other especially when things begin to go horribly wrong on the expedition.
When a hidden tomb is found, things turn from bad to worse for those on the expedition. Illness strikes which leaves the reader to wonder is this the work of the ancient curse on the Mummy or something else entirely. Kidnappings, death and sickness plague this expedition - no one is safe- how will they survive? Will they survive?
Part action, part mystery, part coming of age, this book reads like a movie. It was easy to imagine the journey and the events which unfolded during the expedition. I would have liked to have seen more of the ancient Egypt times, specifically what happened to woman who the placed the curse on the Mummy (hint hint - maybe there is another book here). Overall an enjoyable read with vivid characters - some likable, some not so-likable. I enjoyed the contrast of seeing some of the characters growing and maturing while others (I am thinking of one in particular) showed their true colors/nature. Fans of ancient Egypt, mummies and ancient curses and adventure should enjoy this book!
I received a copy of this book from the Authors in exchange for an honest review. The thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookpost.com
This book begins with an ancient battle and the death of a prominent general in ancient Egypt. His mummification and burial should be done with honor and great care - but a woman who feels wronged by him is put in charge of the mummification process and she takes her revenge and has his body moved. Cursed for all time as are those who may find his body.......
Seventeen-year-old Lily and her father, Sir Arthur Billingsley, are given the opportunity to join an expedition to the ancient pyramids of Egypt. She yearns for adventure and can't wait to explore and hopes to find hidden tombs, see mummies, and go on the adventure of a lifetime. Little does she know that this trip will indeed be the adventure of a lifetime but not the adventure she was hoping for. Hungry crocodiles become the least of their worries as the journey begins.
Lily quickly learns that life in other areas of the world are not as idyllic as the life she led in England. She witnesses a slave market and rescues a young slave named Bala. Eventually they overcome their language barrier, their differences and form a friendship and learn to rely on each other especially when things begin to go horribly wrong on the expedition.
When a hidden tomb is found, things turn from bad to worse for those on the expedition. Illness strikes which leaves the reader to wonder is this the work of the ancient curse on the Mummy or something else entirely. Kidnappings, death and sickness plague this expedition - no one is safe- how will they survive? Will they survive?
Part action, part mystery, part coming of age, this book reads like a movie. It was easy to imagine the journey and the events which unfolded during the expedition. I would have liked to have seen more of the ancient Egypt times, specifically what happened to woman who the placed the curse on the Mummy (hint hint - maybe there is another book here). Overall an enjoyable read with vivid characters - some likable, some not so-likable. I enjoyed the contrast of seeing some of the characters growing and maturing while others (I am thinking of one in particular) showed their true colors/nature. Fans of ancient Egypt, mummies and ancient curses and adventure should enjoy this book!
I received a copy of this book from the Authors in exchange for an honest review. The thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookpost.com
October 29, 2024
4.5 ⭐ rounded up to 5 ⭐!
Reflections by Joe Krakovsky was a delightful, entertaining read from start to finish. From the get go the story had me hooked, with its exquisite historical detail and compelling plot. An adventure involving Egyptian mummies, a young wealthy hieress and British military campaigns against Mahdists, what could go wrong? Equally enjoyable is Krakovsky's unpretentious, straightforward storytelling style which made me feel like he was regaling me with one of his tales from his military days over a beer (or whiskey).
Krakovsky knows his stuff when it comes to anything related to soldiering. From Lee-Metford rifles and Maxim machine guns to British infantry squares and desert warfare tactics, Reflections, will not disappoint. The tie-in of the story to the historical context of the late 19th century British colonial period was also quite impressive. The author clearly did extensive and meticulous research to weave this intricate plot, with its colorful cast of characters as well as subtle twists and turns that kept me at the edge of my seat throughout the narrative.
Perhaps my only disappointment in reading Reflections, is that the story did not continue for longer. At the ending I was left with a distinct feeling that a sequel or prequel could be in order (Perhaps it is already in the works?). Overall I would highly recommend Reflections to anyone looking for a riveting, action-packed historical fiction novel.
This review was based on a copy of Reflections sent to me by the author.
Reflections by Joe Krakovsky was a delightful, entertaining read from start to finish. From the get go the story had me hooked, with its exquisite historical detail and compelling plot. An adventure involving Egyptian mummies, a young wealthy hieress and British military campaigns against Mahdists, what could go wrong? Equally enjoyable is Krakovsky's unpretentious, straightforward storytelling style which made me feel like he was regaling me with one of his tales from his military days over a beer (or whiskey).
Krakovsky knows his stuff when it comes to anything related to soldiering. From Lee-Metford rifles and Maxim machine guns to British infantry squares and desert warfare tactics, Reflections, will not disappoint. The tie-in of the story to the historical context of the late 19th century British colonial period was also quite impressive. The author clearly did extensive and meticulous research to weave this intricate plot, with its colorful cast of characters as well as subtle twists and turns that kept me at the edge of my seat throughout the narrative.
Perhaps my only disappointment in reading Reflections, is that the story did not continue for longer. At the ending I was left with a distinct feeling that a sequel or prequel could be in order (Perhaps it is already in the works?). Overall I would highly recommend Reflections to anyone looking for a riveting, action-packed historical fiction novel.
This review was based on a copy of Reflections sent to me by the author.
January 9, 2025
The Blood Sisters are admirable characters with great promise. Reflections is the first book in what will become a Blood Sisters series written by Joe and Ruth Krakovsky . Joe is a longtime Goodreads friend. Joe and Ruth have a clear and pleasant writing style that puts the story front and center. This novel provides an enjoyable adventure where we meet Lilly and Bala. As is stated on the book cover, "[Lilly and Bala] are as different as night and day and do not even speak the same language, yet they end up forming an unbreakable bond of friendship and trust..."
This book is for you if you enjoy either female buddy books that focus on adventure or forays into the mummy genre. For example, fans of Indiana Jones should give this book consideration. Also, if you are a fan of Anne Rice, R.L. Stine, Elizabeth Peters, and/or Mary Pope Osborne, this may well be the book you've been waiting for.
This book is for you if you enjoy either female buddy books that focus on adventure or forays into the mummy genre. For example, fans of Indiana Jones should give this book consideration. Also, if you are a fan of Anne Rice, R.L. Stine, Elizabeth Peters, and/or Mary Pope Osborne, this may well be the book you've been waiting for.
March 25, 2024
An enjoyable read.
It felt like a nice throwback to the desert/jungle adventure novels in which the characters, good and evil, some not so clearcut, fight it out in all types of conditions Mother Nature can throw at them. Battle scenes and released mythological curses from ancient Egypt kept me entertained, but the augmented geography and history details held extra appeal.
Joe and Ruth Krakovsky are an effective husband and wife writing team – how is that possible without a divorce? They struck a happy medium in humour and the love interest (think of the heroine fluttering her eyelashes at her suitors, or was it just sand in her eyes, whipped up from a sandstorm?), mixed with blood, gore and pestilence. Don’t mess with the mummy or its tomb, folks…
I look forward to the sequel.
It felt like a nice throwback to the desert/jungle adventure novels in which the characters, good and evil, some not so clearcut, fight it out in all types of conditions Mother Nature can throw at them. Battle scenes and released mythological curses from ancient Egypt kept me entertained, but the augmented geography and history details held extra appeal.
Joe and Ruth Krakovsky are an effective husband and wife writing team – how is that possible without a divorce? They struck a happy medium in humour and the love interest (think of the heroine fluttering her eyelashes at her suitors, or was it just sand in her eyes, whipped up from a sandstorm?), mixed with blood, gore and pestilence. Don’t mess with the mummy or its tomb, folks…
I look forward to the sequel.
March 2, 2020
this lovely story took me back to my childhood when i loved so much adventure stories . i loved when there was fights for good cause, a mystery to solve, good friendship between interesting men, a bit of romance, and if they had black magic and curses and wild animals it made it just tastier. and this nice YA novel has it all. great story based in Egypt at the time of the great British colonial times with the great archeological findings and this couple writers knows a lot about them. in the center the lovely character of Lilly who beside beauty, charm and bravery has the ability to go into interesting trance- meditations and conjure the past.
June 7, 2018
Reflections: Blood Sisters 1
by Joe And Ruth Krakovsky
My Goodreads friends and authors, Joe and Ruth Krakowsky, kindly sent me a signed paper copy of their book Reflections in exchange for an honest review. Thank you Joe and Ruth.
The title Reflections is artfully demonstrated on the cover. The picture is of two women, one white and one black, which depicts the theme throughout the novel.
The authors begin the story with travel back in time to the Age of the Pharos where an army in ships on the Nile are lead by one of the kings favorite generals to put down a rebellion. When the triumphant army prepares their return, the General succumbs from snake bite. By the rights of his rank, he is prepared for the afterlife in the tradition of the times, and is mummified. No one was aware that the slave who is given the job off preparation has an all consuming hatred for the General.
Later on in the late 1800’s, 17 year old Lilly Billingsly with her father, Sir Billingsley and friends, depart England on an archaeological trip to Egypt. Lilly has demonstrated interest in the field and wants to learn from a friend of the family, a professor at the university and his nephew who are both archaeologists. They arrive in Cairo and begin a journey down the Nile, escorted by British and Egyptian troops. They learn of a newly discovered tomb, but while all are excited about the find, they wonder about the style and location of the burial site. It is not traditional.
While touring one of the villages at one of their stops on their voyage, Lilly sees something she has never seen: slaves being auctioned. She sees a half naked slave girl, Bala, about the same age a herself, who was being poked and prodded on the auction block. She implores her father to purchase the girl, and over time they come to trust and respect each other as equals. She was never meant to be Lilly’s slave.
The novel is well written and the husband and wife authors make a great team. They breathe life into the characters and keep the reader turning pages to stay tuned to non stop action and unexpected challenges. The descriptions of the Nile and Egyptian desert were clear and breathtaking, and the historical aspects of the novel were obviously well researched. The characters meld perfectly with the story, and of course, our protagonist Lilly, makes quite the heroine.
Highly recommended.
by Joe And Ruth Krakovsky
My Goodreads friends and authors, Joe and Ruth Krakowsky, kindly sent me a signed paper copy of their book Reflections in exchange for an honest review. Thank you Joe and Ruth.
The title Reflections is artfully demonstrated on the cover. The picture is of two women, one white and one black, which depicts the theme throughout the novel.
The authors begin the story with travel back in time to the Age of the Pharos where an army in ships on the Nile are lead by one of the kings favorite generals to put down a rebellion. When the triumphant army prepares their return, the General succumbs from snake bite. By the rights of his rank, he is prepared for the afterlife in the tradition of the times, and is mummified. No one was aware that the slave who is given the job off preparation has an all consuming hatred for the General.
Later on in the late 1800’s, 17 year old Lilly Billingsly with her father, Sir Billingsley and friends, depart England on an archaeological trip to Egypt. Lilly has demonstrated interest in the field and wants to learn from a friend of the family, a professor at the university and his nephew who are both archaeologists. They arrive in Cairo and begin a journey down the Nile, escorted by British and Egyptian troops. They learn of a newly discovered tomb, but while all are excited about the find, they wonder about the style and location of the burial site. It is not traditional.
While touring one of the villages at one of their stops on their voyage, Lilly sees something she has never seen: slaves being auctioned. She sees a half naked slave girl, Bala, about the same age a herself, who was being poked and prodded on the auction block. She implores her father to purchase the girl, and over time they come to trust and respect each other as equals. She was never meant to be Lilly’s slave.
The novel is well written and the husband and wife authors make a great team. They breathe life into the characters and keep the reader turning pages to stay tuned to non stop action and unexpected challenges. The descriptions of the Nile and Egyptian desert were clear and breathtaking, and the historical aspects of the novel were obviously well researched. The characters meld perfectly with the story, and of course, our protagonist Lilly, makes quite the heroine.
Highly recommended.
January 28, 2021
I really liked this story. It was filled with intense and fast-moving action, well-developed and interesting characters, wild crocodiles, a mummy’s curse, pyramids and dry desert sands, slaves and warriors--
February 22, 2023
I had so much fun reading this one - I felt like this book, more than any I have read recently, recaptured the magic of watching Indiana Jones for the first time as a kid. The writing was very good, but more impressive was the obviously large amount of research that went into making this a time period appropriate, yet organic world - I loved the characters, and it was so much to read about curses, mummys, and curses that recaptured childhood nostalgia and mixed it with writing that did not condescend.
What a blast!
What a blast!
October 13, 2015
I received a copy of this book through Goodreads' First Reads program. I really enjoyed the story. Lilly is a young lady who would have been called a bluestocking in her Victorian era. She has a passionate drive for learning and is particularly fascinated by the culture of ancient Egypt. Adventure occurs when Lilly, her father, and a small group are diverted from their travel to the pyramids to explore a recently discovered tomb.
The story was fast-moving and very readable. There is a lot of character growth and development throughout the book. In its way, this is as much a story about growing up as it is about mummies and adventure. I am glad to know there will be a sequel, as I am curious to see what other new adventures Lilly and Bala will have together.
The story was fast-moving and very readable. There is a lot of character growth and development throughout the book. In its way, this is as much a story about growing up as it is about mummies and adventure. I am glad to know there will be a sequel, as I am curious to see what other new adventures Lilly and Bala will have together.
April 24, 2020
A gripping story about friendship, adventure and mummies! I loved how the characters developed throughout the story, like how the main character, Lilly, embarks on her journey and faces challenges, which make her mature into a young woman. The colorful palette of characters, from loveable to detestable, kept me wanting more.
I applaud the research the authors put into this book. The vivid descriptions of the life in the 19th Century and the archealogical finds in Egypt were fascinating. I learned a lot about Ancient Egypt whilst enjoying the action and the well-written story.
A fast-paced, yet intense read. Highly recommended for all fans of adventure and Ancient Egypt.
I applaud the research the authors put into this book. The vivid descriptions of the life in the 19th Century and the archealogical finds in Egypt were fascinating. I learned a lot about Ancient Egypt whilst enjoying the action and the well-written story.
A fast-paced, yet intense read. Highly recommended for all fans of adventure and Ancient Egypt.
September 22, 2016
This book is a great addition to the historical fiction genre. Filled with adventure, mostly the dangerous kind, this book moves at a brisk pace the entire time. The nonstop action will have you turning the pages wanting to know what will become of Lilly and her traveling companions. This book is well thought and researched, and filled with interesting facts from both the 19th century and ancient Egypt. It's a great thrill ride, and I look forward to the next book.
April 9, 2017
It's a really interesting book with a lot in it about Egypt, mummies, curses, and other cool, adventurous things. The book keeps you hooked the whole time you're reading it and it's a fairly quick read. Most of the characters are quite likable. There's a lot of character development throughout the book too. It's a really good book!
Read
February 26, 2018I won this book via Goodreads First Reads. I am an ECE administrator and I look forward to adding this book to the lending library for parents and staff at my school.
May 1, 2020
The background of the story is in ancient Egypt when Pharoah's dead General needs to be mummified. The priest responsible for the mummification assigns his trained assistant, a Nubian slave woman named Helea, to do this job. Helea has intensely hated the General for many years since he had murdered her people and put her into slavery. Helea concentrates all her powers to put multiple curses on his mummy. She corrupts the mummification and fills the corpse with poisons and dung. She secretly puts another body in his coffin and orders his mummy taken away to Nubia so that he would reincarnate in the land of his enemies. However, the slaves she sent to carry the mummy to Nubia shortened the trip by interring his mummy in an out-of-the-way hidden cave. Millenia pass.
In Victorian England, Sir Arthur Billingsly is invited to finance an expedition led by a friend, Professor William Buller, and his nephew Charles who are both archeologists and who hope to discover a tomb of a long-forgotten king in Egypt. Sir Billingsly's daughter, Lilly, on the cusp of adulthood, is thrilled when her father, Sir Billingsly, agrees to take her on this adventure with him. Since Lilly is engaged to be married soon to Richard Elliot, Richard also goes. This condensed outline takes us to page nineteen.
The story continues at a good pace with plenty of action. There are crocodiles, cannons, spears, military battles; and the adventurers face death and fight for their lives and some do die. Lilly does meet the mummy and its curses. There are baffling diseases and mysterious sicknesses and deaths.
At one point toward the beginning of the travels a kidnapped African girl, also on the cusp of adulthood, is poked and prodded at a slave auction and Lilly buys her to rescue her from an ugly fate. The girls learn to help and trust one other well on many levels and become strong friends who face troubles, disease and death together several times.
This unusual book is written in a unique style. This is a substantial story with rich detailed expositions of the history and culture of the adventure. The writing tone had a very wide range; also it was quite unique because the overall tone had a well-researched depth but was interlaced with a uplifting lightness. The plot was complex but not confusing. A coddled but unspoiled girl goes on a dangerous adventure and emerges as a wiser adult who now has a changed relationship with her father and with her fiance, and who has gained an unlikely true friend and many experiences that most of us will never face. Yes, this is a good read for all ages.
In Victorian England, Sir Arthur Billingsly is invited to finance an expedition led by a friend, Professor William Buller, and his nephew Charles who are both archeologists and who hope to discover a tomb of a long-forgotten king in Egypt. Sir Billingsly's daughter, Lilly, on the cusp of adulthood, is thrilled when her father, Sir Billingsly, agrees to take her on this adventure with him. Since Lilly is engaged to be married soon to Richard Elliot, Richard also goes. This condensed outline takes us to page nineteen.
The story continues at a good pace with plenty of action. There are crocodiles, cannons, spears, military battles; and the adventurers face death and fight for their lives and some do die. Lilly does meet the mummy and its curses. There are baffling diseases and mysterious sicknesses and deaths.
At one point toward the beginning of the travels a kidnapped African girl, also on the cusp of adulthood, is poked and prodded at a slave auction and Lilly buys her to rescue her from an ugly fate. The girls learn to help and trust one other well on many levels and become strong friends who face troubles, disease and death together several times.
This unusual book is written in a unique style. This is a substantial story with rich detailed expositions of the history and culture of the adventure. The writing tone had a very wide range; also it was quite unique because the overall tone had a well-researched depth but was interlaced with a uplifting lightness. The plot was complex but not confusing. A coddled but unspoiled girl goes on a dangerous adventure and emerges as a wiser adult who now has a changed relationship with her father and with her fiance, and who has gained an unlikely true friend and many experiences that most of us will never face. Yes, this is a good read for all ages.
December 12, 2017
I received this book for free through a Goodreads giveaway in exchange for an honest review. I wish they had a place for halves because I would have given it a 4.5. I really loved the story about Lilly, a socialite that was more down-to-earth and interested in adventure. She embarks on this journey to discovery of mummies, but the resistance she and her group of explorers meet cause her to grow up way too fast and lose her innocent natures. During this time, girls would not be using swords, guns, or learning about jobs on ships, nor exploring mummy tombs, they would be home thinking about getting married and having children. Lilly ends up saving a slave girl from being sold to men and Bala stays with Lilly with the pretext of getting back to her people. The trials and tribulations they go through, along with their group, had me wondering what was next. This is a well-written book and it will hold your interest throughout.
November 23, 2018
I would give this book 4.5 stars if possible. I enjoyed the book a lot, finding it fast paced, the characters were interesting and they developed in interesting ways as the story progressed.
It was full of suspense, contains some quite interesting history and brought to life a very different way of life realistically and well.
I felt some of the bits at the end dragged a little, but overall it was a page turner and kept my interest!
I am looking forward to seeing what happens with Lily, Bala and Charles in the future. Also if Richard makes a comeback!
It was full of suspense, contains some quite interesting history and brought to life a very different way of life realistically and well.
I felt some of the bits at the end dragged a little, but overall it was a page turner and kept my interest!
I am looking forward to seeing what happens with Lily, Bala and Charles in the future. Also if Richard makes a comeback!
March 17, 2023
Mummies, curses, tombs; Oh my. The adventure lover in me thoroughly enjoyed this tale of young protagonists Lilly and her sister by choice Bala. Finding each other by chance, they struggle to overcome numerous obstacles together and grow up before your eyes. Blood Sisters is a whirlwind, Egyptian adventure that is anything but predictable, which was my favorite part. The dangers, injustices and loyalty shone stirred many emotions in me from anger, anxiousness, sadness and hope. I was reminded just how disappointing in addition to how reassuring, people can be. Filled with history, drama and heartfelt connection, Blood Sister not only lives up to its title, but is also a very enjoyable read.
Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews