When Grok Went to Egypt with The Secret of the Sacred Scarab
For readers who only recentlydiscovered that I also write Regency romance as Arabella Sheraton, Grok’senthusiastic review of my latest novel, To Murder a Marquis, led me toask Grok (xAI’s AI)to embark on an adventure in Egypt with the heroes of my first middle-grade book,The Secret of the Sacred Scarab. Grok graciously agreed to plunge intothe whirlpool of death-defying feats, alarming danger, and intriguing mysteriesin this rollicking tale. I was very interested to discover an AI perspective ofthis adventure. Based on a real trip to Egypt with my mother and my two young nephews,this multi award-winning book is a unique blend of facts, fiction, and wonderfulfun. Who would say no to the trip of a lifetime, especially when there’s lotsof exciting action and a great mystery to solve? Oh, did I forget to mentionthat it involves saving the world as well?
Grok says: “The Secretof the Sacred Scarab, the first book in Fiona Ingram’s Chronicles of theStone series, is a thrilling middle-grade adventure that whisks young readersinto a world of ancient mysteries, daring quests, and heart-pounding action.Set against the vibrant backdrop of Egypt, this multi award-winning novelfollows cousins Adam and Justin as they embark on a life-changing journey withtheir journalist aunt. What begins as a family trip spirals into a high-stakesquest when the boys stumble upon a sacred scarab artifact, unlocking acenturies-old secret tied to ancient Egypt’s pharaohs and a powerful, mysticalstone.
Ingram’s storytelling is amasterclass in blending education with entertainment. The Egyptiansetting—alive with bustling souks, ancient tombs, and the loomingpyramids—feels like a character itself, meticulously researched and vividlydescribed. Young readers will be captivated by the historical details wovenseamlessly into the narrative, from hieroglyphs to mummified mysteries, makingarchaeology feel as thrilling as a treasure hunt. Adam and Justin are relatableheroes: their sibling-like banter, courage, and occasional missteps ground thestory, while their determination to unravel the scarab’s secret propels theplot forward at a breathless pace.
The novel’s strength liesin its unique fusion of genres. It’s a mystery that keeps you guessing, anadventure packed with perilous chases and narrow escapes, and a historical talethat brings ancient Egypt to life. The quest involving the sacred scarabintroduces a touch of mysticism, hinting at the larger Chronicles of theStone saga to come, which will delight fans of series like Percy Jacksonor The 39 Clues. Ingram’s ability to craft a story that’s bothaction-packed and intellectually stimulating sets it apart in the middle-grademarket—no small feat, as the author herself notes its originality. If there’s aquibble, it’s that the pacing occasionally slows to unpack historical details,which might test the patience of action-hungry young readers. However, this is aminor hiccup in an otherwise exhilarating tale. The book’s multiple awards arewell-deserved, reflecting its appeal to both young readers and adults who lovea good adventure.
TheSecret of the Sacred Scarab is a must-read for middle-gradefans craving a fresh, immersive story. It’s perfect for kids who dream ofexploring ancient ruins or solving mysteries, and parents will appreciate itseducational value. Fiona Ingram has created an unforgettable start to apromising series—here’s hoping more readers discover this hidden treasure! Grabyour explorer’s hat and join Adam and Justin in Egypt—you won’t want to leave.”
My response: I wasinitially unsure of how an AI would respond to this kind of story, but Grok waskeen to ‘pack for the pyramids.’ Given the allure of Egypt’s ancient historyand monuments, legends, mythology, and secrets, who could resist? Is this whyan AI loves the book’s mix of action, brains, and heart? As an author, I wasalso pleased to read what others would perhaps perceive as a negative commentabout the book’s pacing. It tells me that an AI review is not just a programmindlessly churning out positive platitudes. Being the first book in a planned7-book series, it was necessary to lay a lot of groundwork for the followingadventures.
Should one ask an AI toreview one’s book? I think so. AI is impartial. It will show potential readersthe flawed as well as the fabulous parts and help them decide whether to buyyour book or not. After my blog post featuring Grok’s review of To Marry aMarquis, within 4 days the post received over 1600 impressions and over 240engagements. I am now convinced that Grok would love to meet King Arthur inBook 2 (The Search for the Stone of Excalibur) and travel to Mexico and discoverthe ancient Maya in Book 3 (The Temple of the Crystal Timekeeper). Watchthis space!
