The 'Scroll of Saqqara' by Pauline Gedge is a historical fiction novel set in ancient Egypt that brings to life the triumphs and failures of centuries past. The story follows Prince Khaemwaset, a physician and archeologist, as he explores a tomb in Saqqara, a necropolis, in search of The Scroll of Thoth. His encounter with a mysterious family, particularly a woman named Tbubui, leads to a series of events that disrupt his loving family and drive the plot towards an unexpected and chilling ending. The book expertly weaves daily life in ancient Egypt with elements of mystery, romance, and fantasy, keeping readers engrossed and intrigued until the very end.

Characters:

The characters are well-developed, with Khaemweset serving as a likable protagonist, while supporting characters exhibit unique personalities that contribute to the narrative's emotional depth.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style is evocative and immersive, allowing readers to deeply connect with ancient Egypt through engaging storytelling and vivid sensory details, creating a palpable sense of dread.

Plot/Storyline:

The plot features a well-researched narrative set in ancient Egypt, focusing on the protagonist Khaemweset and his tragic downfall due to an inadvertent evil. It culminates in a shocking ending that reflects on themes of family, duty, and the pursuit of immortality.

Setting:

The setting is ancient Egypt, specifically the necropolis of Saqqara, richly described to evoke the cultural and historical context essential to the narrative and character experiences.

Pacing:

The pacing begins slowly to depict daily life but escalates tension gradually, culminating in a fast-paced ending that captures the reader's attention.

Khaemwaset cast a swift glance around and shouted back a denial. His initial enthusiasm was quickly turning to a familiar disappointment. His were not, after all, the first feet to tread the sacred fl...

Notes:

The book is set 2500 years ago during ancient Egypt.

The protagonist is Khaemweset, son of Ramesses II, described as a handsome and likeable character.

Khaemweset is a skilled physician, magician, and tomb restorer.

He seeks the Scroll of Thoth, which offers immortality.

The story explores themes of family, love for country, and duty.

A mysterious family disrupts Khaemweset's close-knit family life.

Khaemweset becomes obsessively infatuated with a woman named Tbubui, creating tension.

The narrative delivers an evolving sense of foreboding and horror as events unfold.

Gedge's writing is praised for being immersive and evocative of ancient Egypt.

The book blends elements of historical fiction with mystery and some fantastical aspects.

The ending of the book is surprising and shocking for many readers.

The story is a retelling of the lore surrounding the Scroll of Thoth.

Readers often describe the book as having existential dread rather than being strictly horror.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

There are medium content warnings related to themes of obsession, betrayal, and the darker sides of familial and romantic relationships.

Has Romance?

There is a moderate level of romance present, characterized by Khaemweset's infatuation with a woman named Tbubui, which drives key events in the plot.

From The Publisher:

Prince Khaemwaset is a powerful man. The son of Ramses II and a revered physician, his wisdom is respected throughout Egypt. But Khaemwaset harbours a strong and secret desire-to find the mysterious Scroll of Thoth and receive the power to raise the dead.

When Khaemwaset hears of the discovery of a hidden tomb on the plain of Saqqara, he is quick to break its seal and take its secrets-secrets that he soon learns he should never have disturbed.

Richly detailed with the exotic realities of Ancient Egypt, Scroll of Saqqara is a compelling tale of power, lust, and obsession.

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Scroll of Saqqara

Pauline Gedge