The Falcon at the Portal : Book Review

"The Falcon at the Portal" by Elizabeth Peters is the eleventh installment in the beloved Amelia Peabody series and is a must-read for fans of historical mysteries. The story is set in early 20th century Egypt and follows the intrepid archaeologist Amelia Peabody and her family as they uncover a captivating web of intrigue and murder.

One of the standout elements of this book is Peters' remarkable attention to detail when it comes to the setting and time period. The descriptions of Egypt's grand landscapes, majestic pyramids, and bustling streets transport readers to a bygone era. I found myself completely immersed in the vivid world that Peters expertly created, feeling as though I was right alongside Amelia and her companions.

The characters in "The Falcon at the Portal" are richly developed and endearing. Amelia Peabody is a strong and resourceful protagonist, and experiencing the events through her witty and humorous perspective adds an extra layer of enjoyment. The supporting cast, including Amelia's son Ramses and her husband Emerson, are equally captivating and bring depth to the narrative with their unique personalities.

The intricate plot of the book is filled with unexpected twists and turns that keep readers guessing until the very last page. Peters' extensive knowledge of Egyptology shines through the narrative as she seamlessly merges historical facts with fictional elements. The mystery itself is well-paced, with clues slowly unveiled and tension steadily escalating, making it nearly impossible to put the book down.

Overall, "The Falcon at the Portal" is a delightful addition to the Amelia Peabody series. Elizabeth Peters' vivid writing style and meticulous attention to detail make this historical mystery a true pleasure to read. Whether you're a longtime fan of the series or just discovering Amelia Peabody's adventures, this book is sure to captivate and entertain with its blend of history, mystery, and memorable characters.

What are readers saying?

"The Falcon at the Portal" by Elizabeth Peters has received generally positive reviews from readers. Many readers were captivated by the engaging storyline, praising it as another successful installment in the beloved Amelia Peabody series. The author's skillful blend of mystery, adventure, and historical fiction was particularly lauded, as it kept readers hooked from beginning to end. The intricate plot twists and the authentic setting of Egypt were specifically commended, transporting readers to a different time and place.

Elizabeth Peters' writing style received acclaim for its humor and wit, with readers finding themselves laughing out loud at the banter between characters, especially the charming and endearing Amelia Peabody. The author's ability to create lively and well-developed characters was another aspect that readers appreciated, as they felt emotionally invested in their journeys and relationships.

The romance elements in the book were also well-received, particularly the development of the relationship between Amelia Peabody and Emerson. Readers found their interactions heartwarming and entertaining, adding depth to the story.

However, some readers felt that the pacing of the book was occasionally slow, with certain parts dragging on. They desired more action and suspense to remain fully engaged throughout. Additionally, a few readers mentioned that the mystery aspect of the story was somewhat predictable, making the resolution less rewarding.

Overall, "The Falcon at the Portal" was praised for its enjoyable storyline, well-drawn characters, and the enchanting setting of Egypt. Fans of the Amelia Peabody series were pleased with another entertaining addition to the beloved series, while new readers found it to be a great introduction to Elizabeth Peters' work.

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