Dead Egyptians

by Del Blackwater

"Dead Egyptians takes the reader on a vast, rollicking ride through history, reincarnation, romance and more... " –Susan Martell Huebner, author She Thought the Door Was Locked

In Egypt, all things are possible. So discovers Albion Stanley, a recent Cambridge graduate and brilliant linguist, newly arrived in Cairo in 1902. Albion sees the unseen, including ghosts. It is a less than comfortable reality, which he tends to with copious amounts of whiskey and numerous other vices.

Also in Cairo is Aleister Crowley, the famed occultist. Aleister is a dangerous man, but not an unsympathetic one and never a dull one. Together, they discover the world of dead Egyptians, some of whom are older than the pyramids.

Dead Egyptians have a lot to say. They are deeply unsatisfied with the state of modern Egypt, yet, for all their wisdom and power, they have limitations. As a Seer, Albion proves indispensable to both Crowley and the dead Egyptians.

Dead Egyptians transports the reader into a glittering turn of the century Cairo, while also addressing the atrocities of colonialism. It is hedonistic, while also exploring the complex world of Ancient Egyptian religious thought. It is historically accurate down to the fabrics, while remaining fantastical at its core.

Genres: Historical Fiction, Fantasy, Paranormal, Romance, Historical

337 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 8, 2024

About the author

Del Blackwater is a novelist and travel writer based in Wisconsin. Her life vacillates wildly between a quiet existence in the country and a feverish, risk-centric existence when on the road. Her travels have taken her to four continents and she makes questionable decisions in all of them. While Egypt is inevitably the high-water mark of both her travels and her writing, she tries to spend time in other places as well. Del is published many times over as a board game and tarot deck designer, notably as the creator of Playlist Wars, a music game. When not keeping busy, she unwinds by taking care of a menagerie of critters and enjoying something she calls porch time.

Reviews

[Luka · Rating 5 out of 5]

One thing is for sure, the author has extensive knowledge on Egyptian legends and lore, and knows how to pack it well so that you will notice it, if you look for it. Having just finished a seminar on Egyptian Religion, it was a real joy to find and understand some of the hidden easter eggs in this book. It is also not really info dumping the parts that you do need to understand about the culture and belief. It made me appreciate the book even more.
Also, the book has a very strong start, I was hooked after page one.
That is something I personally find frustrating very often in (historical) romance books these days, but this one ticked off the boxes.
The romance part was well structured imo and I love stories of fated lovers and reincarnation, even more if the setting isn't your typical high fantasy world but actually more rooted in our world. The mystery aspects of the adventure could have been explored more compared to that (I thought it would be, based on the summary blurb), but for me the strong focus on the romance and personal relationship between the characters was a nice surprise.
If there is a second book. I will keep my eyes and ears open for a sequel for sure.

A big thank you to Netgalley, Black Rose Writing and Del Blackwater for providing me with an eARC in exchange for an honest review! All views are my own.

[Mark Lucas-Taylor · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dead Egyptians

A fascinating and complex story.
A love story, an adventure and a journey of the soul.
Written with such depth of detail that many times I paused reading to look up further information about people, places and events. All of which enhanced the story.

[E.H.]

I'm still trying to figure out how to talk about this one. It's a fascinating character study of an Edwardian man who moves to Egypt and discovers that his life is far deeper than he ever suspected. It's a deeply drawn character study not just of Albion but of Egypt itself that weaves together real history and historical figures with mysticism and imagined events. Perhaps because it's the first in a series, I was left with a few questions about the ending--hopefully we'll see that change in the next book. Also, trigger warning for a sexual assault that occurs at about the 75% mark.

[Abhay Singh · Rating 5 out of 5]

⚫️Dead Egyptians by Del Blackwater is a mesmerizing historical fantasy that immerses the reader in the glittering and dangerous world of turn-of-the-century Cairo. From the very first page, Blackwater crafts a story that combines rich historical detail with supernatural intrigue, making it an unforgettable read.

⚫️The novel centers around Albion Stanley, a brilliant linguist and recent Cambridge graduate, who arrives in Cairo in 1902 and quickly discovers a world far more mysterious and often terrifying than he ever anticipated. Gifted with the ability to see ghosts, Albion is thrust into the realm of the dead Egyptians, spirits of ancient souls who are older than the pyramids themselves. This supernatural gift is both a blessing and a curse, and Albion navigates it with a mix of wit, skepticism, and a reliance on alcohol and vice.

⚫️Enter Aleister Crowley, the infamous occultist, a man whose dark charisma and dangerous pursuits complement Albion’s intellectual curiosity. Together, they delve into the mysteries of the dead Egyptians, whose voices echo the ancient wisdom of their civilization, while also voicing their deep dissatisfaction with the modern world, particularly the scourge of colonialism. Blackwater brings both Crowley’s complicated character and the complex, multi-layered concept of ancient Egyptian spirituality to life in a way that is both engaging and thought-provoking.

⚫️What truly sets Dead Egyptians apart is its seamless blend of historical accuracy and fantastical elements. Blackwater’s attention to detail in the setting of Cairo in the early 20th century is remarkable—whether describing the bustling streets, the opulence of the elite, or the darker corners of the city, every scene feels vividly real. At the same time, the supernatural elements, from the voices of the dead Egyptians to Albion’s encounters with the spectral world, feel rooted in the rich lore of Egypt’s ancient past. This balance between history and fantasy is executed beautifully, creating an immersive experience that captivates from start to finish.

⚫️The novel also offers a nuanced exploration of colonialism and its impact on Egypt, showing the tension between ancient grandeur and modern exploitation. The dead Egyptians, with their unfulfilled desires and longing for a return to their former glory, are symbolic of a much larger cultural and historical struggle, making the book more than just a ghost story it becomes a meditation on history, power, and the legacies we leave behind.

⚫️Dead Egyptians is a thrilling, darkly atmospheric read that blends history, mysticism, and adventure in a way that few novels manage. Blackwater’s writing is sharp, his characters compelling, and the world he creates one you’ll want to lose yourself in. For fans of historical fiction with a supernatural twist, this is a must-read.



Happy reading ❤️✨

[Dale Morgan]

“Mystery, fantasy and intrigue abound in this incredible first novel. Dead Egyptians is a portal from a richly developed Edwardian Egypt to an ancient land of the supernatural.”

-Dale A. Morgan
Author: "String Too Short to Tie"

[Ross Hightower · Rating 5 out of 5]

Full of the heat, magic and mystery of ancient Egypt, Dead Egyptians is a tale for the ages.

[Misty]

*DNF*
(39%)

[Nikita Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

Dead Egyptians is a fascinating blend of history, fantasy, and adventure set in 1902 Cairo. Albion Stanley, a Cambridge graduate with a knack for seeing ghosts, navigates a world filled with the supernatural and the eccentric. Teaming up with the enigmatic occultist Aleister Crowley, Albion uncovers the secrets of ancient spirits who are discontent with the modern world. The book’s vibrant storytelling captures the essence of colonial Egypt while weaving in thrilling elements of mysticism. 📜✨

The narrative dives deep into the hedonistic charm of the era, vividly depicting Cairo’s bustling streets and ancient ruins. The interplay between historical accuracy and fantastical imagination is captivating. Albion’s struggles with his unique gift and Crowley’s mysterious allure keep readers engrossed, while the dead Egyptians bring a haunting wisdom that feels both surreal and grounded. 🏺🌌

Author creates a world where romance, reincarnation, and the weight of colonialism collide. Dead Egyptians offers a glittering yet thought-provoking journey through time, capturing the essence of Egypt’s ancient and modern tensions. 🕌🕯

🌈A must-read for fans of historical fiction with a mystical twist.🌈

[Janis Hill · Rating 2 out of 5]

Sadly, I really couldn't get into this book... in fact I am 72% of the way through it and just can't see myself finishing it.

I love the location, era, history... but am finding it far more a romance fantasy than the supernatural fantasy I was hoping for. I'm not saying that makes it a bad book... just not the book for me.

There is a clear understanding of Egyptian history, beliefs, and culture within this book, but from the title and blurb I was hoping for more of the haunting and ghosts, and less of the flowery prose of eternal love and devotion.

I rarely enjoy a soppy romance, and this book steered too close to that for me to want to see how it ends.

My apologies, I am clearly the wrong reader for this book.

[Cam Torrens · Rating 5 out of 5]

Del Blackwater whisks readers into the mysterious world of 1902 Cairo, where young Cambridge grad Albion Stanley finds himself communicating with ancient Egyptian ghosts unhappy with Egypt's role in the modern era. Influenced by an unexpected encounter with occultist Aleister Crowley, Albion navigates the supernatural and historical undercurrents of colonial Egypt. Blackwater's description of Albion's journey offers readers a rich blend of history, mysticism, and darkly adventurous sensuality. "Dead Egyptians" is atmospheric, delivering a heady mix of fantasy and historical accuracy, while touching on themes of identity, mysticism, and cultural legacy. Great writing!

[Scott E. · Rating 5 out of 5]

I listened to this on Audible and must say the narrator was born for this book -- his tone and reading fit the text perfectly. The writing is simply gorgeous -- brilliantly brings to life Egypt at the start of the twentieth century. And the author's imagination is breathtaking -- she has imagined a magical world that is so fully developed and populated by a variety of spirits and ghosts that it truly feels real. She got me to suspend my disbelief and I normally am pretty difficult on that score. The book is a story of both intrigue and romance/relationships that surprises at every bend.

[Rod · Rating 4 out of 5]

The writing is a feast for the senses. Rich, sensual, and prepared with the care of one who loves the writing craft. Attention to detail is exacting. The reader will feel the authenticity of Egyptian history and culture.

[Hal Aetus]

I met Del at a book event in Wisconsin last summer and we traded books. She told me a fascinating story about visiting Egypt including some harrowing experiences with the authorities! This, along with her dialogue with customers about Egyptian culture, demonstrated her utmost love and respect for the people and period upon which she based Dead Egpytians.

The main character, Albion, as a boy traveling with his father in 1890 Egypt, has an encounter with an ancient Egyptian spirit named Imhotep. Imhotep reveals that Albion is a Seer, a special type of person that can see many types of spirits. He begs Albion to return one day, when grown, and he would guide him further. His journey to adulthood is rough, both because of his preference for men and his inability to escape the spirits he sees all around. He knows that Egypt, and Imhotep, hold answers he needs and so some years later he returns to establish a life there working in archaeology and, most of all, to meet his destiny with the help of his mysterious mentor.

I am only a casual dabbler in Egyptian mythology, not an authority, but this book presents a believable mixture of mysticism blended with historical details. I already had a fascination with ancient Egyptian deities for their alluring combination of human and animal qualities but Del has piqued my interest further by bringing the ancients to life. She has woven a tale of people, ancient and contemporary, driven by desires, inspired by nature, yearning for the immortal, and held back by flaws. The book kept my attention throughout and left me thirsty for reading more into ancient Egyptian philosophy. While I found some of the ancient characters familiar in name, it was not until after I read the book that I realized one of the main contemporary characters, Aleister Crowley, was a real person. Del presents a fun, albeit fictional, I'm sure, explanation for how Aleister was inspired by events in 1904 into his lifelong flirtation with the occult. But I'd have to say that my favorite parts center around recollections of ancient characters of their past lives. Del has a talent for bringing those times and people back to life.

As mentioned in one of the other lesser reviews here, yes there is gay romance. The main characters are gay (Aleister being one of them, known historically for being bisexual) and they are adults so, naturally, they have adult drives including romantic inclinations. It would be unnatural not to. There are straight characters too and as a gay man myself, I was not turned off by those. Sexual episodes occur but they are not explicit and leave plenty to the imagination-- certainly safe for young adults and anyone older that isn't insecure in their own sexuality. On this topic, I was fascinated by the premise that ancient Egypt accepted homosexuality better than present, something which I would love to delve into and confirm.

If there is any downside to this book it was only that there are few points of strong character conflict. There are disagreements and a few points of danger, but conflicts are resolved relatively peacefully throughout. The prime conflict is also gradually resolved without the heated or dramatic flourish that I was somewhat expecting, yet with the realization of Crowley living another 40-odd years after the events of the book, it makes sense that it ends the way it does. That said, I was still locked in and fully invested in the story up to the end.

Solid, inspiring romance (LGBTQ+ friendly). Immersion in ancient Egyptian personalities. A taste of ancient nature-inspired philosophy. Believable characters throughout. I think it's a win!

[H.L. Buchholz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dead Egyptians wears many hats and is many things all at once. It is a coming of age/discovering who you are story, a period piece, a timeless love story, a magical power origin story and an exploration of who we can be in the infinite cycle of birth, life and death. That might sound like a lot, but it is charmingly written and a very fun exploration of interesting characters inside a magical, vivid setting that captures and rewards the imagination.

The characters are lively, even if they have passed some thousands of years prior. It would be hard not to fall in love with Albion, the main character, who is discovering his powers, his past and how he fits into the history, and future, of Egypt. The character arc is an entertaining one, with a cast of other characters who are vibrant and are happy to teach, scold and love Albion in equal measure. Ghosts, fantasy entities, friends, scoundrels and lovers are all found here, all important and not frivolous. Each has a meaningful part to play in the telling of Blackwater’s story.

The setting feels like the Egypt I grew up with in other media, themes and tropes I am familiar with, but stripped away from the stereotypical and “Hollywood”. While Hollywood typically creates embellished fantasy settings from real places that become accepted representations, the Egypt here feels well researched, traveled and real. Blackwater’s Egypt is beautiful in both its matter-of-factness and magical, mystical, storied history.

Throughout the read, it is made so very clear of the authors deep love and respect for Egypt, its history and culture. Contagiously so, I would dare to say. From the eateries, lodgings, landmarks and The Nile, it feels as adventurous as it does familiar and adored. The passion is clear and infectious.

Blackwater’s writing is easy to read and feels relatable while still being informative and confident; a feat of an accomplished writer and storyteller. From the thoughts of Albion, the story telling of the spirits he can see, or the descriptions of Egypt itself, there is a lot to take in and is easily digestible by her skillful and passionate writing. I thoroughly enjoyed the read, found myself thinking of the characters and story after finishing and really look forward to future works from Del Blackwater.

[Sav Sippy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dead Egyptians is one of those incredibly rare and special stories where the author has woven magic in the spaces between the words. I finished this novel changed, and with a clearer sense of self. Del has translated Albion's journey of self-discovery into something incredibly tangible for the reader. I think we could all benefit from standing back and viewing our own strengths for what they are: truth, and power; something capable of changing the very fabrics of our reality and the trajectory of one's life.

This powerful portion of the journey aside, Dead Egyptians truly has something for everyone. I don't typically gravitate towards period-pieces, but found myself absolutely entranced with turn-of-the-century Egypt through the sheer brilliance of descriptive language and imagery. I even looked up the Shepheard's hotel, and was really sad to see it no longer exists today. I want to go back in time and visit!

The paranormal are believable and wonderfully vivid; unnerving and horrific at times, while enigmatic and tangibly, sometimes twistedly, beautiful at others. I've always been enthralled by the occult and the afterlife, and absolutely adored the way spirits are described here.

And the romance. I am absolutely obsessed with the main couple here for the same reason I am enamored with the ineffable husbands in Good Omens. There is something so comforting and beautiful in the notion of love which transcends the human lifespan. I think we all long to be seen in this way; as a sum of all of our parts, all of our history, and everything deeper still.

I will be waiting in excitement and suspense for book two! Thank you endlessly for sharing this story, dear Author <3

[Tanya · Rating 3 out of 5]

"The veil is so thin in Egypt."
"The veil? the veil between us and [the ghosts], you mean?"
This pleased him. "The same!" Then, noting the lack of introduction, he said, "Aleister Crowley -- a pleasure to make your acquaintance. [p. 31]

Albion Stanley is a young Englishman returning to Egypt in 1902, after many years' absence and a degree at Cambridge. Since childhood, when he encountered the spirit of legendary architect and physician Imhotep, he's been surrounded by ghosts and terrified of the dead. But anybody who's drunk of the Nile will return to Egypt: and Imhotep assured him, as a child, that he would be waiting.

Meanwhile Albion finds himself caught up in the occult experiments of Aleister Crowley, the wickedest man in the world: he and Crowley have history, but Albion is less enthusiastic about their liaison now that he's in Egypt, awaiting his reunion with Imhotep. He has so much that he wants to learn -- and he's suspicious of anything that Crowley wants to teach him. In Egypt, the dead are very much present, and Albion discovers that the ancient myths of Egypt have not faded away into dust. But he has to keep his occult explorations completely separate from his work as a translator for the Antiquities Service.

Dead Egyptians is a rambling novel, first in a projected series: the ambience of Cairo and the early twentieth century -- with the glitter of fashionable society and the taint of colonialism -- is beautifully evoked. Albion's interactions with Imhotep are intriguing, and he learns of past lives in which he was ... not an Englishman. And the author has used hieroglyphic symbols as dividers, to indicate various plot themes and nuances: I was doubtful at first, but this definitely added to the reading experience.

There are quite a few typos and homonyms in the second half of the novel (for example, 'horde after horde of 12th dynasty jewellery' or 'an uncommon site in the museum') but the wealth of historical detail kept my attention, even when Albion's adventures with the eponymous 'dead Egyptians' did not.

Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for the advance review copy, in exchange for this full honest review. UK Publication Date is 24 AUG 2024.

[Patti Liszkay · Rating 5 out of 5]

“The occult is as inseparable from Egypt as the sand and the pyramids. One comes with the other.”
So observes a character from Adelle Powers’ fascinating novel, “Dead Egyptians.” Exceptionally well-written and evoking in style Norman Mailer’s “Ancient Evenings,” (one of this reader’s favorite books), “Dead Egyptians” transports the reader to – and immerses us in - Egypt, a land full of magic and the ghosts of an ancient civilization, at a time when British imperialism wantonly laid claim to the land, its people, and its archeological treasures.
The story is set in Cairo at the turn of the twentieth century. A young British linguist named Albion, who, haunted by a vision he saw as a child while visiting an archeological dig in Egypt with his father, returns to Cairo where he finds a job as a translator of ancient scrolls at the Office of Antiquities while he searches for he knows not what. Pulled into the opulent, decadent world of the British upper class in Cairo, Albion meets a young libertine named Aleister Crowley who introduces him to opium houses, illicit sexuality, and the dangerous – yet illuminating - world of the occult. While discovering secrets from centuries gone by, Albion will likewise learn the secret of his own life and that of the high priest Imhotep, the dead Egyptian who connects him to the past and the future.
If one didn’t have a love of ancient Egyptian lore before reading “Dead Egyptians,” this wonderful page-turner may well serve as the spark. Five Stars!

[Eric Hildeman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Imagine what it was like at the dawn of the 20th Century, when archaeology was relatively new, and gentleman-scholars from England, loosely ruling Egypt under a veiled protectorate, descended upon the ancient ruins with excited curiosity. This is the world in which Del Blackwater writes a remarkably well-researched historical fantasy, filled with ghosts, djinn, and ancient gods. Deftly weaving Egyptian pantheism with the reincarnation traditions of Buddhism, and the Greco-Roman concept of gods having human origin stories, Blackwater paints a vivid picture of an ancient culture overlapping a not-too distant past.

Her main character is one Albion Stanley, a Cambridge graduate and brilliant philologist who spent some time in Egypt as a boy, and was there visited by the ghost of none other than Imhotep, the famed engineer who built the Step Pyramid, and vizier to King Djoser. Now returned to Egypt as an adult, he crosses paths with the enigmatic Alisdair Crowley, the famed occultist. What develops from there is an ancient mystery, and a homoerotic adventure, that re-unites love lost across millennia, and resurrects ancient menaces long thought dead.

This book is a masterpiece of research and storytelling, one with a hopeful ending which sets itself up well for a sequel, and is, in my honest opinion, the start of an amazing literary career. Do not miss out on reading this wonderful book!

[Gin Coleman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Powerful, insightful, and mind-blowing – highly recommend

Author Del Blackwater brings a lost Egypt to life—its people, its customs, its beliefs—with such insight and care. It challenges everything I have been taught of their early civilization, and I realize how little I know…of Egypt and of people in general. It is total immersion and brilliantly told from the viewpoint of Albion Stanley, a character whose very nature is alien to me, and yet at his core, no different.

The past and the present become entwined as Albion faces the same challenges in each life, attempting to grow and learn and achieve enlightenment while staying true to himself.
It is clear Blackwater did her research, and the story is better for it. But it’s her interpretation I find intriguing. It makes me wish I could visit Egypt in the time of great discoveries and linger in the lobby of the Shepheard’s Hotel, watching British officers “still dusty from their latest desert assignments�� mingle with elegant ladies and exotic patrons. And hoping, like Albion, to see ancient Imhotep walk into the room once again.

Open this book and open your mind, and you will find not just a story of adventure and magic, but one full of hidden meanings and universal truths.

-Gin Coleman, Author and Storyteller

[Grove · Rating 5 out of 5]

Can a historian gain anything from reading fiction? They certainly can! Starting from my nonexistent knowledge of Egyptology, this proved to be a great introduction. The author weaves the lives and beliefs of real historical characters into the narrative. So much so, that I found myself checking the glossary and at times Wikipedia and online maps for more. The book passes the 'engagement test' right from the first chapter. It was hard to put down and I found myself living with the characters in both time and space.

Set in Cairo around the year 1900. A young British, future linguist, named Albion Stanley, as a child had a vision during a visit to an archaeological site in Egypt with his father. Later he returns to Cairo, getting a job translating ancient scrolls at the Office of Antiquities. Albion gets involved with the decadent British upper class in Cairo and meets Aleister Crowley, a young occultist. As Albion uncovers ancient secrets, he also discovers the truth about his own life and relationship with Imhotep, a long-dead Egyptian high priest and architect who reunites him with his past.

Historical fiction at its best. I'll be waiting for more.

[Frances-Marie Coke · Rating 5 out of 5]

With its intriguing title and its chilling encounters between our world and the world of death, Dead Egyptians raises not only hairs, but stirring questions for readers who probe beyond the characters and their “old” stories to ferret out meanings for our own times.

Del Blackwater’s amazing research, her world building, and her relatable characters, result in an entertaining and thought-provoking read, but a heavy question lurked everywhere: Do the experiences of Albion confirm that death is not what we may think, but rather a path to relentless accountability far beyond the grave to atone for all our earthly misdeeds? The author may not have intended to imply that outcome, but the fate of her main characters certainly does. Satisfaction comes from contemplating our own answers long after exiting this adventure.

A fantasy with strong historical roots, Dead Egyptians will hit readers in diverse ways, but, no doubt, it will hit everyone who takes the journey so well piloted by Blackwater.

[DL Heim · Rating 5 out of 5]

Erotic, immersive, hypnotic, Dead Egyptians by Del Blackwater unfolds like a psychic archeological dig. The protagonist Albion, called to Egypt as a young adult as a result of compelling visions he experienced there as a child, embarks on a journey of much more than self-discovery. The story careens across multiple genres, including historical fiction, paranormal fantasy, and magical realism, never fully settling firmly on any one of them. In the hands of a less capable author, this would quite frankly be disorienting, but the bones of the plot are revealed as skillfully as a sculptor chipping away at a block of marble. When the love story between Albion and his immortal “Sahu” Imhotep takes center stage, I feared the novel would devolve into romantasy, leaning on the tired trope that true love is an end unto itself. Thankfully, the theme that emerges instead is that the purpose of a life (or in this case multiple lives) is self-knowledge. I found this an intoxicating read, in more ways than one.

[Musicology · Rating 2 out of 5]

The blurb misled me into believing that I was getting a novel that emphasized on the historical fantasy aspect. In general, this book was heavy on the romance, with the historical and fantastical elements taking on supporting, surface-level roles. The story had a slow start, but a quarter of the way in it became clearer and clearer that this story is not what the blurb promised it would be.

In my opinion, the setting was simply not integrated well enough with the themes of reincarnation and star-crossed lovers, which, after reading, are what I believe the story is primarily about. It is clear that this is a well-researched novel, but I was disappointed that the author did not take the opportunity to add more facets to the historical references made in the story. I mean, this is fiction, so I felt that the author could have been bolder with their characterization of the historical figures.

In short, I would have appreciated it if the blurb had made it clear that this is largely a romance novel.

[Mary Ann Noe · Rating 5 out of 5]

Del Blackwater’s Dead Egyptians is chock full of details about Egyptian culture and customs
both ancient and new, which might make it read like a documentary. But it doesn’t. It reads like
a rich and vibrant romp through a Middle Eastern bazaar, where all sorts of objects and
adventures are available and sampled. Toggling between Albion Stanley of the early 20th centuryand Imhotep of 4000 years previous, Blackwater takes the reader on a journey scary, delicious, and fantastical, weaving the two characters together, along with fascinating tangential tales, that never bore nor overreach believability. Two facts emerge time and again: love is universal and eternal, and challenges that life offers in the present are as old as the hills…or should I say, as old as the pyramids. A fine read, both for those fascinated with Egypt and those out for a good escape into another world.

--Mary Ann Noe, Author of Deserving of Murder, and others

[Dorothy Thurston · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dead Egyptians in its entirety is fictional autobiography by a man named Albion. I truly adore Albion, and reading this book I felt I got to know him as a friend, even if he talks crap about brandy...
Dead Egyptians at its core is a love story that transcends time. And while I personally am not a fan of romantic books, I quite enjoyed the settings, the time period, the insight of a era of Egypt typically not explored in Egyptian fiction.
The writing is beautifully done, I feel as if I am actually there in the places Albion goes. However I wouldn't be honest if I didn't admit that I need more. I feel unsatisfied by many unknowns.
Perhaps a sequel would be a great place to start.

Theapatra~

PS. While I read the first half of the book from a word document, I finished it by listening to it on audible. I would also like to note that it was absolutely wonderful hearing the story told in Nick Johnson voice. It was an easy listen, and I could easily go back for more ;)

[S.M. Stevens · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dead Egyptians is a grand adventure in book form! The premise is very intriguing—a young Englishman in Egypt meets his former lover who has been dead for thousands of years and they resume their relationship, while unraveling mysteries and deceptions, dealing with evil djinn, and trying to save Egypt’s precious artifacts from being shipped out of the country.

I thoroughly enjoyed being transplanted to this new world--not only a different country, one I have not visited, but also a different time, as much of the story jumps around through the ages, delivering history in the form of a very entertaining fiction.

The fantasy aspect is deftly handled and the romance between the living and the dead heartfelt. The writing is witty and I really enjoyed the characters. I recommend this book!

[Lee Powers · Rating 5 out of 5]

An amazing reinterpretation of Egyptian myth through historical romance ala Bulgakovs Master and Margarita! I loved this book! Exquisitely drawn multidimensional characters and vivid set pieces bring to life the lived experience of expats in turn of the century Cairo and the international rush to plunder the sacred places of ancient Egypt. But then modern life is linked to ancient in ways that help answer some of Egypt's mysteries while raising the drama on Egypt's future. Like the parallel time warped stories of fated lovers in Stalinist Russia and that of Christ's crucifixion in Bulgakov's The Master and Margarita, this book parallels a timeless love affair with the rise and fall of ancient Egypt.

[Jennifer Parker · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love historical novels and though this isn't that, it gives you the same feel for Egypt and its ancient history. It sparkles with characters and a plot that make this a far cry from dry history. Blackwater portrays Albion as a male character who rejects cultural expectations as well as social roles and pursues his intuition and passion. I enjoyed the way that played out through past and future lives. It's hard to tie this book to one genre, since it has history, fantasy, intrigue. and romance. The inclusion of Egyptian hieroglyphs throughout the book (with a guide included to their meaning) enriched the reading. I would love a sequel from this author because the ending left room for it without leaving you hanging. Please?

[Elaine Stock · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a self-proclaimed fussy and eclectic reader, I don’t often find a novel that is both truly original and engaging. Dead Egyptians by Del Blackwater easily fits that description—and in a very positive way. I went into reading the story with an open mind, unsure of what I’d encounter, especially considering the intriguing title. It’s a quick read that captures the time periods and characters, offering many insights into a curious, often overlooked historical social era. It’s dark fiction, balanced with enough bright, witty elements. Although the book blurb describes the story as “hedonistic,” the novel is so well-written that I highly recommend it to fans of fantasy, paranormal, and historical fiction.

[Adam · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dead Egyptians was a delighted surprise. As an author of historical-fiction/ fantasy, it was such fun to come across another book of a similar genre, and from an author living nearby as well. The historical aspects are well researched, it feels lived in and grounded. And it makes the supernatural elements that much more lifelike and potent. Aleister Crowley is one of my all time favorite characters. The depth, flaws, and three dimensional layers of the rest of the cast makes for an engaging, fun read. The twists and turns never stop, the romance is steamy, the prose are strong without trying to do too much, and there's several more books to go. I can't wait for part two. Highly recommend.