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The Forgotten Pharaoh
Some secrets are meant to be buried.
Julie Gerber isn't thrilled to be pulled out of school her senior year to follow her parents halfway around the world to unearth a lost pyramid. However, when the cute British guy and the mysterious financier of their project both fight for her attention, things start to get interesting.
The pharaoh known as Djedefre was cursed for the murder of his eldest brother. The work of the archaeologists brings new secrets to light, ones that prove the fallen god-king wasn't the villain history had painted him to be. Can they prove his innocence?
As the team digs deeper into the mystery, members of the party vanish or end up dead. Someone is determined to keep the truth hidden at all costs, even 4,500 years later.
Julie Gerber isn't thrilled to be pulled out of school her senior year to follow her parents halfway around the world to unearth a lost pyramid. However, when the cute British guy and the mysterious financier of their project both fight for her attention, things start to get interesting.
The pharaoh known as Djedefre was cursed for the murder of his eldest brother. The work of the archaeologists brings new secrets to light, ones that prove the fallen god-king wasn't the villain history had painted him to be. Can they prove his innocence?
As the team digs deeper into the mystery, members of the party vanish or end up dead. Someone is determined to keep the truth hidden at all costs, even 4,500 years later.
- GenresMystery
322 pages, Paperback
First published March 25, 2014
5 people are currently reading
698 people want to read
About the author
Laura DeLuca
45 books2,702 followersLaura “Luna” DeLuca lives at the beautiful Jersey shore with her four children and multiple cats. Her works include romantic thrillers, paranormal fiction, contemporary romance, and young adult. Visit her website at www.authorlauradeluca.blogspot.com for more information.
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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
May 5, 2014
The Forgotten Pharaoh was one of the BEST reads from Author Laura Deluca!! I appreciate the care and the research that she no doubtfully put into crafting this novel! I was drawn into the story of Julia, Flynn and Omar…my first thought was hmmm…”love triangle?”; or will the Djedefre make an appearance and sweep Julia off her feet?!
But first, I will say I loved the story which followed teen and reluctant student Eygptologist, Julie Gerber, who follows her parents on a research trip to the burial site of a long-ago Pharaoh. Julie was not keen on losing a portion of her senior year to make this trip, but things begin to look up when meeting Flynn the son of one of the other researchers and Omar the young man who funded the expedition. The entire reason for the trip was to find out the truth regarding the Pharaoh Djedefre who many said was a monster and it had been reported he was cursed by his own people for acts of murder. But there were some doubts to the validity of this historical legend, and so the group of researchers joined by several others launch out to discover the truth.
The Forgotten Pharaoh was beautifully written as the other titles by this Author. The painstaking detail to historical details laced through the story in a way that added to the telling instead of offering a distraction. Once I began reading the book, I was unable to place it down. Every since reading Ms. Deluca’s Dark Musicals Trilogy, I have been a fan! I became enthralled then… at how this author can take…historical legends, classic operas etc and make them into cool, hip interesting and fun stories for today’s Teen, Young Adults and Adults! Here is another example of her talent, and I will say, Ms. Deluca corners the market on this wonderful niche… that lies between educating the reader and entertaining the reader! Whether it’s small facts regarding ancient Egypt or introducing a new generation to classics such as The Phantom of The Opera or explaining more regarding the fascinating world of Wicca…she does so in a very subtle manner which is completely entertaining!
The Forgotten Pharaoh was more than simply a story regarding ancient Egyptian lore, but there were so many twists and turns, and also a play off the paranormal which I WAS NOT EXPECTING AT ALL! LOL I loved it!
The story was full of sensuality in some places, action, thrills, murder, suspense and a mystery that keeps you guessing…which all culminates into a wholly shocking ending that at once satisfied and mystified me in thinking as a reader….“How did Ms. Deluca pull that off?!”:O)
Loved it! Recommend for those interested in Paranormal, Mystery/Suspense Adventures
But first, I will say I loved the story which followed teen and reluctant student Eygptologist, Julie Gerber, who follows her parents on a research trip to the burial site of a long-ago Pharaoh. Julie was not keen on losing a portion of her senior year to make this trip, but things begin to look up when meeting Flynn the son of one of the other researchers and Omar the young man who funded the expedition. The entire reason for the trip was to find out the truth regarding the Pharaoh Djedefre who many said was a monster and it had been reported he was cursed by his own people for acts of murder. But there were some doubts to the validity of this historical legend, and so the group of researchers joined by several others launch out to discover the truth.
The Forgotten Pharaoh was beautifully written as the other titles by this Author. The painstaking detail to historical details laced through the story in a way that added to the telling instead of offering a distraction. Once I began reading the book, I was unable to place it down. Every since reading Ms. Deluca’s Dark Musicals Trilogy, I have been a fan! I became enthralled then… at how this author can take…historical legends, classic operas etc and make them into cool, hip interesting and fun stories for today’s Teen, Young Adults and Adults! Here is another example of her talent, and I will say, Ms. Deluca corners the market on this wonderful niche… that lies between educating the reader and entertaining the reader! Whether it’s small facts regarding ancient Egypt or introducing a new generation to classics such as The Phantom of The Opera or explaining more regarding the fascinating world of Wicca…she does so in a very subtle manner which is completely entertaining!
The Forgotten Pharaoh was more than simply a story regarding ancient Egyptian lore, but there were so many twists and turns, and also a play off the paranormal which I WAS NOT EXPECTING AT ALL! LOL I loved it!
The story was full of sensuality in some places, action, thrills, murder, suspense and a mystery that keeps you guessing…which all culminates into a wholly shocking ending that at once satisfied and mystified me in thinking as a reader….“How did Ms. Deluca pull that off?!”:O)
Loved it! Recommend for those interested in Paranormal, Mystery/Suspense Adventures
April 29, 2014
Flawlessly blends ancient Egyptian history and mythology with riveting paranormal YA fiction
After reading this book, I’m so glad I was given the opportunity to review it! I love YA fiction (when it’s well written), and I love paranormal fiction (again, when it’s well written), so this YA paranormal thriller (which is, in fact, very well written) was a win all the way around for me. I’d heard of Laura DeLuca’s other books before (she seems to be quite prolific!), but this is the first (thought definitely not the last) that I’ve read by her.
Julie Gerber’s Egyptologist parents are out so solve an ancient mystery, and have brought their reluctant, willful teenage daughter along with them to Egypt (since no one else is willing to care for her after her past behavior). Julie feels a strong romantic connection to both the English teenager Flynn, the son of her parents’ colleague, and to rich American college student Omar, he of the Egyptian heritage and vast fortune that’s funding the entire project. The romantic tension between the two young men (and within Julie herself) adds another layer to the story.
Laura DeLuca paints an entrancing picture of modern-day Egypt in the midst of the strange goings-on in her novel. As an added bonus, this work of fiction has history and archaeology and Egyptian mythology, all topics I have an interest in. (Thanks, Indiana Jones! No melting Nazis here, though there’s plenty of other creepy stuff). Ms. DeLuca obviously did her research on Egyptian history and the story of the forgotten Pharaoh Djedefre.
The author did a great job at creating a character that teens will be able to identify with – Julie is, overall, a good person, but she’s rebellious and has some definite character flaws. As a fan of history and archaeology (and the mother of a disinterested teenager myself), I did find myself wanting to smack her a few times as she grumbled about having to dig for artifacts or stifled her yawns while listening to the sponsor of the archaeological dig share Egyptian history with her.
Highly recommended for fans of the genre!
*I received a complimentary ecopy of this book for review purposes; all opinions remain my own.
After reading this book, I’m so glad I was given the opportunity to review it! I love YA fiction (when it’s well written), and I love paranormal fiction (again, when it’s well written), so this YA paranormal thriller (which is, in fact, very well written) was a win all the way around for me. I’d heard of Laura DeLuca’s other books before (she seems to be quite prolific!), but this is the first (thought definitely not the last) that I’ve read by her.
Julie Gerber’s Egyptologist parents are out so solve an ancient mystery, and have brought their reluctant, willful teenage daughter along with them to Egypt (since no one else is willing to care for her after her past behavior). Julie feels a strong romantic connection to both the English teenager Flynn, the son of her parents’ colleague, and to rich American college student Omar, he of the Egyptian heritage and vast fortune that’s funding the entire project. The romantic tension between the two young men (and within Julie herself) adds another layer to the story.
Laura DeLuca paints an entrancing picture of modern-day Egypt in the midst of the strange goings-on in her novel. As an added bonus, this work of fiction has history and archaeology and Egyptian mythology, all topics I have an interest in. (Thanks, Indiana Jones! No melting Nazis here, though there’s plenty of other creepy stuff). Ms. DeLuca obviously did her research on Egyptian history and the story of the forgotten Pharaoh Djedefre.
The author did a great job at creating a character that teens will be able to identify with – Julie is, overall, a good person, but she’s rebellious and has some definite character flaws. As a fan of history and archaeology (and the mother of a disinterested teenager myself), I did find myself wanting to smack her a few times as she grumbled about having to dig for artifacts or stifled her yawns while listening to the sponsor of the archaeological dig share Egyptian history with her.
Highly recommended for fans of the genre!
*I received a complimentary ecopy of this book for review purposes; all opinions remain my own.
July 26, 2014
Another great addition to Laura DeLuca's work. The Forgotten Pharaoh has mystery, adventure, romance and excitement that made is a touching, fun and entertaining read for readers of all ages that are fans of the genre.
Julie is stuck going on a boring dig with her parents when she's much rather be with her friends, having fun and getting into trouble like she always tends to do. But NO!
She has to go to the desert and play in the sand with...AH!
There's not only one, but two handsome boys that'll be digging right along with her. Things just might be starting to look up a bit, or are they?...
I've read quite a few of this authors work and have enjoyed each one of them. I especially love the way she spins in little magical surprises :)
Julie is stuck going on a boring dig with her parents when she's much rather be with her friends, having fun and getting into trouble like she always tends to do. But NO!
She has to go to the desert and play in the sand with...AH!
There's not only one, but two handsome boys that'll be digging right along with her. Things just might be starting to look up a bit, or are they?...
I've read quite a few of this authors work and have enjoyed each one of them. I especially love the way she spins in little magical surprises :)
March 27, 2014
Poking around where you're not supposed too? Curses, and death at every turn? You've come to the right book! Have a seat and let Laura take you to forgotten lands, and forbidden truths. You really will get pulled into this book and get tricked and duped like the characters in the book do! Time will fly and you'll forget where you are! She does such great research to make you feel like you've entered ancient Egypt and are truly standing there with the Pharaoh's of old. I was enthralled by her cunning and wit. I was aggravated that I couldn't figure out the end until I was literally there. I am always happy with Laura's books, as they're easy to read, and the characters are so life like and real. Sometimes it's hard to separate reality from fiction!
July 27, 2016
What would you do if you were in the middle of something that was meant to stay buried forever? This book is full of twists, turns and adventure. I enjoyed how easily the past and present were merged in this story and how easily I fell in love with the characters. Just when I thought that I would take a break and read more later, I was sucked right back in and ended up reading this in one sitting. This is definitely a book worth reading!
April 30, 2014
This book is a great YA Paranormal read. I really enjoyed the different spin on Vampires and how they came to be. The whole story line is good and solid and brings you into the setting. I love this book and hope there will be a follow up too!
March 26, 2014
One of my favorite books Laura DeLuca has written.
September 30, 2014
I absolutely love Laura Deluca! Okay, now that’s out of the way, I can talk about one of the best reads I have had the chance to review this year. I have read quite a few books, and I have to say that this one takes a space in one of my top 10. The author did plenty of research for this novel. You can tell with all of the detail that went into it as you read along that you are not reading made up details. I appreciate the author for this because it just makes the realism of the story that much better. The characters of Julia, Flynn and Omar had me entranced from the beginning thinking about how their relationships were going to mesh together. I am sure that they will have you just as intrigued and wondering. This story is all about an Egyptologist named Julie Gerber. She goes with her parents on a trip to visit the burial site of a Pharaoh.
Of course, like any other teenager, Julie did not want to miss out on things from her senior year because of having to go on this trip, but when she meets Flynn and Omar, things change. Flynn is the son of one of the researchers and Omar is the one that put the funds behind the search in the first place. The Pharaoh that they go to research was stated to be a monster and had been cursed by his own people because he had committed murder. Oh boy! Mystery is something that gets my heart jumping and my skin tingling. This book struck all the right nerves with that. Laura Deluca has my heart with all of her novels that I have read and The Forgotten Pharaoh is no different. The story lines that she puts together based on events, but are interesting at the same time, just have me stunned. She has got something for everyone whether you be a teen, young adult or adult. Everything she writes is nothing short of amazing. She takes a simple tale and turns it into something that is so enjoyable you can not put the book down. The ending of this particular novel took me by surprise and I was glad that it did. Bravo! Looking forward to the next one I get the chance to read my Laura Deluca.
Disclosure: I was given this book in exchange for my open and honest review. All thoughts are my own.
Of course, like any other teenager, Julie did not want to miss out on things from her senior year because of having to go on this trip, but when she meets Flynn and Omar, things change. Flynn is the son of one of the researchers and Omar is the one that put the funds behind the search in the first place. The Pharaoh that they go to research was stated to be a monster and had been cursed by his own people because he had committed murder. Oh boy! Mystery is something that gets my heart jumping and my skin tingling. This book struck all the right nerves with that. Laura Deluca has my heart with all of her novels that I have read and The Forgotten Pharaoh is no different. The story lines that she puts together based on events, but are interesting at the same time, just have me stunned. She has got something for everyone whether you be a teen, young adult or adult. Everything she writes is nothing short of amazing. She takes a simple tale and turns it into something that is so enjoyable you can not put the book down. The ending of this particular novel took me by surprise and I was glad that it did. Bravo! Looking forward to the next one I get the chance to read my Laura Deluca.
Disclosure: I was given this book in exchange for my open and honest review. All thoughts are my own.
December 11, 2015
This was a book I was waiting to read after my wife endorsed it, and it didn’t disappoint.
As a huge ancient history and mystery fan, so this was right up my alley. This is going to sound truly nerdy, but my favorite scenes were the ones in ancient Egypt. If there’s a complaint I have is that there weren’t more of those, but that’s strictly my opinion and they perfectly augment the modern day story following Julie and her group.
I have to admit, Julie annoyed me at times, but not in a bad way. She reminded me of what I was like as a teenager. The underlying story, and reason she was in Egypt, was because she made the mistake of going too far when trying to impress some friends. It’s something we’ve all dealt with at some point, and added a layer of depth to her character that transcends time.
I thought the author did a phenomenal job tying everything and everyone together at the end. The idea that we remain with our loved ones through the centuries in one form or another is comforting to a degree. I’d go into greater detail, but I’d get into spoilers.
The story was well written and easy to get into. I really enjoyed the mystery of the curse as people near the expedition started turning up dead. It added an element that I wasn’t expecting and thoroughly enjoyed it. I wouldn’t have minded to see it drawn out a little more, but since it was a sub plot, I didn’t mind at all.
Overall, this was a fun ride, and I’m looking forward to continuing to read more books by the author.
As a huge ancient history and mystery fan, so this was right up my alley. This is going to sound truly nerdy, but my favorite scenes were the ones in ancient Egypt. If there’s a complaint I have is that there weren’t more of those, but that’s strictly my opinion and they perfectly augment the modern day story following Julie and her group.
I have to admit, Julie annoyed me at times, but not in a bad way. She reminded me of what I was like as a teenager. The underlying story, and reason she was in Egypt, was because she made the mistake of going too far when trying to impress some friends. It’s something we’ve all dealt with at some point, and added a layer of depth to her character that transcends time.
I thought the author did a phenomenal job tying everything and everyone together at the end. The idea that we remain with our loved ones through the centuries in one form or another is comforting to a degree. I’d go into greater detail, but I’d get into spoilers.
The story was well written and easy to get into. I really enjoyed the mystery of the curse as people near the expedition started turning up dead. It added an element that I wasn’t expecting and thoroughly enjoyed it. I wouldn’t have minded to see it drawn out a little more, but since it was a sub plot, I didn’t mind at all.
Overall, this was a fun ride, and I’m looking forward to continuing to read more books by the author.
September 24, 2014
I received a free copy of this novel in exchange for my honest review.
When sneaking out and drinking finally gets Julie into trouble, she's forced to join her Archaeologist parents on their trip to Giza. What she thought would be boring months away from her friends and school turns interesting when she meets Flynn, the only boy her age at the dig site. At first she doesn't give him a second thought until he begins to speak, who would reject a semi attractive guy with a sexy British accent? That is, until she meets the tall, dark, and handsome young benefactor that hired her parents, Omar, their attraction to each other is instant. Things begin to get interesting as Julie is torn between the two boys. But her happiness is short lived when they find a dead jackal far from civilization and in their pyramid. Now the locals working on the site fear being cursed, which everyone else brushes off as silly superstition. That very night a body is found completely drained of blood. Is this the curse that has befallen them?
I love books that take you back in time. This book certainly does that and more. I am instantly taken back to ancient Exgypt as it toggles between the past and current day while they uncover the truth about Dejedfre. I loved Julie's strength and courage throughout the story; personally I'd have had a meltdown. This novel had nonstop action and a mystery that keeps you guessing. Once again Laura DeLuca has created a very imaginative and creative paranormal romance.
When sneaking out and drinking finally gets Julie into trouble, she's forced to join her Archaeologist parents on their trip to Giza. What she thought would be boring months away from her friends and school turns interesting when she meets Flynn, the only boy her age at the dig site. At first she doesn't give him a second thought until he begins to speak, who would reject a semi attractive guy with a sexy British accent? That is, until she meets the tall, dark, and handsome young benefactor that hired her parents, Omar, their attraction to each other is instant. Things begin to get interesting as Julie is torn between the two boys. But her happiness is short lived when they find a dead jackal far from civilization and in their pyramid. Now the locals working on the site fear being cursed, which everyone else brushes off as silly superstition. That very night a body is found completely drained of blood. Is this the curse that has befallen them?
I love books that take you back in time. This book certainly does that and more. I am instantly taken back to ancient Exgypt as it toggles between the past and current day while they uncover the truth about Dejedfre. I loved Julie's strength and courage throughout the story; personally I'd have had a meltdown. This novel had nonstop action and a mystery that keeps you guessing. Once again Laura DeLuca has created a very imaginative and creative paranormal romance.
January 18, 2016
It's no secret that I am a fan of Laura's "Dark Musicals" books, but I hadn't had the chance to read anything else by her until now. I decided to check this out and loved it! Since I like ancient history and Egpyt, one of my favorite aspects of this book was that it was based on a real Pharoah.
The book centers around a group of Egyptologists' quest to find out what really happened to what became known as "The Forgotten Pharoah". If they are successful, they will be featured on a major TV series. The crew, including the Gerber's teenage daughter, Julie, work long days to piece together the evidence in time to have something worth filming.
Throughout the book, DeLuca maintains the tension while building fun and interesting characters that you can't he;p by want to see succeed. While Julie has a bit of an attitude in the beginning, I like how she and her relationships with the other characters develop throughout the story and hope there will be another book set in this world.
I don't want to say too much more for fear of spoilers, but I definitely recommend this book to anyone who likes YA and history-based fiction.
The book centers around a group of Egyptologists' quest to find out what really happened to what became known as "The Forgotten Pharoah". If they are successful, they will be featured on a major TV series. The crew, including the Gerber's teenage daughter, Julie, work long days to piece together the evidence in time to have something worth filming.
Throughout the book, DeLuca maintains the tension while building fun and interesting characters that you can't he;p by want to see succeed. While Julie has a bit of an attitude in the beginning, I like how she and her relationships with the other characters develop throughout the story and hope there will be another book set in this world.
I don't want to say too much more for fear of spoilers, but I definitely recommend this book to anyone who likes YA and history-based fiction.
June 20, 2014
As I began to read the book, I wondered how this was a paranormal romance. But chapter after chapter kept me riveted to my kindle. This author gifted copy was a pleasant surprise. Unsure of what to expect, I began reading about Julie and her family as they traveled to Egypt, and became entranced. The character development was such that the reader is able to identify with one or more of the members of the story, and her description of Egypt, then and now made me feel as if I were there. Wow. I'm not sure how else to proceed with this review without giving away spoilers, other than to say that each plot twist was amazing. The paranormal explanations left me bouncing in my seat, and just when you thought you knew what was going to happen next, BAM. She added another twist. New, refreshing and totally addictive. I would LOVE to read more from Laura DeLuca, and have already recommended the book to others. Though this is a gifted copy for the purposes of reviewing, I never thought I would love it as much as I have. A must read!
October 3, 2014
The Forgotten Pharaoh was a book full of surprising twists and turns that reminded me of an Indiana Jones like adventure. There was so much mystery as the story jumps from Djedefre's past and Julie's present. I loved the shifts and how it all fit together like the perfect puzzle by the end.
The characters, both present and past, are interesting and in depth. Julie has bratty moments, but they fit her perfectly and she definitely grows as a person in the book. Both the guys in her life are amazing and at times unexpected characters. I loved each shocking revelation that they discovered through the book.
The Forgotten Pharaoh is an amazing book. Once I started reading I was sucked into the mystery. I loved all the Egyptian history and architecture throughout the story. If you are a lover of adventure, mystery, or history, I'd suggest this book. It will keep you on the edge of your seat as they struggle to solve a mystery that could change everything.
I received an e-copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. All thoughts and opinions are 100% my own.
The characters, both present and past, are interesting and in depth. Julie has bratty moments, but they fit her perfectly and she definitely grows as a person in the book. Both the guys in her life are amazing and at times unexpected characters. I loved each shocking revelation that they discovered through the book.
The Forgotten Pharaoh is an amazing book. Once I started reading I was sucked into the mystery. I loved all the Egyptian history and architecture throughout the story. If you are a lover of adventure, mystery, or history, I'd suggest this book. It will keep you on the edge of your seat as they struggle to solve a mystery that could change everything.
I received an e-copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. All thoughts and opinions are 100% my own.
September 14, 2016
I had no idea what I was getting into when I purchased this book. I've read all of Laura's books and I enjoyed each one. This book was a personal favorite. I enjoyed so many aspects of the story. Laura created a clever plot and a great cast of characters. She added in carefully guarded secrets, vampires and ancient history- a great recipe for a great book! The characters were like a group of friends, and I was given the pleasure of knowing each one. Laura has a knack for making her characters feel like old friends by the time you finish any of her books. And she keeps getting better and better. Laura added thoughtful twists throughout and left me guessing until the end. Then she wrapped it all up in a pretty package so I wasn't left hanging. If you like archaeology, vampires, romance, ancient history, mummies, or books with a twist, you will not be disappointed. If you don't like any of these things, you may when you finish! I loved it so much I bought my mom a kindle version and a paperback.
September 10, 2014
Overall Rating **** ½ Stars
I really liked this book! I didn’t think I would enjoy it as much as I did. Laura did a wonderful job writing this book, and the details she puts into the story was done brilliantly.
Julie is the main character in this book. She was witty and great! She is with her parents on a dig with her family. She rather be doing fun things. There are some wonderful twist and turns, and moments that are just WOW!!! Julie finds herself on an adventure of a lifetime! This book is a great YA paranormal book and I do recommend this book. This is the firs book I’ve read from this wonderful author and I plan on reading more.
This book will not disappoint!
September 6, 2014
This book is full of detail and ancient Egyptian history but honestly I was a little bit bored in the beginning. It did get better. The writing is good. The pacing was slow for the first five chapters. I didn't really find Julie to be a character that I bonded with quickly or cared too much about. The mystery around the pyramid was interesting. A pharaoh was wrongfully accused of murdering his brother and he is cursed because of it. I like vampire stories so I was intrigued by that plot twist. 3.5 stars
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews