Pilot Who Knows the Waters by N.L. Holmes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Great mystery, love how the author gives you history first so that you can follow along with the story. This gives you more detail for your minds eye. This one is action packed and fast pace. I loved so much about this book from character to all the adventures it took me on. Looking forward to reading more of this story.
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
The Crocodile Makes No Sound by N.L. Holmes
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
The Crocodile Makes no Sound (The Lord Hani Mysteries Book 2) by N.L. Holmes – Review by Maryn Belling
“I suspect it is a sort of innocence that believes murder solves anything. As if the Judge of the Soul doesn’t see.” Lord Hani’s wisdom, while situated nearly 3400 years ago, would be just as easily found in contemporary social inquiries such as The Hour I First Believed by Wally Lamb or A Book of American Martyrs by Joyce Carol Oates.
Despite being out of active service, sidelined by the inability to enforce foreign policy he neither understands nor respects, Hani remains a servant of truth. N.L. Holmes’ gift for piquant turns-of-phrase and well-imagined schemes of the “chattering class” bring history to life.
Beyond the story’s historical setting, contemporary readers will recognize some of the familial and societal challenges experienced in our own time. Are we as adept & diplomatic as Lord Hani?
The Crocodile Makes no Sound, The Lord Hani Mysteries Series, N.L. Holmes, Review, Itsy Bitsy Book Bits. Historical, Cozy Mystery, Maryn Belling, July 2022
Pilot Who Knows the Waters by N.L. Holmes
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I would read this series in order to get the most out of it. I’ve enjoyed reading this series, and as with the previous books, this one is filled with mystery and intrigue. The characters and the narrative are well-fleshed out and the attention to historical detail makes it so easy to be transported to another time and place. The pace is definitely gripping and I didn’t want to put the book down. A great ending to a great series.
Pilot Who Knows the Waters by N.L. Holmes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I of course read this book not realizing somehow that it was a part of a series. Also of course, it was the last book in the series. This however, is my fault and you best believe after reading this one that I went and made sure I could grab the rest to begin again. This book was exciting, engaging, mysterious, and captivating. The author spins a tale that not only takes you to another place but another time. I feel for the characters and loved how they interacted with one another! Very well written and engaging tale!
Pilot Who Knows the Waters by N.L. Holmes
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is the last installment of The Lord Hani Mysteries by N. L. Holmes. This series has been building from book 1 until this book. Hani was introduced in book 1. This installment is set in Ancient Egypt and Hani found himself navigating through politics, society, and royal protocols. In this book, there are historical details, agendas, plots, and emotions. The characters are fully developed and engaging. I loved each of Hani’s mysteries. I highly recommend this book and series, but be warned you may not be able to put it done until you have completed the book.
Pilot Who Knows the Waters by N.L. Holmes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I have never enjoyed historical fiction more than I have with this series. I am very sad to see it ending. Lord Hani is back on what could be his most difficult mission yet. And not one time was I disappointed. This book had my attention from the first pages through the very end. As it is the final book in the series, would HIGHLY recommend reading the previous ones.
Pilot Who Knows the Waters by N.L. Holmes
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Pilot Who Knows the Water (The Lord Hani Mysteries Book 6) by N.L. Holmes – Review by Maryn Belling
In the mystery-style of Alexander McCall Smith and thickly set prose of Gabriel García Márquez, N.L. Holm again transports us to Egypt for a 6th time.
In addition to continuing the literary detail of earlier texts, Book 6 has a cast of characters and glossary at the beginning of the text. Resultantly, the reader is more at ease than when they first met Lord Hani. In addition, those tools allow newcomers to familiarize themselves with the persons, places, and political constructs of 1335 BCE without prerequisite reading.
Readers of previous Lord Hani mysteries will find resolutions of unanswered wonderings in previous tales. In a deft work of authorship, however, those elements are not obstructive to first-time visitors to ancient Egypt. Rather those silver-threads of continuity provide a thrall of entrez-nous to visit other adventures.
Beyond the story’s overt purpose (Lord Hani’s journey to find a husband for the queen), readers may choose to consider similarities and differences in their own lives. Whether in lived experiences, observations, hamartia, devotions, or epistemologies history (even in novel form) grants us a portal to introspection.
Interestingly enough, and almost as a direct indicator of the diplomatic dexterity of our hero, we seem to have shed nearly all of the euphemistic vulgarities of Lord Hani’s internal dialogue and those of his companions.
Pilot Who Knows the Water, The Lord Hani Mysteries Series, N.L. Holmes, Review, Itsy Bitsy Book Bits. Historical, Cozy Mystery, Maryn Belling, June 2022
Pilot Who Knows the Waters by N.L. Holmes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Pilot Who Knows the Waters is the sixth book in the Lord Hani Mysteries series. This is a great series for historical fiction fans, with a vivid Ancient Egyptian setting. There’s so much detail that really brings the world to life, totally absorbing the reader. If you haven’t already read other books in the series, I would recommend reading them in order to get to know the characters and the world.
Hani is enjoying some peace and quiet, and looking forward to the security of a bountiful harvest, when the book picks up. Of course, he never gets to enjoy much downtime with his family and it’s not long before he’s swept off on another adventure.
I like that Mery-ra, Hani’s father, comes along on this adventure. He’s quite the character, and fun to have around! And also brings knowledge, experience and good sense to the table.
This book gets five stars from me. It’s a great read that I would definitely recommend to fans of ancient history and mystery stories.
Bird in a Snare by N.L. Holmes
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Bird in a Snare (The Lord Hani Mysteries Book 1) by N.L. Holmes – Review by Maryn Belling
In the mystery-style of Alexander McCall Smith and thickly set prose of Gabriel García Márquez, N.L. Holm transports us across 3300 years to Egypt’s New Kingdom era of intrigue, political machinations, and complex civilization. Underpinned with the familiar rhythms of domestic life and timeless beauty, the rich descriptions set the reader at ease in an unfamiliar land and time. Readers are cautioned to be aware of content-warnings (as listed in other reviews).
Set against nature’s bounty, the political intrigues of the kingdom roll out in languid detail. Traveling back to a time of litter conveyances & papyrus correspondence, the distinctions between ruling & working classes mirror those of contemporary society. The moral dilemmas of Hani in his work and diplomatic relations allow the reader a deeper understanding of internal motivations and political machinations – his internal dialogues are reminiscent of Christie’s Poiroit.
Beyond the story’s overt purpose, adept readers will find opportunities to consider contemporary social and civic matters. Often when we see flaws in characters we are given to introspection and self-correction. Whether we avail ourselves of mirror or prism.
Bird in a Snare, The Lord Hani Mysteries Series, N.L. Holmes, Review, Itsy Bitsy Book Bits. Historical, Cozy Mystery, Maryn Belling, June 2022
Pilot Who Knows the Waters by N.L. Holmes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This is book 6 in the Lord Hani Mysteries series. I have read another one of this author’s series before, and I love the way she writes! N.L. Holmes is an archaeologist and her knowledge brings so much to the stories, not to mention her writing style is amazing. In childhood, I had a fascination with ancient Egypt. Traveling back in time with Hani is effortless. You will get caught up in the characters and their stories. This is a great historical mystery that hooked me from the beginning!
Pilot Who Knows the Waters by N.L. Holmes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This is a series that really does go from strength to strength. Each book is descriptive and detailed and such an interesting read. The characters are always do engaging and dynamic, I found it so easy to fall back into their journey.
It is clear from the way these books are written that the author really has a passion for this genre. The attention to detail and the development is evident in every single sentence. I have enjoyed every single one of these books so far and this one is no exception. It is another fantastic addition to an already great series.
Pilot Who Knows the Waters by N.L. Holmes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
The newest installment to this series and I just simply couldn’t wait. Once again drama and adventures unfold for Hani and his supporting characters, but how far can Hani get with his diplomatic skills? Can he keep his family safe while yet again ge solves another crime? You’ll have to read this wonderful mystery to find out for yourself. This book was full of so many details, and so much history that you know the author did do kucu work to get it right.
Pilot Who Knows the Waters by N.L. Holmes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
5 Stars
Pilot Who Knows the Water (The Lord Hani Mysteries Book 6) by N.L. Holmes
Pilot Who Knows the Water is the sixth and final book in The Lord Hani Mysteries. This is a wonderfully written Historical cozy mystery that takes you on quite the action packed adventure. I’m a huge fan of this author and her style of writing and attention to detail. Her characters are well developed and easy to follow plus you feel as if you are right there with them. Each book in this series gets better and better, this pne is definitely my favorite yet. I highly recommend reading this series if you haven’t already started. Its one that’s definitely going on my list of re-reads. I truly enjoyed reading this book and had a hard time putting it down. I got so caught of in the mystery I tuned everything around me out. This is set in Ancient Egypt and is packed with action , mystery and Historical information that makes the story that much more enjoyable. I highly recommend reading this book to find out what happens next to Jani and his adventure. I can’t wait to read more from this Author.
Pilot Who Knows the Waters by N.L. Holmes
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Pilot Who Knows the Waters is the sixth book in the Lord Hani historical cosy mystery series. I have followed this series from the beginning and enjoy NL’s passion of the history of that time which is set in Ancient Egypt. The historical information coupled with the vivid imagery and descriptions and striking details in which the story is told enhances the journey. I suggest you start at the beginning of the series and work your way up to this one. There is lots to learn about Lord Hani and the other characters that bring the story to life.
Lord Hani is once again thrown into the unknown when he is given the task of secretly obtaining a Hittite bridegroom for the Queen Meryet-amen. Unfortunately, there are those that think that the rightful person should be the one and will stop at nothing to see that happen. War is imminent.
This is an enjoyable read where murder and mystery coupled with ancient Egypt history. If you love a good murder mystery, then this book and series is for you.
Reviewed by @jennadb
Pilot Who Knows the Waters by N.L. Holmes
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I enjoyed reading this book. This is not my first book by this author but it is one of my favorites yet. This is the sixth and final book of the series. I highly suggest reading the previous books to help your enhancement of this series and the characters. This is a well written story that has characters that took me on an adventure full of action. I enjoyed being pulled into the story from the beginning. I found this to be a fast paced, engaging story where the characters brought the story to life which had me coming back for more. There is great growth of the plot and characters throughout the story. This is a series you don’t want to miss. I can’t wait to see what is next for this author. Her writing skills bring so much to her stories that they are hard to put down. I highly recommend this book and this author.
Review by @bjwagner
Pilot Who Knows the Waters by N.L. Holmes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This is the 6th book in the Lord Hani Mysteries and once again I was captured and transported with this story. I am a great lover of Ancient Egypt and have read many books and taken courses on the subject. One of the main reason I love these books so much is the author’s attention to details and the historical facts. During these books I literally see and feel Ancient Egypt come alive.
We are back with Lord Hani. Once again he is on a dangerous mission. He is sent by the Queen to get a Hittite bridegroom to make her position safer and to also build bridges between the two tribes. However their are people who are opposed to this union. Namely Ay who wants to make sure the throne goes to his family and will stop at nothing to make that happen. So Hani is on a hard mission. Trying to win over enemies and also fighting against people of Egypt as well. Can he succeed at all or will this bring Egypt to war with itself and bringing it down to its knees once and for all?
There are so many twists and turns along the way and even though I know the historical story about the Queen and her quest for a Prince the author does an amazing job of writing a mystery around it without taking away from the historical events.
Pilot Who Knows the Waters by N.L. Holmes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Pilot Who Knows The Waters
Book 6 of 6 : The Lord Hani Mysteries
By: N.L. Holmes
Review by: Susan Ratchford
5 stars
The Lord Hani Mysteries is a wonderful series full of Ancient Egyptian culture, politics, and historical facts wrapped up in entrancing mysteries that will keep you glued to the pages. In this final installment of the series Pilot Who Knows The Waters, N. L. Holmes takes us on a new and dangerous adventure that will put Lord Hani’s Skills to its final test.Tasked to find a Hittite bridegroom for the Queen, he must go through opposing factions and even Egypt itself on the brink of war.
Everything you want in a mystery! Truly captivating, this book made me feel like I traveled back in time. I loved the vivid ancient Egyptian culture and politics. I found it so easy to fall right into the plot. Each character was written with such depth and intrigue that you really don’t know what to expect. You can really tell the amount of research that Holmes put into this work on every page. This is a great series to get into and I can’t wait to journey with Lord Hani through all of his other adventures starting from his first one!
Pilot Who Knows the Waters by N.L. Holmes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I have read and enjoyed each book in this series, and was looking forward to this instalment, and I was definitely not disappointed. The adventures of Egyptian diplomat Hani continued, and as usual I was hooked from page one. I would personally recommend reading the books in order, so that you know Hani’s backstory. In book six, Hani has to secretly obtain a Hittite bridegroom for Queen Meryet-amen, but Ay and the faction behind Prince Tut-ankh-aten are opposed, and willing to turn to violence. The death of an artisan appears to be connected to Ay, and his determination to see his grandson on the throne. When another death brings Egypt to the brink of war Hani’s diplomatic skills are thoroughly tested.
As usual the wonderfully written storyline had me gripped and the plot twists kept me guessing. The descriptive narrative and historical details brought the setting and era vividly to life, and I felt immersed in Hani’s world. After six books I feel like Hani is an old friend, and I enjoyed being with him working out one last mystery, as sadly this is the final book in ‘The Lord Hani Mysteries’ series. I will miss Hani, he’s a great character and I’ve thoroughly enjoyed the whole series, as each book has been a real page turner. This was an enjoyable and engaging read, which kept me happily turning the pages well into the night!
Pilot Who Knows the Waters by N.L. Holmes
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
4 Stars
Pilot Who Knows the Waters is the sixth book in The Lord Hani Mysteries by N.L Holmes. We set off on another danger-laced adventure with Hani as he navigates the politics, diplomatic issues, royal protocols, and the societal expectations of these ancient times (1335BCE)- all while juggling important responsibilities.
I have loved Hani from the moment we met him back in book one, and I can’t believe we are now six books into this fabulous series- the series definitely gets better with each new release.
This is an historical cozy mystery, set in ancient Egypt (1335BCE)- and as I have come to expect from Ms. Holmes, the story is woven with wonderfully rich historical details, texture, depth, interesting characters, intrigue, agendas, plots, emotion, and dramatic developments which made for a great read.
Looking forward to Hani’s next adventure…
Happy Reading!!
Thank you, N.L Holmes!
Reviewed by @angelahayes
Pilot Who Knows the Waters by N.L. Holmes
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is the sixth book in The Lord Hani Mysteries series. This was just as good as the previous books and filled with just as much intrigue and danger. The author does such a fabulous job with the historical details that are included in this story. You can certainly tell that the author has done her research on this era to add that knowledge into the story. I think that just adds to the overall enjoyment in reading this book. I will say that sometimes there may have been a little more ancient terminology included that could have been reduced because it was redundant. But overall, this was a great historical mystery and was a fantastic end to this series. I do recommend that you read these books in their order as opposed to reading as a standalone book because you will have a much more thorough understanding of what the story is all about.
Pilot Who Knows the Waters by N.L. Holmes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This book was fun read with its own mysterious essence! I loved the plot and the characters and how one thing led to another! The story had its own end game but also had a lot of character development which I loved! The book was very intriguing with how things went about!
I had a lot of fun reading this book. The story had a very interesting appeal that kept me captivated as I read, a lot of adventure, and characters and choices that really impacted the book! I for sure will be reading more in the series after reading this one! I loved the author’s talented writing!
A very enjoyable adventure that brings a lot to the table. I simply loved and enjoyed it both at the same time. Highly recommend this book/author/and this wonderful series I just discovered!
Pilot Who Knows the Waters by N.L. Holmes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This is book 6 of the Lord Hani Mystery series. The drama and adventures unfold in this book. Sometimes it seems as if Hani is stuck in between a rock and a hard place by those in power above him. At times, I wonder if they will make it through some of those situations. This time, it seems like a mission that hits close to home as it hits near his wife’s dream. How far can he survive on his diplomatic skills? He has some great skills but can they get him what he needs to solve the problem? The book is wonderful. Well-written. The author does her research. Lots of history and archeology. I love the characters in these books because they feel real. The plot flows along really well. It’s very engaging. You can’t help but be intrigued by the mystery. I love coming away feeling that I’ve learned more information while enjoying a good read. Highly recommend.
The North Wind Descends by N.L. Holmes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This is book 4 of the Lord Hani Mystery series. This installment is full of adventure, drama, and a lot hard choices that Hani. The author does such great research that I have a hard time putting the book down. I am pulled into the book from the beginning and don’t stop until I’m done. Hani finds himself not sure what’s going on when the King starts praising him. Should he trust him? Then a couple of other mysteries come up. One involves his daughter and court issues. Oh man, that would be enough to break a parent. But Hani gets through all of this and solves the mysteries. He’s a strong character and with the help of his supporting crew, all is well (for the moment). On to the next book. This is an intriguing book. You can read it alone or in the series. I recommend reading it in order. Terrific read.
Scepter of Flint by N.L. Holmes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Book 3 of the Lord Hani Mysteries is mystery, suspense and a dramatic adventure all wrapped up in one. Hani was trying to figure out what was going on with the robberies. What saw what was happening and who were his real enemies? Amid a plague? People collapsing… Hani again has his hands full. You can read this stand alone or in the series order. I suggest you read it in order. I am loving this series. The action is engaging. You will be pulled in right from the start. The author just writes you right into the story. The characters feel like someone you know.
The plot just flows along smoothly. This is really one of the best series I’ve ever read. I’m not usually a history fiction reader but I love her series. The way she includes true facts about the history of Egypt just grab you. Fascinating story. I loved every minute of it. I’m looking forward to more books in the series. Again, I highly recommend this series
The Crocodile Makes No Sound by N.L. Holmes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Book 2 in the Lord Hani Mysteries is a continuation, and it is even more intriguing as the story develops. The author’s writing pulls me in from the beginning and continues as the story builds all the way through to the end. Again, the research put into the history of Egypt is so on top of it. I always come away with new facts. Hani and his family are well-written characters that make you want to dive into the story because you feel like you know them. The plot runs smoothly along. Another installment that enthralling and makes you want to learn more about Egypt and history. I recommend this story.
Bird in a Snare by N.L. Holmes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This book is the first of the Lord Hani Mysteries. It is a fantastic book. Hani is a character that has his hands full and can still deal with a mystery. The book is full of amazing drama and mystery. I am a fan of this author due to the research she puts in. This story takes place in Egypt during the time of Pharaohs, and it is so accurate. The plot just flows along so smooth. It’s an exciting adventure that I had a good time going on. I’m looking forward to reading more in the series. I recommend you give this series a shot.
