Don't judge a book by its cover

I admit, the cover of a book determines for me whether or not I pick it up and read more about it before buying it. There are some covers that can make me NEVER pick up a book. This is one of those covers. It has a hint of Harlequinn romanciness, mixed in with a bit of gothic and some sci fi. Very confusing to the eye in my opinion. I think I read a synopsis on Goodreads.com that made me want to give it a try:

Amelia Peabody, that indomitable product of the Victorian age, embarks on her debut Egyptian adventure armed with unshakable self-confidence, a journal to record her thoughts, and, of course, a sturdy umbrella. On her way to Cairo, Amelia rescues young Evelyn Barton-Forbes, who has been abandoned by her scoundrel lover. Together the two women sail up the Nile to an archeological site run by the Emerson brothers -- the irascible but dashing Radcliffe and the amiable Walter. Soon their little party is increased by one -- one mummy, that is, and a singularly lively example of the species. Strange visitations, suspicious accidents, and a botched kidnapping convince Amelia that there is a plot afoot to harm Evelyn. Now Amelia finds herself up against an unknown enemy -- and perilous forces that threaten to make her first Egyptian trip also her last.


As I reread this, I don't know what it was about the description - in fact I think it was one of the reviews that clinched it for me. The way one person described Amelia just made me want to give it a try and I'm so glad I did! Amelia Peabody is spunky, feminist, logical, and someone that I want for a best friend. It is a mystery and I'll admit, the story itself is a teeny bit on the lame side - Mummies and such somewhat reminiscent of a Nancy Drew mystery. Elizabeth Peters captured my attention however, with her characters and the dialogue. I knew I would read another of her books when Amelia said the word "ratiocination". There was a "ratiocination room" in our math department in college and seeing that word always makes me think of that room, bringing back fond memories.

It was a quick read overall, (262 pages) but it did go a little slow during the last third of the book. I would recommend it if you are a fan of strong female characters and if you enjoy witty dialogue over the details of the mystery. I especially liked the ending of this book. Here is one detective who does not exhibit all those dysfunctional characteristics I spoke of in an earlier post!