Scepter of Flint (The Lord Hani Mysteries Book 3) by N.L. Holmes – Review by Maryn Belling

Scepter of Flint by N.L. Holmes
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Scepter of Flint (The Lord Hani Mysteries Book 3) by N.L. Holmes – Review by Maryn Belling

Welcome to the Great Jubilee. N.L. Holmes reminds us why we enjoy her books even in her historical notes. Who else can be poignant about both history and contemporary goings-on in such a subtly piquant way?

Lord Hani is – in his ruminations – as astute as ever about the machinations of the ruling class. As he navigates family and society, we are free to observe metaphors that transcend time & space. While the easy familial patterns of younger children at home are now enjoyed by the next generation, Hani and his family navigate the ebb and flow of customs and culture in nuanced ways. It’s a comfort to readers to each have a youth in the family to relate to as they’ve grown in years and skills across the books.

Usually when we visit ancient Egypt – whether in text or film – we’re several layers removed. Because our author is so clear about where her characters are drawn entirely from imaginings, entirely from documented history, selected from particular scholarly perspectives, and where they’re a blend of the 3 sources, we feel a part of the story. History, archaeology, sociology, and political science come to life with increasing depth in each story.

Scepter of Flint, The Lord Hani Mysteries Series, N.L. Holmes, Review, Itsy Bitsy Book Bits. Historical, Cozy Mystery, Maryn Belling, July 2022

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