This is rather different from the usual mystery that occurs while Amelia and Emmerson are excavating a delightful little tomb - instead, they set off across the desert of the Sudan in search of a lost nobleman (with their son Ramses in tow) and stumble across a mysterious and hidden pocket of ancient culture. They spend the book alternately being fascinated by the archeological ramifications of what they are observing, and trying to figure out how to leave against the will of their 'hosts'.

I loved it because it's the Peabody-Emmersons on yet another adventure - love the comedic bits, love the tidbits of archeology, love Amelia's narration. Also, the introduction of a new member of the family (I don't think that gives away too much) should be an interesting element in future books.