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.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Shelly Kittellhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngShelly Kittell2022-06-15 07:04:222022-06-15 07:28:32The North Wind Descends (The Lord Hani Mysteries Book 4) by N.L. Holmes – Review by Shelly Kittell
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
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Shelly Kittellhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngShelly Kittell2022-06-15 06:54:412022-06-15 07:27:56Scepter of Flint (The Lord Hani Mysteries Book 3) by N.L. Holmes – Review by Shelly Kittell
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.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Shelly Kittellhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngShelly Kittell2022-06-15 06:40:522022-06-15 07:27:03The Crocodile Makes No Sound (The Lord Hani Mysteries Book 2) by N.L. Holmes – Review by Shelly Kittell
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.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Shelly Kittellhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngShelly Kittell2022-06-15 06:30:202022-06-15 07:26:32Bird In A Snare (The Lord Hani Mysteries Book 1) by N.L. Holmes – Review by Shelly Kittell
Hani must secretly obtain a Hittite bridegroom for Queen Meryet-amen, but Ay and the faction behind Prince Tut-ankh-aten are opposed–to the point of violence. Does the death of an artisan have anything to do with Ay’s determination to see his grandson on the throne? Then, another death brings Egypt to the brink of war… Hani’s diplomatic skills will be pushed to the limit in this final book in The Lord Hani Mysteries.
N.L. Holmes is the pen name of a professional archaeologist who received her doctorate from Bryn Mawr College. She has excavated in Greece and in Israel and taught ancient history and humanities at the university level for many years. She has always had a passion for books, and in childhood, she and her cousin (also a writer today) used to write stories for fun. She lives in northern France with her husband, two cats and two chickens. They have a grown son.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/Pilot-who-knows-waters-500x800-Cover-Reveal-and-Promotional.jpg800500itsybitsybookbitshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngitsybitsybookbits2022-06-15 00:03:072022-06-24 17:33:49Pilot Who Knows the Waters (The Lord Hani Mysteries Book 6) by N.L. Holmes
Hani must secretly obtain a Hittite bridegroom for Queen Meryet-amen, but Ay and the faction behind Prince Tut-ankh-aten are opposed–to the point of violence. Does the death of an artisan have anything to do with Ay’s determination to see his grandson on the throne? Then, another death brings Egypt to the brink of war… Hani’s diplomatic skills will be pushed to the limit in this final book in The Lord Hani Mysteries.
N.L. Holmes is the pen name of a professional archaeologist who received her doctorate from Bryn Mawr College. She has excavated in Greece and in Israel and taught ancient history and humanities at the university level for many years. She has always had a passion for books, and in childhood, she and her cousin (also a writer today) used to write stories for fun. She lives in northern France with her husband, two cats and two chickens. They have a grown son.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/Pilot-who-knows-waters-500x800-Cover-Reveal-and-Promotional.jpg800500itsybitsybookbitshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngitsybitsybookbits2022-06-15 00:01:152022-06-24 17:34:05☥ ~ 🛕 ~ 👁 ~ ⚱ RELEASE BLITZ ⚱ ~ 👁 ~ 🛕 ~ ☥ Pilot Who Knows the Waters (The Lord Hani Mysteries Book 6) by N.L. Holmes
Hani must secretly obtain a Hittite bridegroom for Queen Meryet-amen, but Ay and the faction behind Prince Tut-ankh-aten are opposed–to the point of violence. Does the death of an artisan have anything to do with Ay’s determination to see his grandson on the throne? Then, another death brings Egypt to the brink of war… Hani’s diplomatic skills will be pushed to the limit in this final book in The Lord Hani Mysteries.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/Preorder-min-1-1.jpg750750itsybitsybookbitshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngitsybitsybookbits2022-06-08 00:02:552022-06-24 17:34:27☥ ~ 🛕 ~ 👁 ~ ⚱ PREORDER ⚱ ~ 👁 ~ 🛕 ~ ☥ Pilot Who Knows the Waters (The Lord Hani Mysteries Book 6) by N.L. Holmes
Hani must secretly obtain a Hittite bridegroom for Queen Meryet-amen, but Ay and the faction behind Prince Tut-ankh-aten are opposed–to the point of violence. Does the death of an artisan have anything to do with Ay’s determination to see his grandson on the throne? Then, another death brings Egypt to the brink of war… Hani’s diplomatic skills will be pushed to the limit in this final book in The Lord Hani Mysteries.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/Pilot-who-knows-waters-500x800-Cover-Reveal-and-Promotional.jpg800500itsybitsybookbitshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngitsybitsybookbits2022-05-25 00:00:232022-06-24 17:34:47☥ ~ 🛕 ~ 👁 ~ ⚱ COMING SOON ⚱ ~ 👁 ~ 🛕 ~ ☥ Pilot Who Knows the Waters (The Lord Hani Mysteries Book 6) by N.L. Holmes
This book was awesome. I love how the writer adds in the PTSD and anger problems which indicated mental health problems which are not at all easy to manage. This causes Uqnitum’s sons to run away as her mental health and anger takes a major toll on the family. I don’t want to get into it too much and give away spoilers but I think the author Holmes is really able to tune into history and studies up on a subject and culture before trying to write a novel which is really commendable. The novel is extremely well written with high vocabulary usage, and heart wrenching stories all intertwined in one. This isn’t a standalone novel, as it is the second in the series. I love the history in this novel and I think people can misinterpret it to be boring if they don’t allow the scene to be set up for them so you get a glance at what the 13th/14th century looked like, and can actually see the book happening while you read it. Don’t lead others mislead you before you try and read the book with an open mind and a willingness to be taught as it is historical fiction, but not taught forcibly.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Charlene Yateshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngCharlene Yates2021-08-06 00:37:432021-08-06 07:33:41The Singer and Her Song (Empire at Twilight Book 2) by N.L. Holmes – Review by Charlene Yates
The Singer and Her Song is a very different read and much easier read than The Lightning Horse. It is a story that brings to light the current plight of refugees needing to forge a new identity in a new land while overcoming the trauma of the past. I felt great empathy for all the characters and felt invested in their lives. N.L. Holmes does an excellent job of world-building and making the reader feel like they are in ancient Egypt without needing to spell it out for them. I recommend this book.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Penelope Taylorhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngPenelope Taylor2021-08-05 00:07:112021-08-05 08:00:19The Singer and Her Song (Empire at Twilight Book 2) by N.L. Holmes – Review by Penelope Taylor
The Singer and Her Song by N. L. Holmes is the second book in the Empire at Twilight series. This is a story that quickly transports you back in time. When your world is turned upside down, what can you do but survive? Uqnitum is in that very position and has very little to start out with. Trying to survive after your village has been destroyed is one thing, doing it with children is a completely different struggle.
There were plenty of times throughout the tale that I struggled with Uqnitum’s controlling behavior and temper, but there are also some points that I completely aligned with. We are not always perfect parents. At the end of the day, we still try to do what is best for our families.
This is definitely a story that will tug at your heart strings.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Carly Voglerhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngCarly Vogler2021-07-31 22:36:032021-08-03 11:19:13The Singer and Her Song (Empire at Twilight Book 2) by N.L. Holmes – Review by Carly Vogler
Book 2 of the Empire of the Twilight Series was enjoyable. This book can easily be read as a stand alone. I find the attention to detail, especially the historical nature, that Author N.L. Holmes puts into this book is fantastic. Uqnitum flees from Mittani when she loses family. Parts of the story I really felt to for Uqnitum, the guilt and darkness. Definitely read the book to find out if Uqnitum overcomes the danger she has become and find strength to overcome. Overall a very good story with great attention to details. Well Done Author N.L. Holmes
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Lorralei Hoernerhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngLorralei Hoerner2021-07-31 21:44:512021-08-03 11:15:02The Singer and Her Song (Empire at Twilight Book 2) by N.L. Holmes – Review by Lorralei Hoerner
This is the second book in the series and I have to say it is better then the first. Holmes brings the world to you and she has done some major research in order to bring it to you. The book is about love and loss and what hardships a family goes through. The family loses not only a father but a brother an son. The mother is so overbearing that her two sons leave home to make something of themselves. She realizes that her affair that she had 15 years ago could have produced the son she lost. Holmes makes you feel very invested in the characters and makes you want to just keep turning the pages.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Amanda DelFeminehttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAmanda DelFemine2021-07-31 21:14:352021-08-03 11:12:47The Singer and Her Song (Empire at Twilight Book 2) by N.L. Holmes – Review by Amanda DelFemine
The Singer and Her Song is a very intriguing story of survival, with a main character that is hard to love but she does what she has to protect her child. NL Holmes does such a good job of writing that you will feel like your transported back in time, you’ll really get a feel for what it was like to live in the time period. Not only do feel like you’ve been transported in time by NL Holmes gives us such fantastic characters that you will feel every emotion that they feel. So if you want a gut wrenching test of survival read then you will love The Singer and Her Song.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Stephanie Corbinhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngStephanie Corbin2021-07-31 20:08:562021-08-03 11:06:06The Singer and Her Song (Empire at Twilight Book 2) by N.L. Holmes – Review by Stephanie Nicole
N.L. Holmes manages to effortlessly transport you to another time. If you haven’t read many books set in ancient Egypt you may find yourself needing the glossary at the back. A young Hittite charioteer who serves the King with one plot twist I expected and one that took me quite by surprise. The Lightning Horse was not an easy read for me. I really needed time to absorb myself into the story. It is a book to keep for the days when you can lock yourself away and lose yourself in the narrative. Despite my difficulties reading it, I do recommend this book. It is historically very well researched and the world-building is excellent.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Penelope Taylorhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngPenelope Taylor2021-07-31 18:28:352021-08-03 11:04:44The Lightning Horse (Empire at Twilight Book 1) by N.L. Holmes – Review by Penelope Taylor
A uniquely beautiful piece of writing. The author’s talent in creating this world continues in book 2 of the Empire at Twilight series. I was absorbed into Uqnitum’s life and had all the feels. I wanted to throttle her for being so stubborn and prideful. The skilful presentation of the era bled of the pages and I greedily soaked up every word. Highly recommend this series.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Rayne Easthttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngRayne East2021-07-30 19:41:542021-08-03 08:53:05The Singer and Her Song (Empire at Twilight Book 2) by N.L. Holmes – Review by Rayne East
A very well-written haunting tale. Like her other books, Holmes has extensive knowledge of the historical era in which this is set, which makes for great realism. Unlike some of her other works, I found this one more accessible and easier to fall into without a background in ancient times. The characters are full and complex, their emotions and motivations varied and interesting. I deeply felt some of the horrors that Uqnitum endured on her journey. It is quite an emotional work, and I connected with it immediately.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Erica Shoebridgehttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngErica Shoebridge2021-07-30 15:46:072021-07-31 07:31:58The Singer and Her Song (Empire at Twilight Book 2) by NL Holmes – Review by Erica Shoebridge
The Singer and Her Song is the second book in the Empire at Twilight series. This book easily stands alone. To be completely honest, I did not like this book. You may be thinking wait, didn’t you give it 4 stars? I did not like it, but I could not put it down. I stayed up most of the night once I started reading this story. It was so good and such a challenging book. Uqnitum was so frustrating, and I wanted to shake her! Her story was tragic and hard. My heart was broken for her over and over again. She became a person that even she didn’t like to be able to survive the horrors in her life. This story was gut wrenching but thought provoking. What would you sacrifice for your kids? Don’t read this book to be entertained; read this mother’s story to be changed.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Rebecca Hillhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngRebecca Hill2021-07-29 12:42:462021-07-30 20:31:04The Singer and Her Song (Empire at Twilight Book 2) by N.L. Holmes – Review by Rebecca Hill
This is a sweeping tale of survival. I feel like Holmes did a fantastic job of describing what it would have been like to live during that time and to be conquered by the Assyrians. I couldn’t help but feel like I was transported back in time, watching everything happen. The cities, the characters, the palaces simply came alive in my mind as I read.
Uqnitum is a hard character to love. But you have to give her mad respect because she is able to keep herself and her pregnant daughter alive after their lives are turned upside down. She acts rashly and doesn’t always make the wisest choices because she is trying to make up for a where she has failed in the past and the present. While her choices were not always helpful, it does work out in the end for the better. I appreciated how in the end, she was finally able to move beyond herself to reflect on the choices that she had made. She was able to recognize what needed to change, and then made that difficult choice to fix it.
I really enjoyed this read. If you want a heart wrenching tale of historical survival, this is your book!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Desiree Ottingerhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngDesiree Ottinger2021-07-28 20:12:222021-07-29 07:40:37The Singer and Her Song (Empire at Twilight Book 2) by N.L. Holmes – Review by Desiree Ottinger
The Singer and Her Song tells the story of Uqnitum, a singer from Mitanni and her daughter, Tatasshe. When their village is destroyed by the Assyrians and the men of the family are killed, Uqnitum and Tatasshe seek refuge in the court of Ugarit. With the deaths of her family, the loss of her home, and the guilt she feels for her part in it, Uqnitum struggles to adjust to her new life. Facing challenges, hardship, and heartache, Tatasshe and Uqnitum must learn what strength truly is.
I loved this novel. The characters are so well developed and likeable, I felt their pain, their joy, their relief, their heartache. The setting of the story is phenomenal and transports the reader to another land, in another time. I was hooked on the story from the minute the first chapter opened. N.L. Holmes has written a novel that I can give nothing but praise for. I will be reading the rest of the novels in the Empire of Twilight Series soon!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Kayla Bullockhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngKayla Bullock2021-07-28 09:28:272021-07-29 06:37:44The Singer and Her Song (Empire at Twilight Book 2) by N.L. Holmes – Review by Kayla Bullock
The Singer and Her Song (Empire at Twilight Book 2) by N.L. Holmes is definitely a 5 star book. This author has once again taken historical fiction and combined it with intense character details, and it is amazing. Much like the first installment of the Empire at Twilight Series, The Lightning Horse, I found myself immersed in the lives of Uqnitum, a singer from the kingdom of Mitanni, and her family. When she loses part of her family when the Assyrians attack, she and her daughter must set out on a journey that will test their wills and characters. I love the fact that the author is an actual archaeologist! It’s an amazing thing when someone who is well-educated in the history they are writing about can mingle the past with the modern to create wonderfully relatable characters. Despite taking place so far in the past, the characters display facets of the human condition that transcends time and touches on those details that we all have experienced during one time or another. I highly recommend reading what this author has to offer, if you haven’t yet.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Christine J. Spulakhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngChristine J. Spulak2021-07-27 12:13:012021-07-28 07:47:09The Singer and Her Song (Empire at Twilight Book 2) by N.L. Holmes – Review by Chrissy Spulak
This is Book #2 in the “Empire at Twilight” series, but other than the name of one king, there is no discernible overlap between Book #1 and Book #2, so you don’t have to read the first to follow the plot of the second. Uqnitum is a court musician for a king in Mittani, the daughter of the great court musician Tapishili (akin to Handel at the court of George II, my closest comparison). Mittani is being conquered by the Assyrians piece by piece. Sure enough, Uqnitum’s city is invaded on one life-changing night, so she and her family – husband Ar-Tesshub, simple-minded son Wullu, and pregnant daughter Tatasshe – flee for their lives. The refugees are overtaken by the invading Assyrians and captured. The experiences this family suffers are really beyond imagining and so very difficult to read. The invasion and capture all occur in the first 20% of the book. What we find out is that Uqnitum is a difficult person at the best of times. In fact, her older two sons have already fled their home city for life elsewhere – Uqnitum knows not where. Uqnitum is apparently a difficult-to-please mother, and my heart goes out to Tatasshe as she tries to deal with flight, capture, and pregnancy in the company of this difficult mother. Tatasshe and Uqnitum become court musicians in their new city, and are treated relatively well, considering that they are captive refugees, b/c the music master is a great fan of Tapishili. There is a grand celebration for the New Year plus the marriage of the king to celebrate, and Uqnitum’s fantastic voice is required, but Tatasshe is willing to give up her life as a musician – unthinkable! – to escape her mother, especially after their horrific captive march, which has left Uqnitum w/ PTSD on top of her anger issues. Uqnitum’s anger and PTSD cause simply devastating consequences to her and her family. I have to say that Uqnitum is the least-likeable protagonist in a book that I have read since Jay Gatsby. I understand that she goes through great losses and terrible experiences, but she is honestly less capable at handling them than her pregnant daughter is – who had already lost her husband to the Assyrians before the story even starts! But again, as in Book #1, there is great world-building and the descriptions of the invasion, captive march, and the coup attempt are all well-written and gripping. 3 stars.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Sherry Sharpnackhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngSherry Sharpnack2021-07-26 12:50:192021-07-26 13:03:35The Singer and Her Song (Empire at Twilight Book 2) by N.L. Holmes – Review by Sherry Sharpnack
I’ve read several of the novels in this series. Just like in previous ones I’ve read, Lake of Flowers (Lord Hani #5) is full of intrigue and mystery, both personal and political. This is a really fascinating period in Ancient Egyptian history, as the records were destroyed by later kings, so I loved being able to read a fictionalised version of what may have happened. The writing is so detailed and the historical aspects were so interesting. What really makes the novel interesting is Hani’s character development, as his ideals and his loyalty are tested. A cosy mystery read.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Netania Limhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngNetania Lim2021-07-23 08:52:492021-07-23 09:42:56Lake of Flowers (The Lord Hani Mysteries, book 5) by N.L. Holmes – Review by Netania Lim
This book is good on so many levels. N.L. Holmes does a thorough job of researching the period she is writing on. The descriptions of locations and characters always make it easier to visualize. The plotlines are fascinating. The mystery in this book teaches about good and evil. The young man loses his father and his grandfather is seriously injured when a saboteur wrecks the king’s chariot. This young man feels it is his fault until he’s told otherwise then he wants to find out who is responsible. Excellent book. Highly recommend.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Shelly Kittellhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngShelly Kittell2021-07-23 06:59:362021-07-23 09:40:58The Lightning Horse (Empire at Twilight Book 1) by N.L. Holmes – Review by Shelly Kittell
N.L. Holmes has written another fascinating story that tugs at your heart. Strength and courage are two themes that stand out in this book. From page 1, Uqnitum starts strong with her strength as the Assyrians overtake her city and she has to collect her family and try to escape. She fears for her life and her family. Raised without a mother, she grew up headstrong and doesn’t back down from a fight. In today’s world, we might call her “filter” broken. She and her family are taken by the the enemy. The loss of her son and husband chip away a bit at her strength and she seems to just lose it a little. Tatasshe, her daughter is pregnant. It comes down to the two of them. Uqnitum just thinks she is being helpful (control freak anyone?). Tatasshe wants to break free for her sanity and has to learn how to do that. With the help of new friends and unfortunately, a near tragedy, she is able to make that leap. Tatasshe makes strides to grown in her strength by speaking up and telling her mom what she wants. Supporting characters in the story are also written very well. The descriptions and characteristics made it so easy to have your own little movie running in your head. The plot line was so good. I felt every emotion. When Uqnitum’s husband was blinded, my heart stopped. I felt every emotion. This book is fantastic. Highly recommended.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Shelly Kittellhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngShelly Kittell2021-07-22 14:22:412021-07-23 09:20:05The Singer and Her Song (Empire at Twilight Book 2) by N.L. Holmes – Review by Shelly Kittell
I really enjoyed this book! It was different from the other N.L. Holmes books I’ve read in the sense that it wasn’t a mystery, but it was great! As a mother, I understand many of the things Uqnitum did as she tried to hold her family together, from being strong and unrelenting to being ready and able to tear apart anyone who tries to hurt my kids. I feel the setup of the journey Uqnitum and Tatasshe endured at the beginning helped to strengthen their reactions throughout the book. I believe it also does a great job setting an example of how we sometimes go through life with certain memories and “baggage” that we don’t realize are affecting those around us. This book had me nodding my head in understanding, pulled me in to see what would happen next, and even had me in tears a couple of times. Overall, it was a great read!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Jana Lewishttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJana Lewis2021-07-21 04:05:412021-07-22 19:31:56The Singer and Her Song (Empire at Twilight Book 2) by N.L. Holmes – Review by Jana Lewis
While I don’t typically read books of this genre, I’m thankful that I gave Lake of Flowers a chance. N.L. Holmes did an excellent job of bringing the book to life by providing realistic details of the characters, setting, and era in which this story line takes place. Lord Hani is a wonderful character. I was instantly engaged in the story due to the banter between Hani and his family. I enjoyed reading about his family, travels, and the mystery that he must uncover in this installment of the Lord Hani Mysteries.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Ashley Mandellhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAshley Mandell2021-07-17 11:11:212021-07-19 10:22:30Lake of Flowers (The Lord Hani Mysteries, book 5) by N.L. Holmes – Review by Ashley Mandell
Lake of Flowers (The Lord Hani Mysteries Book 5) by N.L. Holmes. I’ve come to really enjoy these books. This genre is way outside my comfort zone but I took a chance and I haven’t regretted it yet. This is why one should always look to expand your horizons. This author keeps me completely hooked from start to finish. The characters are complex and truly bring this book to life. There’s so much this book has to offer within its pages. The main character truly takes readers on a journey looking for clues about what’s going on. It’s a well written storyline paced nicely never feeling rushed or lacking anything. If you’re looking for something new I highly recommend this author and this series. If you think it’s not your kind of reading I highly recommend you just taking the leap and giving it a try. Four big stars and highly recommended!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Katie Kearneyhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngKatie Kearney2021-07-15 21:11:482021-07-15 23:10:00Lake of Flowers (The Lord Hani Mysteries, book 5) by N.L. Holmes – Review by Katie Kearney
Lake of Flowers is the fifth book in N.L. Holmes’ Lord Hani Mysteries series. By this point, the characters really feel like old friends and it’s so wonderful to catch up with them and hear how they’re coping in a turbulent world. I adore Holmes’ writing for how vividly she depicts ancient worlds. Her work is heavily influenced by archaeology and research so while it’s fiction the story follows the course of real historical events. What really makes it special for me, though, is the small details. What characters eat and wear, their physical characteristics, how they travel, that sort of thing. The multisensory depiction immerses the reader in the world, and familiar elements (beer, honey, even garlic which really surprised me and I had to look that one up to see if they really would have eaten it!) brought me closer to the past. Lake of Flowers begins with a tragic death that threatens to destabilise the kingdom’s political structure. Hani and his family and associates are all invested in the outcome of the inevitable unrest, and the mystery that deepens as the story progresses. Young Neferet plays a prominent role, with her position as a royal physician entangling her in the events of the book. She’s a fantastic character – funny, clever and independent. I would recommend reading this series from the beginning (Bird in a Snare) to get to know the characters and the setting. There are lots of names to remember but Holmes does a good job of reminding readers in text as well as including a character list to refer to. For me, this is a five-star read. I’d recommend it to fans of history and mystery! The series might also appeal to fans of high fantasy – although itself not fantasy, the setting and stories do at times remind me of fantasy books I’ve enjoyed with worlds based on history.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Francis O'Sullivanhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngFrancis O'Sullivan2021-07-14 12:45:252021-07-15 21:44:38Lake of Flowers (The Lord Hani Mysteries, book 5) by N.L. Holmes – Review by Francis O’Sullivan
Lake of Flowers is the fifth book in The Lord Hani Mysteries by N.L. Holmes. I highly recommend reading the first four books to see what else Hani has been investigating. Being this is a historical mystery, I was excited to start reading that we were in Ancient Egypt. Egypt has an amazing history with the artifacts and the mystery surrounding it in present times. The details N.L. Holmes gives the reader paints a picture of what she wants the reader to see. The characters are fully developed and easily form a bond with them. I love Hani. He is very relatable and I enjoy our mysteries together. This time Hani finds himself in a tight corner. He is trapped between the government or revolutionaries. What will Hani uncover? Will he be able to restore some peace? You will have to read this book to find out about Hani and his story.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Erica Fishhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngErica Fish2021-07-13 17:39:032021-07-15 21:20:13Lake of Flowers (The Lord Hani Mysteries, book 5) by N.L. Holmes – Review by Erica Fish
We may request cookies to be set on your device. We use cookies to let us know when you visit our websites, how you interact with us, to enrich your user experience, and to customize your relationship with our website.
Click on the different category headings to find out more. You can also change some of your preferences. Note that blocking some types of cookies may impact your experience on our websites and the services we are able to offer.
Essential Website Cookies
These cookies are strictly necessary to provide you with services available through our website and to use some of its features.
Because these cookies are strictly necessary to deliver the website, refuseing them will have impact how our site functions. You always can block or delete cookies by changing your browser settings and force blocking all cookies on this website. But this will always prompt you to accept/refuse cookies when revisiting our site.
We fully respect if you want to refuse cookies but to avoid asking you again and again kindly allow us to store a cookie for that. You are free to opt out any time or opt in for other cookies to get a better experience. If you refuse cookies we will remove all set cookies in our domain.
We provide you with a list of stored cookies on your computer in our domain so you can check what we stored. Due to security reasons we are not able to show or modify cookies from other domains. You can check these in your browser security settings.
Google Analytics Cookies
These cookies collect information that is used either in aggregate form to help us understand how our website is being used or how effective our marketing campaigns are, or to help us customize our website and application for you in order to enhance your experience.
If you do not want that we track your visit to our site you can disable tracking in your browser here:
Other external services
We also use different external services like Google Webfonts, Google Maps, and external Video providers. Since these providers may collect personal data like your IP address we allow you to block them here. Please be aware that this might heavily reduce the functionality and appearance of our site. Changes will take effect once you reload the page.
Google Webfont Settings:
Google Map Settings:
Google reCaptcha Settings:
Vimeo and Youtube video embeds:
Other cookies
The following cookies are also needed - You can choose if you want to allow them:
Privacy Policy
You can read about our cookies and privacy settings in detail on our Privacy Policy Page.
The North Wind Descends by N.L. Holmes
