"The Book of the Dead" by Tanith Lee is an enthralling and darkly mesmerizing story that takes place in ancient Egypt. The protagonist, Claiomh, is a young girl with extraordinary powers that allow her to communicate with the dead. As Claiomh embarks on a treacherous adventure through the world of gods and mortals, she becomes entangled in a perilous quest to find the lost Book of the Dead and unravel her own destiny.

Tanith Lee's exceptional storytelling immediately transports readers to the vivid and mysterious realm of ancient Egypt. Her descriptions of the landscapes, temples, and characters are meticulously detailed, painting a vibrant picture of the setting and fully immersing the reader in its ambiance. The author seamlessly weaves Egyptian mythology throughout the narrative, incorporating gods and goddesses who play significant roles in the protagonist's journey.

Claiomh is a captivating and determined protagonist who swiftly captures the reader's empathy and curiosity. Her path is riddled with danger and filled with surprising twists and turns that keep readers on the edge of their seats. Encountering mythical creatures, battling malevolent forces, and uncovering the depths of her own powers, Claiomh experiences nuanced and satisfying character development.

Available on Audible

Get as a free audio book
Unveiling the secrets of the ancient Egyptian funerary texts

One notable aspect of this book is Lee's exquisite prose. Her writing is lyrical and poetic, enhancing the mystical and enchanting atmosphere of the story. The pacing is flawless, balancing thrilling action sequences with introspective moments. Each chapter brims with suspense, leaving readers eager to uncover the next layer of this intricate and captivating storyline.

"The Book of the Dead" is a mesmerizing and atmospheric novel that seamlessly combines ancient Egyptian mythology with a gripping tale of adventure and self-discovery. Tanith Lee's beautiful prose and masterful world-building make this book a must-read for enthusiasts of historical fantasy and mythology.

What are readers saying?

"The Book of the Dead" by Tanith Lee has received a variety of reviews from readers, with opinions being split on the book's merits. Some readers hailed it as a genre classic, while others found it confusing and difficult to follow.

There were many reviewers who praised Tanith Lee's imaginative storytelling and her unique world-building. They found the Egyptian-inspired setting to be captivating and appreciated the attention to detail in the vivid descriptions. These readers also commended Lee's ability to create a dark and atmospheric atmosphere that permeated the entire story.

However, there were some readers who struggled with the book's complex narrative structure. They found the non-linear storytelling to be confusing and felt a disconnect from the characters and plot. These readers expressed frustration with the fragmented nature of the story, noting that it hindered their ability to fully engage with the book.

There were readers who enjoyed the book's exploration of thought-provoking themes such as power, identity, and the nature of life and death. They appreciated the philosophical undertones and found themselves stimulated by the deeper meaning behind the events portrayed in the story.

On the other hand, some reviewers criticized the book for its slow pacing and lack of action. They felt that the story dragged in certain parts and desired more excitement and suspense. Additionally, some readers found certain aspects of the book repetitive, leading to a sense of redundancy.

BookOfTheDead AncientEgyptian PageTurner