Abduction of a Slave

What’s great about Stebenow’s Eye of Isis series—this is the fourth title–is its wonderful balance of history and mystery. The book is set during the reign of the all-powerful Cleopatra, seventh of her name, and we are treated to all the intrigue, gossip, and even fashion that one could wish for. At the same time, the ancient world is readying itself for war, with Caesar expanding troops in Sicily. Tetisheri, Cleopatra’s own Eye of Isis, gathers information both for herself and at the beck of her Queen, who surprisingly granted her leave from Alexandria to engage in some information seeking. In this novel, Tetisheri accompanies her uncle, an important trader, on a trip to the Kingdom of Cyrenaica, both to acquire more goods but also to be on the lookout for Cleopatra’s interests. Cyrenaica is awash in conflicting rumors, including those about Julius Caesar, his archenemy Mettelus Scipio, and King Juba I. Tetisheri must use all her skills to monitor what is happening in the Kingdom while also resolving a murder close to home. Mystery readers with a penchant for history will be delighted by this book.