The Eye of Nefertiti

Pharaoh's Cat #2

by Maria Luisa Lang

Now a New Yorker, the Pharaoh’s cat--the ancient Egyptian feline with human powers--travels back in time to free Egypt’s legendary Queen Nefertiti from a horrific curse, discovering firsthand why her mummy has never been found and her famous bust is missing one eye.

As in the first Pharaoh’s cat novel, the cat is quick-witted, wisecracking narrator as well as free-spirited, ever-curious protagonist, and the story he tells is an exotic, imaginative, spell-binding tragicomedy. The Eye of Nefertiti also interweaves feline and human, past and present, natural and supernatural. It too contains numerous surprises, twists and turns, intriguing characters, both human and animal, fascinating revelations about ancient Egyptian history and culture. Added to all this is an ingenious use of the Tarot and Italian opera.

The cat is living happily in New York City with the High Priest, Elena, daughter of an Egyptologist, and their infant son, the cat’s beloved Pharaoh reincarnated, when the supernatural gradually intrudes in the form of phantasms, the plot of an Italian opera, a Tarot card reading, and an unexpected summons to present-day Bath Spa disguised as an opportunity for Elena.

She and the little Pharaoh travel conventionally while the cat and the High Priest take the little boat they use for time travel and are diverted to ancient Stonehenge for a brief stop-over. The figure at the center of their encounter with the Druids has been prefigured in the cat’s phantasms, the Italian opera, and the Tarot reading, all his uncanny experiences being in accord with a single design.

Reunited with Elena and the infant Pharaoh in Bath, the cat and the High Priest discover a secret tomb below the Georgian house where they are staying, and are soon impelled to journey to ancient Egypt in the time of Queen Nefertiti to save her from a horrific curse. They become separated as they search for Nefertiti and the cat has several adventures before finding her on his own.

He undertakes an ingenious deception to stay close to her without revealing his identity. Being so close, he falls in love with her. He succeeds in lifting the horrific curse at great cost to himself. Despite his love, he surrenders Nefertiti to history and, mourning his loss, descends into a psychological abyss so deep only the Pharaoh can save him.

Maria Luisa Lang was born in Rome and lives in New York City. She has an art degree and is an amateur Egyptologist. The Pharaoh's Cat is her first novel, The Eye of Nefertiti her second.

Genres: Fantasy, Historical, Fiction, Amazon, Ebooks

208 pages, Paperback

Published November 29, 2016

Reviews

[Dianne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Maria Luisa Lang Presents THE PHARAOH'S CAT Series Giveaway

Meet Wrappa Hamen the cat who walks like a man, talks like a man
and has at least nine lives!
Maria Luisa Lang is offering TWO Two-Book Print Sets
International where allowed
Ends April 5, 2017 @11:59 PM

Wrappa Hamen, the cat imbued with the ability to walkup right, talk and more is back with his master and best friend, Wrappa Gato, living in contemporary times and still the same, adorable, loveable, ball of sass and snark as ever. This time out, resettled in New York with Elena, Egyptologist and Wrappa Gato’s wife, one would think life would start to settle down, but when time travel is called for, Wrappa Gato’s expertise will be tested to its limits as we are whisked away to ancient lands, and ancient times. Nefertiti has lost her memory for almost two weeks, what caused it and why? How can Wrappa Hamen help?

Once again, our fabulous feline charms his way into the hearts of the ladies of Egypt as well as readers with his antics, sage advice and ability to draw trouble like a magnet. Maria Luisa Lang’s THE EYE OF NEFERTITI endeavors to answer age old questions and create a much less starched twist on the vast history of ancient Egypt. Slightly irreverent, always filled with quirky humor and occasionally tugging on cupid’s heartstrings, if history were taught like this in school, I wouldn’t have minded one bit!

Who knew our precocious cat could fall in love? Who knew the sacrifices he would have to make, as once again, he steps in to save another Pharaoh from a fate bleaker than bleak. Will the lure of fast food and all the conveniences of the modern world bring him back to the future or will love hold him captive as part of the unknown players in history?

I received this copy from Maria Luisa Lang in exchange for my honest review.

Series: A Pharaoh's Cat
Publication Date: November 28, 2016
Publisher: Maria Luisa Lang
Genre: Time Travel Fantasy/Humor
Print Length: 209 pages
Available from: Amazon |  Barnes & Noble
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com

[Carrie (The Butterfly Reader) · Rating 4 out of 5]

This one has a lot in common with the first novel. It's funny, fast moving and entertaining. Though it's different from the last one too. The plot is more entertaining. It's easier to follow and I enjoyed it. Though I enjoyed the first one too. I really want my own personal Wrappa-Hamen! He just sounds like the best cat in the world. So much fun! He's always getting into something and there would never be a dull moment!

This is the second novel in this series but it reads like a stand alone. You will not be lost in you jump into this one but I do think you should start with the first one because it's also a good read. If you love cats, Egypt, and a good read. This is for you. This novels are not your usual story and are worth a read!

*The author sent me a copy of this novel for an honest review*

[Siobhan · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Eye of Nefertiti is the second The Pharaoh’s Cat novel, although it works perfectly fine as a standalone. Maria Luisa Lang was kind enough to provide me with both books, allowing me to get a better understanding of the overall story. Although it is not necessary to have read the first book, I would recommend you do so. It’s a fun quick read, and it really does allow you to understand the characters in this story. Even though both books were fun reads, I gave the first a three star rating due to small things, yet with this second book the four star rating was given without a second thought – thus, it’s good to read both so that you can see the developments.

As with the first book, this was a very quick read – one you can easily complete in one sitting should you wish to sit down with a good book for a couple of hours. Also in line with the first book, it’s more than just a simple story of a cat. It looks at the deeper meaning of connections, mixing emotions with historical fiction and magic. Again, our story spans thousands of years. We see more than just ancient Egypt and modern day New York this time, though; we also get to see both modern and ancient England. Throughout, there’s a mystery to solve and we’re left curious as to how things will play out. Although it is easy to work out a couple of facts, as a whole the way things play out is one big surprise.

As previously stated, I enjoyed this one even more than I enjoyed the first book. We once again have a number of amusing moments; we once again get to explore ancient Egypt; we once again have a mystery to solve; we once again have interesting characters; we once again have scenes that pull at a variety of emotions. All in all, it gives us all we could expect from the story – taking everything we received in the first book and amplifying it to new heights.

I really don’t want to say too much, though, as I fear I will end up ruining surprises. Just know that our time travelling cat has another wonderful adventure in this one, the story being a delightful creation that will pull you in from the first page. My only disappointment was that the ending seemed a little bit too quick for my liking. I would have liked something more from the end events, I would have liked for the ending to have been given a bit more attention as it seemed rather speedy in comparison to the other events.

Overall, it was a wonderful read. I certainly recommend giving these books a try, as they make for very fun quick reading. I’m hoping for more stories, allowing us to follow the characters on more wonderful adventures.

As a final note, I would like to thank the author for providing me with a copy in exchange for a review.

[Yvonne · Rating 5 out of 5]

This isn’t my usual genre, but I couldn’t resist a book starring a cat. I was a bit nervous that I wouldn’t like it, however, I was pleasantly surprised. This cat narrates the book – he is a feline with attitude. He’s the reason the term “catitude” came into existence, I’m sure :) All the characters – both feline and humans - are well-written and the plot moves along at a nice pace.

I practically devoured this book. It oozes with charm. It has a nice blend of everything from mystery, adventure, and even a touch of romance. I must warn you – the cat does talk and have some human traits. That might be a problem for some, but this is a fantasy and I loved every minute of it.

This book is a sequel to The Pharaoh’s Cat. I didn’t read that one, but it didn’t stop me from enjoying this book on its own. The good thing is this book, also, gives you the background needed to give the reader a good feel for what is happening and why.

I’m hoping there will be another book to follow.



FTC Disclosure: I was given a copy of this book from the author. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.

[Boundless Book Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wrappa-Hammen and the high priest are back. They are living in modern day New York with Elena. She has given birth to the reincarnation of the beloved pharaoh. They decide to go to England for a job and while there Wrappa Hammen and the high priest are enlisted to help Nefertiti. She is determined to end her immortality and the only one able to help her is a crazy cat who just so happens to be a cat with human abilities. 

This book was just as good if not better than the first. I love this cat with his attitude and character. This book was another book filled with action, comedy, time travel, history, and a little bit of romance. They journey to Stonehenge and back to Ancient Egypt in a fast paced novel. The characters are so easy to love and the story is deeply enthralling and unique. It can definitely bring a good laugh. I hope to read more about this crazy cat in the future. 

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[Christopher Schmitz · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Eye of Nefertiti, A Pharaoh’s Cat Novel is not my usual style of book. I received a paperback copy in exchange for an honest review. Every now and then we often say, “what the heck” and give something different a try… like the time my wife and I went to a sushi bar with friends. Turns out I’m veeeeerrryyy particular on my sushi. This book was a better choice than the Spicy Unagi Roll.
We’ll start with the positive. It’s different, at least for me, and is a low-investment book. It wasn’t a riveting book that plays with emotions and kept me awake at night; it felt more like a cozy mystery. Truthfully, though, it was interesting and constantly threw out little nuggets about the larger story (it didn’t seem like a sequel either and really was a stand-alone) with magic time-traveling boats by page two. Page one mentions the Pharaoh’s vizier, even. I mention him to demonstrate a comfortable plot (not exactly “predictable,” but comfy… cozy;) the vizier kills the pharaoh on page two. The book continually reminded me of stories I checked out of my local library as a teenager. I read a lot more variety in fiction as a teenager and something in the pacing and style reminded me of so many of them. Wrappa-Hamen (the cat,) is likable enough and is bit of a wise-cracker which helps keep the mood light (it might otherwise be a pseudo-Shakespearean tragedy at many points.) The writing was tight and it appeared well edited so the little “format things” didn’t make it difficult to stay engage.
So here are only gripes with the book, for what they’re worth: I really don’t like the cover. It seems unrelated, but I’ve blogged a bunch about the importance of covers for a while over at Inside the Inkwell. It’s from a first person POV… while I didn’t mind it once I started the book, I opened the cover after committing to read it and groaned—I might not have agreed to read/review had I known (also, see blog for more.) I will also admit, though, that it worked for her book and was maybe helpful from a fundamental standpoint since her protagonist is not a human. The “cozy mystery” style is not my thing—and that’s just another personal preference—but I can still recognize good writing and quality when I see it. I know some people who really love it and while reading kept thinking I know so many people who would love this. One of them is my daughter. If I think she would like it, it gets a thumbs up… er, paws up?

[Shane Jardine · Rating 4 out of 5]

Originally posted at www.archeddoorway.com

It’s been a little over a year since I was first asked if I was interested in reviewing Maria Luisa Lang’s first book, The Pharaoh’s Cat and I can still remember being surprised by how much I enjoyed reading it. I wasn’t sure if the story of a talking cat set in ancient Egypt was something for adults, but Maria Luisa Lang did a great job creating a fantastic world with these books. The Eye of Nefertiti is just as charming and entertaining a read as The Pharaoh’s Cat was and I can’t tell people enough about how much I enjoyed reading it.

It’s been my experience that most books I’ve read featuring stories told from the point of view of an animal tend to lose their charm and for the characters to get annoying as the story progresses, but happily, that is not the case here. I actually enjoyed reading about Wrappa-Hamen more in The Eye of Nefertiti than I did in the first book, I couldn’t get enough of him. Though I made the mistake of not believing the author when she said this book was a tragicomedy. There were quite a few scenes where I couldn’t decide whether to laugh or cry. Maria Luisa Lang does a great job of making you feel what the characters are feeling throughout the story.

I didn’t think last years book gave us nearly enough Egyptian mythology considering the subject matter and time period, so I’m glad that The Eye of Nefertiti more than makes up for that. The author manages to get across quite a bit of information and mythology on ancient Egypt without bogging down the story any. My only real complaint this time around was that I thought the story could have benefited from another pass of the editor’s pen, as there were a few spelling and grammatical errors that jarred me from the story a time or two. Other than that, though, I thought the Eye of Nefertiti was a fantastic read and I will definitely be rereading it again soon.

I hope this isn’t the last book in this series as I think Maria Luisa Lang is a great author and I’m looking forward to reading more by her.

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review

[Stanley McShane · Rating 4 out of 5]

WOW! Where do I begin with "The Eye of Nefertiti-A Pharaoh's Cat Novel" by Maria Luisa Lang. This one was out of my normal genre, totally out of the box, but one with a premise I couldn't ignore. How do you write a first person story when the first person, protagonist, is a cat? How do you pick up modern times in a family with a baby and switch to ancient Egypt seamlessly? How is this cat distinctly feline as well as human? Wrappa-Hamen is a cat like no other and, for the most part, fleshed out well, albeit the switch had me confused at times as to whether we were still talking feline or human. Granted, the cat could actually walk (on two legs), talk, drink (not always lap), and eat foods that might otherwise be very deleterious for a feline, while still dealing with paws (no opposable thumbs). The upside is that the story moves and keeps the interest--it's unique and the dialogue is generally light and exhibits a sense of humor. (I know a cat can pull some amazing pranks, so why not display a sense of humor as well?) The description of Egyptian scenes were well laid out, easily visualized, and at times incorporated olfactory senses. The dialogue was believable, particularly between exchanges with Wrappa-Hamen and The High Priest. But, The High Priest himself was not fleshed out as well. (Elena, wife of The High Priest, as well as the baby stayed in the background.) There were a few formatting problems and numerous edit errors or typos that I understood would be corrected. While I would average the above to 3.5 stars, that doesn't work here. Recommended if you can overlook the typos for an interesting and unique concept. I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

[Angie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Originally posted @ https://readaholiczone.blogspot.com/2...

Who would not want to read a book with a talking cat as the protagonist? Usually, me, but this is far from your normal book. When I read the first book The Pharaoh's Cat I was blown away so when this book was offered to me for review I could not pass it up, but would it be possible for this second book to uphold the same quality? Oh, you bet it did! This is an author like no other. One who can create a cat who is wise, devoted, and can make you laugh so hard you’ll pee. Also, for a reader who has very little interest in Egypt, I found it profoundly interesting. Therefore, not only is the writing superb, but the creativity goes above and beyond.

I recall an incident thousands of years ago in Egypt when the Pharaoh and I were jumping up and down on a mattress made of a hippo skin filled with air. The cork popped out the hippo’s ass and hit the vizier on the forehead...

The book is a fascinating mystery that grabs hold of the reader not letting go. Since the plot is atypical from other books it is impossible to guess what will happen next. Whereas, when you have a time traveling cat, Wrappa-Hamen, and his friend the High Priest how could you. I know what you are thinking, but stop and believe me when I say how spectacular this book is; so go get yourself a copy. This can be read as a stand since the author does a marvelous job with giving you the background that you need. Yet, I personally would read book one first due to how great it is also.

[Felicity Terry · Rating 4 out of 5]

A sequel to the author's 2015 novel, The Pharaoh's Cat. Whilst this, the second instalment, reads perfectly well as a novel in its own right, its predecessor is well worth reading.

Certainly not short on intrigue, for me The Eye Of Nefertiti had the feel of a cosy mystery ... albeit it a 'cosy' with a difference.

And yet is it really accurate to term it as such?

Certainly our 'sleuths' are amateur 'detectives'. 'Bouncing off' each other so to speak, it is the interaction (much of it humorous) between the High Priest and the Pharaoh's cat, Wrappa-Hamen (aka Puss-In-Boat), which makes the book for me.

The supporting 'cast' most definitely eccentric. Equally as well written as the major characters, Elena goes from strength to strength as a character. Rosa (a 'stocky woman with a glint of mischief in her eyes), Nanette and Pauline's story incredibly moving. The very British 'man servant' John a nice touch.

The pieces of the puzzle all there, slowly revealed as we travel from present day New York to Ancient Egypt by way of Stonehenge circa 1500 - 1000 B.C and present day Bath (England).

Either way, whatever the genre, a fun, well-paced, entertaining read. The author, proving herself a more than competent writer and gifted story teller. I'm hoping for yet more adventures with The Pharaoh's Cat.

Copyright: Tracy Terry @ Pen and Paper
Disclaimer:Read and reviewed on behalf of the author, no financial compensation was asked for nor given.

[Jay Odd · Rating 5 out of 5]

I recently reviewed Maria Luisa Lang’s The Pharaoh’s Cat and I absolutely loved it. The Eye of Nefertiti is its sequel and is just as excellent!
Once again, we follow an adorable cat as he goes on wild, time-traveling adventures with his friends and family. Just like The Pharaoh’s Cat, this book manages to be hilarious, poetic and emotional throughout. I had a little cry during both books!

Although The Eye of Nefertiti stands up as a novel by itself, I think it would ruin The Pharaoh’s Cat if you read the sequel first. You’re just going to have to grab a copy of each book!

A bit Puss in Boots, a little Angela Carter, but totally unique, I highly recommend these books to anyone who enjoys… well, anything really. They’re for cat lovers, history enthusiasts, those who enjoy a good laugh, even fans of romance! You just need to read them.

https://examiningtheodd.com/2017/08/2...

[michael r ireland · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Kind of Literature that Won't Let You Stop Reading

It was one of the few e-books that I had to continue to the end. Most of the other e-books that I attempted to complete, usually bore the heck out of me before I can complete them. Not so with these novels. Perhaps it's my love of cats, love of history, or my romantic falling in love with some of the female characters in these novels. But this combination of elements had a synergistic literary effect on me that kept me reading to the end and left me wanting more. Please, Maria, continue writing this series for me, one of your enduring fans and the other fans who feel likewise. Thank you so much very much. Michael.

[Terri Wilson · Rating 4 out of 5]

**I received a copy of this book in exchange for a review**

This is the second book in this series. However, both books are standalone stories and the author does a good job of filling in the reader of any important information needed from book one. It is very well written and well developed. I have to say this is one of the most enjoyable light-hearted series I have found. I find Nefertiti a fascinating historical figure, so this book was even more entertaining for me. I think the author does a great job creating a fantasy story that seems almost believable. This cat has more fun and adventure than I do! I'm looking forward to reading more books in this series.

[Jenny Zimmerman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Read my full review at http://blackwords-whitepages1977.blog...

This book was way out of my comfort zone, but I am glad that I gave the book a try. This was an extremely unique and very addicting story.

The characters were awesome. The cat was so witty and funny that I found myself either smiling or laughing at the cat and the other characters in the story.

The story-line was incredible and it kept me interested from beginning to end. I must read more by this author and I highly recommend this read!!

[Cyrene Olson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Uncaged Book Reviews:

This book can be read as either a sequel to to the authors debut novel, A Pharaoh’s Cat, or as a standalone novel. It was a very enjoyable book as it shows the return of some lovable characters. One of them being a talking cat. The book follows a simple storyline which I think can be read at most any age. Reviewed by Jennifer.


Full review at UncagedBooks.com

[Vickie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is a continuation of The Pharaoh's Cat. Again, the cat is narrating the story, so it is told through his (Wrappen-Hamen) perspective. The family is happy living in New York, when Elena gets a job in Bath, England. Before they leave, Elena purchases a Tarot card deck and wants to do a reading for her husband for fun. When the High Priest finds out what she has, he says it is nothing to play with but continues the reading for Wrappen-Hamen as the cards were already dealt. This is the basis for the story as his future plays out as the cards foretold. Elena travels by plane to England with the young pharaoh, while Gato-Hamen (the High Priest) and Wrappen-Hamen travel by their time-traveling boat because neither of them has current passports or credentials. They have some trouble with their time journey, but it proves beneficial for them.

[Rebecca Gregory-Chifos · Rating 3 out of 5]

Not as Enjoyable as the First Book

I'd recently read "The Pharaoh's Cat" and enjoyed it mildly, so I thought I'd find the sequel at least as entertaining, but I have to say I didn't enjoy it nearly as much. It did seem a bit more detailed than the first novel, but, well...I just can't put my finger on it, but this book just seemed sadder, drier; less comic despite Wrappa-Hamen's mishaps along the way. Although not truly a mystery, the reader is again led on a time travel journey with a puzzle to be solved. It was well-written, but just not quite my cup of Earl Grey.

[Natelle · Rating 4 out of 5]

A high priest from ancient Egypt and a talking cat travel through time. In so doing, the priest finds love and the cat finds more cultural wonders and tastes to enjoy. Then they take a wrong exit on the timeline and find themselves trying to solve a mystery. In order to do so, they return to their native land as well as to England. What will they discover? What could they lose?

I wanted to like this book a lot more than I did. Something about the writing didn’t flow right for me. Not sure I will read more of these, but you might find it amusing.

[MJ · Rating 3 out of 5]

A light book I grabbed because it was short. A cat from ancient Egypt has been given the power to walk on its hind legs and eat people food and talk with humans. The cat and an Egyptian high priest travel through time and space to modern days.
In this which appears to be a book on a series, the cat meets Nefertiti and the cat learns only he can help her.
I wouldn’t recommend this book but I wouldn’t discourage anyone from floating along on this if you needed a few hours to kill

[Michael Jarrett · Rating 5 out of 5]

An extremely interesting read

I thoroughly enjoyed reading this novel and The Pharaoh's Cat.
Both books are filled with humorous escapades from a felines point of view.
I would recommend both books to anyone that enjoys both a fantasy and adventure.
I hope that the author will create further adventures involving wrappa-hamen.

[Lalita R. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very unexpected ending

Spoiler free: I absolutely didn't see that ending coming. Sadness, loyalty, love, it's all there. I feel a strange emptiness yet I loved the book and am glad I read it. Definitely 5 stars!

[Michael R. Zuelke · Rating 5 out of 5]

Like the first book, Lang has written a very entertaining short novel. I enjoyed it as much as the first book. I think maybe a third book could be written about Elena, the cat. the High Priest and the Pharoah - I bet there would be more stories to tell!

[Michele · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this!

These books are so entertaining! The stories are wonderful, and I loved the characters. The ending on this one brought a few tears. Definitely a must read.

[Janet Miller · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a very entertaining book. It is book 2 of the series. I enjoyed them both. The cat is especially entertaining. It takes place in different times and places. Highly recommended.

[Stacy Ziems · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fun adventure story

This second novel carries on with the story of a scamp of a cat. It is so much fun to read his adventures with historical characters.

[Kathy Brickert · Rating 4 out of 5]

Interesting

This picks up on the continued adventures of being the pharaohs cat. It involves time travel and regular travel, immortality and death. But it keeps it interesting!

[Elizabeth A · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent Read

The reading was short but not too short. There were detail about the Queen and the cat. The story was very interesting.

[Barb Wild]

I thought this book was interesting since the main character was a kitty. All the different thought processes for why he hangs out with a noble were great. Nice sense of humor also.

[Elizabeth Bell · Rating 3 out of 5]

Plot points felt random, and Nefertiti's great love for our feline hero (who's no longer truly feline, boo) came out of left field.

[Matt McAvoy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Although I knew this book was the second in a series, I hadn’t read the first, so I wasn’t really sure what to expect. It was very quickly clear (at least to me) that “The Eye of Nefertiti” is aimed at slightly older children – perhaps pre- or early-teen (though, if this is the case, it should be said that some of the language might be a touch coarse).

Straight away this book is light-hearted and fun, tinged with a great harmless humour throughout. Although it is a sequel, it is touted also as a “stand-alone” edition, but I did find the very token recap in its first chapter a touch vague, and I felt that perhaps more should have been made of the backstory; though this may be because of my more mature years - a younger audience might consider the backstory of less importance, and perhaps it doesn’t matter too much; “The Eye of Nefertiti” is about a talking cat, living with an Egyptian High Priest and the reincarnation of his Pharaoh in a baby, in modern-day New York - if the story of how they all got to this point is a tale for another book, then I won’t hold this against it. Immediately beyond the small reference to the prequel, the characters and the reader are thrown straight into Wrappa-Hamen’s (the cat) next set of high jinks.

The story is a touch tenuous, and never really seems to develop – in fact, it is so briefly outlined that it gets a touch lost; this book is essentially then “The Adventures of Wrappa-Hamen”, and the story is more of a direction than a solid factor. I think this is a bit of a shame, to be honest, because when the book is over, and the story has revealed itself fully, it is actually very good, with a strong sense of mysticism and a touch of evil, not to mention real poignancy and melancholy; I do feel Maria has done her lovely story an injustice by allowing its relevance to fade into obscurity behind Nefertiti’s light-hearted and slapstick monologue. I would have liked to have seen a lot more made of Nefertiti’s “deal” with Seth, and a much greater emphasis, at times, on the threat in the story. I know this may not have been the book Maria was trying to produce, but even in kids’ stories fear and danger are essential elements to fantasy (think Harry Potter, or even most Pixar movies), and a menacing adversary would have improved it. I do feel the book served more of a purpose to satisfy Maria’s own fun and enjoyment, as well as her love of ancient Egypt and cats, as well as our own city of Bath; of course, this is great: writing should be about having fun. It’s always nice to see authors writing about things they like, and revelling in their childhood interests, particularly if their intention is to encourage today’s children to share in their enthusiasm.

Maria Luisa Lang is a good author, who paints the words onto the page with a big brush and happy colours (metaphorically, of course, not literally). She has a nice turn of phrase, her visuals are great, and her descriptions simple yet vivid – whether it be ancient Egypt, Bath or Central Park, she places the reader right there with Wrappa-Hamen; furthermore, in Maria’s book, it always feels sunny. The prose is a little basic, but of course that is probably well suited to what I assume is its target audience. There are one or two editing errors, which Maria would be well to remedy, but, other than this, her writing is great, and a lot of fun; “The Eye of Nefertiti” was, I’ll admit, a pleasure to read.