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Song of the Nile
Luxor, 1946. When young nurse Aida El Masri returns from war-torn London to her family's estate in Egypt she steels herself against the challenges ahead.
Eight years have passed since her father, Ayoub, was framed for a crime he did not commit, and died as a tragic result. Yet Aida has not forgotten, and now she wants revenge against the man she believes betrayed her father – his best friend, Kamel Pharaony.
Then Aida is reunited with Kamel's son, the captivating surgeon Phares, who offers her marriage. In spite of herself, the secret passion Aida harboured for him as a young girl reignites. Still, how can she marry the son of the man who destroyed her father and brought shame on her family? Will coming home bring her love, or only danger and heartache?
Set in the exotic and bygone world of Upper Egypt, Song of the Nile follows Aida's journey of rediscovery – of the homeland she loves, with its white-sailed feluccas on the Nile, old-world charms of Cairo and the ancient secrets of its burning desert sands – and of the man she has never forgotten.
A compelling story of passion and intrigue – a novel that lays open the beating heart of Egypt.
Eight years have passed since her father, Ayoub, was framed for a crime he did not commit, and died as a tragic result. Yet Aida has not forgotten, and now she wants revenge against the man she believes betrayed her father – his best friend, Kamel Pharaony.
Then Aida is reunited with Kamel's son, the captivating surgeon Phares, who offers her marriage. In spite of herself, the secret passion Aida harboured for him as a young girl reignites. Still, how can she marry the son of the man who destroyed her father and brought shame on her family? Will coming home bring her love, or only danger and heartache?
Set in the exotic and bygone world of Upper Egypt, Song of the Nile follows Aida's journey of rediscovery – of the homeland she loves, with its white-sailed feluccas on the Nile, old-world charms of Cairo and the ancient secrets of its burning desert sands – and of the man she has never forgotten.
A compelling story of passion and intrigue – a novel that lays open the beating heart of Egypt.
640 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 14, 2020
6 people are currently reading
82 people want to read
About the author
Hannah Fielding
18 books635 followersHannah Fielding is an incurable romantic. The seeds for her writing career were sown in early childhood, spent in Egypt, when she came to an agreement with her governess Zula: for each fairy story Zula told, Hannah would invent and relate one of her own. Years later – following a degree in French literature, several years of travelling in Europe, falling in love with an Englishman, the arrival of two beautiful children and a career in property development – Hannah decided after so many years of yearning to write that the time was now. Today, she lives the dream: writing full time at her homes in England and Ireland, and in the South of France, where she dreams up romances overlooking breath-taking views of the Mediterranean.
To date, Hannah has published eight novels: Burning Embers, set in Kenya; The Echoes of Love, set in Italy; the Andalucian Nights trilogy (Indiscretion, Masquerade and Legacy), set in Spain; Aphrodite’s Tears, set on the Greek islands; Concerto, set on Lake Como; and Song of the Nile, set in Hannah's homeland, Egypt.
To date, Hannah has published eight novels: Burning Embers, set in Kenya; The Echoes of Love, set in Italy; the Andalucian Nights trilogy (Indiscretion, Masquerade and Legacy), set in Spain; Aphrodite’s Tears, set on the Greek islands; Concerto, set on Lake Como; and Song of the Nile, set in Hannah's homeland, Egypt.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
August 7, 2021
Aida El Masri returns home to Luxor in Egypt in 1946, after spending eight years in England and where she trained to be a nurse at the Royal London Hospital during the Second World War. Her beloved father Ayoub an archaeologist, was framed for stealing a precious statue, he passed away after he was found guilty of the crime and Aida left for England.
Aida has always known her was father innocent, but she couldn’t do anything at the time and she believes her father’s best friend Kamel Pharaony is the real thief. Aida was best friends with his daughter Camelia and had a crush on his handsome son Phares. Phares is now a respected doctor and general surgeon, he owns his own hospital, and he wants to marry Aida, combine the two family’s estates and fortunes.
Aida isn’t ready to get married, even though she finds Phares extremely attractive and how can she marry the son of the man that caused her father’s down fall and death. Aida enjoys being in Egypt again, unlike England it hasn’t been damaged by the war, the food is delicious, and she buys herself beautiful new designer clothes and visits all the places she loved as teenager. She meets a Price, his name is Shams Sakr Eldin, he’s very attentive, and he makes Aida feel uncomfortable. Egypt is a dangerous place, Aida isn’t sure who she can trust and she desperately wants to prove her father’s innocence.
Song Of The Nile is a story about a daughter wanting justice for her father, you’re also taken on a journey down the Nile, into the desert, to the Polo and experience how affluent Egyptian’s lived at the time. While I enjoyed the story, I found it too much of a steamy romance for me and I can only give is three stars. Thanks to Hannah Fielding and NetGalley for my copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion and review. https://karrenreadsbooks.blogspot.com/
Aida has always known her was father innocent, but she couldn’t do anything at the time and she believes her father’s best friend Kamel Pharaony is the real thief. Aida was best friends with his daughter Camelia and had a crush on his handsome son Phares. Phares is now a respected doctor and general surgeon, he owns his own hospital, and he wants to marry Aida, combine the two family’s estates and fortunes.
Aida isn’t ready to get married, even though she finds Phares extremely attractive and how can she marry the son of the man that caused her father’s down fall and death. Aida enjoys being in Egypt again, unlike England it hasn’t been damaged by the war, the food is delicious, and she buys herself beautiful new designer clothes and visits all the places she loved as teenager. She meets a Price, his name is Shams Sakr Eldin, he’s very attentive, and he makes Aida feel uncomfortable. Egypt is a dangerous place, Aida isn’t sure who she can trust and she desperately wants to prove her father’s innocence.
Song Of The Nile is a story about a daughter wanting justice for her father, you’re also taken on a journey down the Nile, into the desert, to the Polo and experience how affluent Egyptian’s lived at the time. While I enjoyed the story, I found it too much of a steamy romance for me and I can only give is three stars. Thanks to Hannah Fielding and NetGalley for my copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion and review. https://karrenreadsbooks.blogspot.com/
June 28, 2021
Song of the Nile is a sweeping historical romance that follows Aida as she returns home to Egypt to clear her fathers name. Accused of theft, Aida’s father, a renowned archeologist, dies before his name can be cleared. Sure of his innocence, Aida determines to find the person who set him up, and she’s positive that her father’s friend Kamel Pharaony had something to do with it. Unfortunately, Kamel is the father of the man Aida loves. As old feelings for Phares resurface, will Aida find out who betrayed her father? Will she give in to her feelings for Phares, a man she’s loved since childhood?
The vivid and detailed descriptions of the setting immerse you in 1946 Egypt. I found this really interesting, as I didn’t know much about post-World War II Egypt, and the author’s knowledge of the time is vast. Fielding’s rich and eloquent descriptions offer a deep and whole view of life in Egypt in the 40s. From the foliage to the clothing to the politics of the time, everything is described in such intricate detail. Religion, women’s rights, social issues, food, customs, and the lives of the upper class are carefully explored as Aida returns home for the first time in over a decade.
Aida is the type of person that people gravitate toward. A trained nurse who tended the wounded during the war, Aida is an intelligent and honorable woman with an independent spirit. She is fun and effervescent, full of life, and kind. She is also impulsive and a bit naïve, which gets her into trouble on more than one occasion. However, her intellect, quick wit, and charm often help her succeed in her endeavors. Though she is quite cosmopolitan, she is inexperienced in love, and she struggles with her feelings quite a bit throughout the novel.
Aida also has to navigate the conservative values of Egyptian society, and she continually feels the pressure of societal constraints and expectations. After living a much more independent life in London for the past eight years, returning to Egypt is a big adjustment. She no longer has the freedoms she has grown accustomed to, and it frustrates her that she is pressured to give up some of these freedoms. It’s a really interesting examination of different cultures and countries and how they treated women at the time.
Phares is more sure of his feelings, but he struggles to put them into words and often uses his charm and sarcasm to hide how he really feels. He is a many of honor, and he feels a strong sense of duty, especially to his father. It’s an interesting juxtaposition – Aida and Phares are both characters who long to be free but still love and embrace their ties to their family and country. Though they don’t see it, they are a well-matched pair. Both are generous and helpful, and both like to give back to the people and communities that shaped them.
The love story between Aida and Phares is equally frustrating and beautiful. Miscommunication, distrust, and fear stand in their way, as do Aida’s suspicions about Phares’s father, whom she thinks had a hand in setting up her father. Phares’s romantic past, a prince who invites Aida to visit his harem, and other people who don’t want Aida and Phares together also cause problems in their growing relationship. Throughout the story, Aida doubts Phares’s true intentions. She desperately wants to marry for love like her parents did, and she knows that she loves Phares, but his odd absences, his past, and his lack of communication make her question his sincerity. However, as Phares and Aida reconnect, their chemistry is palpable, and it only intensifies as the story progresses. I loved watching this pair slowly realize the depth of their feelings and work toward admitting them to each other. They are a couple with a lot of history, and though they are often in conflict, the depth of their feelings and the passion they have for each other is beautiful.
In addition to the romance, there’s an intriguing story about stolen and smuggled artifacts, which could relate to the demise of Aida’s father. This, as well as the lush descriptions of the setting and the messages about love, family, friendship, and honor, make for an immersive, informative, and entertaining read. I’m so thankful to Hannah Fielding for giving me a copy of Song of the Nile, and I think that readers who enjoy descriptive historical romance set in post-World War II Egypt will love this story.
The vivid and detailed descriptions of the setting immerse you in 1946 Egypt. I found this really interesting, as I didn’t know much about post-World War II Egypt, and the author’s knowledge of the time is vast. Fielding’s rich and eloquent descriptions offer a deep and whole view of life in Egypt in the 40s. From the foliage to the clothing to the politics of the time, everything is described in such intricate detail. Religion, women’s rights, social issues, food, customs, and the lives of the upper class are carefully explored as Aida returns home for the first time in over a decade.
Aida is the type of person that people gravitate toward. A trained nurse who tended the wounded during the war, Aida is an intelligent and honorable woman with an independent spirit. She is fun and effervescent, full of life, and kind. She is also impulsive and a bit naïve, which gets her into trouble on more than one occasion. However, her intellect, quick wit, and charm often help her succeed in her endeavors. Though she is quite cosmopolitan, she is inexperienced in love, and she struggles with her feelings quite a bit throughout the novel.
Aida also has to navigate the conservative values of Egyptian society, and she continually feels the pressure of societal constraints and expectations. After living a much more independent life in London for the past eight years, returning to Egypt is a big adjustment. She no longer has the freedoms she has grown accustomed to, and it frustrates her that she is pressured to give up some of these freedoms. It’s a really interesting examination of different cultures and countries and how they treated women at the time.
Phares is more sure of his feelings, but he struggles to put them into words and often uses his charm and sarcasm to hide how he really feels. He is a many of honor, and he feels a strong sense of duty, especially to his father. It’s an interesting juxtaposition – Aida and Phares are both characters who long to be free but still love and embrace their ties to their family and country. Though they don’t see it, they are a well-matched pair. Both are generous and helpful, and both like to give back to the people and communities that shaped them.
The love story between Aida and Phares is equally frustrating and beautiful. Miscommunication, distrust, and fear stand in their way, as do Aida’s suspicions about Phares’s father, whom she thinks had a hand in setting up her father. Phares’s romantic past, a prince who invites Aida to visit his harem, and other people who don’t want Aida and Phares together also cause problems in their growing relationship. Throughout the story, Aida doubts Phares’s true intentions. She desperately wants to marry for love like her parents did, and she knows that she loves Phares, but his odd absences, his past, and his lack of communication make her question his sincerity. However, as Phares and Aida reconnect, their chemistry is palpable, and it only intensifies as the story progresses. I loved watching this pair slowly realize the depth of their feelings and work toward admitting them to each other. They are a couple with a lot of history, and though they are often in conflict, the depth of their feelings and the passion they have for each other is beautiful.
In addition to the romance, there’s an intriguing story about stolen and smuggled artifacts, which could relate to the demise of Aida’s father. This, as well as the lush descriptions of the setting and the messages about love, family, friendship, and honor, make for an immersive, informative, and entertaining read. I’m so thankful to Hannah Fielding for giving me a copy of Song of the Nile, and I think that readers who enjoy descriptive historical romance set in post-World War II Egypt will love this story.
May 25, 2021
My Rating ~ 3.5*
Song of The Nile by Hannah Fielding is published in paperback format with London Wall Publishers May 27th. Described as ‘a passionate, slow-burning romance that will have you wanting to move to the continent for an old fashioned holiday romance of pure escapism’ this is a novel that is packed with sweeping imagery of Egypt in all it’s glittering colours. I am delighted to be joining the blog tour today with my review of a book that offers all readers the joy of absolute escapism to another era, to a time when society was on the cusp of change, yet traditions were very much rigidly respected and invoked.
Following a harrowing few years at the cold face of nursing in London during the war, Aida El Masri arrives home to Luxor. Times have changed for Aida and she is now no longer the terrified and traumatised young woman who left her home eight years previously following an event that shook her world. Her home is a vast estate that has been kept going in her absence but now Aida needs to make decisions on her life and her future. Her mother died many years ago leaving Aida with her father who she had loved dearly. Her mother was English and her father Egyptian. Against the wishes of their families they had married and created a new life, one filled with love and respect. A marriage to the son of the adjoining landowner had always been pre-destined for Aida. Phares Pharaony was the son of her father’s best friend Kamel Pharaony. Although a few years older than Aida, Phares was a respectable choice, a solid individual and their union would bind two very wealthy estates, cementing their position in Luxor’s society and beyond. But, at eighteen, Aida’s father was arrested, framed for a crime he did not commit. As the jury found him guilty, his heart gave up and he collapsed in the courtroom, dying in front of Aida’s eyes. Aida, distraught, hears a rumour that it was Kamel Pharaony who was responsible and, upset, now unable to stay in Luxor, Aida leaves for England. Over the following years she worked hard in her new found career as a nurse, witnessing first hand the horrors of war, but now finally she arrives home with the intention of sorting out her affairs and finally uncovering the truth behind her father’s victimisation.
Aida is opinionated and strong-willed. Her stubborn nature is not a trait that is accepted by many in Egyptian society. Her attitude has changed and she refuses to bend to the whims and desires of this world she now inhabits. She fully reembraces the fashion and the comforts, all that she had missed while overseas but she will not be pressurised into an organised marriage to a man she now sees as the son of her greatest enemy. Aida see Phares Pharaony as a man who, like others of his stature, wants a woman to be submissive, a woman who obeys. It’s very clear that many men lust after Aida but it is Phares who challenges her the most and, against all her wishes, leaves her confused and wanting more. Aida is a breath of fresh air on her return but her stormy personality soon irritates some people and she finds herself a thorn in the side of many.
Song of the Nile is an intensely racy, sensual and steamy read set against the lush backdrop of Upper Egypt. Hannah Fielding writes about her homeland with a knowledge and a passion that brings all the senses very much to life. The colours, the scents, the sounds are all very vividly described….
<“A realm of sultry heat and mystifying intrigue, of evocative colour and spine-tingling sensation, of vivid settings and exotic cultures, of whispered attractions and gentle caresses, of all-consuming passion and all-conquering love.”
– Hannah Fielding
When reading Song of the Nile, the reader is transported away from their own lives into a world of bygone years when society, and its treatment of women, was very different to the world many of us live in today.
Song of the Nile is escapism, very passionate escapism, perfect for all who like to be seduced and swept away into a fictional world filled with desire, longing and very powerful attractions set in the most incredible landscape, that of the exotic and lush Upper Egypt of the post-war years.
Song of The Nile by Hannah Fielding is published in paperback format with London Wall Publishers May 27th. Described as ‘a passionate, slow-burning romance that will have you wanting to move to the continent for an old fashioned holiday romance of pure escapism’ this is a novel that is packed with sweeping imagery of Egypt in all it’s glittering colours. I am delighted to be joining the blog tour today with my review of a book that offers all readers the joy of absolute escapism to another era, to a time when society was on the cusp of change, yet traditions were very much rigidly respected and invoked.
Following a harrowing few years at the cold face of nursing in London during the war, Aida El Masri arrives home to Luxor. Times have changed for Aida and she is now no longer the terrified and traumatised young woman who left her home eight years previously following an event that shook her world. Her home is a vast estate that has been kept going in her absence but now Aida needs to make decisions on her life and her future. Her mother died many years ago leaving Aida with her father who she had loved dearly. Her mother was English and her father Egyptian. Against the wishes of their families they had married and created a new life, one filled with love and respect. A marriage to the son of the adjoining landowner had always been pre-destined for Aida. Phares Pharaony was the son of her father’s best friend Kamel Pharaony. Although a few years older than Aida, Phares was a respectable choice, a solid individual and their union would bind two very wealthy estates, cementing their position in Luxor’s society and beyond. But, at eighteen, Aida’s father was arrested, framed for a crime he did not commit. As the jury found him guilty, his heart gave up and he collapsed in the courtroom, dying in front of Aida’s eyes. Aida, distraught, hears a rumour that it was Kamel Pharaony who was responsible and, upset, now unable to stay in Luxor, Aida leaves for England. Over the following years she worked hard in her new found career as a nurse, witnessing first hand the horrors of war, but now finally she arrives home with the intention of sorting out her affairs and finally uncovering the truth behind her father’s victimisation.
Aida is opinionated and strong-willed. Her stubborn nature is not a trait that is accepted by many in Egyptian society. Her attitude has changed and she refuses to bend to the whims and desires of this world she now inhabits. She fully reembraces the fashion and the comforts, all that she had missed while overseas but she will not be pressurised into an organised marriage to a man she now sees as the son of her greatest enemy. Aida see Phares Pharaony as a man who, like others of his stature, wants a woman to be submissive, a woman who obeys. It’s very clear that many men lust after Aida but it is Phares who challenges her the most and, against all her wishes, leaves her confused and wanting more. Aida is a breath of fresh air on her return but her stormy personality soon irritates some people and she finds herself a thorn in the side of many.
Song of the Nile is an intensely racy, sensual and steamy read set against the lush backdrop of Upper Egypt. Hannah Fielding writes about her homeland with a knowledge and a passion that brings all the senses very much to life. The colours, the scents, the sounds are all very vividly described….
<“A realm of sultry heat and mystifying intrigue, of evocative colour and spine-tingling sensation, of vivid settings and exotic cultures, of whispered attractions and gentle caresses, of all-consuming passion and all-conquering love.”
– Hannah Fielding
When reading Song of the Nile, the reader is transported away from their own lives into a world of bygone years when society, and its treatment of women, was very different to the world many of us live in today.
Song of the Nile is escapism, very passionate escapism, perfect for all who like to be seduced and swept away into a fictional world filled with desire, longing and very powerful attractions set in the most incredible landscape, that of the exotic and lush Upper Egypt of the post-war years.
May 9, 2021
I can't tell you how excited I was to delve into this latest book from Hannah Fielding, one of my favourite authors. In this story, we follow Aida who has been in England since the death of her father, having been born and previously lived in Egypt. Aida travels back to the family's estate after the war is over (having not been able to travel back before then because of the war) and she is very unsure of what she will find both at the estate and with certain people she may not want to come across when she gets home. Aida is convinced that her father was framed for a crime that he was on trial for just before he died and also believes that she knows who is responsible.
What I loved the most about this story is Aida's journey from rediscovering herself again after being away from Egypt for so long and also trying to find out the truth about what happened to her father. You also have the complicated relationship with Phares (the person who she was destined to marry before she left Egypt after her father died) and it was certainly very interesting to see what happened when they met again. You also have other characters, some good and some bad, that pop in along the way.
I also enjoyed the fact that this story was based in Egypt, which is a location that I haven't ready much in novels so it was very interesting to learn more about customs and ettiquette back in the 1940s.
A thoroughly enjoyable novel that will grab you from the very first page and hold on until the very last. I can't recommend this high enough. You need to read this!
For more reviews, please check out the link below:
Debra's Book Cafe
Debs :-)
What I loved the most about this story is Aida's journey from rediscovering herself again after being away from Egypt for so long and also trying to find out the truth about what happened to her father. You also have the complicated relationship with Phares (the person who she was destined to marry before she left Egypt after her father died) and it was certainly very interesting to see what happened when they met again. You also have other characters, some good and some bad, that pop in along the way.
I also enjoyed the fact that this story was based in Egypt, which is a location that I haven't ready much in novels so it was very interesting to learn more about customs and ettiquette back in the 1940s.
A thoroughly enjoyable novel that will grab you from the very first page and hold on until the very last. I can't recommend this high enough. You need to read this!
For more reviews, please check out the link below:
Debra's Book Cafe
Debs :-)
May 30, 2021
3.5 Stars!
Sensuous, informative, and atmospheric!
Song of the Nile is a historical love letter to Egypt, complete with authentic and fascinating facts of life in the country following WWII and a breathtaking tour of the landscape, monuments, and landmarks that still grace this beautiful countryside today.
The writing is vivid and rich. The characters are warm, bold, and determined. And the plot is a richly described, captivating tale full of life, love, loss, family, drama, desire, intrigue, romance, customs, and societal expectations.
Overall, Song of the Nile is a steamy, mysterious, alluring tale by Fielding that highlights the unique political landscape of Egypt over the years and reminds us of the importance of trusting, forgiving, and ultimately the power of love.
Thank you to Midas PR for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review.
Sensuous, informative, and atmospheric!
Song of the Nile is a historical love letter to Egypt, complete with authentic and fascinating facts of life in the country following WWII and a breathtaking tour of the landscape, monuments, and landmarks that still grace this beautiful countryside today.
The writing is vivid and rich. The characters are warm, bold, and determined. And the plot is a richly described, captivating tale full of life, love, loss, family, drama, desire, intrigue, romance, customs, and societal expectations.
Overall, Song of the Nile is a steamy, mysterious, alluring tale by Fielding that highlights the unique political landscape of Egypt over the years and reminds us of the importance of trusting, forgiving, and ultimately the power of love.
Thank you to Midas PR for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review.
April 10, 2021
In 1946 Aida El Masri returns in her family estate from London where she was working like a nurse and helping to wounded soldiers and the others in WW II. After eight years spending in total dedication she must face with her inner struggle as a results of her father’s tragically death. He was convicted and died in the courtroom in front of her eyes. She was certain that he didn’t do that crime and for that she blames his best friend Kamel Pharaony. When she meets again Phares Pharaony her heart awakes the old feelings for him. She is under pressure. How to clean her father’s name? She is only a woman in a such a men’s world.
The story took place in Egypt and I felt magic spread through it. From the Pyramids, Sphinx, the exceptional water of Nile and the other ancient and modern places which represent Egypt.
“How unlike the world she left behind was this remote universe of sand, water, palm trees and statues; how different from the images of war she had witnessed, how wonderfully peaceful and removed from reality!”
“the high steps to the platform, the young woman caught her breath. Cairo! The bustle, confusion, the shouting of porters, the babble of Arabic…After the slow pace of the countryside the noise was music to her eager ears.”
Hannah Fielding writes stories that will sweep you away. Her breathtaking writing features vivid scenes pull you into the story and make you feel every moment. The book is very detailed and if you are not for that kind of book ti is not for you.
Aida is the most lovable character in the story. She is kind, persistent and confused by her feelings because of her father’s death. Phares is strong, attractive, as a doctor he is a good catch, he is wealthy and likable character too.
“Aida sighed and sipped her cup of strong coffee, lost for a moment in a chaos of conflicting thoughts… There were emotions which she had to understand…”
This book blow me away and make me feel it with my heart and soul. It is profoundly beautiful and unpredictable that I highly recommend it. In the end I have feeling that I had journey through Egypt although I never visited it.
The story took place in Egypt and I felt magic spread through it. From the Pyramids, Sphinx, the exceptional water of Nile and the other ancient and modern places which represent Egypt.
“How unlike the world she left behind was this remote universe of sand, water, palm trees and statues; how different from the images of war she had witnessed, how wonderfully peaceful and removed from reality!”
“the high steps to the platform, the young woman caught her breath. Cairo! The bustle, confusion, the shouting of porters, the babble of Arabic…After the slow pace of the countryside the noise was music to her eager ears.”
Hannah Fielding writes stories that will sweep you away. Her breathtaking writing features vivid scenes pull you into the story and make you feel every moment. The book is very detailed and if you are not for that kind of book ti is not for you.
Aida is the most lovable character in the story. She is kind, persistent and confused by her feelings because of her father’s death. Phares is strong, attractive, as a doctor he is a good catch, he is wealthy and likable character too.
“Aida sighed and sipped her cup of strong coffee, lost for a moment in a chaos of conflicting thoughts… There were emotions which she had to understand…”
This book blow me away and make me feel it with my heart and soul. It is profoundly beautiful and unpredictable that I highly recommend it. In the end I have feeling that I had journey through Egypt although I never visited it.
April 22, 2021
Aida returns to Egypty, where she grew up. I love the setting and description of the surroundings. The characters felt a bit flat. Still an enjoyable read.
September 17, 2021
It’s not very often that I am lost for words, but after reading em>Song of the Nile by Hannah Fielding I was completely blown away. Set in Egypt 1946, Aida returns to her home in Luxor after eight years of being in England. But it is not just the famiy home that brings her back, she is seeking revenge for her father’s death after he was accused of trafficing Egyptian artefacts. Her eyes are set on her father’s friend Kamel Pharony who she believes set her father up. But things are complicated by Kamel’s son, Phares who she was meant to marry eight years ago. Phares is now a surgeon, and even more handsome than she remebered and still makes her go weak at the knees, but can she trust him, he is known to have some very glamerous girlfriends. Romance, smuggling and scandal are set against the ancient pyramids.
Song of the Nile completely swept me up with the setting, the steamy romance and fabulous story telling of Hannah Fielding. Her beautiful prose painted a a colourful feast for the senses of Egypt, with the aromas of the food, the flowers, the trees, the stunning scenery, the desert and the lush greenery living side by side and the sound of the markets, the sound of the birds. Hannah Fielding lived in Egypt which expalins the authenticity of the book details, the Egyptian phrases, her knowledge of the customs and social scene of Egypt, and as an added bonus she has included recipies at the back of the book of the mouth watering food. There is so much going on in this book, the will they or won’t they relationship of Aida and Phares, the illegal trade of ancient Egyptian artefacts, made popular after the 1922 dicovery of the tomb of Tutankhamu, and the importance of family. I have long held a fascination for Egypt, and to read about the ancient temples, the pyramids and the palces built there was just fascinating. Hannah Fielding also addresses the political problems of Egypt of 1948, with the colonial British working with the King, and the people who want Egypt to govern itself using violence to be heard.
Hannah Fielding’s characters are as detailed and well drawn as her settings. Aida is a complex character, very independent, stubborn, impulsive and finds it hard to trust. She never believed the charges of smuggling against her father and she is determined to clear his name. Having an English mother gives her a rare quality with her blonde hair, and pale skin, making her a prize catch, but she definitely more Egyptian than Britsh. She is a woman who is aware of her sexuality, and never more so than in the presence of Phares, her one time future husband. The tale that ‘absence makes the heart grow stronger’ is definitely true for Aida and Phares, their smouldering sexual tension is hotter and steamier than the desert heat. Phares is a handsome hero who wants to sweep Aida off her feet, even though she wants her feet firmly on the ground. There is also a real villain to hate, add boy did I hate him.
Song of the Nile is a sweeping epic novel with romance, scandal and smuggling against the stunning background of the pyramids. Hannah Fielding evocative writing captured how the ancient and new live alongside each other, and she brings the contrasting desert, the lush green of the hills, the fragrant flowers and beautiful Nile all to life. This book is the definition of a ‘page turner,’ and it left me with a huge book hangover; I felt I needed to come up for air when I finished this book as I was immersed in it. Breathtakin, magical, spellbinding barely do this book justice, it is simply sublime.
Song of the Nile completely swept me up with the setting, the steamy romance and fabulous story telling of Hannah Fielding. Her beautiful prose painted a a colourful feast for the senses of Egypt, with the aromas of the food, the flowers, the trees, the stunning scenery, the desert and the lush greenery living side by side and the sound of the markets, the sound of the birds. Hannah Fielding lived in Egypt which expalins the authenticity of the book details, the Egyptian phrases, her knowledge of the customs and social scene of Egypt, and as an added bonus she has included recipies at the back of the book of the mouth watering food. There is so much going on in this book, the will they or won’t they relationship of Aida and Phares, the illegal trade of ancient Egyptian artefacts, made popular after the 1922 dicovery of the tomb of Tutankhamu, and the importance of family. I have long held a fascination for Egypt, and to read about the ancient temples, the pyramids and the palces built there was just fascinating. Hannah Fielding also addresses the political problems of Egypt of 1948, with the colonial British working with the King, and the people who want Egypt to govern itself using violence to be heard.
Hannah Fielding’s characters are as detailed and well drawn as her settings. Aida is a complex character, very independent, stubborn, impulsive and finds it hard to trust. She never believed the charges of smuggling against her father and she is determined to clear his name. Having an English mother gives her a rare quality with her blonde hair, and pale skin, making her a prize catch, but she definitely more Egyptian than Britsh. She is a woman who is aware of her sexuality, and never more so than in the presence of Phares, her one time future husband. The tale that ‘absence makes the heart grow stronger’ is definitely true for Aida and Phares, their smouldering sexual tension is hotter and steamier than the desert heat. Phares is a handsome hero who wants to sweep Aida off her feet, even though she wants her feet firmly on the ground. There is also a real villain to hate, add boy did I hate him.
Song of the Nile is a sweeping epic novel with romance, scandal and smuggling against the stunning background of the pyramids. Hannah Fielding evocative writing captured how the ancient and new live alongside each other, and she brings the contrasting desert, the lush green of the hills, the fragrant flowers and beautiful Nile all to life. This book is the definition of a ‘page turner,’ and it left me with a huge book hangover; I felt I needed to come up for air when I finished this book as I was immersed in it. Breathtakin, magical, spellbinding barely do this book justice, it is simply sublime.
March 11, 2021
Hannah Fielding in “Song of The Nile,” writes about a woman’s journey of rediscovery in the homeland she loves and with a man she has never forgotten.
Aida El Masri was raised in Karawan House, a large estate in Luxor, Upper Egypt. Her mother, an Englishwoman, died when Aida was a child. Her father, an Egyptian, died when she was 18 and left her the estate. Grief-stricken, she left for England where she trained as a nurse and worked during the war. Now, in 1946, she returns home to Luxor to clear her father’s name and bring the real criminal to justice.
The Egypt of 1946 is not a welcome place for strong, independent and determined women. The culture has some ingrained customs and beliefs about the role of women in their society and it’s considered scandalous for Aida to consider running the estate alone. Her property borders on the Pharaony property and there’s pressure for her to marry the Pharaony heir and unite the land. Headstrong Aida is certain that she will not have a marriage of convenience and is willing to hold out for love.
Phares Pharaony is a handsome, educated bachelor with a medical degree. He’s a respected surgeon in his own hospital in Luxor. A hospital he set up to help the poor. Understanding the need to consolidate land, he agrees to an arranged marriage with the neighbour’s daughter. However, when she returns from England, she’s infuriatingly gorgeous and independent. He has his work cut out for him in attempting to convince her to marry.
A year ago, we had the best holiday of our life, a month in Egypt, and I left a piece of my heart there. I was so excited to read about the people, food, land and history that had captivated me. I knew within a few pages that the author must have been Egyptian and smiled when Google confirmed it. Each page is stuffed with the beauty of that land; language, sights, and sounds. It’s as if I was transported back to Egypt. I liked the strong female character and loved her even more when her layers were peeled back and her vulnerability was revealed. The sense of mystery and intrigue regarding the antiquities was continued throughout, making this more than just a historical fiction/romance novel. The places we’d visited on our holiday were highlighted in the book and I could imagine exactly what the characters were experiencing. My only disappointment was that the passion and sex scenes detracted from the amazing potential this novel held. It had the potential to be different and offer something that not many authors can do; historical fiction set in Egypt written by an Egyptian.
Thank you to Hannah Fielding, London Wall Publishing and NetGalley for the advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
Published February 14, 2021.
Aida El Masri was raised in Karawan House, a large estate in Luxor, Upper Egypt. Her mother, an Englishwoman, died when Aida was a child. Her father, an Egyptian, died when she was 18 and left her the estate. Grief-stricken, she left for England where she trained as a nurse and worked during the war. Now, in 1946, she returns home to Luxor to clear her father’s name and bring the real criminal to justice.
The Egypt of 1946 is not a welcome place for strong, independent and determined women. The culture has some ingrained customs and beliefs about the role of women in their society and it’s considered scandalous for Aida to consider running the estate alone. Her property borders on the Pharaony property and there’s pressure for her to marry the Pharaony heir and unite the land. Headstrong Aida is certain that she will not have a marriage of convenience and is willing to hold out for love.
Phares Pharaony is a handsome, educated bachelor with a medical degree. He’s a respected surgeon in his own hospital in Luxor. A hospital he set up to help the poor. Understanding the need to consolidate land, he agrees to an arranged marriage with the neighbour’s daughter. However, when she returns from England, she’s infuriatingly gorgeous and independent. He has his work cut out for him in attempting to convince her to marry.
A year ago, we had the best holiday of our life, a month in Egypt, and I left a piece of my heart there. I was so excited to read about the people, food, land and history that had captivated me. I knew within a few pages that the author must have been Egyptian and smiled when Google confirmed it. Each page is stuffed with the beauty of that land; language, sights, and sounds. It’s as if I was transported back to Egypt. I liked the strong female character and loved her even more when her layers were peeled back and her vulnerability was revealed. The sense of mystery and intrigue regarding the antiquities was continued throughout, making this more than just a historical fiction/romance novel. The places we’d visited on our holiday were highlighted in the book and I could imagine exactly what the characters were experiencing. My only disappointment was that the passion and sex scenes detracted from the amazing potential this novel held. It had the potential to be different and offer something that not many authors can do; historical fiction set in Egypt written by an Egyptian.
Thank you to Hannah Fielding, London Wall Publishing and NetGalley for the advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
Published February 14, 2021.
May 24, 2021
On returning to Upper Egypt in the aftermath of WW2, Aida El Masri is determined to seek answers to a question that has overshadowed her life for the last eight years, and even her experiences working as a nurse in war torn London hasn't lessened Aida's resolve to find out who betrayed her father.
Returning home to Luxor is a bittersweet experience for Aida but gladdened that life in her homeland is just as beautiful as ever she is determined to settle old scores, and start a new life for herself. In attending glamorous parties, and wearing beautiful designer dresses, Aida takes her place in high society where her beauty and lively spirit attracts the attention of some unusual suitors. However, it is in the rekindling of Aida's relationship with the charismatic Phares Pharaony where the heat, and passion, truly starts to sizzle. Fiercely independent, Aida doesn't take kindly to being manipulated and maneuvered, so when Phares offers her a marriage proposition, Aida is torn between what is in her head, and what is in her heart.
Beautifully redolent of the heat and passion of Egypt, and by using her own experiences of growing up in Alexandria, the author beings this stunning country alive in the sumptuous descriptions of life amongst Egypt's elite. From the glittering ballrooms and lavish estates of the supremely wealthy, to meetings with Bedouin traders and gypsy fortune tellers in the heat of the desert, there is never a moment when the story doesn't draw you into a long forgotten world.
The Song of the Nile is beautifully reminiscent of this author's skilful ability to place you directly into the world of her imagination which is so beautifully described that you literally step into the pages and experience, first hand, all the sights, sounds and emotions which are so glorious recreated. Coming in at well over 500 pages, Song of the Nile is a book to be savoured like the fine wine which flows so freely at the soirees, and glamorous events of Egypt's high society.
In these uncertain days when foreign travel is filled with trepidation, over the last few days I have been whisked away to the sultry heat, and dust, of 1946 Luxor, luxuriating in a forgotten world brought so beautifully to life by this talented author.
July 27, 2021
Aida El Masri is a young nurse returning to Egypt from London in 1946. Eight years before, her father had been framed for a crime he didn’t commit and died. She hasn’t forgotten and plans to exact revenge against his best friend Kamel Phararony, who she believes had betrayed him. His son Phares proposes, and she’s attracted to him. How will she decide her future?
The language and descriptions are lyrical, with some Egyptian words added in. While we might think of the 1940s as old-fashioned now, Aida’s childhood home was even more conservative than London of that period. Upon returning home, her uncle wants her to marry Phares the way their fathers had discussed prior to her father’s death. While Aida wants to prove her father’s innocence, such an undertaking is looked down upon; proper ladies didn’t make waves or meddle in mens’ affairs. She catches the eye of not just Phares, but a prince that he hates. Aida is known as headstrong and stubborn, so the more that people tell her that her thoughts about Kamel are silly, the more she pushes back. It can be almost annoying how much she bristles at everyone and everything, though I don’t like Phares’ approach to her, either. Like many romance heroes, he recognizes his error and apologizes for it, which makes me like him a bit better.
Pacing is slow and more slice of life at the beginning of the book. That leads into a discussion of politics and the difference in class, as well as the desire to be free of British influence in the time period. With all of the characters having different viewpoints, it’s an interesting window into how people were affected. We also see how the truly rich and powerful treat others, which hasn’t really changed much from the current day, and how they can spin things to their advantage. I was angry on Aida’s behalf; as impulsive and naïve as she can be, that’s not an excuse for others to take advantage of her. There is intrigue and action in the second half of the novel, which had me racing through the pages. The jealous bits were uncomfortable to read, but everything tied together well at the end.
The language and descriptions are lyrical, with some Egyptian words added in. While we might think of the 1940s as old-fashioned now, Aida’s childhood home was even more conservative than London of that period. Upon returning home, her uncle wants her to marry Phares the way their fathers had discussed prior to her father’s death. While Aida wants to prove her father’s innocence, such an undertaking is looked down upon; proper ladies didn’t make waves or meddle in mens’ affairs. She catches the eye of not just Phares, but a prince that he hates. Aida is known as headstrong and stubborn, so the more that people tell her that her thoughts about Kamel are silly, the more she pushes back. It can be almost annoying how much she bristles at everyone and everything, though I don’t like Phares’ approach to her, either. Like many romance heroes, he recognizes his error and apologizes for it, which makes me like him a bit better.
Pacing is slow and more slice of life at the beginning of the book. That leads into a discussion of politics and the difference in class, as well as the desire to be free of British influence in the time period. With all of the characters having different viewpoints, it’s an interesting window into how people were affected. We also see how the truly rich and powerful treat others, which hasn’t really changed much from the current day, and how they can spin things to their advantage. I was angry on Aida’s behalf; as impulsive and naïve as she can be, that’s not an excuse for others to take advantage of her. There is intrigue and action in the second half of the novel, which had me racing through the pages. The jealous bits were uncomfortable to read, but everything tied together well at the end.
August 20, 2021
Brief synopsis from the book cover:
Luxor, 1946. When young nurse Aida El Masri returns from war-torn London to her family’s estate in Egypt, she steels herself to face the challenges ahead.
Eight years have passed since her father, Ayoub, was framed for a crime he did not commit and died as a tragic result. Yet Aida has not forgotten, and now she wants revenge against the man she believes betrayed her father – his best friend, Kamel Pharaony.
Then Aida is reunited with Kamel’s son, the captivating surgeon Phares, who offers her marriage. In spite of herself, the secret passion Aida harboured for him as a young girl reignites. Still, how can she marry the son of the man who destroyed her father and brought shame on her family? Will coming home bring her love, or only danger and heartache?
My rating:
Plot: 4 out of 5 stars
Writing: 4 out of 5 stars
Character development: 4 out of 5 stars
Overall: 4 out of 5 stars
Recommended for readers of:
Romance
Historical Fiction
Review:
Set in post WII Egypt songs of the Nile tells the story of Aida El Masri, who is returning to Egypt after eight years. She left after her father a respected archeologist died, being wrongfully accused of a crime he didn’t commit. Now she is back, she is determined to find the real perpetrators and bring them to justice. The only problem, the man she believes is involved, is the father of man she still has feelings for and hasn't able to forget after all those years.
Overall:
The story is well written, very evocative, full of romance and intrigue. The book captures you from the start, the scenery is depicted very vividly, everything comes to live, the sounds, the smells, the lush landscape along the Nile and the beauty and harshness of the desert. It’s like walking into a scene of Arabian nights. The characters are complex but their actions are explained in great detail so you understand their motivations. Their emotions, passion and struggles feel natural. This is just a great book to allow you to be transported away to a different time and place.
Review copy provided by Netgalley at no cost to me.
Luxor, 1946. When young nurse Aida El Masri returns from war-torn London to her family’s estate in Egypt, she steels herself to face the challenges ahead.
Eight years have passed since her father, Ayoub, was framed for a crime he did not commit and died as a tragic result. Yet Aida has not forgotten, and now she wants revenge against the man she believes betrayed her father – his best friend, Kamel Pharaony.
Then Aida is reunited with Kamel’s son, the captivating surgeon Phares, who offers her marriage. In spite of herself, the secret passion Aida harboured for him as a young girl reignites. Still, how can she marry the son of the man who destroyed her father and brought shame on her family? Will coming home bring her love, or only danger and heartache?
My rating:
Plot: 4 out of 5 stars
Writing: 4 out of 5 stars
Character development: 4 out of 5 stars
Overall: 4 out of 5 stars
Recommended for readers of:
Romance
Historical Fiction
Review:
Set in post WII Egypt songs of the Nile tells the story of Aida El Masri, who is returning to Egypt after eight years. She left after her father a respected archeologist died, being wrongfully accused of a crime he didn’t commit. Now she is back, she is determined to find the real perpetrators and bring them to justice. The only problem, the man she believes is involved, is the father of man she still has feelings for and hasn't able to forget after all those years.
Overall:
The story is well written, very evocative, full of romance and intrigue. The book captures you from the start, the scenery is depicted very vividly, everything comes to live, the sounds, the smells, the lush landscape along the Nile and the beauty and harshness of the desert. It’s like walking into a scene of Arabian nights. The characters are complex but their actions are explained in great detail so you understand their motivations. Their emotions, passion and struggles feel natural. This is just a great book to allow you to be transported away to a different time and place.
Review copy provided by Netgalley at no cost to me.
August 4, 2022
This book was entered in The Wishing Shelf Book Awards. This is what our readers thought:
Title: Song of the Nile
Author: Hannah Fielding
Star Rating: 5 Stars
Number of Readers: 17
Stats
Editing: 9/10
Writing Style: 10/10
Content: 10/10
Cover: 5/5
Of the 17 readers:
17 would read another book by this author.
17 thought the cover was good or excellent.
17 felt it was easy to follow.
17 would recommend this book to another reader to try.
Of all the readers, 5 felt the author’s strongest skill was ‘plotting a story’.
Of all the readers, 7 felt the author’s strongest skill was ‘developing the characters’.
Of all the readers, 5 felt the author’s strongest skill was ‘writing style’.
17 felt the pacing was good or excellent.
17 thought the author understood the readership and what they wanted.
Readers’ Comments
“The author of this novel seems to be in no hurry to tell her story. But I loved that. It´s not slow paced; it´s perfectly paced, allowing the reader time to fall in love with the Egypt setting and the characters of the day. Anybody interested in post-war Egypt will find this fascinating.” Female reader, aged 47
“A cleverly plotted historical novel written by an author who knows how to balance developing her characters with putting over the exotic setting. I liked the plot, the suspense – particularly towards the end - Female reader, aged 32
“This is such a good novel. I loved the Egypt setting; the author, I think, knows the country (and the history) well, and puts it over in a compelling way. The character, Aida, is strong, interesting, stubborn, and often rather confused – but that´s okay. She´s in love with the son of the man who destroyed her father – that´s confusing for any woman!” Female reader, aged 66
To Sum It Up:
‘A wonderfully compelling historical novel with a strong cast of memorable characters. A SILVER MEDAL WINNER and highly recommended!’ The Wishing Shelf Book Awards
Title: Song of the Nile
Author: Hannah Fielding
Star Rating: 5 Stars
Number of Readers: 17
Stats
Editing: 9/10
Writing Style: 10/10
Content: 10/10
Cover: 5/5
Of the 17 readers:
17 would read another book by this author.
17 thought the cover was good or excellent.
17 felt it was easy to follow.
17 would recommend this book to another reader to try.
Of all the readers, 5 felt the author’s strongest skill was ‘plotting a story’.
Of all the readers, 7 felt the author’s strongest skill was ‘developing the characters’.
Of all the readers, 5 felt the author’s strongest skill was ‘writing style’.
17 felt the pacing was good or excellent.
17 thought the author understood the readership and what they wanted.
Readers’ Comments
“The author of this novel seems to be in no hurry to tell her story. But I loved that. It´s not slow paced; it´s perfectly paced, allowing the reader time to fall in love with the Egypt setting and the characters of the day. Anybody interested in post-war Egypt will find this fascinating.” Female reader, aged 47
“A cleverly plotted historical novel written by an author who knows how to balance developing her characters with putting over the exotic setting. I liked the plot, the suspense – particularly towards the end - Female reader, aged 32
“This is such a good novel. I loved the Egypt setting; the author, I think, knows the country (and the history) well, and puts it over in a compelling way. The character, Aida, is strong, interesting, stubborn, and often rather confused – but that´s okay. She´s in love with the son of the man who destroyed her father – that´s confusing for any woman!” Female reader, aged 66
To Sum It Up:
‘A wonderfully compelling historical novel with a strong cast of memorable characters. A SILVER MEDAL WINNER and highly recommended!’ The Wishing Shelf Book Awards
February 10, 2024
In 1946, Aida El Masri returned to Egypt after working as a nurse in WWII. After her arrival, she assumed the responsibilities of running her father’s estate. Shortly after Aida’s arrival, she met her neighbor, Kamel Pharaony, whom she believed murdered her father eight years ago. Aida also found herself falling in love with Kamel’s son named Phares. Will Aida ever allow herself to eventually marry Phares?
I did not like the protagonist, Aida. I really had a hard time connecting with her. She comes across as very whimsy and childish. I thought that she would become a mature woman because of the hardships she faced during the war. Instead, Aida doesn’t listen to good counsel because she wants to be independent. I believe that a woman can yearn for independence but also must remain practical. Aida is not very practical and makes rash decisions. Therefore, I didn't really understand her and was not as invested in her story.
Overall, this novel is about loss, family, and tradition vs modernity. I like the supporting characters, especially Phares. He was very honest, caring, and truly loved Aida! I also love the Egyptian setting! It was very exotic! I love the author’s writing style. It has gorgeous prose and is very lyrical. Therefore, Song of the Nile is a meticulously researched novel! Even though Song of the Nile is a very long novel, it is very fast-paced! I There is glitz and glamor, suspense, and romance! There were some flaws in this novel. I did not like some of the graphic scenes. It made me uncomfortable. I also found some parts of the novel to be very repetitive! Nevertheless, this novel is a must-read for those that like to read about Egyptian history and culture! I recommend this for fans of The Collector’s Daughter, The Oud Player of Cairo, and A Woman in Cairo!
(Note: I was given a review copy by the author. All opinions expressed are my own.)
I did not like the protagonist, Aida. I really had a hard time connecting with her. She comes across as very whimsy and childish. I thought that she would become a mature woman because of the hardships she faced during the war. Instead, Aida doesn’t listen to good counsel because she wants to be independent. I believe that a woman can yearn for independence but also must remain practical. Aida is not very practical and makes rash decisions. Therefore, I didn't really understand her and was not as invested in her story.
Overall, this novel is about loss, family, and tradition vs modernity. I like the supporting characters, especially Phares. He was very honest, caring, and truly loved Aida! I also love the Egyptian setting! It was very exotic! I love the author’s writing style. It has gorgeous prose and is very lyrical. Therefore, Song of the Nile is a meticulously researched novel! Even though Song of the Nile is a very long novel, it is very fast-paced! I There is glitz and glamor, suspense, and romance! There were some flaws in this novel. I did not like some of the graphic scenes. It made me uncomfortable. I also found some parts of the novel to be very repetitive! Nevertheless, this novel is a must-read for those that like to read about Egyptian history and culture! I recommend this for fans of The Collector’s Daughter, The Oud Player of Cairo, and A Woman in Cairo!
(Note: I was given a review copy by the author. All opinions expressed are my own.)
June 24, 2021
Song of the Nile was a fabulous read, maybe a masterpiece! Descriptions of locales in Egypt, the cities, desert, food and characters, are lush and beyond compare. Not to mention the romantic and steamy romantic episodes which are tastefully but passionately written.
The book is set in post-World War II Egypt and centers around Aida El-Masri, an English-Egyptian girl, whose Egyptian father tragically died of a heart attack after being falsely accused of the theft of an Egyptian antiquity. Aida has spent the war years in England as a nurse often caring for the war wounded. After the War ends, she returns to the family home in Luxor and soon reconnects with surgeon Phares Pharaony, a childhood friend. The relationship is complicated by the tale told by a servant years before about the involvement of Phares’ father Kamel, in the false allegations against Aida’s late father.
Eventually Phares and Aida begin to re-build their relationship, complicated by his unexplained absences. There is engaging narrative/adventure concerning the obtaining and sale of stolen archeological antiquities and how it connects to Phares.
This was a beautifully crafted novel, complete with detailed descriptions of the Nile, the trees and flowers of the country, and the lives and customs of various levels of Egyptian society—wealthy Coptic Egyptians, expatriates, the common people including workers, servants, and Bedouins,
My thanks to #netgalley for a copy of this book. The author was unknown to me previously, but I learned so much about how a non-European country fared during and after WWII, about Egyptian nationalism at the time, and so much more. Highly recommended.
The book is set in post-World War II Egypt and centers around Aida El-Masri, an English-Egyptian girl, whose Egyptian father tragically died of a heart attack after being falsely accused of the theft of an Egyptian antiquity. Aida has spent the war years in England as a nurse often caring for the war wounded. After the War ends, she returns to the family home in Luxor and soon reconnects with surgeon Phares Pharaony, a childhood friend. The relationship is complicated by the tale told by a servant years before about the involvement of Phares’ father Kamel, in the false allegations against Aida’s late father.
Eventually Phares and Aida begin to re-build their relationship, complicated by his unexplained absences. There is engaging narrative/adventure concerning the obtaining and sale of stolen archeological antiquities and how it connects to Phares.
This was a beautifully crafted novel, complete with detailed descriptions of the Nile, the trees and flowers of the country, and the lives and customs of various levels of Egyptian society—wealthy Coptic Egyptians, expatriates, the common people including workers, servants, and Bedouins,
My thanks to #netgalley for a copy of this book. The author was unknown to me previously, but I learned so much about how a non-European country fared during and after WWII, about Egyptian nationalism at the time, and so much more. Highly recommended.
April 30, 2021
Aida has returned to Luxor to her home, after eight years. The eight years spent as a surgical nurse has exposed her to the horrors of war and life. Now deciding to take up her inheritance after the sudden death of her father, a death brought about by a false claim of smuggling Aida does not find it that easy to fit into conservative Egypt unlike before.
A marriage had been almost settled on her but she is not of the same opinion now and the story that starts from this tumultuous beginning shows what Aida has to face. A beautiful, rich young woman becomes the target of fortune hunters anywhere and Egypt is no exception. Her independence and impulsiveness can lead her to dangerous situations and orders given without explanations will not be followed. Her growing attraction to Phares whom she originally promised to is something that she cannot ignore, but at the same time Aida has doubts over his true intentions. Is it just an annexation of her vast properties to his own which are adjoining and can she forget that she always thought that it was he who had betrayed her father causing him to die.
This story apart from being a love story and a rather torrid romance, was more beautifully a descriptive story of life in Cairo and Luxor in 1946. Especially amongst the aristocracy of Egypt. In detail the life, the surroundings,the archaelogical history of Egypt, the food which seemed glorious and even the souks and shopping areas in both cities detailed and descriptive add so much colour and lustre to the story. I enjoyed that part more than the romance anyway.
A marriage had been almost settled on her but she is not of the same opinion now and the story that starts from this tumultuous beginning shows what Aida has to face. A beautiful, rich young woman becomes the target of fortune hunters anywhere and Egypt is no exception. Her independence and impulsiveness can lead her to dangerous situations and orders given without explanations will not be followed. Her growing attraction to Phares whom she originally promised to is something that she cannot ignore, but at the same time Aida has doubts over his true intentions. Is it just an annexation of her vast properties to his own which are adjoining and can she forget that she always thought that it was he who had betrayed her father causing him to die.
This story apart from being a love story and a rather torrid romance, was more beautifully a descriptive story of life in Cairo and Luxor in 1946. Especially amongst the aristocracy of Egypt. In detail the life, the surroundings,the archaelogical history of Egypt, the food which seemed glorious and even the souks and shopping areas in both cities detailed and descriptive add so much colour and lustre to the story. I enjoyed that part more than the romance anyway.
May 23, 2021
I love a good historical novel and this book had so much potential. Set after the end of WW2, finally, a story that does not involve Nazis, Jews, suffering and cruelty. Instead, it is supposed to center around a strong female character, Aida, and flies you to magical Egypt. Unfortunately, this book didn’t live up to my expectations.
Aida returns to Egypt from England, to investigate the real reason for her father’s death, but she does not lift a finger to find out the truth throughout the entire book. She keeps telling everyone that she can stand on her own feet and is able to run the family estate without the help of a husband, but she spends only a few days in the family mansion and doesn’t care learning anything about the business. She goes from party to party, fashion shows, social events, shopping, long weekends and lives the lavish life of a millionaire heiress.
On the plus side, thanks to the author’s intimate knowledge of Egypt, the book is full of elaborate description of the desert, venues, buildings, clothes, food and the Egyptian way of life. It is a romance, and you can truly immerse yourself in luxury and peep into the world of high society. These long descriptions however slow the pace and make the novel unnecessarily lengthy.
I am grateful for NetGalley and London Wall Publishing for an Advance Readers Copy.
Aida returns to Egypt from England, to investigate the real reason for her father’s death, but she does not lift a finger to find out the truth throughout the entire book. She keeps telling everyone that she can stand on her own feet and is able to run the family estate without the help of a husband, but she spends only a few days in the family mansion and doesn’t care learning anything about the business. She goes from party to party, fashion shows, social events, shopping, long weekends and lives the lavish life of a millionaire heiress.
On the plus side, thanks to the author’s intimate knowledge of Egypt, the book is full of elaborate description of the desert, venues, buildings, clothes, food and the Egyptian way of life. It is a romance, and you can truly immerse yourself in luxury and peep into the world of high society. These long descriptions however slow the pace and make the novel unnecessarily lengthy.
I am grateful for NetGalley and London Wall Publishing for an Advance Readers Copy.
March 14, 2021
Oh, what a read! The story is set in Egypt back in 1946. I loved the wordy descriptions in the book, always have. It’s like travelling all the way to Egypt without having moved from my place. I have seen and experienced so many places this way with the help of the author. Hence, it is always a pleasure reading her works.
OK, now onto the story. I loved the story. Not only because it was romantic, sensuous, and beautiful in every page but because it was authentic. Of course, the descriptions of the lavish lifestyle of the Egyptians were genuine but what I appreciated was that even the mindset of the characters were absolutely authentic, pertaining to the time period. It was absolutely believable that a girl or man from such a background and cultural upbringing would act the way they did. I loved that about the author, she didn’t choose to let go any of that for the sake of the story.
The storyline, at par with the timeline, was perfect too. While I was reading it, I wished I had gone back years ago to witness what life was back then – all the luxuries, comforts, and plenty of humanity still intact.
Overall, an exotic and romantic read.
What I Did Not Like
Absolutely nothing.
Would I Recommend It?
Yes, a thousand times yes! A must read for romance lovers!
OK, now onto the story. I loved the story. Not only because it was romantic, sensuous, and beautiful in every page but because it was authentic. Of course, the descriptions of the lavish lifestyle of the Egyptians were genuine but what I appreciated was that even the mindset of the characters were absolutely authentic, pertaining to the time period. It was absolutely believable that a girl or man from such a background and cultural upbringing would act the way they did. I loved that about the author, she didn’t choose to let go any of that for the sake of the story.
The storyline, at par with the timeline, was perfect too. While I was reading it, I wished I had gone back years ago to witness what life was back then – all the luxuries, comforts, and plenty of humanity still intact.
Overall, an exotic and romantic read.
What I Did Not Like
Absolutely nothing.
Would I Recommend It?
Yes, a thousand times yes! A must read for romance lovers!
July 18, 2021
I received this book on netgalley in exchange for an honest review. It is a story about Aida who returns to her homeland after seven years. Before she went to England her father was accused of the crime he never committed and now after her return she can't move forward in life unless she has resolved the mystery behind the most unfortunate event of her life. I found the plot to be intriguing and very interesting.
The writing is flowy and rich in explanations about Egyptian culture.
The author has done the characterization well and I enjoyed reading the book.
At times, I felt the pace was slow and there was too much description about food in particular. I appreciate that the author has tried to introduce the culture but too much description about how beautiful the land was and how many different kinds of food were present became quite irritating for me to read. I wanted the story to move forward.
Although I enjoyed the characterization, Aida's character felt quite conflicting to me but as the story progressed I became a bit comfortable.
All in all it was quite an enjoyable read and I would recommend it if you like historical stories.
The writing is flowy and rich in explanations about Egyptian culture.
The author has done the characterization well and I enjoyed reading the book.
At times, I felt the pace was slow and there was too much description about food in particular. I appreciate that the author has tried to introduce the culture but too much description about how beautiful the land was and how many different kinds of food were present became quite irritating for me to read. I wanted the story to move forward.
Although I enjoyed the characterization, Aida's character felt quite conflicting to me but as the story progressed I became a bit comfortable.
All in all it was quite an enjoyable read and I would recommend it if you like historical stories.
March 16, 2021
Song of the Nile by Hannah Fielding takes you to Egypt. Her sweeping descriptions of the sunrises, sunsets, bazaars, buildings, and desert, make you feel that you are feeling the cool night air, smelling the hibiscus. The setting becomes a character in the setting of this book. Aida left Egypt 8 years previously after the death of her father. She served as a nurse in London during the war, but returns home in 1946. She struggles with the independence she gained in England now that she is back in a male dominated society. She is rebellious of these strict rules which cause impulsiveness and often misunderstandings in her life. Phares is the man who as a boy taunted and teased Aida growing up. He is now a doctor, has women falling at his feet, and Aida believes his father is responsible for her father's death. Will they be able to come to terms as they look as much at the past as they do the future? Thank you #NetGalley for allowing me to give my voluntary and honest review of #SongoftheNile, it was a fabulous book.
September 6, 2021
I received a copy of this book through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I struggled to enjoy this book. I was looking forward to the Egyptian setting, since that is not a place I have read a lot of books based in, but I found it difficult to understand all of the descriptions. I felt like it was too much description with too many foreign words that I got lost in what I was trying to read and ended up not understanding it. I began to skim over a lot of these parts.
I also struggled to really like Phares. I felt like a lot of the times, he was just plain rude and arrogant and it really made me question his feelings for Aida. The only reason I believed he loved her was because of his POV. I was pleasantly surprised by the villain so that was nice.
All in all, this book was not for me.
I struggled to enjoy this book. I was looking forward to the Egyptian setting, since that is not a place I have read a lot of books based in, but I found it difficult to understand all of the descriptions. I felt like it was too much description with too many foreign words that I got lost in what I was trying to read and ended up not understanding it. I began to skim over a lot of these parts.
I also struggled to really like Phares. I felt like a lot of the times, he was just plain rude and arrogant and it really made me question his feelings for Aida. The only reason I believed he loved her was because of his POV. I was pleasantly surprised by the villain so that was nice.
All in all, this book was not for me.
January 24, 2022
Poetic, sexy, passionate!
It all begins with death, tragedy and a unsolved crime that permanently shifted the life of our protagonist and the lives of those around her.
Fielding descriptions of food, scenery, rooms, garments and customs all contribute for the immersive journey to Egypt in 1946. Unfortunately for me as a non native English speaker and clueless to historical naming many descriptions of furniture or food were unknown, making me look it up to understand (which took away from the reading experience).
The book has interesting characters backgrounds, with whole childhood and war. Showing glimpses into history and politics at the time. The story is told focusing mainly on our protagonist, Aida. But there are some passages that revel the perspective of Phares, our male lead. Although some decisions and choices of the main female lead made me annoyed, as she was a bit inconsistent. Super strong and empowered them super submissive, I throughly enjoyed following their journey.
I Loved the fact that the female lead is of mix blood, but there wasn’t much recognition to the British heritage. Also, shout out to the Brazilians stereotypical side characters.
Give a try out in the engaging story if you are in the mood for a bit of intrigue, romance and a sprinkle of spice.
Finally, trigger warning for abuse, chaining, confinement.
Copy provided by NetGalley
It all begins with death, tragedy and a unsolved crime that permanently shifted the life of our protagonist and the lives of those around her.
Fielding descriptions of food, scenery, rooms, garments and customs all contribute for the immersive journey to Egypt in 1946. Unfortunately for me as a non native English speaker and clueless to historical naming many descriptions of furniture or food were unknown, making me look it up to understand (which took away from the reading experience).
The book has interesting characters backgrounds, with whole childhood and war. Showing glimpses into history and politics at the time. The story is told focusing mainly on our protagonist, Aida. But there are some passages that revel the perspective of Phares, our male lead. Although some decisions and choices of the main female lead made me annoyed, as she was a bit inconsistent. Super strong and empowered them super submissive, I throughly enjoyed following their journey.
I Loved the fact that the female lead is of mix blood, but there wasn’t much recognition to the British heritage. Also, shout out to the Brazilians stereotypical side characters.
Give a try out in the engaging story if you are in the mood for a bit of intrigue, romance and a sprinkle of spice.
Finally, trigger warning for abuse, chaining, confinement.
Copy provided by NetGalley
May 24, 2021
I found this book an interesting combination of romance, thriller, travel, cooking and history writing.
If you throw the best of all worlds into a good story - what is the worst that can happen...? Apparently, it can become a bit dull, at some points even didactic. Hanna Fielding knows a lot about Egypt and she wants to share. And this is good. I do not think I have learnt so much about Coptic Christianity and the history and flora and fauna of Egypt since school. I still feel that a bit less of everything could have made a better book.
On the plus side, and this is a big plus: her characters have depth not just pretty faces, her scenery is to die for really, the plot is intriguing. But most of all, her prose is just plain beautiful.
If you throw the best of all worlds into a good story - what is the worst that can happen...? Apparently, it can become a bit dull, at some points even didactic. Hanna Fielding knows a lot about Egypt and she wants to share. And this is good. I do not think I have learnt so much about Coptic Christianity and the history and flora and fauna of Egypt since school. I still feel that a bit less of everything could have made a better book.
On the plus side, and this is a big plus: her characters have depth not just pretty faces, her scenery is to die for really, the plot is intriguing. But most of all, her prose is just plain beautiful.
June 23, 2021
The romance at the heart of this story is well done. It has the handsome doctor and the woman who loves him, and it has the conflict that keeps them from being happy. In this case, it's another woman, or two, as well as a suspicion that his family caused shame to hers. The beauty of this book, though, is in the beauty of Egypt, painted in every scene. The lush areas near the Nile, and the captivating scenes in the desert are ones I can read again and again. And the descriptions of the wealthy postwar crowd in Cairo, and their amazing clothes, are very well done. Overall, the characters of Phares and Aida are complex and well drawn. Their attraction is strong, and the misunderstandings keeping them apart are believable. Highly recommended for fans of historical romance.
August 9, 2021
Many thanks to Hannah Fielding, publisher and NetGalley for giving me this book in exchange of a review.
Author is unknown to me before i get the book. The cover is what intrigue me on requesting & reading this. Perfectly describe the book itself. The story is beautifully written! It's like im being transported back to Egypt, post WWII. Love how the relationship between the two main leads evolved. Their love story is a slow burn one, really enjoyed it. And i also love there's not so many characters inside, so we can only focus on the important characters and their roles inside the story.
Everything is thoroughly unveiled at the end of the book. Why certain thing happened and what are their motives. Very pleased with the happy ending of Aida & Phares too. Well done author!!
Author is unknown to me before i get the book. The cover is what intrigue me on requesting & reading this. Perfectly describe the book itself. The story is beautifully written! It's like im being transported back to Egypt, post WWII. Love how the relationship between the two main leads evolved. Their love story is a slow burn one, really enjoyed it. And i also love there's not so many characters inside, so we can only focus on the important characters and their roles inside the story.
Everything is thoroughly unveiled at the end of the book. Why certain thing happened and what are their motives. Very pleased with the happy ending of Aida & Phares too. Well done author!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 31, 2021
This was intriguing, steamy, and sweet. Aida finds herself in quite the predicament - courted by the man she had a crush on when she was younger, and son of the man who framed her father for a theft. She wants justice for her deceased father, but the heart also wants what it wants. I found myself completely lost in the pages, transported back in time as I watched Aida and Phares story play out. Aida was a great heroine, and I quickly fell in love with her. If you're looking for a captivating historical romance, you've found it!
May 13, 2022
Song of the Nile by Hannah Fielding is a fascinating read. With a setting so foreign to me in a time I know so little about, I found every detail and description highly captivating. The characters were fantastically developed and Aida...well, what a woman she is. She goes to Egypt with a not-so-easy task to clear her name, but she gets into a sweet/bitter romance. The romance part was greatly executed as well, a blast to read. Overall, I would say that I will read more from this author and I absolutely recommend this book.
May 19, 2021
I really wanted to like this book. I thought the plot was very clever and new considering how much World War 2 fiction is on shelves. I felt like there was too much description of the environment and not enough character development. I really started to enjoy the book about 1/2 way through and I did want to find out the ending but it was a little too long. Received a copy from NetGalley.
April 4, 2022
The plot was interesting and at the same time predictable, I liked the romance, but what I didn't like were the long chapters.
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August 4, 2023DNF 280/600
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