This Egyptology-themed historical novel was intriguing and educational. Set towards the end of the 19th century, the story follows Clemmie, a woman in her twenties, whose father unwrapped mummies for people’s entertainment, assisted by Clemmie who studied mythology and hieroglyphics. However, one time they are put under what seems to be the curse of Nephthys, Isis and Osiris, as terrible things happen to Clemmie’s loved ones. She travels to Egypt to try and stop the curse, falling in with some fellow English tourists who may help or hinder her plans.
I really liked how the author created a sense of time and place, with much attention to detail and use of the senses. Clemmie is asthmatic, and the lack of medicines is a reminder of how a common condition such as asthma could be very dangerous back then. Most importantly, the book is a critique of the antiquities trade and the effects of colonialism. I was a little disappointed that the book hadn’t more of a supernatural element and I also struggled with understanding the mythology. However, it’s an impressive debut.
Thank you to the publisher Harvill Secker for the advance copy via NetGalley. The book will be published on 6th February 2025.