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Secrets of the Sands #3
The Oracle of Avaris
A search for answers from a mysterious Oracle has Sesha and her friends navigating intrigue and danger in this thrilling series finale.
Leaving the oasis, Sesha and her friends set sail for Avaris, intent on stopping the Hyksos chieftain from claiming the throne and declaring war on Thebes. On the journey, Sesha learns that she and the scroll are at the centre of a pair of prophecies made by a famed oracle ― ones with staggering implications for both her and the Hyksos people.
But when the crew arrives in the bustling port city, they are stunned to discover the oracle is missing. With the prophecies now in doubt and their lives in danger, Sesha, Paser, and Reb must race to find a mysterious priestess sect and witness the third, and final, prophecy before the upcoming lunar eclipse.
As the young scribes seek answers, Sesha must untangle her past and future while keeping war from erupting in the present. For there is one person she cannot bear to face across the Hyksos her brother.
Be sure to read Sesha’s earlier adventures, The Lost Scroll of the Physician and The Desert Prince .
Leaving the oasis, Sesha and her friends set sail for Avaris, intent on stopping the Hyksos chieftain from claiming the throne and declaring war on Thebes. On the journey, Sesha learns that she and the scroll are at the centre of a pair of prophecies made by a famed oracle ― ones with staggering implications for both her and the Hyksos people.
But when the crew arrives in the bustling port city, they are stunned to discover the oracle is missing. With the prophecies now in doubt and their lives in danger, Sesha, Paser, and Reb must race to find a mysterious priestess sect and witness the third, and final, prophecy before the upcoming lunar eclipse.
As the young scribes seek answers, Sesha must untangle her past and future while keeping war from erupting in the present. For there is one person she cannot bear to face across the Hyksos her brother.
Be sure to read Sesha’s earlier adventures, The Lost Scroll of the Physician and The Desert Prince .
376 pages, Paperback
First published February 15, 2022
1 person is currently reading
41 people want to read
About the author
Alisha Sevigny
11 books245 followersAlisha Sevigny holds a degree in Professional Writing and Sociology from the University of Victoria, is a film school graduate, former literary agent and hot yoga lover.
A shameless romantic, Alisha and her husband have travelled the world together. On a trip to Panama she fell in love with the country, culture, and their national emblem, the Golden Frog and was inspired to write her first Young Adult novel, KISSING FROGS.
Her second book, SUMMER CONSTELLATIONS is about a young woman fighting to save her family campground while trying not to fall in love, comes out May 1, 2018 with KCP Loft.
Born and raised in Kitimat, British Columbia, Alisha has always had a strong connection to the environment and conservationist spirit. She now lives in Toronto with her family.
A shameless romantic, Alisha and her husband have travelled the world together. On a trip to Panama she fell in love with the country, culture, and their national emblem, the Golden Frog and was inspired to write her first Young Adult novel, KISSING FROGS.
Her second book, SUMMER CONSTELLATIONS is about a young woman fighting to save her family campground while trying not to fall in love, comes out May 1, 2018 with KCP Loft.
Born and raised in Kitimat, British Columbia, Alisha has always had a strong connection to the environment and conservationist spirit. She now lives in Toronto with her family.
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Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
February 27, 2022
This was a book I wanted to finish before February was over.
This series is so much fun. Sevigny has somehow written a complex Egyptian society, but done it in a kid-friendly way. The characters and world are so vivid. This would’ve made a fantastic YA series, but I’m glad she chose to do it younger. It adds a touch of magic to the whole thing.
I’m definitely going to be reading more from Sevigny. This was my least favourite in the series (the second book being my favourite), but I still really enjoyed my time in this world again.
I think this series is a fantastic thing to put in a classroom or read with your children.
This series is so much fun. Sevigny has somehow written a complex Egyptian society, but done it in a kid-friendly way. The characters and world are so vivid. This would’ve made a fantastic YA series, but I’m glad she chose to do it younger. It adds a touch of magic to the whole thing.
I’m definitely going to be reading more from Sevigny. This was my least favourite in the series (the second book being my favourite), but I still really enjoyed my time in this world again.
I think this series is a fantastic thing to put in a classroom or read with your children.
August 30, 2022
𓂀¯`·.= ȶɦɛ օʀǟƈʟɛ օʄ ǟʋǟʀɨֆ¸.·´¯𓂀
Desperate to stop a war and the Hyksos chieftain from claiming the throne, Sesha and her friends go to Avaris in hope of finding the Oracle. Sesha learns that the ancient prophecy includes both her and her brother and could have staggering affects on her and the Hyksos. Togther, Sesha, Paser, and Reb must find a secluded group of priestesses and hear the third and final prophecy. They must fix things or else both brother and sister will be forced to opposite ends of the battlefield, and war will be waged. The final thrilling installment in the Secrets of the Sands trilogy.
The satisfaction and deliberate attempt to try to read this slower is what always happens when I read the final book in a series I enjoy. Ever single book in this trilogy gets increasingly better, more plot twists, more action and more character growth. I'm sad to be finished with the trilogy. The ending did not bring closure but was more open-ended in a way I liked. It felt like I was blasted to the past to witness a story only for myself to close that door as the characters continue their own lives and journey.
The endgame battle in the book was not at all generic; the right amount of action, power-moves, and logic. I love how Sesha was a very consistent character, all her choices were in-tune with her character. Sesha used logic first to solve her problems.
The tension and stakes in the book are both apparent and palpable. The emotion and action in this book keep it racing forward. I loved how characters would be pitted against each other. The tension and difficulties in their relationship. Sesha and Ky had a sweet relationship. The plot twist shocked me... utterly confounded me and left me speechless.
The ancient Egyptian setting was immersive and perfect for the story. Pepe, Merat, Paser, and Reb were all likable side characters. The whole series is amazing, every twist and turn done well.
One of the best trilogies I've read.
✅PLOT
✅PLOT TWIST
✅CHARACTERS
Desperate to stop a war and the Hyksos chieftain from claiming the throne, Sesha and her friends go to Avaris in hope of finding the Oracle. Sesha learns that the ancient prophecy includes both her and her brother and could have staggering affects on her and the Hyksos. Togther, Sesha, Paser, and Reb must find a secluded group of priestesses and hear the third and final prophecy. They must fix things or else both brother and sister will be forced to opposite ends of the battlefield, and war will be waged. The final thrilling installment in the Secrets of the Sands trilogy.
The satisfaction and deliberate attempt to try to read this slower is what always happens when I read the final book in a series I enjoy. Ever single book in this trilogy gets increasingly better, more plot twists, more action and more character growth. I'm sad to be finished with the trilogy. The ending did not bring closure but was more open-ended in a way I liked. It felt like I was blasted to the past to witness a story only for myself to close that door as the characters continue their own lives and journey.
The endgame battle in the book was not at all generic; the right amount of action, power-moves, and logic. I love how Sesha was a very consistent character, all her choices were in-tune with her character. Sesha used logic first to solve her problems.
The tension and stakes in the book are both apparent and palpable. The emotion and action in this book keep it racing forward. I loved how characters would be pitted against each other. The tension and difficulties in their relationship. Sesha and Ky had a sweet relationship. The plot twist shocked me... utterly confounded me and left me speechless.
The ancient Egyptian setting was immersive and perfect for the story. Pepe, Merat, Paser, and Reb were all likable side characters. The whole series is amazing, every twist and turn done well.
One of the best trilogies I've read.
✅PLOT
✅PLOT TWIST
✅CHARACTERS
January 24, 2022
Silly me did not check first on GR that this is the finale in Secrets of the Sands Series. When I saw the cover is a ship sailing I immediately intrigued. I have not yet ready the first two books so I have no idea what I’m getting myself into. The book start right away into the story and I was sucked into the world immediately. I must say that this book is so atmospheric! I love it! I felt like I was watching a movie with how beautifully the world was described. At one point I felt like I was reading some history book because all of it felt like a real deal. So many happened in this book. The Adventure ofc, secrets, prophecy, and even the politic!
- Thank you NetGalley and Dundurn Press for the e-ARC -
- Thank you NetGalley and Dundurn Press for the e-ARC -
January 15, 2022
I received a copy of The Oracle of Avaris by Alisha Sevigny from Dundurn Press in exchange for an honest review.
I had no idea that The Oracle of Avaris was part of a series, much less the series finale to a trilogy, when I first received the book. I had not read the previous two books - nor are they available to me from my local library - and so I decided to read on ahead anyways and see what I can make of it as a standalone. And I was pleasantly surprised to find that I was still able to jump into the story right away and the world was so descriptive and enchanting that it drew me in anyways. It did help that the book begins with enough back story of the characters and the plot that I was quickly able to piece together what had happened in the previous two books that led Sesha and her friends to where they are at the start of The Oracle of Avaris. From there, it felt like the easiest thing to follow along on their adventures as if I had been with them along the ride the entire time.
In this story, Sesha and her friends are heading to Avaris, hoping to stop the Hyksos chieftain from pursuing his intent on declaring war on Thebes. The friends have hold of two prophesies and are hoping that this can convince the king that Pepi would be a much better king. The friends soon find out that prophesies come in three and that the third will be made soon. Sesha and her friends are determined to find out the third prophesy and to also find out if Pepi is truly the son, not the nephew, of the king to claim his rightful place. There is adventures, family drama, political intrigue, magic, oracles and prophesies, mercenaries, and so much more going on in The Oracle of Avaris that will spellbind readers.
The storytelling is fantastic in The Oracle of Avaris and there seems to be a lot of history and research that is intertwined into the story. You really get the sense that the author has done extensive research in order to create the story that it is - the depth of knowledge with the medicinal herbs and treatments, along with the creative take on a period of Ancient Egypt that is not often featured in books. Alisha Sevigny is a middle grade author that I will be looking forward to reading more books from.
I had no idea that The Oracle of Avaris was part of a series, much less the series finale to a trilogy, when I first received the book. I had not read the previous two books - nor are they available to me from my local library - and so I decided to read on ahead anyways and see what I can make of it as a standalone. And I was pleasantly surprised to find that I was still able to jump into the story right away and the world was so descriptive and enchanting that it drew me in anyways. It did help that the book begins with enough back story of the characters and the plot that I was quickly able to piece together what had happened in the previous two books that led Sesha and her friends to where they are at the start of The Oracle of Avaris. From there, it felt like the easiest thing to follow along on their adventures as if I had been with them along the ride the entire time.
In this story, Sesha and her friends are heading to Avaris, hoping to stop the Hyksos chieftain from pursuing his intent on declaring war on Thebes. The friends have hold of two prophesies and are hoping that this can convince the king that Pepi would be a much better king. The friends soon find out that prophesies come in three and that the third will be made soon. Sesha and her friends are determined to find out the third prophesy and to also find out if Pepi is truly the son, not the nephew, of the king to claim his rightful place. There is adventures, family drama, political intrigue, magic, oracles and prophesies, mercenaries, and so much more going on in The Oracle of Avaris that will spellbind readers.
The storytelling is fantastic in The Oracle of Avaris and there seems to be a lot of history and research that is intertwined into the story. You really get the sense that the author has done extensive research in order to create the story that it is - the depth of knowledge with the medicinal herbs and treatments, along with the creative take on a period of Ancient Egypt that is not often featured in books. Alisha Sevigny is a middle grade author that I will be looking forward to reading more books from.
March 10, 2022
Gut Instinct Rating: 3.75
Characters: 5
Believability: 4.5
Uniqueness: 5
Writing Style: 5
Excitement Factor: 4.5
Story Line: 5
Title Relevance: 5
Artwork Relevance: 4
Overall: 4.64🏳️🌈
Series Rating: 4.68🏳️🌈
•
Review: I really enjoyed not only this book, but this series. I'll start with the book - this one started off heavily with information surrounding ancient Egypt, which as I stated from Book 1, is not exactly where my interests lie. However, that said, it picked up rather quickly and moved into some really beautiful story lines. The character revelations in this one are too large to expand on without spoilers, but I will say there's some great concepts for a middle grade student to explore without there being much adult input. Given that the beginning wasn't the most exciting for me, things were a little slower. I will say that the use of the ship on this one was interesting. I would've thought maybe imagery from the palace in Hyksos, some of their machinery, or even the horses could've been a more fitting piece for the entirety of the story line. Overall, this series was fabulous. I recommend hitting the link in my info to get more insights as the series as a whole!
Characters: 5
Believability: 4.5
Uniqueness: 5
Writing Style: 5
Excitement Factor: 4.5
Story Line: 5
Title Relevance: 5
Artwork Relevance: 4
Overall: 4.64🏳️🌈
Series Rating: 4.68🏳️🌈
•
Review: I really enjoyed not only this book, but this series. I'll start with the book - this one started off heavily with information surrounding ancient Egypt, which as I stated from Book 1, is not exactly where my interests lie. However, that said, it picked up rather quickly and moved into some really beautiful story lines. The character revelations in this one are too large to expand on without spoilers, but I will say there's some great concepts for a middle grade student to explore without there being much adult input. Given that the beginning wasn't the most exciting for me, things were a little slower. I will say that the use of the ship on this one was interesting. I would've thought maybe imagery from the palace in Hyksos, some of their machinery, or even the horses could've been a more fitting piece for the entirety of the story line. Overall, this series was fabulous. I recommend hitting the link in my info to get more insights as the series as a whole!
February 6, 2022
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this series! I hadn't read middle grade fiction in a long time but I love Alisha's books so I decided to buy the first book - and the second, and the third. I was seriously pulled into the series from the get-go.
This series finale is jam packed with twists and turns, action and intrigue, friendship and a bit of romance.
Some twists I guessed while others were surprises. Some things you might think are coming and with others, you have no idea how it’s going to go!
Another thing I really liked about this series is how deeply immersed we are in the world - Alisha really brings it to life!
I thoroughly enjoyed this series and I highly recommend it if you’re looking for a series that will keep you turning pages!
Congratulations, Alisha!
Fellow readers, enjoy!
PS. The covers are some of the most stunning covers ever!
This series finale is jam packed with twists and turns, action and intrigue, friendship and a bit of romance.
Some twists I guessed while others were surprises. Some things you might think are coming and with others, you have no idea how it’s going to go!
Another thing I really liked about this series is how deeply immersed we are in the world - Alisha really brings it to life!
I thoroughly enjoyed this series and I highly recommend it if you’re looking for a series that will keep you turning pages!
Congratulations, Alisha!
Fellow readers, enjoy!
PS. The covers are some of the most stunning covers ever!
Read
February 2, 2022I have been given this free ARC in exchange for an honest review
probably not a great idea to start in the finale but it's a good sign that it's this good by the climax.
a lot more bloodthirsty and brutal than expected for an MG book but with engaging characters and fantastic worldbuilding not to mention the plot
a hunt to find the Oracle, a throne with no certain occupant, certainty of death, small chance of success, what are we waiting for?!
if you're a fan then you won't be disappointed
probably not a great idea to start in the finale but it's a good sign that it's this good by the climax.
a lot more bloodthirsty and brutal than expected for an MG book but with engaging characters and fantastic worldbuilding not to mention the plot
a hunt to find the Oracle, a throne with no certain occupant, certainty of death, small chance of success, what are we waiting for?!
if you're a fan then you won't be disappointed
January 19, 2022
Sesha’s adventure continues with the third and final book in the Secrets of the Sands series by Alisha Sevigny. With scheming at every turn and the stakes higher than ever, Sevigny carefully blends intrigue and action, making THE ORACLE OF AVARIS a gripping read. Sure to be a favourite for middle graders who enjoy fast paced plots intertwined with ancient settings. A magical series of ancient mystery and heroism that will endear readers.
April 2, 2023
I hate to say this, but I was a bit disappointed by this book. The ending seemed rushed, there wasn't much of a resolution, and it inserted some present-day issues that seemed preachy and out-of-place in a book set in ancient Egypt. However, it was still an enjoyable read and I'm glad I found this series!
February 6, 2022
The third book in this trilogy was the perfect ending to this trilogy. As with the other novels in the series, it is perfectly targeted for middle grade readers. It is fast-paced and full of adventure.
September 6, 2021
I really enjoyed reading this and I think that children will love it. It was full of adventure and mystery and the setting was full of descriptive imagery.
January 19, 2022
This delightful book is the third in a series for young readers, which I read as a stand alone.
Set in the ancient world, Sesha is the daughter of a great physician. She is a scribe, learned and educated, on a mission to Hyksos to find a missing Oracle and hear her speak a prophecy before the lunar eclipse. Her devoted friends and protectors, Reb and Paser, accompany her on the dangerous quest. Will the three friends be able to find the Oracle and learn the prophecy in time, while preventing the Hyksos chieftain from waging war on their home, Thebes?
I had no difficulty picking up the story and quickly learning about the characters in this final instalment. The author manages to evoke images of the ancient world while keeping the story relevant and exciting for the modern reader. There is endless excitement and adventure with a group of distinctive and likeable characters, weaving a mystical tale that engrosses the reader. While written for younger readers, this book is ageless. As a young person, I was obsessed with the ancient world and Egypt in particular. I know I would have adored this series.
Congratulations to the author on a well-researched and engaging novel! I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and can highly recommend it. Thanks to Dundurn Press and Alisha Sevigny for allowing me to read and review it.
Set in the ancient world, Sesha is the daughter of a great physician. She is a scribe, learned and educated, on a mission to Hyksos to find a missing Oracle and hear her speak a prophecy before the lunar eclipse. Her devoted friends and protectors, Reb and Paser, accompany her on the dangerous quest. Will the three friends be able to find the Oracle and learn the prophecy in time, while preventing the Hyksos chieftain from waging war on their home, Thebes?
I had no difficulty picking up the story and quickly learning about the characters in this final instalment. The author manages to evoke images of the ancient world while keeping the story relevant and exciting for the modern reader. There is endless excitement and adventure with a group of distinctive and likeable characters, weaving a mystical tale that engrosses the reader. While written for younger readers, this book is ageless. As a young person, I was obsessed with the ancient world and Egypt in particular. I know I would have adored this series.
Congratulations to the author on a well-researched and engaging novel! I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and can highly recommend it. Thanks to Dundurn Press and Alisha Sevigny for allowing me to read and review it.
December 5, 2024
Nice ending!
April 9, 2024
This book was very similar to the first two books in the series. Full of adventure. Although I loved the first two books, this one bored ne to no extent. I had spoiled the ending for myself and that might be a contributor. This is also a book for people younger than me.
I would recommend it if you are about 12 years old and love adventure and ancient civilizations.
I would recommend it if you are about 12 years old and love adventure and ancient civilizations.
February 15, 2022
The Oracle of Avaris sets Sasha and her "crew" on another adventure that will keep readers intrigued while learning about Egypt. If you didn't read the first two books you can easily jump into this one without a problem. I'm guessing if you read this one you will be looking for the first two! This book and series also make for a great family read.
Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews