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Sherlock Holmes and Lucy James Mystery #8.7
Christmas on the Nile: A Sherlock Holmes and Lucy James Mystery
Two ruthless organisations. Two continents. One spectacular Season Two Finale.
Sherlock and Lucy must defeat two ruthless organisations, on two continents, in this 'Season Two Finale' of the Sherlock and Lucy series. Their clever archenemy, the evil Lord Sonneborne, will fight them to the bitter end. But the Baker Street team is equally determined. Their own lives, and the life of Lucy's mother, are at stake, in a struggle to change the future of the British Empire. Who will prevail?
A fun and fast-paced take on a classic Sherlock who-done-it, complete with thrilling twists, hairpin turns, and an ending that will keep readers guessing to the very last page. Christmas on the Nile stays faithful to the spirit of the original series, but offers new characters and a fresh take on the beloved classics.
Sherlock and Lucy must defeat two ruthless organisations, on two continents, in this 'Season Two Finale' of the Sherlock and Lucy series. Their clever archenemy, the evil Lord Sonneborne, will fight them to the bitter end. But the Baker Street team is equally determined. Their own lives, and the life of Lucy's mother, are at stake, in a struggle to change the future of the British Empire. Who will prevail?
A fun and fast-paced take on a classic Sherlock who-done-it, complete with thrilling twists, hairpin turns, and an ending that will keep readers guessing to the very last page. Christmas on the Nile stays faithful to the spirit of the original series, but offers new characters and a fresh take on the beloved classics.
202 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 24, 2020
312 people are currently reading
98 people want to read
About the author
Anna Elliott
81 books416 followersAnna Elliott is an author of historical fiction and fantasy. She enjoys stories about strong women, and loves exploring the multitude of ways women can find their unique strengths. She was delighted to lend a hand with the Sherlock & Lucy series, and thrilled to continue a new spin-off series featuring Becky and Flynn. Her first series, the Twilight of Avalon trilogy, is a retelling of the Trystan & Isolde legend. She wrote her second series, The Pride & Prejudice Chronicles , chiefly to satisfy her own curiosity about what might have happened to Elizabeth Bennet, Mr. Darcy, and all the other wonderful cast of characters after the official end of Jane Austen’s classic work.
WEBSITE: http://sherlockandlucy.com
INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/sherlockand...
FACEBOOK READER GROUP: https://www.facebook.com/groups/77782...
AMAZON: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Anna-El...
Anna lives in Pennsylvania with her husband and five children.
WEBSITE: http://sherlockandlucy.com
INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/sherlockand...
FACEBOOK READER GROUP: https://www.facebook.com/groups/77782...
AMAZON: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Anna-El...
Anna lives in Pennsylvania with her husband and five children.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
January 14, 2021
I enjoyed this exciting mystery about a plot to weaken the British empire and take over Egypt. I think the book would have been better with earlier identification of some of the lesser known characters such as Becky, Jack and Flynn. I spent a while wondering who these people were!
February 7, 2021
Kindle unlimited
This seems to be the end of the series, at least for now, as I read all the main stories, then the short story collection, then any other shorts that had not been included in the first set of shorts. Still seems a bit off now a d then, which I put down to change of views, which I personally have problems with, so did not wish to lower rating due to a personal issue.
This seems to be the end of the series, at least for now, as I read all the main stories, then the short story collection, then any other shorts that had not been included in the first set of shorts. Still seems a bit off now a d then, which I put down to change of views, which I personally have problems with, so did not wish to lower rating due to a personal issue.
November 27, 2023
Really enjoyed it
I really enjoyed this book and this series. Good plot and it stayed with the Sherlock Holmes Canon. Will keep reading series
I really enjoyed this book and this series. Good plot and it stayed with the Sherlock Holmes Canon. Will keep reading series
April 23, 2021
Every defender needs a nemesis. The Sherlock and Lucy extension of the Holmes canon has its own Moriarty. Enter Lord Sonnebourne as the new archenemy. Like Moriarty, he is a force for evil, not always named, but certainly lurking behind the more nefarious plots with which our heroes must deal.
Beginning with THE CURSE OF CLEOPATRA'S NEEDLE, and continuing in THE CODED BLUE ENVELOPE, CHRISTMAS ON THE NILE is a thrilling adventure with a most satisfying conclusion. To bring Lord Sonnebourne's treasonous plan to an end, Sherlock, Lucy, and Watson face arduous travels and grave danger. Throughout the three connected titles, there are twists and turns aplenty… enough to keep the most ardent Sherlockian on his or her toes.
It is also apparent that the Elliot/Veley writing team have endeavored to bring to light the disdain of many titled Britishers to foreigners that reeks of current day right-wing nationalism in the world. Over the past several years I have become sensitized to this phenomenon and find it reprehensible. Sherlock Holmes' circle does not subscribe to this 'us versus them' view. Perhaps this is one of the reasons I so enjoy this series that extends the Conan Doyle canon. Sherlock's egalitarian ways have always been at the forefront of the adventures.
Do take the time to read the historical notes at the end of the book. It answered several questions I had, especially those about the Aswan Dam.
I've read each of the books in this series in order, beginning with THE LAST MORIARTY, and have enjoyed reading all of them. I recommend that you start with this first novel and work your way through them all.
Beginning with THE CURSE OF CLEOPATRA'S NEEDLE, and continuing in THE CODED BLUE ENVELOPE, CHRISTMAS ON THE NILE is a thrilling adventure with a most satisfying conclusion. To bring Lord Sonnebourne's treasonous plan to an end, Sherlock, Lucy, and Watson face arduous travels and grave danger. Throughout the three connected titles, there are twists and turns aplenty… enough to keep the most ardent Sherlockian on his or her toes.
It is also apparent that the Elliot/Veley writing team have endeavored to bring to light the disdain of many titled Britishers to foreigners that reeks of current day right-wing nationalism in the world. Over the past several years I have become sensitized to this phenomenon and find it reprehensible. Sherlock Holmes' circle does not subscribe to this 'us versus them' view. Perhaps this is one of the reasons I so enjoy this series that extends the Conan Doyle canon. Sherlock's egalitarian ways have always been at the forefront of the adventures.
Do take the time to read the historical notes at the end of the book. It answered several questions I had, especially those about the Aswan Dam.
I've read each of the books in this series in order, beginning with THE LAST MORIARTY, and have enjoyed reading all of them. I recommend that you start with this first novel and work your way through them all.
June 5, 2023
Book: ***
Performance: ****
The is the finale of the storyline begun in "The Curse of Cleopatra's Needle” and left hanging in "The Coded Blue Envelope.” The fact that it is a continuation of a cliffhanger means this story starts in the hole (not only because I dislike cliffhangers, but because the mid-story start was a tad disorienting). This is now my 12th Lucy James adventure and the two voices on the narration is very enjoyable and pretty much continues to “save” there series. If you are truly looking for a Sherlockian mystery, this series won’t be very satisfying (they seem to be more adventure and international intrigue for most of them). Strangely enough, even though this is a continuation from a previous story, it still takes awhile to get going as it tries to weave two distinct plot lines together … one in England with Flynn, Becky, Jack and Mycroft chasing down plans by the Sons of Ra to throw the government into Chaos (in a rehashed and somewhat unbelievable conspiracy) while Watson, Lucy, Holmes and Zoe prose their new arch nemesis to Egypt to foil a similar plan there. Frankly it seems that the series is a bet long in the tooth now (as it is repeating elements fro previous stories now); however, as previously indicated, the narration was good, the characters are fun and the over all story unmemorable if suitable for a quick diversion.
I was given this free advance review/listener copy (ARC) audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
#ChristmasOnTheNile #LucyJamesMystery #FreeAudiobookCodes #KindleUnlimited
Performance: ****
The is the finale of the storyline begun in "The Curse of Cleopatra's Needle” and left hanging in "The Coded Blue Envelope.” The fact that it is a continuation of a cliffhanger means this story starts in the hole (not only because I dislike cliffhangers, but because the mid-story start was a tad disorienting). This is now my 12th Lucy James adventure and the two voices on the narration is very enjoyable and pretty much continues to “save” there series. If you are truly looking for a Sherlockian mystery, this series won’t be very satisfying (they seem to be more adventure and international intrigue for most of them). Strangely enough, even though this is a continuation from a previous story, it still takes awhile to get going as it tries to weave two distinct plot lines together … one in England with Flynn, Becky, Jack and Mycroft chasing down plans by the Sons of Ra to throw the government into Chaos (in a rehashed and somewhat unbelievable conspiracy) while Watson, Lucy, Holmes and Zoe prose their new arch nemesis to Egypt to foil a similar plan there. Frankly it seems that the series is a bet long in the tooth now (as it is repeating elements fro previous stories now); however, as previously indicated, the narration was good, the characters are fun and the over all story unmemorable if suitable for a quick diversion.
I was given this free advance review/listener copy (ARC) audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
#ChristmasOnTheNile #LucyJamesMystery #FreeAudiobookCodes #KindleUnlimited
June 5, 2023
‘Christmas on the Nile’ by Anna Elliott and Charles Veley is an absolute delight to experience in audio form. The audio book easily whisked this listener away on an enchanting journey filled with mystery, adventure, and holiday spirit. As an avid fan of Elliott and Veley's Sherlock Holmes and Lucy mystery series, I was please this installment did not disappoint.
Narrated with precision and passion by the well-known voice of Simon Prebble, and that of Mary Jane Wells, the audio book brings the intricate plot—involving Sherlock, Lucy, and Watson traveling to Egypt to rescue Zoe Lucy's mother, while Becky, Flynn, and Jack remain in London in an attempt to prevent the bombing of parliament—to life.
The narrative benefits from Elliott and Veley’s ability to weave historical details seamlessly into the narrative. As always with the Holmes and Lucy mysteries, the characters are multi-dimensional and well-developed, making it easy to become emotionally invested in their journeys.
As the battle two ruthless organizations, on two continents, Holmes and Lucy’s interactions are laced with wit and intelligence. The authors capture the essence of Holmes' legendary deductive reasoning while infusing Lucy with her own brand of cleverness and determination. The chemistry between the two protagonists is palpable and adds extra depth to the narrative...Highly recommended...
Narrated with precision and passion by the well-known voice of Simon Prebble, and that of Mary Jane Wells, the audio book brings the intricate plot—involving Sherlock, Lucy, and Watson traveling to Egypt to rescue Zoe Lucy's mother, while Becky, Flynn, and Jack remain in London in an attempt to prevent the bombing of parliament—to life.
The narrative benefits from Elliott and Veley’s ability to weave historical details seamlessly into the narrative. As always with the Holmes and Lucy mysteries, the characters are multi-dimensional and well-developed, making it easy to become emotionally invested in their journeys.
As the battle two ruthless organizations, on two continents, Holmes and Lucy’s interactions are laced with wit and intelligence. The authors capture the essence of Holmes' legendary deductive reasoning while infusing Lucy with her own brand of cleverness and determination. The chemistry between the two protagonists is palpable and adds extra depth to the narrative...Highly recommended...
January 28, 2025
Over the past several years, there has been a growing number of novels dealing with Sherlock Holmes and another person ~ often a female. I have read many Sherlock pastiches with a daughter; the Sherlock & Lucy James books by Anna Elliott &/or Charles Veley rank high along Goldberg's Daughter of Sherlock Holmes series. (Real Holmesian excellence is found in Laura King’s Russell and Holmes series and the Anna Kronberg Thrillers by German author Annelie Wendeberg.) This is the 8.7 entry in the series: “Christmas on the Nile.” The quality of these enjoyable Victorina mysteries wth a strong female lead is fairly consistent.
The prior book “The Coded Blue Envelope” ends with a bit of an unsatisfied ending – meaning a cliffhanger. Regardless, “Christmas on the Nile” continues this conflict as an evil organization is plotting to change the future of the British Empire in Egypt. Lord Sonnebourne is the new archenemy. Like Moriarty, he is a force for evil, not always named, but certainly lurking behind the more nefarious plots. I do think this story would have been better served combined with the previous book rather than two separate books. The cliffhanger ending in “The Coded Blue Envelope” was annoying to me.
The prior book “The Coded Blue Envelope” ends with a bit of an unsatisfied ending – meaning a cliffhanger. Regardless, “Christmas on the Nile” continues this conflict as an evil organization is plotting to change the future of the British Empire in Egypt. Lord Sonnebourne is the new archenemy. Like Moriarty, he is a force for evil, not always named, but certainly lurking behind the more nefarious plots. I do think this story would have been better served combined with the previous book rather than two separate books. The cliffhanger ending in “The Coded Blue Envelope” was annoying to me.
June 25, 2023
~Disclaimer: I received a free audiobook copy of this book. ~
Overall, I enjoyed this book. The multiple perspectives from Zoe, Lucy, Watson, and Flynn were interesting, and I grew to like narrator Mary Jane Wells since the last book. Simon Prebble continues to be a good narrator for the series. I enjoy the characters of the story, but at times I really wish for a more solid explanation of how Holmes comes to the conclusions he comes to. This second half to the story was much more compelling than the first due to how much more action and tension there is this half.
However, I do have a criticism. I think this story would have been better served as a single book, rather than two. The cliffhanger ending in the last book was annoying, and I felt like the story was just split in two. Overall, I enjoyed this book, but I do think it could have been better.
“If you wish to appear a trustworthy source of information, my lord, I would recommend not beginning a relationship with kidnapping and extortion. You must admit that you have so far given me no reason to believe a word that you say is true.” (pg. 14)
Overall, I enjoyed this book. The multiple perspectives from Zoe, Lucy, Watson, and Flynn were interesting, and I grew to like narrator Mary Jane Wells since the last book. Simon Prebble continues to be a good narrator for the series. I enjoy the characters of the story, but at times I really wish for a more solid explanation of how Holmes comes to the conclusions he comes to. This second half to the story was much more compelling than the first due to how much more action and tension there is this half.
However, I do have a criticism. I think this story would have been better served as a single book, rather than two. The cliffhanger ending in the last book was annoying, and I felt like the story was just split in two. Overall, I enjoyed this book, but I do think it could have been better.
“If you wish to appear a trustworthy source of information, my lord, I would recommend not beginning a relationship with kidnapping and extortion. You must admit that you have so far given me no reason to believe a word that you say is true.” (pg. 14)
June 24, 2023
A Happy Christmas
This is a continuation of The Coded Blue Envelope. It could be read as stand alone but is more satisfying when these are read in sequence. Holmes must find Lucy's mother, Zoe, along with an Egyptian woman - both abducted by a titled archive fiend. He's aided in Egypt by his daughter, Lucy, and Dr. Watson. Meanwhile, there's a plot unfolding in London, tied to the case in Egypt. Jack, with Scotland Yard, Jack's impetuous and younger sister, and Flynn, one of Holmes Irregulars youth, work to unravel the London plot while Holmes does the same in Egypt. How it all works out is what makes this another satisfying installment in the fictional world of what if Sherlock Holmes had a daughter whose mind works in much the same way.
This is a continuation of The Coded Blue Envelope. It could be read as stand alone but is more satisfying when these are read in sequence. Holmes must find Lucy's mother, Zoe, along with an Egyptian woman - both abducted by a titled archive fiend. He's aided in Egypt by his daughter, Lucy, and Dr. Watson. Meanwhile, there's a plot unfolding in London, tied to the case in Egypt. Jack, with Scotland Yard, Jack's impetuous and younger sister, and Flynn, one of Holmes Irregulars youth, work to unravel the London plot while Holmes does the same in Egypt. How it all works out is what makes this another satisfying installment in the fictional world of what if Sherlock Holmes had a daughter whose mind works in much the same way.
December 27, 2020
Excellent read
What a grand ride! Finished this over the Christmas weekend. A credible villain and great plot woven over time and coming to a climax. I liked that the Christmas season is used to make final closures. Definitely worth every star!
This is just me, but because of Lucy's American background, it'd be fun to see other Americans show up every now and then. Maybe a cowboy, or a person with a Southern accent (hee hee)...
I eagerly look forward to the next installment!
Christa
What a grand ride! Finished this over the Christmas weekend. A credible villain and great plot woven over time and coming to a climax. I liked that the Christmas season is used to make final closures. Definitely worth every star!
This is just me, but because of Lucy's American background, it'd be fun to see other Americans show up every now and then. Maybe a cowboy, or a person with a Southern accent (hee hee)...
I eagerly look forward to the next installment!
Christa
September 23, 2022
Entertaining mystery listening 🎶🔰
Another will written British 🏰 family relationship political adventure thriller novel by Anna Elliott and Charles Veley The Sherlock Holmes and Lucy James Mystery Series book twenty-four. Sherlock, Lucy, and Watson travel to Egypt to rescue Zoe Lucy's mother. Becky, Flynn, and Jack remain in London where they will prevent the bombing of parliament. I would recommend this series and authors to readers of mysteries and Sherlock Holmes fans. Enjoy the adventure of reading. 2022 👑👒😀
Another will written British 🏰 family relationship political adventure thriller novel by Anna Elliott and Charles Veley The Sherlock Holmes and Lucy James Mystery Series book twenty-four. Sherlock, Lucy, and Watson travel to Egypt to rescue Zoe Lucy's mother. Becky, Flynn, and Jack remain in London where they will prevent the bombing of parliament. I would recommend this series and authors to readers of mysteries and Sherlock Holmes fans. Enjoy the adventure of reading. 2022 👑👒😀
October 18, 2021
I chose this ebook solely on its title, but was confused throughout because I had no idea who the characters other than Holmes and Watson were. It was really most annoying that there was little explanation of who they were or how they came to be part of the story, which seemed to start in the middle.
Surely if one realized this was book #24 and started with book #1 most of this would be revealed. I leave it to others to figure that out.
Surely if one realized this was book #24 and started with book #1 most of this would be revealed. I leave it to others to figure that out.
September 24, 2025
This seems to be a series, so I missed some things by jumping to this one first. It is extremely not Christmassy, so don't be fooled by the title. I had a hard time warming up to the characters or caring about them. An interesting take on Holmes, which I don't think is completely true to his original character, and I don't think I like too much. I skipped a bunch in the middle that didn't seem to matter too much to the story.
December 24, 2020
The story continues for as ordered, Salim has arranged the death of Holmes so that his sister Safiya, will be released. But what about Lucy's mother, Zoe Rosario, why has been taken. Events finally lead everyone to Cairo, but what are Lord Sonnebourne plans, can Holmes thwart his plans and rescue the captives.
Another entertaining and well-written historical mystery with a cast of likeable characters.
Received an ARC from the authors.
Another entertaining and well-written historical mystery with a cast of likeable characters.
Received an ARC from the authors.
July 11, 2021
Another fun addition to the series
This is the sixth in the series I have read and it is again a fun easy read with great characters and attention to details in the descriptions of the settings for the book as it moves from London to the Nile. Lots of twists and turns to keep you guessing with the ending a surprise. I look forward to reading the next book
This is the sixth in the series I have read and it is again a fun easy read with great characters and attention to details in the descriptions of the settings for the book as it moves from London to the Nile. Lots of twists and turns to keep you guessing with the ending a surprise. I look forward to reading the next book
December 28, 2021
I found this book a bit harder to get through. There were too many story lines going back and forth. Once it got about 3/4 through, it started to pull together. I read this one out of sequence because I had tagged it as a Christmas TBR, so perhaps if I had read it in order, it would have been an easier read.
December 14, 2024
I liked the last 6 chapters far more than the first 3/4 of the book. It is definitely in keeping with Sir Conan Doyles’s style. And the Christmas setting was appropriate as I read it at Christmas. The three stars as opposed to higher are because the puzzle was only so-so as far as a compelling story goes.
December 31, 2024
Nicely plotted mystery and intrigue
I chose this for the Christmas tie in. While there was little of that, it was still a good read. The plot was twisty enough to keep you wondering and interested to find out how it would sort out in the end. While it was not among my favorites in this series, it was still a good read and nice narration. Quite enjoyable.
I chose this for the Christmas tie in. While there was little of that, it was still a good read. The plot was twisty enough to keep you wondering and interested to find out how it would sort out in the end. While it was not among my favorites in this series, it was still a good read and nice narration. Quite enjoyable.
March 6, 2025
Exciting mix of adventures
Christmas on the Nile was one of the most complex stories it involved London, Italy, a frantic trip from London across the Mediterranean to Cairo, and then to the Aswan dam at the headwaters of the Nile. Each location had enough musty and adventure tp be a com-late story on its own. This series get s more exciting with each volume!
Christmas on the Nile was one of the most complex stories it involved London, Italy, a frantic trip from London across the Mediterranean to Cairo, and then to the Aswan dam at the headwaters of the Nile. Each location had enough musty and adventure tp be a com-late story on its own. This series get s more exciting with each volume!
December 3, 2025
These books do a good job of feeling like a Sherlock Holmes book. This one took a bit to get going, but I found both settings (Egypt and England) to be interesting. I have only read 1 or 2 of the books in the series before picking this one up, but I was still able to follow the story and keep the players straight.
December 26, 2020
Not an Agatha
A quick read
Found the multitude of scenes and drops of characters muddling
I am a fan of Agathas Egyptian murders but
Found this plot hopped all over the map
Too many gunshots and subplots for me
A quick read
Found the multitude of scenes and drops of characters muddling
I am a fan of Agathas Egyptian murders but
Found this plot hopped all over the map
Too many gunshots and subplots for me
April 27, 2021
A nice quick read! I've been buying the books for my niece. She has discovered Sherlock Holmes and it's wonderful for her to see children helping to solve the mystery along with Holmes. It helps her believe she could solve the crimes also.
April 27, 2021
Zoe Kidnapped!
I’m not very good at this. But I do want to say how good all these books are. I feel they are well written. I especially like the descriptions this author uses. If you need more...read!
I’m not very good at this. But I do want to say how good all these books are. I feel they are well written. I especially like the descriptions this author uses. If you need more...read!
June 28, 2021
The cliff hangers of the last several Sherlock and Lucy stories have finally ended. I understand literary liecense, but it challenges credibility to believe that two thugs, especially one a foreigner, would be granted bail when charged with attempted murder, no matter how good the barrister. CMac
December 11, 2025
Interesting historical details and some links to Christie’s later take on this setting. Sadly overall it felt a little plodding with an overload of details clogging the pace. The characters worked , just about. I think I just like the original stories.
December 26, 2020
I really enjoyed this 'Season Two Finale' of the Sherlock and Lucy series !
April 20, 2021
Great read.
Love the hero's and their adventures in the Elliott and Veley novels. If you like good mysteries. You will certainly enjoy this book.
Love the hero's and their adventures in the Elliott and Veley novels. If you like good mysteries. You will certainly enjoy this book.
April 24, 2021
Loved book
Great book. Great story. Great characters. My two favorites are Lucy and Sherlock.I would definitely recommend this series to everyone.
Great book. Great story. Great characters. My two favorites are Lucy and Sherlock.I would definitely recommend this series to everyone.
October 16, 2022
Great story
I think the Sherlock and Lucy James series is fantastic. The best of Holmes and Watson plus Lucy, Jack, Becky and Flynn makes for a great story.
I think the Sherlock and Lucy James series is fantastic. The best of Holmes and Watson plus Lucy, Jack, Becky and Flynn makes for a great story.
October 27, 2022
What a book; what a thriller! This is one not to miss in the whole SH, Zoe, Lucy series!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews