Many of the historical novels that I have read recently have employed a dual timeline with two protagonists as a structure for the narrative. In this novel, both timelines are told through the eyes of Evelyn Herbert, daughter of the Earl of Carnarvon and wife of Borogard Beauchamp.
Eve’s father helped to underwrite the work of Howard Carter in Egypt. As many know, Carter “discovered” the tomb of Tutankhamun with its many riches and historical artifacts. Eve was there when this significant event took place.
The story moves back and forth in time. In the present, it is the 1970s and Eve has suffered a number of strokes. Full credit to Ms. Paul for her sensitivity and ability to make readers feel the difficult impact that these had on Eve.
In the past, Eve grows up, is a debutante, meets Borograve and follows her interest in archaeology and lives her life. She has friends, children and a world around her.
The two narratives converge when Ana wants to interview Eve. She is tasked with understanding the events at the time that the tomb was found. Eve knows something important and will have to decide whether to reveal this.
I very much enjoyed this novel. It is leisurely paced, has well developed characters and lets readers witness a significant discovery. Readers will feel the heat of the sun and visualize the landscape of Egypt.
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this absorbing historical novel. All opinions are my own.
