Lake of Flowers (The Lord Hani Mysteries, book 5) by N.L. Holmes – Review by Jennifer Gordon

Lake of Flowers by N.L. Holmes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I have now been following Hani, an Egyptian Diplomat from book one and I always look forward to a new story and I am never disappointed. Each book can be read as a standalone story, however I feel that the reader will enjoy the novels more if they are read in order. This story is set in ancient Egypt, around the seventeenth and final year of Akh-en-aten’s reign, which is about 1338 BCE. Hani makes a great main character as he is well defined and is both relatable and likeable and he really helps brings the plot together. Due to the authors wonderfully descriptive narrative I always feel engaged with Hani and immersed in his world, so much so that I feel I am solving the mystery alongside him.

This time Hani is investigating thefts from the household of the king which on closer inspection appear to be related to a sinister attempt on the kings life. Alongside the main mystery Hani is worried for his daughter who was present at the crown prince’s birth as those present begin to die as secrets emerge about the princes identity. Hani is caught between the government and the radical revolutionaries who would like to restore Amen-Ra by civil war. This unfortunately involves the Queen, who Hani has sworn to serve. As usual this is a complex historical crime mystery story with an action packed plot which had me hooked from start to finish. The twists and turns kept me guessing and I enjoyed figuring out the mystery elements of the storyline alongside Lord Hani.

There are a lot of characters mentioned which can be confusing but the list of characters at the beginning of the book is very helpful and I found it interesting to know which characters were based on a real person and those who are fictional. The authors knowledge and research shines through in her writing and I found the historical notes particularly fascinating along with the glossary of terms. I continue to enjoy ‘The Lord Hani Mysteries’ series and I look forward to book number six, hopefully!

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