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Eye of Isis #2
Disappearance of a Scribe
The second in the trilogy of Ancient Egyptian crime novels that began with 2018's Death of an Eye . Two Alexandrian fishermen come across a horrifying the body of a skeleton floating upright at the bottom of the sea, anchored in place by a cement weight around his feet. In Alexandria's rough-and-tumble construction trade they call that 'being fitted with a pair of Rhakotis sandals' and what's worse, he's the second such victim in two years. Queen Cleopatra is busy rebuilding her city after the Alexandrian War and these murders are not to be allowed to interfere with this primary task, so she charges Tetisheri, her new Eye of Isis, with the task of finding out who these men were, when they were murdered, and, above all, why.
336 pages, Paperback
First published January 18, 2022
60 people are currently reading
437 people want to read
About the author
Dana Stabenow
104 books2,147 followersDana Stabenow was born in Anchorage and raised on 75-foot fish tender in the Gulf of Alaska. She knew there was a warmer, drier job out there somewhere.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 89 reviews
November 26, 2021
This is the historical sequel to Dana Stabenow's Death of an Eye, it's the second in the trilogy set in Ancient Egypt 47 BCE in the bustling city of Alexandria, centre of trade, scholarship, culture and history. Cleopatra has now given birth to her and Julius Caesar's child and is focusing on the important matter of the rebuilding of the city. Two horrified Alexandrian fisherman have come across the body of a skeleton at sea, fitted with and weighed down by a pair of cement 'Rhakotis sandals', long thought to be a myth within the construction industry, matters are considerably exacerbated as it is the second such victim found in two years. Cleopatra's 'Eye', her trusted childhood friend, Tetisheri, is called to the scene by the Head of the Shurka (law enforcement), Astander, and is tasked to investigate, not an easy inquiry as she faces the almost impossible task of identifying the dead men, the only clue being that both bodies have retained amulets .
We first encounter Tetishuri in the Alexandria Library, looking into the murder of the previous Eye, Khemit, and looking into the inquiries she had made before her death into the missing man, Grafeas. The head of the library, Sosigenes gives her the unwelcome news that the oldest, most priceless books and maps have been targeted and stolen in what appears to be an organised operation. As Tetishuri finds herself with Apollodurus, her romantic interest, at the Five Soldiers gymnasium, she finds herself following a character she believes is behaving suspiciously. She explores the most scarce of cements from Italy used in the building trade, pozzolan, highly valued for its ability to resist the saltwater influence. Tetishuri follows the leads in the most dangerous of investigations, whilst finding help from the most unlikely of quarters, from young Babok and his companions, and a cabriador, Rhode, all of whom end up working for her, and come to live in her house.
Stabenow immerses the reader into the most atmospheric and vibrant of locations in Alexandria, with her trademark creation of strong women, not limited to the likes of the clever and astute Cleopatra and Tetisheri, but which extends to the villains too. There is also the question of justice where Cleopatra is concerned, tempered as it is with considerations of political realities and future strategic aims. This is a wonderfully entertaining and engaging piece of historical crime fiction that I found most enjoyable, there is a wide range of disparate characters, and I particularly liked Babok and his cohorts surviving on the streets, and Rhode, all brought into Tetisheri's ever expanding home. A terrific series, and I am really looking forward to the final book! Many thanks to the publisher for an ARC.
We first encounter Tetishuri in the Alexandria Library, looking into the murder of the previous Eye, Khemit, and looking into the inquiries she had made before her death into the missing man, Grafeas. The head of the library, Sosigenes gives her the unwelcome news that the oldest, most priceless books and maps have been targeted and stolen in what appears to be an organised operation. As Tetishuri finds herself with Apollodurus, her romantic interest, at the Five Soldiers gymnasium, she finds herself following a character she believes is behaving suspiciously. She explores the most scarce of cements from Italy used in the building trade, pozzolan, highly valued for its ability to resist the saltwater influence. Tetishuri follows the leads in the most dangerous of investigations, whilst finding help from the most unlikely of quarters, from young Babok and his companions, and a cabriador, Rhode, all of whom end up working for her, and come to live in her house.
Stabenow immerses the reader into the most atmospheric and vibrant of locations in Alexandria, with her trademark creation of strong women, not limited to the likes of the clever and astute Cleopatra and Tetisheri, but which extends to the villains too. There is also the question of justice where Cleopatra is concerned, tempered as it is with considerations of political realities and future strategic aims. This is a wonderfully entertaining and engaging piece of historical crime fiction that I found most enjoyable, there is a wide range of disparate characters, and I particularly liked Babok and his cohorts surviving on the streets, and Rhode, all brought into Tetisheri's ever expanding home. A terrific series, and I am really looking forward to the final book! Many thanks to the publisher for an ARC.
October 3, 2022
A first-rate historical mystery, set in Alexandria at the time of Caesar, Cleopatra, and the great Library of Alexandria. Stabenow has done her homework, just as you would expect. As usual, you should start by reading the publisher's intro at the top of this page. It's a pretty simple story, but there are a LOT of characters. Fortunately, the author has supplied a Cast of Characters at the front, and I imagine you will also find as useful as I did. Recommended reading, especially for Stabenow fans.
I just put the opening book in this series on hold -- & I'm looking forward to #3! Just published, if memory serves .
I just put the opening book in this series on hold -- & I'm looking forward to #3! Just published, if memory serves .
May 28, 2022
First off, Disappearance of a Scribe is a good read. I enjoyed it. But I could have enjoyed it more. Again (as I said in my review of Death of an Eye) I have to mention and compare the Lord Meren series by Lynda Robinson as they both evoke a lost time in ancient Egypt, Lady Tetisheri in Cleopatra’s age and Lord Meren in the time of King Tutankhamen. Ms. Stabenow has created delightful characters and settings in Ptolemaic Alexandria and the plots are sound, but it just lacks that little something that keeps it from being great… or a five star mystery novel.
Having read the first story, Death of an Eye, the groundwork was laid and I settled in for this second story to burst into action. And I waited. And waited. As another reader remarked, it took until about half way through before it started to deliver the story I’d hoped to enjoy. It got there, finally, and for that, I gave it four stars. It is a solid story. Maybe it is that the author may have tried too hard to make it stand out from other mystery novels set in ancient Egypt.
The plot is seemingly simple enough: the bodies of two people are found buried at sea with the aid of a pair of Rhakotis sandals—their ankles set in quickset cement in large amphoras and dropped into the sea—and it is up to our sleuth Tetisheri, friend and childhood friend to Cleopatra, and the current Eye of the queen, to uncover the mystery. And soon. Once more, she gathers her friends, and sets out to serve her queen. And there are a number of suspects, all deliciously created, to question, and she needs to do so without arousing too much attention—especially the murderer. Never an easy proposition serving as the Queen’s Eye of Isis. It is all very fun—and, perhaps, that is the point, rather than dramatic and dark, though it does seem like a story out of Goodfellas or some other mob based crime story like the Godfather, complete with the cement overshoes and all. Only the head of a dead horse was missing!
Without a doubt, Ms. Stabenow purposely sets out to evoke a sense of the modern in an ancient setting for the reader who isn’t that much into ancient historicals, especially with dialogue, not that her novels aren’t thoroughly researched and interesting. The author has, indeed, done her homework. It just doesn’t come through in the dialogue. Case in point. A little exchange between guards as Tetisheri passes by. “Hey, gorgeous! Oh, come on, honey, be Venus to my Mars and make all my dreams come true!” To which another guard replied. “We’re not here to pick up girls, you idiot. Keep your mind on your job.” It is all very colorful and fun, but it does not always evoke an ancient past. And it is that slightly modern leaning that somehow pulls me out of the story just a little. Of course, it won’t prevent me from reading the last book, Theft of an Idol, I just think these could have been truly magnificent mysteries without resorting to some of the modern leaning dialogue and narrative. But then, again, that may be the author’s intent: fun and adventure without too much ancient drama!
Having read the first story, Death of an Eye, the groundwork was laid and I settled in for this second story to burst into action. And I waited. And waited. As another reader remarked, it took until about half way through before it started to deliver the story I’d hoped to enjoy. It got there, finally, and for that, I gave it four stars. It is a solid story. Maybe it is that the author may have tried too hard to make it stand out from other mystery novels set in ancient Egypt.
The plot is seemingly simple enough: the bodies of two people are found buried at sea with the aid of a pair of Rhakotis sandals—their ankles set in quickset cement in large amphoras and dropped into the sea—and it is up to our sleuth Tetisheri, friend and childhood friend to Cleopatra, and the current Eye of the queen, to uncover the mystery. And soon. Once more, she gathers her friends, and sets out to serve her queen. And there are a number of suspects, all deliciously created, to question, and she needs to do so without arousing too much attention—especially the murderer. Never an easy proposition serving as the Queen’s Eye of Isis. It is all very fun—and, perhaps, that is the point, rather than dramatic and dark, though it does seem like a story out of Goodfellas or some other mob based crime story like the Godfather, complete with the cement overshoes and all. Only the head of a dead horse was missing!
Without a doubt, Ms. Stabenow purposely sets out to evoke a sense of the modern in an ancient setting for the reader who isn’t that much into ancient historicals, especially with dialogue, not that her novels aren’t thoroughly researched and interesting. The author has, indeed, done her homework. It just doesn’t come through in the dialogue. Case in point. A little exchange between guards as Tetisheri passes by. “Hey, gorgeous! Oh, come on, honey, be Venus to my Mars and make all my dreams come true!” To which another guard replied. “We’re not here to pick up girls, you idiot. Keep your mind on your job.” It is all very colorful and fun, but it does not always evoke an ancient past. And it is that slightly modern leaning that somehow pulls me out of the story just a little. Of course, it won’t prevent me from reading the last book, Theft of an Idol, I just think these could have been truly magnificent mysteries without resorting to some of the modern leaning dialogue and narrative. But then, again, that may be the author’s intent: fun and adventure without too much ancient drama!
April 11, 2022
Another excellent entry in an excellent series.
Set in ancient Egypt around the time of the Cleopatra we're all familiar with, the main character in the series is Tetisheri, the Eye of Isis, Cleopatra's investigator and confidante. This time around she is investigating the deaths of two men by "Rhakotis sandals", what is nowadays known as "cement shoes", as well as the disappearance of several books from the Library of Alexandria.
The books in this series are phenomenally well-researched so the setting descriptions are gorgeous, and Stabenow is such a good writer that the plot and characters are just as strong. My only quibble is that she doesn't write them fast enough, this one having been released three years after the first!
Set in ancient Egypt around the time of the Cleopatra we're all familiar with, the main character in the series is Tetisheri, the Eye of Isis, Cleopatra's investigator and confidante. This time around she is investigating the deaths of two men by "Rhakotis sandals", what is nowadays known as "cement shoes", as well as the disappearance of several books from the Library of Alexandria.
The books in this series are phenomenally well-researched so the setting descriptions are gorgeous, and Stabenow is such a good writer that the plot and characters are just as strong. My only quibble is that she doesn't write them fast enough, this one having been released three years after the first!
May 31, 2025
A Complex mystery surrounding the murder of a scribe.
Tetisheri, the Queens Eye, is called to the beach by the Shurta (Aleandria's police force) to examine a body that has been found on the sea floor. With the corpse placed feet first into an amphora (open necked container) cement was then poured in setting around his legs so he could not escape, the worst, the victim was then thrown overboard amphora first so he would drown...............a horrific death. The Shurta estimated the body had been in the sea for about two years and their reason for contacting Tetisheri was the vaccinations was not the first body found murdered in this fashion, as such they felt it really see her purview as the Queens Eye ( Cleopatras personal investigator). This case will see Tetisheri in personal danger more than once as she attempts to find out the identities of the dead men and why they were killed. Her investigational lead to some of the most influential people in Egypt ............. But the question is are they part of the conspiracy or innocent dupes.....................
Tetisheri, the Queens Eye, is called to the beach by the Shurta (Aleandria's police force) to examine a body that has been found on the sea floor. With the corpse placed feet first into an amphora (open necked container) cement was then poured in setting around his legs so he could not escape, the worst, the victim was then thrown overboard amphora first so he would drown...............a horrific death. The Shurta estimated the body had been in the sea for about two years and their reason for contacting Tetisheri was the vaccinations was not the first body found murdered in this fashion, as such they felt it really see her purview as the Queens Eye ( Cleopatras personal investigator). This case will see Tetisheri in personal danger more than once as she attempts to find out the identities of the dead men and why they were killed. Her investigational lead to some of the most influential people in Egypt ............. But the question is are they part of the conspiracy or innocent dupes.....................
April 8, 2023
This is the 2nd book in the "Eye of Isis" series. Since historical fiction is my favorite genre I, naturally, liked this book a lot! I only wish I'd seen the first in the series before reading this one. Like most of us, I prefer reading books in a series in order. But not having read the first didn't diminish a thing in this one.
The series is about a special and elite group of women during Cleopatra's reign, who were assigned to spy for her and to investigate and when possible, prevent crimes. Tetisheri, a close friend of Cleopatra from childhood, is the Eye of Isis in this story. The Eyes of Isis were chosen from women very close to the queen and extremely loyal.
This story concerned the gruesome murder of a young scribe from a well-to-do family. He was kidnapped, placed onboard a ship, taken out to sea, and after being forced to stand in a large bucket of a concrete-like substance until it hardened, dropped into the water alive. Later some fishermen report the crime after finding a submerged skeleton with its feet embedded in cement-the second such murder to come to light in a short time, this method of execution was nicknamed "Rhakotis Sandals" and was the particular trademark of the construction workers for those who run afoul of them.
The mystery deepens as Tetisheri investigates, putting herself and others in danger from powerful sources, but she perseveres. This is a riveting mystery that offers much interesting detail and insight into Cleopatra's Egypt.
The series is about a special and elite group of women during Cleopatra's reign, who were assigned to spy for her and to investigate and when possible, prevent crimes. Tetisheri, a close friend of Cleopatra from childhood, is the Eye of Isis in this story. The Eyes of Isis were chosen from women very close to the queen and extremely loyal.
This story concerned the gruesome murder of a young scribe from a well-to-do family. He was kidnapped, placed onboard a ship, taken out to sea, and after being forced to stand in a large bucket of a concrete-like substance until it hardened, dropped into the water alive. Later some fishermen report the crime after finding a submerged skeleton with its feet embedded in cement-the second such murder to come to light in a short time, this method of execution was nicknamed "Rhakotis Sandals" and was the particular trademark of the construction workers for those who run afoul of them.
The mystery deepens as Tetisheri investigates, putting herself and others in danger from powerful sources, but she perseveres. This is a riveting mystery that offers much interesting detail and insight into Cleopatra's Egypt.
February 3, 2022
The disappearance of a Scribe is a vivid insight into the story of the Eye of Cleopatra, Tetisheri investigating the missing body of a young man, a scribe perhaps that had potential. Who or what this man was, I shall leave it to you to figure out. This is a fantastic book for worldbuilding in many ways, as it brings alive the Hellenistic World in a way that is often left out to mainstream readers. Alexandria in Cleopatra's time was one of the most vibrant cities of all time and was a cultural gateway connecting Romans, Greeks and other neighbours from different kingdoms. It was also the time of political warfare, espionage and Roman incursion that was ever-increasing into the Ptolemaic Kingdom as of this time.
You will experience a totally different world and through the eyes of Tetisheri, you will meet characters that although maybe thousands of years old to us, are actually just as common as those of us that live in the 21st century. Many times I was taken back by the vivid description of the Alexandrian city, as it provides much of the backdrop of the story. Tetisheri has to deal with many vibrant characters, some that are jealous, some that are conniving, and some that plan to get rid of her. What she uncovers, is a more sinister plan. Or is it really? Does the pursuit of corruption drive good men and women to cause evil acts? This is also a question worth asking.
I shall not reveal the plot, as this is an investigative crime thriller set in the Ancient World and I welcome such novels! We need more of this, and this book reminds me a lot of Colleen McCullough's novels. Great writing, great delivery, and great score. I really enjoyed my time with this book and can't wait to read more of this wonderful novel.
You will experience a totally different world and through the eyes of Tetisheri, you will meet characters that although maybe thousands of years old to us, are actually just as common as those of us that live in the 21st century. Many times I was taken back by the vivid description of the Alexandrian city, as it provides much of the backdrop of the story. Tetisheri has to deal with many vibrant characters, some that are jealous, some that are conniving, and some that plan to get rid of her. What she uncovers, is a more sinister plan. Or is it really? Does the pursuit of corruption drive good men and women to cause evil acts? This is also a question worth asking.
I shall not reveal the plot, as this is an investigative crime thriller set in the Ancient World and I welcome such novels! We need more of this, and this book reminds me a lot of Colleen McCullough's novels. Great writing, great delivery, and great score. I really enjoyed my time with this book and can't wait to read more of this wonderful novel.
October 10, 2022
The development of the main character was great, building on the first book. The side characters were fun too.
But the mystery was boring, complete with a flat reveal. The bad guys were cardboard and not very bright. The random placements of modern epithets interspersed with historical tidbits (that happened to be true) distracted from the story, instead of providing maguffins for the plot. Some confusion with the calendar was an obvious opportunity.
I love this author, and the premise behind this series, so I'm calling this one a speed-bump. I will read the next one, and just about anything else DS might write.
But the mystery was boring, complete with a flat reveal. The bad guys were cardboard and not very bright. The random placements of modern epithets interspersed with historical tidbits (that happened to be true) distracted from the story, instead of providing maguffins for the plot. Some confusion with the calendar was an obvious opportunity.
I love this author, and the premise behind this series, so I'm calling this one a speed-bump. I will read the next one, and just about anything else DS might write.
February 2, 2022
This book could just be another historical mystery with a strong female detective, except it is set in ancient Alexandria when Cleopatra ruled Egypt. Tetisheri latest case involves murder and wide scale fraud in the construction industry as Cleopatra rebuilds Alexandria after years of war.
The first half of the book was OK, but the second half is much more interesting, I especially liked the way Tetisheri developed her own group of 'Baker Street Irregulars' to help with her investigation.
My only problem with the story was my ancient brain found it quite difficult keeping track of the numerous names.
The first half of the book was OK, but the second half is much more interesting, I especially liked the way Tetisheri developed her own group of 'Baker Street Irregulars' to help with her investigation.
My only problem with the story was my ancient brain found it quite difficult keeping track of the numerous names.
October 6, 2025
Really enjoyed this mystery set in Ancient Egypt. My daughter recommended this book to me and I've now ordered the other book in the series. Well written characters, interesting setting without seemingly too 'educational'. Will be looking out for this author!
May 20, 2022
Great historical mystery set in the Egyptian era.
August 8, 2025
Second book in the series which is just as good as the first.
February 14, 2023
This one flowed a bit better than the first in the series.
December 24, 2022
In Dana Stabenow’s “Disappearance of a Scribe,” young Tetisheri, newly appointed by her schoolmate Cleopatra to the office of “Eye,” assumes responsibility for investigating major crimes in Alexandria—beginning with one involving murder by cement. The premise here is ingenious, and the complex moves of the inquiry are laid out reasonably well.
The major strength of the book, however, is its impressive recreation of Alexandrian life and culture: clothes, art, architecture, social relations, and more. Downside? All those intricate descriptions slow—sometimes even stop—the narrative. Young Tetisheri is certainly an active and appealing sleuth, but this mystery is not a page turner. Cleopatra (maybe appropriately) almost steals the show.
Be sure not to miss Stabenow’s “Acknowledgements and Notes.” They provide entertaining details about the tale, including what inspired the peculiar mode of execution used by its villains.
The major strength of the book, however, is its impressive recreation of Alexandrian life and culture: clothes, art, architecture, social relations, and more. Downside? All those intricate descriptions slow—sometimes even stop—the narrative. Young Tetisheri is certainly an active and appealing sleuth, but this mystery is not a page turner. Cleopatra (maybe appropriately) almost steals the show.
Be sure not to miss Stabenow’s “Acknowledgements and Notes.” They provide entertaining details about the tale, including what inspired the peculiar mode of execution used by its villains.
January 4, 2023
Book #2 in the Eye of Isis series.
Tetisheri is pulled into another mystery. She gains new confidantes and oh wow that ending putting the 'evildoers' in their right place, yes. So enjoying this series and I'm already bummed there's just one more so far. I hope more to come after #3!
Tetisheri is pulled into another mystery. She gains new confidantes and oh wow that ending putting the 'evildoers' in their right place, yes. So enjoying this series and I'm already bummed there's just one more so far. I hope more to come after #3!
December 19, 2021
In the Egyptian capital of Alexandria, in 47BCE, Cleopatra is Queen and straightforward crimes are the responsibility of the Shurta but mysterious or high profile matters, especially linked in any way to the Queen, are the subject of investigation by “The Eye of Isis”; a covert individual appointed by Cleopatra with delegated authority. This role was bestowed on Tetisheri, a youngish woman, a contemporary and lifelong friend of the Queen, after solving the death of the previous eye in the first book of this trilogy. In this, the second book, the bodies of two young men have been recovered from the Middle Sea (the Mediterranean – the author works hard to convey the historically likely idiom) both of whom were murdered by having their feet set in concrete (so called Rhakotis sandals ) prior to being dropped overboard. The “Eye” enlists the help of Vitruvius, a famous architect, and quickly establishes that the type of concrete used contains pozzolan, a rare and extremely expensive additive which confers extra strength and resistance against sea water erosion. This is reserved for projects approved by Cleopatra so its use was a form of what we would now call lèse-majesté, which was established as a serious crime in ancient Rome and its provinces, and so may be punishable by death. Tetisheri’s investigations bring her close to death on occasion but she wins through and the dénouement is well staged and executed, although not exactly a surprise.
Dana Stebenow is something of a writing phenomenon and this is her 37th book (plus some non-fiction and anthologies). As mentioned, it is the second of a proposed trilogy. In principle it is a sort of police procedural set in an exotic location, and that location, the ancient city of Alexandria, does play a major part in the plot, particularly in the closeness of everything (the city was only about three miles by two miles). All locations and architectural features are well described and there is a sprinkling of ‘real’ people for authenticity. One of these is Vitruvius, best known these days because one of his concepts is illustrated in the “Vetruvian Man” drawing by Leonardo. Overall, the general effect is to make the reader feel comfortable in the environment.
I would like to thank NetGalley, the publishers and the author for providing me with a draft proof copy for the purpose of this review.
Dana Stebenow is something of a writing phenomenon and this is her 37th book (plus some non-fiction and anthologies). As mentioned, it is the second of a proposed trilogy. In principle it is a sort of police procedural set in an exotic location, and that location, the ancient city of Alexandria, does play a major part in the plot, particularly in the closeness of everything (the city was only about three miles by two miles). All locations and architectural features are well described and there is a sprinkling of ‘real’ people for authenticity. One of these is Vitruvius, best known these days because one of his concepts is illustrated in the “Vetruvian Man” drawing by Leonardo. Overall, the general effect is to make the reader feel comfortable in the environment.
I would like to thank NetGalley, the publishers and the author for providing me with a draft proof copy for the purpose of this review.
February 27, 2022
47 BCE. Caesar has returned to Rome, and Cleopatra VII must bring order back to Alexandria.
Tetisheri, her Eye of Isis, records her cases on a scroll in the Great Library. A certain Grafeas had gone missing. Grafeas, a scribe, had been conducting a profitable business recording legal cases. Librarian Sosigenes reports a spate of organised book thefts targeting the most ancient of the documents.
Fishermen discover a body anchored at the bottom of the sea, his feet embedded in cement—‘Rhakotis sandals’. Aristander of the Shurta (Police) says it’s the second such case he’s seen. Tetisheri consults the architect Vitruvius to learn about pozzolan, the pit ash that makes cement seawater-proof. The Roman legate Gaius Aurelius Cotta is also enquiring about pozzolan.
The Eye conducts a merry chase around Alexandria to solve the case. Ever one to put on a good show, Cleopatra stages the big reveal for maximum effect and shows a clemency the historical Cleo was not known for.
I loved the usage of the authentic words for things—a case is called máthema; widths are measured in plethra. People swear ‘by Sobek’s balls’. Weeks are measured in ‘ten-day’s. Metaphors are period-specific—her love Apollodorus’s green eyes are a ‘color straight out of the olivine mines of Punt’; a man has ‘the four-square solidity of the Roman veteran and nothing less than the authority of a tesserarius’.
The writing style is fluent and colourful. It pulls you into a world where 47 BCE is the present day, making you feel as if you are right there. Attention is paid to what people eat and drink and wear. The characters are fascinating; the descriptions gorgeous; the plot swift-paced and the dialogue convincing.
Hooked by chapter one, I couldn’t put it down.
This is Book 2 in the Eye of Isis series.
This review first appeared in the Historical Novels Review.
Tetisheri, her Eye of Isis, records her cases on a scroll in the Great Library. A certain Grafeas had gone missing. Grafeas, a scribe, had been conducting a profitable business recording legal cases. Librarian Sosigenes reports a spate of organised book thefts targeting the most ancient of the documents.
Fishermen discover a body anchored at the bottom of the sea, his feet embedded in cement—‘Rhakotis sandals’. Aristander of the Shurta (Police) says it’s the second such case he’s seen. Tetisheri consults the architect Vitruvius to learn about pozzolan, the pit ash that makes cement seawater-proof. The Roman legate Gaius Aurelius Cotta is also enquiring about pozzolan.
The Eye conducts a merry chase around Alexandria to solve the case. Ever one to put on a good show, Cleopatra stages the big reveal for maximum effect and shows a clemency the historical Cleo was not known for.
I loved the usage of the authentic words for things—a case is called máthema; widths are measured in plethra. People swear ‘by Sobek’s balls’. Weeks are measured in ‘ten-day’s. Metaphors are period-specific—her love Apollodorus’s green eyes are a ‘color straight out of the olivine mines of Punt’; a man has ‘the four-square solidity of the Roman veteran and nothing less than the authority of a tesserarius’.
The writing style is fluent and colourful. It pulls you into a world where 47 BCE is the present day, making you feel as if you are right there. Attention is paid to what people eat and drink and wear. The characters are fascinating; the descriptions gorgeous; the plot swift-paced and the dialogue convincing.
Hooked by chapter one, I couldn’t put it down.
This is Book 2 in the Eye of Isis series.
This review first appeared in the Historical Novels Review.
March 30, 2023
Once again, my favorite thing about this is the vivid setting. The writing evokes a clear picture, down to even the sounds and smells of the Canopic Way, and I felt like I could have been there walking the streets of ancient Alexandria myself. Another thing I enjoyed was all the interesting and quirky side characters who were introduced, like Babak and Rhode. I had no trouble immediately becoming invested in their fates.
While I enjoyed the book overall, it took me a while to get through it. There were a TON of characters to keep track of, and despite the character list in the front of the book, I just couldn't keep them all straight. Because of this, the mystery itself didn't keep me as enraptured as it could have. The reveal at the end was laid out clearly so I could understand everything that had happened, but there was no "wow" moment that came along with it. Additionally, the modern wording sometimes used in the dialogue made the setting less immersive for me at times.
That said, though, despite the occasional modern phrasing, the author clearly did her research. For the most part, it was a fun and immerive reading experience set in ancient Egypt. And though I didn't enjoy it quite as much as the previous installment, I will still definitely be reading the next one.
While I enjoyed the book overall, it took me a while to get through it. There were a TON of characters to keep track of, and despite the character list in the front of the book, I just couldn't keep them all straight. Because of this, the mystery itself didn't keep me as enraptured as it could have. The reveal at the end was laid out clearly so I could understand everything that had happened, but there was no "wow" moment that came along with it. Additionally, the modern wording sometimes used in the dialogue made the setting less immersive for me at times.
That said, though, despite the occasional modern phrasing, the author clearly did her research. For the most part, it was a fun and immerive reading experience set in ancient Egypt. And though I didn't enjoy it quite as much as the previous installment, I will still definitely be reading the next one.
March 17, 2022
Book two in a series, I have read only this one, please consider this when reading this review.
Disappearance of a Scribe takes you back to the age of Cesar and Cleopatra, building of a town following the war. Cleopatra keeps closest to her her protector and her investigator (Tetisheri), both friends since she was young.
Following in the footsteps of her predecessor, Tetisheri is wondering what happened to a scribe who disappeared, the case unsolved. And books from the Alexandria library were also disappearing, these were of historic value, something dear to her heart, could she figure out what was happening here too?
When a body surfaces from the water (fished out), feet encased in concrete , leaving only a skeleton and an amulet the interests of Tetisheri are peaked. She uses her sources, follows the cues but will this get her murdered too? Who is responsible for the deaths and the book disappearances?
While I found it difficult to get into the groove of this book, the story is quite sound and the puzzle pulls together nicely. I do wonder if I would have found it easier having read the first in the series, having not come in part way.
Thank you to beauty & lace for giving me the opportunity to read it.
Disappearance of a Scribe takes you back to the age of Cesar and Cleopatra, building of a town following the war. Cleopatra keeps closest to her her protector and her investigator (Tetisheri), both friends since she was young.
Following in the footsteps of her predecessor, Tetisheri is wondering what happened to a scribe who disappeared, the case unsolved. And books from the Alexandria library were also disappearing, these were of historic value, something dear to her heart, could she figure out what was happening here too?
When a body surfaces from the water (fished out), feet encased in concrete , leaving only a skeleton and an amulet the interests of Tetisheri are peaked. She uses her sources, follows the cues but will this get her murdered too? Who is responsible for the deaths and the book disappearances?
While I found it difficult to get into the groove of this book, the story is quite sound and the puzzle pulls together nicely. I do wonder if I would have found it easier having read the first in the series, having not come in part way.
Thank you to beauty & lace for giving me the opportunity to read it.
January 18, 2022
Disappearance of a scribe by Dana Stabenow.
Eye of Isis book 2.
Cleopatra – seventh of her name, avatar of the goddess Isis, ruler of the Kingdom of Egypt – watches over her city. The war is over, but Alexandria, that once great beacon of learning and commerce, has suffered in its wake. Caesar has returned to Rome, and the queen must restore her city and her kingdom to their former greatness. But now a body has been found floating upright at the bottom of the sea, anchored in place by a cement weight around its feet. It's the second corpse to be found this way in two years, and the queen is concerned. With a city to rebuild and a kingdom to keep in line, Cleopatra cannot allow any more murders to interfere. So she sets Tetisheri – her Eye, her closest confidant and personal investigator – to make things right. As she delves deeper into the mystery, Tetisheri will discover secrets, conspiracy and danger far beyond her ken...
An ok read. Not normally my kind of book. I loved the cover. 3*.
Eye of Isis book 2.
Cleopatra – seventh of her name, avatar of the goddess Isis, ruler of the Kingdom of Egypt – watches over her city. The war is over, but Alexandria, that once great beacon of learning and commerce, has suffered in its wake. Caesar has returned to Rome, and the queen must restore her city and her kingdom to their former greatness. But now a body has been found floating upright at the bottom of the sea, anchored in place by a cement weight around its feet. It's the second corpse to be found this way in two years, and the queen is concerned. With a city to rebuild and a kingdom to keep in line, Cleopatra cannot allow any more murders to interfere. So she sets Tetisheri – her Eye, her closest confidant and personal investigator – to make things right. As she delves deeper into the mystery, Tetisheri will discover secrets, conspiracy and danger far beyond her ken...
An ok read. Not normally my kind of book. I loved the cover. 3*.
March 9, 2022
Stabenow is my guilty pleasure and I enjoyed this one about a heroine who prays to a cat. I'm also fond of history of materials and trades, so the parts about pozzolan and architecture were interesting (hopefully accurate). The writing is mostly simple and easily digested, but as always there are some nice descriptive passages: "She raised her head and stared out the window into the rose garden. They were red and white and pink, some of the blossoms the size of Neb's fist. A gentle breeze bearing their sweet scent slipped into the room. As always, the tang of the salt sea was subtly present. She could hear the rumble of wooden wheels, the curses of stevedores, the snap of sails, but under it all she could also hear the eternal slap of the waves against the pilings and the hulls of the ships moored to them. The sea was life every bit as much as it was death." The author, who describes herself as having been raised on a 75-foot fish tender, managed to get a little Alaska into ancient Alexandria after all.
February 7, 2024
I picked up this one in my local library not realising it was the second in a three part series until I brought it home! However, luckily for me you can read these books as standalones too! This book is set in ancient egyptian times and is a crime series. Our main protagonist is Tetisheri, the eye of Isis and we follow her in this story as she tries to piece together the murders of two men who were found with cement sandals in the sea. Cetered in a time when Queen Cleopatra is busy rebuilding her city after the Alexandrian War and turmoil with her brother. The queen charges her eye of Isis, Tetisheri with finding who the men where, when they were murdered and by whom. We meet various characters throughout the book with other issues and storylines interweaving as well. I found the list of characters at the start so helpful to flick back to, to remember the jobs/roles certain characters had, as there were a lot of characters.
I find ancient Egypt stories fascinating so I had quite high expectations for this one. Overall, I enjoyed this one but I felt I could have enjoyed it more. It felt a little slow at the beginning and took quite a while to really get into the murders in the book. The mystery wasn't as good as I expected it to be as well. However, things I loved was the vivid imagery of the book, I really felt everything was written so well and you could clearly see the setting of the ancient streets, and the hustle and bustle of them! I also really enjoyed the main character Tetisheri throughout!
You can definitely tell that the book was well researched .For the most part I found the book a fun and immersive reading experience and would recommend!
I find ancient Egypt stories fascinating so I had quite high expectations for this one. Overall, I enjoyed this one but I felt I could have enjoyed it more. It felt a little slow at the beginning and took quite a while to really get into the murders in the book. The mystery wasn't as good as I expected it to be as well. However, things I loved was the vivid imagery of the book, I really felt everything was written so well and you could clearly see the setting of the ancient streets, and the hustle and bustle of them! I also really enjoyed the main character Tetisheri throughout!
You can definitely tell that the book was well researched .For the most part I found the book a fun and immersive reading experience and would recommend!
April 3, 2022
This books is set in the time of Cleopatra in the infamous city of Alexandria. Not realising this is a second novel in the series I set about reading this and do feel I probably should read the first novel too.
The book starts with the death of a scribe and centres on Cleopatra and her Eye of Isis, Tetisheri who is the Pharoh’s friend and detective. Tetisheri is new to the role, which has its challenges and you find out her predecessor was murdered in the previous book.
This is not your fast-paced action murder mystery but rather goes into more detail of the time and the characters. The relationships, politics and corruption through the plot make for an interesting storyline.
Disappearance of a Scribe delivers historic details, although not knowing my history for this time period I cannot vouch for accuracy. Thank you to Beauty and Lace and Head of Zeus for the chance to read this novel.
The book starts with the death of a scribe and centres on Cleopatra and her Eye of Isis, Tetisheri who is the Pharoh’s friend and detective. Tetisheri is new to the role, which has its challenges and you find out her predecessor was murdered in the previous book.
This is not your fast-paced action murder mystery but rather goes into more detail of the time and the characters. The relationships, politics and corruption through the plot make for an interesting storyline.
Disappearance of a Scribe delivers historic details, although not knowing my history for this time period I cannot vouch for accuracy. Thank you to Beauty and Lace and Head of Zeus for the chance to read this novel.
July 3, 2024
I just finished reading this 2nd volume in the series. This one was easier to get involved with since the setting and some characters were already familiar. But still, there were many things happening at once, and many characters, so occasionally I had to look up the names (thankfully Dana Stabenow gives us a list) and sometimes I had to just power through and hope the storylines would explain themselves in the end. And they did come together. We had the missing library books, several murders, the relationship between Raia and Grafaeus, kidnapping, theft of building materials, and use of the wrong materials for royal contracts. I missed more scenes with the handsome Appolodorus, I hope we see more of him in the next book ;) Tetisheri really grows into her role as Eye to Cleopatra. I enjoyed the atmosphere in Nebenteru's household, the comradery and integrity at Five Soldiers, and Tetisheri's hiring of a gang of street kids and a driver. All fun stuff, I really enjoyed this story.
August 8, 2022
I loved the immersive nature of this book, just like the first one. I can feel the heat, smell the spices, and see the colorful fabrics and architecture that are the core of the Alexandria the author creates. We get to see Sheri grow into her role as the Eye, but we are also privy to her struggles with the weight of the office.
I'll confess, as a librarian, the descriptions of the Library at Alexandria at the start of the book had me salivating. What I would give to go back in time and just breathe in the smell of the scrolls and papyrus, and to stand in the presence of such vast knowledge. But I digress.
The ending of this book was not as satisfying as I would have wanted, but sometimes making an example of the bad actors is as much as we mere mortals can hope for. And when the Queen has set her sights on you, there are far worse fates than losing your palace.
I'll confess, as a librarian, the descriptions of the Library at Alexandria at the start of the book had me salivating. What I would give to go back in time and just breathe in the smell of the scrolls and papyrus, and to stand in the presence of such vast knowledge. But I digress.
The ending of this book was not as satisfying as I would have wanted, but sometimes making an example of the bad actors is as much as we mere mortals can hope for. And when the Queen has set her sights on you, there are far worse fates than losing your palace.
August 30, 2022
Unfortunately, the tension in book one has disappeared; the 'will they, won't they' is resolved, the plot is a bit hazy and confusingly revealed at a cocktail party. The main character has zero (0) flaws and is such a paragon of virtue as to be totally unconvincing, though she does make some stupid decisions that nonetheless pay off. Even odder still, the Roman Cotta (a kinda fun flirty foil for the main love interest) pokes his head around once at the beginning and then never again? Also, the entire plot seems to be spun out of the author's interest in discussing early cement use and its political role in the region. I mean, I like specific angles and topics, but you really feel that this book was written because the author found some fun cement facts and decided to spin them out. Too bad!
July 24, 2024
Extremely slow start and while listening to the audiobook, I felt an American accent wasn't the right narrator for this book of ancient Egypt. The plot was soooooooo slow to develop and quite broken & sectioned that almost felt like deliberate subplots that never were going to overlap. They did, eventually yet boy did it take forever. While set in ancient Egypt, there were a lot of parallels to modern day crime thrillers which had me questioning, is that true to the ancient culture or is that apart of the story weaving of fiction. I do love the setting of Egypt & that time period of Cleopatra yet I didn't love it. On the fence to recommend due to the slow pace, but maybe if you like that historical fiction slow burn murder mystery?
July 3, 2022
I love feeling like I’m on the streets of ancient Alexandria
The second installment of the Eye of Isis is as fun as the first. Set in Ancient Egypt 47 BCE, we follow the exploits of Tetisheri, the Eye to Cleopatra. It’s a good mystery but the historical aspect of the story is well researched to where the reader is submerged in Alexandria. At the risk of sounding like a total nerd, being inside the library is a thrill. The characters are likable and interesting, making it easy to relate and care about the outcome. The leads are strong, intelligent women. The new characters that join depth to the story. Can’t wait for the next book.
The second installment of the Eye of Isis is as fun as the first. Set in Ancient Egypt 47 BCE, we follow the exploits of Tetisheri, the Eye to Cleopatra. It’s a good mystery but the historical aspect of the story is well researched to where the reader is submerged in Alexandria. At the risk of sounding like a total nerd, being inside the library is a thrill. The characters are likable and interesting, making it easy to relate and care about the outcome. The leads are strong, intelligent women. The new characters that join depth to the story. Can’t wait for the next book.
October 30, 2023
Second book in Dana Stabenows Eyptian crime series. This was better than the first, so it feels more like she is settling into this series. I am starting to warm to her Tetisheri and Cleopatra although I still found this story a bit slow. It has taken me a little longer than normal to get through it. Interesting how she is using relevant aspects of ancient life to create her mystery. But there are so many names and jobs or positions in this ancient world flying about that I sometimes get a little lost as to where we are with things. I have learned some new things about the building trade in the ancient world, including pozzolan!
June 21, 2024
Tetisheri, now officially The Eye of Isis, is called to view a body. Well, body may be overdoing it a bit, as there is minimal flesh on the bones but the concrete encasing the feet is interesting as is the amulet entangled in the ribs. This is not the first occasion human remains have been found in this state. Are the two connected and, if so, can Tetisheri find it? Help comes from an unlikely source when she is kidnapped, perhaps with and ending involving concrete footwear.
The second book in the series, it's great storytelling with an excellent description of the lives and times in Alexandria under Queen Cleopatra.
The second book in the series, it's great storytelling with an excellent description of the lives and times in Alexandria under Queen Cleopatra.
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