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The Cushing-Nevada Chronicles #1
Easy Nevada and the Pyramid’s Curse
Easy Nevada is a fortune hunter with an eye on a pyramid buried for two thousand years. She’ll do anything to get her hands on its untold riches, if she can just get past the deadly traps that protect them.
Candice Cushing is an archaeologist born in Sudan and raised in Britain, who is drawn toward the mysterious pyramid that she sees as a piece of her heritage.
Farouq Al-Jabbar doesn’t see it as either history or treasure. The zealot has come to destroy anything that smells of blasphemy, and anyone who gets in his way.
In this wild adventure, as the stakes ratchet up amid the burning, shifting sands, the women fighting for their lives start to wonder if they’re really so different after all…and if that cursed pyramid has been buried for a reason.
Themes: archaeologist · cursed pyramid · fortune hunter · mercenary · mysterious pyramid · wild adventure
72,000 words
Candice Cushing is an archaeologist born in Sudan and raised in Britain, who is drawn toward the mysterious pyramid that she sees as a piece of her heritage.
Farouq Al-Jabbar doesn’t see it as either history or treasure. The zealot has come to destroy anything that smells of blasphemy, and anyone who gets in his way.
In this wild adventure, as the stakes ratchet up amid the burning, shifting sands, the women fighting for their lives start to wonder if they’re really so different after all…and if that cursed pyramid has been buried for a reason.
Themes: archaeologist · cursed pyramid · fortune hunter · mercenary · mysterious pyramid · wild adventure
72,000 words
203 pages, Paperback
Published August 15, 2018
32 people are currently reading
489 people want to read
About the author
Georgette Kaplan
17 books132 followersGeorgette Kaplan was born in Shirebrook, Derbyshire, to Eileen, a dancer, and Barry, a street merchant and lounge singer. She was a Diver on the British National Diving Team and finished twelfth in the World Championships in 1992. She has also been a fashion model, black market salesman and finally of course, actor. She received the audition for her debut role as Bacon in Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels (1998) through French Connection, for whom she was modeling. They became a major investor in the film and introduced her to Guy Ritchie, who invited her to audition for a part in the film by challenging her to impersonate an illegal street vendor and convince him to purchase fake jewelry.
Wait a minute, that's Jason Statham. Shit! Is there any more room?
Okay, I'm a writer, I've published a few books, I'm looking for an artist to go halfsies with me on a webcomic and an agent because, let's be honest, that paragraph up there is my idea of marketing myself, so I may need some help with that. Otherwise, what do you need to know about me? It's not like I'm running for President.
Wait a minute, that's Jason Statham. Shit! Is there any more room?
Okay, I'm a writer, I've published a few books, I'm looking for an artist to go halfsies with me on a webcomic and an agent because, let's be honest, that paragraph up there is my idea of marketing myself, so I may need some help with that. Otherwise, what do you need to know about me? It's not like I'm running for President.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 130 reviews
August 16, 2018
4.25 Stars. I just realized this was my 800th review on Goodreads! These last few years since I joined have flown by. I just love being a part of a community of people that love books as much as I do. Thank you all for making Goodreads a place I want to come back to day after day. Anyway, now to the important part, Kaplan’s new book. The best way to describe this is pure fun and entertainment. Anyone who has read Kaplan before knows she has a unique writing style. For me it just really fit well with this kind of book and I expect most action fans will enjoy this.
This book is the lesbian version of Lara Croft, on an Indiana Jones adventure. Easy Nevada is a treasure hunter who meets up with archaeologist Candice Cushing, to find the latest artifact she needs to acquire. Nothing is ever easy for Easy and the women soon find themselves running from people who will do anything to get the same artifact.
Not only is this a fun, action-packed adventure, but it is also very witty and funny at times. Kaplan always writes witty dialogue and this book does not disappoint. There was a well-placed Indian Jones reference joke that had me laughing out loud. While not all of the jokes hit, I had a hard time wiping the smile off my face.
The romance in this book is mild. This book takes place over two action-packed days, not a lot of time for a romance. However, there is chemistry between the characters and some entertaining flirting. With this being only the first book in a series, I expect there will be more romance to come.
The book does not end on a cliffhanger, but the adventure is just clearly beginning. If Kaplan can keep up the action, humor and excitement, while adding in some more romance, this series is going to be a lot of fun. I’m excited to see what happens to Nevada and Cushing next. I easily recommend this to action-adventure fans.
An ARC was given to me by YLVA for a honest review.
This book is the lesbian version of Lara Croft, on an Indiana Jones adventure. Easy Nevada is a treasure hunter who meets up with archaeologist Candice Cushing, to find the latest artifact she needs to acquire. Nothing is ever easy for Easy and the women soon find themselves running from people who will do anything to get the same artifact.
Not only is this a fun, action-packed adventure, but it is also very witty and funny at times. Kaplan always writes witty dialogue and this book does not disappoint. There was a well-placed Indian Jones reference joke that had me laughing out loud. While not all of the jokes hit, I had a hard time wiping the smile off my face.
The romance in this book is mild. This book takes place over two action-packed days, not a lot of time for a romance. However, there is chemistry between the characters and some entertaining flirting. With this being only the first book in a series, I expect there will be more romance to come.
The book does not end on a cliffhanger, but the adventure is just clearly beginning. If Kaplan can keep up the action, humor and excitement, while adding in some more romance, this series is going to be a lot of fun. I’m excited to see what happens to Nevada and Cushing next. I easily recommend this to action-adventure fans.
An ARC was given to me by YLVA for a honest review.
September 14, 2018
"Easy Nevada and the Pyramid's Curse" achieved a feat that is almost non-existent in lesbian fiction; an entertaining action-adventure that celebrates everything the genre has to offer without triggering an eye-roll.
I'll call it out for what it is. If there's one thing that lesbians do that kill a good narrative it's taking themselves too seriously. This is one of the reasons nearly every lesbian movie is abysmal and should die on a funeral pyre. It's why when I've read capers with CIA agents and other over the top lesbian heroes I've groaned, hurt myself with the number of face-palms, and I had to break out my spackle to fix the dents in the walls from throwing my books in frustration. Okay, I don't actually throw books since they're on expensive electronic devices but you get my drift.
Many others have written great reviews of this book likening it to Indiana Jones, Die Hard, and Lara Croft and I agree. Kaplan's knowledge and love of pop culture, action movies, and video games shines through bringing us this non-stop adventure without being over the top ridiculous. Which is odd to say because Easy Nevada herself is pretty ridiculous but Kaplan walks the fine line of camp and emulates Indiana Jones, Han Solo, and John McClane who we hold near and dear to our hearts.
The book is a perfect blend of action-adventure, suspense, mystery, and humor in an archaeological setting. Do know there is mutual sexual attraction, reluctant as it is, and great chemistry between our leads but sex and a true romance are not in this book. Perhaps we'll get that in the sequel.
In addition to Kaplan's knack for entertainment icons, it's clear she put a lot of care into the research of the story to give it some credence. From a layman, it seems that she did her homework into the setting, language, history, and culture in which the story takes place.
Also know, because of the location, the villains are Muslim extremists. And, like any religious extremists, the book is not a condemnation of the Islamic religion, in general. And, if that isn't clear, these villains are not your typical Muslim just like white supremacists are not your typical Christian. Got it? Good. Now everyone enjoy the shenanigans to follow.
Nevada and Candice are good counterbalances to each other with Candice being serious and the person readers will most relate to. Nevada is almost never serious, treats life as a game, and gets herself into scrap after scrap. We do get more depth of her character but not until the very end of the book.
The fun in the read really comes from these two interacting with each other. Here are some typical examples:
“Wait, what’s that down there?”
“Down where?”
“How many downs do you think there are? Down.”
“Do you have a gun for me? I think I should have a gun.”
Nevada tongued her cigarette to the side of her mouth as she punched in another shell. “Do you know how to use one?”
“I’ve played Time Crisis and watched all five Die Hard movies.”
“Even the one where they went to Russia? For God’s sake, love yourself.”
“Doesn’t it hurt?” Candice protested.
“No, no, just when I’m using this particular bit of skin. Are you coming down here? Because I’m not going to be able to get up there.”
Candice knelt down to try and descend without plowing through Nevada’s level too. “Lowering myself to meet you. The metaphors abound.”
Easy Nevada also harasses Candice, sexually and otherwise, through the whole book making her highly inappropriate. Truthfully, this actually rubbed me the wrong way at times. Perhaps I'm being the serious lesbian I condemned some lines above. Her lines are amusing, though.
As always, Kaplan's writing is strong and I appreciated it outside of her ability to describe great action scenes and one line zingers. Not many writers can be so descriptive yet concise:
He could’ve been a youthful fifty or a hard-lived thirty. It was hard to tell when he didn’t stop long enough to let anyone get a good look at him.
And, the story wraps itself up while leaving the next step in their journey open. So this will be a series and thank goodness for that.
The book ends with a "teaser" for the 2nd story which is actually an epilogue of sorts with a wink-wink, nudge-nudge for us readers so don't miss that. It's like when you watch a movie in the theatre and stay until the end credits to find a bonus scene added just for you.
For diversity, in addition to the setting and the people who live there, Candice is black and brown. “My father was brown, my mother black. It wasn’t considered a proper match here.” She also has wider hips and some curves on her so that was nice to see. I also take Easy Nevada to be bisexual while Candice is lesbian.
In summary, "Easy Nevada and the Pyramid's Curse" is a really fun read and one we've been missing in lesfic. Many kudos to Kaplan for bringing us this level of entertainment.
4.33 stars.
I'll call it out for what it is. If there's one thing that lesbians do that kill a good narrative it's taking themselves too seriously. This is one of the reasons nearly every lesbian movie is abysmal and should die on a funeral pyre. It's why when I've read capers with CIA agents and other over the top lesbian heroes I've groaned, hurt myself with the number of face-palms, and I had to break out my spackle to fix the dents in the walls from throwing my books in frustration. Okay, I don't actually throw books since they're on expensive electronic devices but you get my drift.
Many others have written great reviews of this book likening it to Indiana Jones, Die Hard, and Lara Croft and I agree. Kaplan's knowledge and love of pop culture, action movies, and video games shines through bringing us this non-stop adventure without being over the top ridiculous. Which is odd to say because Easy Nevada herself is pretty ridiculous but Kaplan walks the fine line of camp and emulates Indiana Jones, Han Solo, and John McClane who we hold near and dear to our hearts.
The book is a perfect blend of action-adventure, suspense, mystery, and humor in an archaeological setting. Do know there is mutual sexual attraction, reluctant as it is, and great chemistry between our leads but sex and a true romance are not in this book. Perhaps we'll get that in the sequel.
In addition to Kaplan's knack for entertainment icons, it's clear she put a lot of care into the research of the story to give it some credence. From a layman, it seems that she did her homework into the setting, language, history, and culture in which the story takes place.
Also know, because of the location, the villains are Muslim extremists. And, like any religious extremists, the book is not a condemnation of the Islamic religion, in general. And, if that isn't clear, these villains are not your typical Muslim just like white supremacists are not your typical Christian. Got it? Good. Now everyone enjoy the shenanigans to follow.
Nevada and Candice are good counterbalances to each other with Candice being serious and the person readers will most relate to. Nevada is almost never serious, treats life as a game, and gets herself into scrap after scrap. We do get more depth of her character but not until the very end of the book.
The fun in the read really comes from these two interacting with each other. Here are some typical examples:
“Wait, what’s that down there?”
“Down where?”
“How many downs do you think there are? Down.”
“Do you have a gun for me? I think I should have a gun.”
Nevada tongued her cigarette to the side of her mouth as she punched in another shell. “Do you know how to use one?”
“I’ve played Time Crisis and watched all five Die Hard movies.”
“Even the one where they went to Russia? For God’s sake, love yourself.”
“Doesn’t it hurt?” Candice protested.
“No, no, just when I’m using this particular bit of skin. Are you coming down here? Because I’m not going to be able to get up there.”
Candice knelt down to try and descend without plowing through Nevada’s level too. “Lowering myself to meet you. The metaphors abound.”
Easy Nevada also harasses Candice, sexually and otherwise, through the whole book making her highly inappropriate. Truthfully, this actually rubbed me the wrong way at times. Perhaps I'm being the serious lesbian I condemned some lines above. Her lines are amusing, though.
As always, Kaplan's writing is strong and I appreciated it outside of her ability to describe great action scenes and one line zingers. Not many writers can be so descriptive yet concise:
He could’ve been a youthful fifty or a hard-lived thirty. It was hard to tell when he didn’t stop long enough to let anyone get a good look at him.
And, the story wraps itself up while leaving the next step in their journey open. So this will be a series and thank goodness for that.
The book ends with a "teaser" for the 2nd story which is actually an epilogue of sorts with a wink-wink, nudge-nudge for us readers so don't miss that. It's like when you watch a movie in the theatre and stay until the end credits to find a bonus scene added just for you.
For diversity, in addition to the setting and the people who live there, Candice is black and brown. “My father was brown, my mother black. It wasn’t considered a proper match here.” She also has wider hips and some curves on her so that was nice to see. I also take Easy Nevada to be bisexual while Candice is lesbian.
In summary, "Easy Nevada and the Pyramid's Curse" is a really fun read and one we've been missing in lesfic. Many kudos to Kaplan for bringing us this level of entertainment.
4.33 stars.
August 27, 2018
Indian Jones meets Die Hard. Hot damn this is a good read!
Easy Nevada is one badass mother bleeper. She has zero moral compass! Totally broken, she chunked that sucker years ago. What she is though is a take no prisoners, hilarious, shoot you in the face tomb raider. Easy is smart as a whip and tough as nails. When she sets her sight on something, she’s going to do whatever it takes to make it hers. She is like no other character I have ever encountered.
Quick Plot Overview: Easy has her sights set on an artifact buried in a newly discovered pyramid in Sudan. She plays the part of a journalist to get access to the dig site and meets the gorgeous and super annoyed, Dr. Candice Cushing. She is really annoyed that Easy continues to refer to her as Candy but that is part of the tomb raiders insufferable charm. Candice’s mother is a Sudanese woman, and she wants more than anything to give back this piece of history to Sudan. Easy just wants to rob it! Then one night everyone’s plans are foisted when ISIS shows up to stop everything and kill everyone.
So you can probably guess that this book is one hell of a ride. Understatement of understatements. Crazy, zany, wackadoodle, smart, awesome, badassness! Yeah, it’s all that and so much more. I love Georgette Kaplan’s style of writing. It’s fast, it’s smart, sarcastic and so different from anything else out there. She is one of my absolute favorite writers. While all of her books have been great, this one is out of the park good. I am so ecstatic that this one is a series. I cannot wait for the next adventure with Dr. Cushing and Easy Nevada.
An easy 5 stars!
Easy Nevada is one badass mother bleeper. She has zero moral compass! Totally broken, she chunked that sucker years ago. What she is though is a take no prisoners, hilarious, shoot you in the face tomb raider. Easy is smart as a whip and tough as nails. When she sets her sight on something, she’s going to do whatever it takes to make it hers. She is like no other character I have ever encountered.
Quick Plot Overview: Easy has her sights set on an artifact buried in a newly discovered pyramid in Sudan. She plays the part of a journalist to get access to the dig site and meets the gorgeous and super annoyed, Dr. Candice Cushing. She is really annoyed that Easy continues to refer to her as Candy but that is part of the tomb raiders insufferable charm. Candice’s mother is a Sudanese woman, and she wants more than anything to give back this piece of history to Sudan. Easy just wants to rob it! Then one night everyone’s plans are foisted when ISIS shows up to stop everything and kill everyone.
So you can probably guess that this book is one hell of a ride. Understatement of understatements. Crazy, zany, wackadoodle, smart, awesome, badassness! Yeah, it’s all that and so much more. I love Georgette Kaplan’s style of writing. It’s fast, it’s smart, sarcastic and so different from anything else out there. She is one of my absolute favorite writers. While all of her books have been great, this one is out of the park good. I am so ecstatic that this one is a series. I cannot wait for the next adventure with Dr. Cushing and Easy Nevada.
An easy 5 stars!
April 21, 2021
So this is definitely a fun rollicking ride of action with lots of witty repartee. But I would have liked a deeper glimpse into our characters and their histories and backgrounds.
We first meet Easy Nevada singing "what's new pussycat" with her body buried up to her neck in the sand, as the tide is coming in. It basically says a lot about our gal, and her ability to keep positive and muster up a sarcastic response no matter what the occasion.
We're soon in Egypt, where she is pretending to be a reporter and stalking the work of Candice Cushing, who is almost set to open a new pyramid and tomb that she discovered, that has been buried because of some mix of new building materials and flooding of the nile. But some very bad guys are about, and are not interested in letting the pyramid or anything inside it see the light of day, including Nevada and Cushing themselves.
There's heaps of action and violence too, but with the way it is written there's a sort of disconnect to me about what is actually happening, like emotion and reality doesn't come into play.
There's a lot of times where I felt it would have been pertinent for Candice to emote further - and ask more questions and just all around retort further to Easy Nevada's one-liners, instead she chooses to ignore or just talk about historical stuff, lending her expertise to give the plot points more relevance than they really ought to have. It didn't feel natural, it felt like an obvious story choice to have Candice be so bendable to Easy and generous with her information as she comes along for the ride... Hope that makes sense! The same with Easy Nevada's constant quips and going all in without a plan, yet succeeding every time by the skin of her teeth. It's like one part of me wants to suspend disbelief and enjoy the ride, but the other part has me wanting further explanation. That's clearly a me issue, though.
Also I felt we really didn't get to know much of either of them. Like I know some basic background info, and at the end there is a reveal that makes our heart clench for Easy and helps explain some things to a point - but it felt a bit 'added on' in the aftermath - just to make us care further, yknow tacked on incase we were wavering and not sure about book 2, successfully hooking us in for the next - there was nothing really defining for Candice. Nor that would cause me to think they would be a good match.
Having said that I DID very much enjoy it. But it had it's issues that you'll just have to suspend your logical side on.
I think I'll read something between the installments, to ensure I don't get too sick of the tone and farce, overall. Just to ensure I give it the best chance.
We first meet Easy Nevada singing "what's new pussycat" with her body buried up to her neck in the sand, as the tide is coming in. It basically says a lot about our gal, and her ability to keep positive and muster up a sarcastic response no matter what the occasion.
We're soon in Egypt, where she is pretending to be a reporter and stalking the work of Candice Cushing, who is almost set to open a new pyramid and tomb that she discovered, that has been buried because of some mix of new building materials and flooding of the nile. But some very bad guys are about, and are not interested in letting the pyramid or anything inside it see the light of day, including Nevada and Cushing themselves.
There's heaps of action and violence too, but with the way it is written there's a sort of disconnect to me about what is actually happening, like emotion and reality doesn't come into play.
There's a lot of times where I felt it would have been pertinent for Candice to emote further - and ask more questions and just all around retort further to Easy Nevada's one-liners, instead she chooses to ignore or just talk about historical stuff, lending her expertise to give the plot points more relevance than they really ought to have. It didn't feel natural, it felt like an obvious story choice to have Candice be so bendable to Easy and generous with her information as she comes along for the ride... Hope that makes sense! The same with Easy Nevada's constant quips and going all in without a plan, yet succeeding every time by the skin of her teeth. It's like one part of me wants to suspend disbelief and enjoy the ride, but the other part has me wanting further explanation. That's clearly a me issue, though.
Also I felt we really didn't get to know much of either of them. Like I know some basic background info, and at the end there is a reveal that makes our heart clench for Easy and helps explain some things to a point - but it felt a bit 'added on' in the aftermath - just to make us care further, yknow tacked on incase we were wavering and not sure about book 2, successfully hooking us in for the next - there was nothing really defining for Candice. Nor that would cause me to think they would be a good match.
Having said that I DID very much enjoy it. But it had it's issues that you'll just have to suspend your logical side on.
I think I'll read something between the installments, to ensure I don't get too sick of the tone and farce, overall. Just to ensure I give it the best chance.
January 3, 2019
Wow
If you're looking for romance in this book then you'll fit right in with the the main characters - you just have to choose which team to be on with. Either the kick ass treasure hunter or the promising archaeologist. However, love is the furthest thing from what they are looking for so you are on your own there but don't give up and stick with the hs because they will take you for a ride that you have never been on ever before.
Easy is really one damn fine heroine, from every thing that comes out of that mouth to her shooting skills, her under pressure plans and her lack of decency make me want to sign up as her sidekick even if she only trusts me with her cigarettes. And Candice is a worthy working partner to Easy. What she lacks in - littering, taking other people lives, she makes it up with her brilliant mind and vast knowledge. Their conversations especially when under pressure are extremely funny and I really appreciate the author for not rushing anything between them as there's another book coming out this year.
The adventures, the characters, the cover, every single thing works in chaos and the result -exceptional.
If you're looking for romance in this book then you'll fit right in with the the main characters - you just have to choose which team to be on with. Either the kick ass treasure hunter or the promising archaeologist. However, love is the furthest thing from what they are looking for so you are on your own there but don't give up and stick with the hs because they will take you for a ride that you have never been on ever before.
Easy is really one damn fine heroine, from every thing that comes out of that mouth to her shooting skills, her under pressure plans and her lack of decency make me want to sign up as her sidekick even if she only trusts me with her cigarettes. And Candice is a worthy working partner to Easy. What she lacks in - littering, taking other people lives, she makes it up with her brilliant mind and vast knowledge. Their conversations especially when under pressure are extremely funny and I really appreciate the author for not rushing anything between them as there's another book coming out this year.
The adventures, the characters, the cover, every single thing works in chaos and the result -exceptional.
August 13, 2018
I found this to be *extremely* entertaining. Depth of the characters, scene pacing, et all, loved it. A dash of Tomb Raider and some Indi Jones thrown in. And the banter folks. Shoooweee momma the banter, quips, one liners were probably the best I've read in a seriously long time. There's banter and then there's Nevada... lol. What a fun character.
UGH. The one thing I was a bit tweaked though, not gonna lie, was that the next book isn't coming out for like forever. Ok maybe not forever, but in '19. Almost forever. A smidge of forever. Bleh. You get it :)
lol but damn that was a fun book, can't help it, lol.
UGH. The one thing I was a bit tweaked though, not gonna lie, was that the next book isn't coming out for like forever. Ok maybe not forever, but in '19. Almost forever. A smidge of forever. Bleh. You get it :)
lol but damn that was a fun book, can't help it, lol.
September 9, 2018
This book is fan-fuckin’-tastic!!!
It’s like Indiana Jones meets Tomb Raider meets The Jewel of the Nile meets The Mummy. When Georgette Kaplan flexes her muscles and starts writing action packed adventure, only the bestest (yes that is a word now) and most super awesomest comes out. Easy Nevada and the Pyramid’s Curse keeps shifting into a higher gear and doesn’t stop until you are out of breath and giddy with excitement. I almost wanted to shake my head to get the desert sand out of my hair.
I love, love, love Georgette Kaplan’s writing and have been a fan since she was doing fanfic. She has the best snark, the best action, insane knowledge of pop culture and the hottest scenes (not in this book, but then this is only the warming up for a whole series of adventures with this pairing). Her writing is intelligent and she must do shitloads of research. Whether it’s history, world politics, native cultures, weapons or any other subject used in this plot, she makes it believable. Her stories (and her sense of humor) just resonate with me.
All the action takes place over the course of a few days. There is definitely some chemistry stirring between Easy Nevada and Candace Cushing even if they are at loggerheads most of the time. I can’t wait to see how their partnership develops in the next part.
I want to quote Tiff (read her review) when she said it’s Crazy, zany, wackadoodle, smart, awesome, badassness!, and I would urge everybody to read it. There. Recommendation done!
f/f some light flirting, mostly from Easy because she is incorrigible
Themes: a sunken tomb, religious extremists, Sudan, treasure hunting, sand in all the wrong places, the Aegis, bad-ass women, blood will be spilled and bones will be broken so put your big girl pants on.
5 golden jewel incrusted stars
It’s like Indiana Jones meets Tomb Raider meets The Jewel of the Nile meets The Mummy. When Georgette Kaplan flexes her muscles and starts writing action packed adventure, only the bestest (yes that is a word now) and most super awesomest comes out. Easy Nevada and the Pyramid’s Curse keeps shifting into a higher gear and doesn’t stop until you are out of breath and giddy with excitement. I almost wanted to shake my head to get the desert sand out of my hair.
I love, love, love Georgette Kaplan’s writing and have been a fan since she was doing fanfic. She has the best snark, the best action, insane knowledge of pop culture and the hottest scenes (not in this book, but then this is only the warming up for a whole series of adventures with this pairing). Her writing is intelligent and she must do shitloads of research. Whether it’s history, world politics, native cultures, weapons or any other subject used in this plot, she makes it believable. Her stories (and her sense of humor) just resonate with me.
All the action takes place over the course of a few days. There is definitely some chemistry stirring between Easy Nevada and Candace Cushing even if they are at loggerheads most of the time. I can’t wait to see how their partnership develops in the next part.
I want to quote Tiff (read her review) when she said it’s Crazy, zany, wackadoodle, smart, awesome, badassness!, and I would urge everybody to read it. There. Recommendation done!
f/f some light flirting, mostly from Easy because she is incorrigible
Themes: a sunken tomb, religious extremists, Sudan, treasure hunting, sand in all the wrong places, the Aegis, bad-ass women, blood will be spilled and bones will be broken so put your big girl pants on.
5 golden jewel incrusted stars
October 20, 2018
What The ****? Where did this come from??
It has everything and yes I mean everything. Fun, adventure, Intrigue, mystery, action.... You want me to go on?
I loved this book in my mind it was an easy 5 stars. Think Indiana Jones meets Lara Croft. Once it started it just never stopped.
I'm now gonna be a little picky. The British character!!! come on... you've put us back 20 years in the come back department. We have comebacks and we have a sense of humor. The American character was kind off brash and was totally opposite to our James Bond. But both characters did make me laugh and yes there is some tension between the two.
I loved it. I'm sure you'll love it too. Enjoy!!
*ARC provided by publisher via Ylva Publishing*
It has everything and yes I mean everything. Fun, adventure, Intrigue, mystery, action.... You want me to go on?
I loved this book in my mind it was an easy 5 stars. Think Indiana Jones meets Lara Croft. Once it started it just never stopped.
I'm now gonna be a little picky. The British character!!! come on... you've put us back 20 years in the come back department. We have comebacks and we have a sense of humor. The American character was kind off brash and was totally opposite to our James Bond. But both characters did make me laugh and yes there is some tension between the two.
I loved it. I'm sure you'll love it too. Enjoy!!
*ARC provided by publisher via Ylva Publishing*
September 20, 2019
So when is book 2 coming out?
I’m a fan of Georgette Kaplan‘s writing. The only other writer whose style I enjoy as much (regardless of the stories) is Jeanette Winterson. It’s sometimes so brilliant it’s exhilarating.
The (other) good news is, I also had a whole lotta fun reading this book. With a name like Georgette Kaplan, of course you’d want to write stories filled with adventure and adrenaline.
So, what’s it about? Easy Nevada is an obnoxious but very sexy and talented fortune hunter. On the surface, she seems to have a one-track mind, but underneath the humour and salacious looks, she’s all business. The business in this case being a pyramid that has been buried in Sudan for thousands of years. On her way to the treasure she’s looking for, she meets Sudan-born Britain-raised archeologist Candice Cushing, whose dry sense of humour belies her insecurity. They become unlikely partners as they try to escape from a gang of zealots intent of destroying all traces of what they see as blasphemy.
Easy Nevada is the daughter Indiana Jones and Lara Croft could have had if… Nope. Not a good image. Sorry. But you get the idea. The pace is as fast as in any good action movie, there’s a lot happening all the time, the characters don’t get to breathe between two attacks on their lives and neither does the reader. If you can find a moment to read this when you know you won’t have to stop, that’s when you should read this, so as to enjoy it to the max.
I received a copy from the publisher and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
I’m a fan of Georgette Kaplan‘s writing. The only other writer whose style I enjoy as much (regardless of the stories) is Jeanette Winterson. It’s sometimes so brilliant it’s exhilarating.
The (other) good news is, I also had a whole lotta fun reading this book. With a name like Georgette Kaplan, of course you’d want to write stories filled with adventure and adrenaline.
So, what’s it about? Easy Nevada is an obnoxious but very sexy and talented fortune hunter. On the surface, she seems to have a one-track mind, but underneath the humour and salacious looks, she’s all business. The business in this case being a pyramid that has been buried in Sudan for thousands of years. On her way to the treasure she’s looking for, she meets Sudan-born Britain-raised archeologist Candice Cushing, whose dry sense of humour belies her insecurity. They become unlikely partners as they try to escape from a gang of zealots intent of destroying all traces of what they see as blasphemy.
Easy Nevada is the daughter Indiana Jones and Lara Croft could have had if… Nope. Not a good image. Sorry. But you get the idea. The pace is as fast as in any good action movie, there’s a lot happening all the time, the characters don’t get to breathe between two attacks on their lives and neither does the reader. If you can find a moment to read this when you know you won’t have to stop, that’s when you should read this, so as to enjoy it to the max.
I received a copy from the publisher and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 27, 2021
4.25 stars. This was so much fun, why did I not read this earlier? I’m going to keep this short, but this book has all the things I enjoy. I’m a big fan of Indiana Jones and Tomb Raider and this book is exactly in line with those type of movies/games. A lot of action and fun.
Easy Nevada and Candice Cushing are in Sudan hunting archeological artefacts. They team up out of necessity, have opposite personalities, and together they are just hilarious. Candice being a British by the book archeologist and Easy being an American grave robber who takes the situation as it comes. I loved their dynamics, the constant digs at each other and the sexual tension (although Candice is not ready to admit this). This is the start of a series as both the artefact search and the romance are set up to continue in the next book. I will read it for sure :-) I keep saying read, bit I actually listened to the audiobook, narrated by Abby Craden, which was excellent as usual (although the British accent sounded a bit off to me, but I’m not British so what do I know). Recommend!
Easy Nevada and Candice Cushing are in Sudan hunting archeological artefacts. They team up out of necessity, have opposite personalities, and together they are just hilarious. Candice being a British by the book archeologist and Easy being an American grave robber who takes the situation as it comes. I loved their dynamics, the constant digs at each other and the sexual tension (although Candice is not ready to admit this). This is the start of a series as both the artefact search and the romance are set up to continue in the next book. I will read it for sure :-) I keep saying read, bit I actually listened to the audiobook, narrated by Abby Craden, which was excellent as usual (although the British accent sounded a bit off to me, but I’m not British so what do I know). Recommend!
August 4, 2018
This is a rollicking action adventure but not much of a romance, at least, not in this installment. Easy Nevada is a relic hunter in search of the thirteenth piece in a series. Her search leads her to the pyramids of Meroë on the east bank of the Nile in Sudan just in time for the lead archaeologist to uncover a buried pyramid. Candice Cushing is not thrilled when she looks up from her dig site to see the supposed journalist, inappropriately dressed, asking questions unrelated to her work.
Indiana Jones has nothing on Easy Nevada. She’s tough, smart and sexy. She’s contrary, unconventional, has an answer for everything and many of her comments are laced with a sexual undertone (actually, just as many are not undertones at all). Her interactions with most characters are filled with witty, throwaway lines which, while being entertaining, made me feel like she lacked substance. I found Candice to be more accessible as a character because I got a much stronger sense of who she is and what she cares about. They have the potential to be a fantastic couple as relic hunters, partners and lovers.
If this was a standalone novel I would have been disappointed but I’m choosing to see it as an opening sequence or introductory teaser much like the beginning of a James Bond movie. Easy Nevada could become an extraordinary character but she needs a lot more depth in order for me to care about her and, admittedly, there was an inkling of that by the end of the book. I’m also giving leeway because the novel takes place over two action-filled, death-defying days which doesn’t give much time for any kind of connection between characters.
The action sequences had me on the edge of my seat and lesfic desperately needs a dynamic duo like Easy Nevada and Candice Cushing. I’m looking forward to the second in the series in the hopes that it fulfils all the potential set out in this one.
Book received from Ylva Publishing for an honest review.
Indiana Jones has nothing on Easy Nevada. She’s tough, smart and sexy. She’s contrary, unconventional, has an answer for everything and many of her comments are laced with a sexual undertone (actually, just as many are not undertones at all). Her interactions with most characters are filled with witty, throwaway lines which, while being entertaining, made me feel like she lacked substance. I found Candice to be more accessible as a character because I got a much stronger sense of who she is and what she cares about. They have the potential to be a fantastic couple as relic hunters, partners and lovers.
If this was a standalone novel I would have been disappointed but I’m choosing to see it as an opening sequence or introductory teaser much like the beginning of a James Bond movie. Easy Nevada could become an extraordinary character but she needs a lot more depth in order for me to care about her and, admittedly, there was an inkling of that by the end of the book. I’m also giving leeway because the novel takes place over two action-filled, death-defying days which doesn’t give much time for any kind of connection between characters.
The action sequences had me on the edge of my seat and lesfic desperately needs a dynamic duo like Easy Nevada and Candice Cushing. I’m looking forward to the second in the series in the hopes that it fulfils all the potential set out in this one.
Book received from Ylva Publishing for an honest review.
September 26, 2018
This book is in my recommended books of the month
https://lezreviewbooks.com/recommende...
This book is part one of 'The Cushing-Nevada chronicles' series which follows the adventures of archaeologist Dr. Candice Cushing and maverick treasure hunter Easy Nevada. They are both interested in digging the secrets of a mysterious pyramid in Sudan: Candice for widening the country's heritage, Easy for her own materialistic interests. As a group of religious extremists get involved in the hunt, both women become unlikely allies to try to unearth the pyramid's secrets without dying in the process.
To say that this is an action book is a huge understatement. Wild adventure, crazy non-stop action and characters constantly on the move is a better definition. The author plays with the opposites well: Candice is a mixed race, Sudanese-British archaeologist, alledgedly straight and eager to play by the rules, while Easy is white, American, lesbian, womaniser and daredevil. Both characters' voices are well developed and distinctive. As scene after scene of dangerous adventures go by, Candice teaches Easy world history while Easy teaches Candice extreme banter and her skills in handling weapons.
“If you were my student, I’d fail you,” Candice muttered to the retreating back. Ahead, the floor had caved, leaving a four-foot gap. Nevada cleared it in one jump. “If you were my professor, I’d sleep with you and get a good grade.” (Chapter 6)
Their chemistry builds up slowly but surely and even though there's no time for many romantic developments in this book, there's a promise of more in the next one.
The story is written from different point of views, including the villains, but mainly focuses in both main characters. Although there is a partial resolution of the plot, the whole adventure is not finished and a sequel is scheduled for 2019 called 'Candice Cushing and the lost tomb of Cleopatra'.
I've read the 'Scissor link' series by this author but this book is by far her best. Overall, an action packed thriller filled with witty dialogues and great landscape descriptions. 4.5 stars.
ARC provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
See all my reviews at
www.lezreviewbooks.com
https://lezreviewbooks.com/recommende...
This book is part one of 'The Cushing-Nevada chronicles' series which follows the adventures of archaeologist Dr. Candice Cushing and maverick treasure hunter Easy Nevada. They are both interested in digging the secrets of a mysterious pyramid in Sudan: Candice for widening the country's heritage, Easy for her own materialistic interests. As a group of religious extremists get involved in the hunt, both women become unlikely allies to try to unearth the pyramid's secrets without dying in the process.
To say that this is an action book is a huge understatement. Wild adventure, crazy non-stop action and characters constantly on the move is a better definition. The author plays with the opposites well: Candice is a mixed race, Sudanese-British archaeologist, alledgedly straight and eager to play by the rules, while Easy is white, American, lesbian, womaniser and daredevil. Both characters' voices are well developed and distinctive. As scene after scene of dangerous adventures go by, Candice teaches Easy world history while Easy teaches Candice extreme banter and her skills in handling weapons.
“If you were my student, I’d fail you,” Candice muttered to the retreating back. Ahead, the floor had caved, leaving a four-foot gap. Nevada cleared it in one jump. “If you were my professor, I’d sleep with you and get a good grade.” (Chapter 6)
Their chemistry builds up slowly but surely and even though there's no time for many romantic developments in this book, there's a promise of more in the next one.
The story is written from different point of views, including the villains, but mainly focuses in both main characters. Although there is a partial resolution of the plot, the whole adventure is not finished and a sequel is scheduled for 2019 called 'Candice Cushing and the lost tomb of Cleopatra'.
I've read the 'Scissor link' series by this author but this book is by far her best. Overall, an action packed thriller filled with witty dialogues and great landscape descriptions. 4.5 stars.
ARC provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
See all my reviews at
www.lezreviewbooks.com
February 27, 2021
This is my first action/adventure book and it was a lot of fun. It was very entertaining and light hearted and kept me on the edge of my seat for quite a bit of it.
Easy is a “treasure hunter” and is trying to find the last artifact in a collection for her employer. She finds out where it could be and it lands her in Sudan at a newly discovered buried pyramid. She goes undercover as a reporter to gain access and meets Dr. Candice Cushing. Candice is the one responsible for the find and in charge of escorting Easy around the find. The two soon find themselves on the run from ISIS and are forced to work together if they want to survive.
Easy Nevada is quite the character and I loved her. I also loved hating her as she can be rather crass and kind of sleazy. She’s funny and kind of an asshole but I found myself rooting for at all the times it called for it. Candice Cushing was more strait-laced and dedicated to her calling as an archeologist. I loved that she could go toe to toe with Easy even if she wasn’t completely comfortable in the situation. There’s not a romance here but there is flirting and tension between the two. The book take place over a two-day period so there’s really no time for romance. I am hoping for it in the other two books as the is the first in the series.
Easy is a “treasure hunter” and is trying to find the last artifact in a collection for her employer. She finds out where it could be and it lands her in Sudan at a newly discovered buried pyramid. She goes undercover as a reporter to gain access and meets Dr. Candice Cushing. Candice is the one responsible for the find and in charge of escorting Easy around the find. The two soon find themselves on the run from ISIS and are forced to work together if they want to survive.
Easy Nevada is quite the character and I loved her. I also loved hating her as she can be rather crass and kind of sleazy. She’s funny and kind of an asshole but I found myself rooting for at all the times it called for it. Candice Cushing was more strait-laced and dedicated to her calling as an archeologist. I loved that she could go toe to toe with Easy even if she wasn’t completely comfortable in the situation. There’s not a romance here but there is flirting and tension between the two. The book take place over a two-day period so there’s really no time for romance. I am hoping for it in the other two books as the is the first in the series.
November 13, 2020
As I gushed back in 2018:
"I love, love, love Georgette Kaplan’s writing and have been a fan since she was doing fanfic. She has the best snark, the best action, insane knowledge of pop culture and the hottest scenes (not in this book, but then this is only the warming up for a whole series of adventures with this pairing). Her writing is intelligent and she must do shitloads of research. Whether it’s history, world politics, native cultures, weapons or any other subject used in this plot, she makes it believable. Her stories (and her sense of humor) just resonate with me."
I went back to have the audio book experience done by the goddess Abby Craden and it was even better than I remembered. Abby does action very well, she does old men voices extremely well, her english cockney (used for Candace Cushing) is a bit of an odd duck, though. But after a while it becomes part of Candace, so who cares ;-)
Kaplan and Craden are a match! I hope they do more together.
Still 5 fat stars, baby.
"I love, love, love Georgette Kaplan’s writing and have been a fan since she was doing fanfic. She has the best snark, the best action, insane knowledge of pop culture and the hottest scenes (not in this book, but then this is only the warming up for a whole series of adventures with this pairing). Her writing is intelligent and she must do shitloads of research. Whether it’s history, world politics, native cultures, weapons or any other subject used in this plot, she makes it believable. Her stories (and her sense of humor) just resonate with me."
I went back to have the audio book experience done by the goddess Abby Craden and it was even better than I remembered. Abby does action very well, she does old men voices extremely well, her english cockney (used for Candace Cushing) is a bit of an odd duck, though. But after a while it becomes part of Candace, so who cares ;-)
Kaplan and Craden are a match! I hope they do more together.
Still 5 fat stars, baby.
November 21, 2020
Now THIS is a fun listen - chock full of adventure and laugh out loud funny! A combination between Indiana Jones and Tomb Raider - but with lesbians. And so entertaining you don't even realize you're getting a history lesson too. Easy Nevada is a such a great character - I dare you not to fall in love with her. Abby Craden obviously had a ball doing it. She's perfectly in her element here and I certainly hope Ylva will put the second book on audio as well. This isn't a romance - though there is heavy flirtation between the two MCs. Methinks it is very likely more will come of that in book two! Especially after a touching moment at the end. Can't recommend this enough! It definitely goes on the Abby Craden Greatest Hits shelf.
September 4, 2018
I absolutely loved this! Action packed, fast moving full of humor as well as beautiful prose. I mean it just doesn't get much better....
Can't wait for the next one!!
Can't wait for the next one!!
August 24, 2023
3 stars
I usually love these types of stories, but this one fell a bit flat. Not bad, but not nearly as good as I hoped. I'll have to think about whether it's the plot or this author's writing style that I'm not fond of.
I'll see if I'll like the second book better.
I usually love these types of stories, but this one fell a bit flat. Not bad, but not nearly as good as I hoped. I'll have to think about whether it's the plot or this author's writing style that I'm not fond of.
I'll see if I'll like the second book better.
December 29, 2019
Finally got to this one. Indiana Jones fan so really enjoyed the story. And when it got a little unbelievable, well, Indy could also do it all so...
Will definitely read the new one.
Will definitely read the new one.
September 13, 2018
This book is frigging awesome. I cannot wait until 2019. I think it's mean of Georgette to make us wait that long. This is modern day adventure with sexual tension and an hysterical sense of humour throughout. The two main characters of Easy and Candice are like chalk and cheese and even though Easy is the one with the brilliantly funny lines without Candice they wouldn't work. I could gush about this book and the funny lines and moments for ages and ages, but rather than me doing that please read this book, you won't be disappointed.
May 20, 2021
Abby Craden did a fabulous job narrating me through this action packed adventure through the a tomb in the Sahara (as I drove through some rural cornfields). Both Easy and Candice are fabulous, strong, intelligent women whose interactions and chemistry kept me laughing and smiling through their death-defying crusades. Great beginning novel of the series and just hit purchase to listen to the next installment.
Read
April 22, 2021You know I love the Uncharted games on my PlayStation, so much so I even own an Uncharted branded console. Completely accidentally actually, but that's beside the point. Anyway, I love those games, so I figured this book would give me my Uncharted fix with a lesbian twist. Even up until the point where you have a sidekick who flies a plane to your rescue and have witty conversations with, it all just screams Uncharted for me. And I guess I did get that, but I am not 100% sure if it worked for me.
Seven chapters in I almost DNF this book, I dove into the reviews and they convinced me to keep going. It wasn't until the 60% mark that it clicked for me. I finally got into the writing style and I got to enjoy the adventure for what it is. A light and fun adventure, but with lots of "witty comebacks" and LOTS of (gun)fights and deaths.
If you are expecting romance in this adventure you should rethink that, I would say there is none. The mains are a good fit, they balance each other out, but I think it's good that there is no romance. I think anyone can enjoy this book if they are ok with lots of violence, witty comebacks and just don't take it seriously at all.
I think I had a hard time adjusting to Kaplan's writing style. Our neighbours have been doing very noisy remodeling for the last 4 weeks and I just need a story to escape, so I can shut out the noise, but this book didn't do that for me. And I was expecting that from an adventure story, I just couldn't lose myself in it. But after it clicked for me I really did enjoy the remainder of the action-packed story. I'm really on the fence as to what this means for stars and what it means for me. Do I want to read the other books in this series? I just don't know.
Seven chapters in I almost DNF this book, I dove into the reviews and they convinced me to keep going. It wasn't until the 60% mark that it clicked for me. I finally got into the writing style and I got to enjoy the adventure for what it is. A light and fun adventure, but with lots of "witty comebacks" and LOTS of (gun)fights and deaths.
If you are expecting romance in this adventure you should rethink that, I would say there is none. The mains are a good fit, they balance each other out, but I think it's good that there is no romance. I think anyone can enjoy this book if they are ok with lots of violence, witty comebacks and just don't take it seriously at all.
I think I had a hard time adjusting to Kaplan's writing style. Our neighbours have been doing very noisy remodeling for the last 4 weeks and I just need a story to escape, so I can shut out the noise, but this book didn't do that for me. And I was expecting that from an adventure story, I just couldn't lose myself in it. But after it clicked for me I really did enjoy the remainder of the action-packed story. I'm really on the fence as to what this means for stars and what it means for me. Do I want to read the other books in this series? I just don't know.
November 9, 2019
If you're looking for a sweet and sappy romance - move along. This one is a kick-ass action-adventure full of gunfights, knife fights, fistfights, chases, fantastic escapes and some pretty sophomoric humour. Things progress at a break-neck speed and it's a heck of a lot of fun - think Indiana Jones, Lara Croft and Alan Quartermain. The story is reminiscent of the old movie serials where the main characters race from one improbable and breathtaking cliffhanger to the next. Definitely the most non-stop, action-centric lesfic I've read in a very long time (if not ever).
The book starts off with Easy Nevada up to her neck in trouble (literally) and doesn't let up as she gets out of one mess only to end up smack dab in in another as the story barrels along. Easy is an unapologetic treasure hunter who is hot on the trail of the thirteenth artifact for her mysterious employer. She's convinced the artifact is buried in a sunken pyramid in the Sudan. Luckily, or unluckily, this same pyramid is being excavated by a team of archaeologists led by Candice Cushing. Posing as a reporter, Easy gains access to the dig; but, before she can sneak into the pyramid to retrieve the treasure, a coup erupts in the capital, Khartoum, and a band of Islamic extremists descend upon the camp intent on destroying the find in the name of religious purity. Pursued by the militants, Easy and Candice escape into the pyramid. There's a great deal of blood and guts in the book with an impressive arsenal of weapons and a pretty high body count, with quite a bit of violence through gunfights, knives and good old fisticuffs. There's also a number of shady characters skulking about in the background, pulling strings and hinting at a larger conspiracy - it's campy and fun.
By her own admission, Easy Nevada is a 12 year old boy in a hot woman's body. Driven by a two track mind - find the treasure and get in Candice's pants - she bounces through the story with a irreverent charm and unbelievable resilience (dear god she's repeatedly pummeled, shot, drugged - she is the energizer bunny). There's something about her that reminds me of Quinn from Keira Delacroix's Icehole - a total bad-ass with a mind in the gutter and a mouth that would put a sailor to shame. She may not always have a plan, but she always has a comeback and once she's committed to a course of action she sees it through. Despite the smart-ass she appears to be, there is a bit more depth to Easy - and Ms Kaplan drops some hints as to her past and motivations in becoming a devil-may-care treasure hunter.
As a polar opposite, Candice Cushing is a reserved and diligent British archaeologist who has returned to her homeland, Sudan, to make her mark by unearthing a lost pyramid and a tomb that is untouched by grave robbers. Between the arrival of Easy, with her suspect and continued flirting, and the invasion by the Khamsin, she's completely off kilter, struggling to catch up and keep ahead of the dangers. You have to give Candice props - unlike Easy, she didn't sign up for being chased by terrorists through a deteriorating pyramid and is wholly unprepared for storming a train, but she quickly adapts and keeps up. At times she's a few steps ahead of Easy and you can see her confidence in her abilities and confidence grow. She has a strong moral compass and isn't afraid to push back on Easy's plans or throw all in with her and her crazy-ass treasure hunt.
Although there isn't a really strong element of romance - other than Easy's continued propositioning of Candice and Candice's rather amusing rebuffs - there's definitely a connection between the two women. Separately they are impressive, but together they are pretty much unstoppable (just ask Farouq Al-Jabbar) and the spark is definitely set in the first part of this series.
Luckily, Ms. Kaplan doesn't end this with a cliffhanger - even though I was seriously expecting one. She's wrapped up the first phase of the adventures of Easy Nevada and Candice Cushing (a bit battered and worse for wear) - and set the stage for the next leg of the treasure hunt. I, for one, will be popping up a big bowl of popcorn and setting an evening aside to find out what comes next with Candice Cushing and Lost Tomb of Cleopatra. :)
The book starts off with Easy Nevada up to her neck in trouble (literally) and doesn't let up as she gets out of one mess only to end up smack dab in in another as the story barrels along. Easy is an unapologetic treasure hunter who is hot on the trail of the thirteenth artifact for her mysterious employer. She's convinced the artifact is buried in a sunken pyramid in the Sudan. Luckily, or unluckily, this same pyramid is being excavated by a team of archaeologists led by Candice Cushing. Posing as a reporter, Easy gains access to the dig; but, before she can sneak into the pyramid to retrieve the treasure, a coup erupts in the capital, Khartoum, and a band of Islamic extremists descend upon the camp intent on destroying the find in the name of religious purity. Pursued by the militants, Easy and Candice escape into the pyramid. There's a great deal of blood and guts in the book with an impressive arsenal of weapons and a pretty high body count, with quite a bit of violence through gunfights, knives and good old fisticuffs. There's also a number of shady characters skulking about in the background, pulling strings and hinting at a larger conspiracy - it's campy and fun.
By her own admission, Easy Nevada is a 12 year old boy in a hot woman's body. Driven by a two track mind - find the treasure and get in Candice's pants - she bounces through the story with a irreverent charm and unbelievable resilience (dear god she's repeatedly pummeled, shot, drugged - she is the energizer bunny). There's something about her that reminds me of Quinn from Keira Delacroix's Icehole - a total bad-ass with a mind in the gutter and a mouth that would put a sailor to shame. She may not always have a plan, but she always has a comeback and once she's committed to a course of action she sees it through. Despite the smart-ass she appears to be, there is a bit more depth to Easy - and Ms Kaplan drops some hints as to her past and motivations in becoming a devil-may-care treasure hunter.
As a polar opposite, Candice Cushing is a reserved and diligent British archaeologist who has returned to her homeland, Sudan, to make her mark by unearthing a lost pyramid and a tomb that is untouched by grave robbers. Between the arrival of Easy, with her suspect and continued flirting, and the invasion by the Khamsin, she's completely off kilter, struggling to catch up and keep ahead of the dangers. You have to give Candice props - unlike Easy, she didn't sign up for being chased by terrorists through a deteriorating pyramid and is wholly unprepared for storming a train, but she quickly adapts and keeps up. At times she's a few steps ahead of Easy and you can see her confidence in her abilities and confidence grow. She has a strong moral compass and isn't afraid to push back on Easy's plans or throw all in with her and her crazy-ass treasure hunt.
Although there isn't a really strong element of romance - other than Easy's continued propositioning of Candice and Candice's rather amusing rebuffs - there's definitely a connection between the two women. Separately they are impressive, but together they are pretty much unstoppable (just ask Farouq Al-Jabbar) and the spark is definitely set in the first part of this series.
Luckily, Ms. Kaplan doesn't end this with a cliffhanger - even though I was seriously expecting one. She's wrapped up the first phase of the adventures of Easy Nevada and Candice Cushing (a bit battered and worse for wear) - and set the stage for the next leg of the treasure hunt. I, for one, will be popping up a big bowl of popcorn and setting an evening aside to find out what comes next with Candice Cushing and Lost Tomb of Cleopatra. :)
October 2, 2018
Mix a fortune hunter and an archaeologist both looking for the same long-lost pyramid and there are bound to be fireworks. Add in the zealot who thinks they are blasphemy to Allah and things literally turn explosive.
This is an action-packed fun filled adventure worthy of a female Indiana Jones who of course always survives, gets the girl and the treasure. It’s fast paced, amusing, interesting and a great read. The writing is excellent, parred down to an exquisite level of description and filled with wit and humour.
Nevada herself is comic book material, and the feats of daring-do are definitely up there with the pop culture action movies, but Kaplan has also given a solid base to the story with what feels like a credible archaeological tale... very much like an Indy movie.
I really enjoyed this, it’s the start of a series which is excellent news; just what we need, a tongue in cheek, irreverent and frequently inappropriate action hero who can catch our attention and make us laugh.
This is an action-packed fun filled adventure worthy of a female Indiana Jones who of course always survives, gets the girl and the treasure. It’s fast paced, amusing, interesting and a great read. The writing is excellent, parred down to an exquisite level of description and filled with wit and humour.
Nevada herself is comic book material, and the feats of daring-do are definitely up there with the pop culture action movies, but Kaplan has also given a solid base to the story with what feels like a credible archaeological tale... very much like an Indy movie.
I really enjoyed this, it’s the start of a series which is excellent news; just what we need, a tongue in cheek, irreverent and frequently inappropriate action hero who can catch our attention and make us laugh.
September 1, 2018
Ok. Yep. I loved this book! It is definitely a 5 Star for me. Easy Nevada captured me from the first page and didn’t let go. A fast and exciting read that I hated to put down! Easy Nevada is hilarious and the commentary between she and Candice is wonderful. I got to the end and was like what?! I read it all? How did it go by so fast? Can’t wait for book 2! Highly recommended. I was given an arc.
August 7, 2018
Georgette Kaplan sets a sprinters pace in Easy Nevada and the Pyramid’s Curse. The novel is couched in daredevil dry humour where you find yourself laughing out loud.
We meet Nevada neck deep into her adventure and are swept along to the Sudan as she tries to find the final piece in her quest of thirteen relics. Here she meets Sudanese born and British raised archeologist Dr. Candice Cushing excavating to find the Pyramid of Amanirenas which is exactly where Nevada believes her final piece is located.
Candice’s life revolves around slow and meticulous work and Nevada’s is in constant peril and motion. Sparks fly when the two meet but mostly due to zealot Farouq Al-Jabbar’s intent on destroying all false idols.
I could not read fast enough to see what happens next. The action is intense and nonstop. The sexual attraction is a delicious slow boil. And once again I must mention the humour which is throughout the story. I highly recommend this novel. 4 stars
This is Book #1 in the series with the next book coming out in 2019.
We meet Nevada neck deep into her adventure and are swept along to the Sudan as she tries to find the final piece in her quest of thirteen relics. Here she meets Sudanese born and British raised archeologist Dr. Candice Cushing excavating to find the Pyramid of Amanirenas which is exactly where Nevada believes her final piece is located.
Candice’s life revolves around slow and meticulous work and Nevada’s is in constant peril and motion. Sparks fly when the two meet but mostly due to zealot Farouq Al-Jabbar’s intent on destroying all false idols.
I could not read fast enough to see what happens next. The action is intense and nonstop. The sexual attraction is a delicious slow boil. And once again I must mention the humour which is throughout the story. I highly recommend this novel. 4 stars
This is Book #1 in the series with the next book coming out in 2019.
February 10, 2019
Easy Navada
This is a full blooded, Indiana Jones style adventure; lots of historical references that went well over my head, but still a good read that has left me hungry for the next instalment.
This is a full blooded, Indiana Jones style adventure; lots of historical references that went well over my head, but still a good read that has left me hungry for the next instalment.
June 24, 2025
I got this audiobook for free and I still feel like I've been robbed. Abby Crayden is a one-note narrator, and in this, her audible swallows and pauses between sentences are often left in. As if no one went through to edit them out.
August 14, 2024
Exciting Adventure!
Easy is a fortune hunter and meets Candice who is working at a pyramid that holds a mystery she really wants to uncover. Thrown together when being chased by a man out to destroy the pyramid, they find themselves embroiled in an action adventure neither of them expected.
Loved how much fun this was! Despite the danger they were headed into, Easy and Candice had a great connection, bouncing off one another with an infatuation of one another but also an admiration. They make a fantastic team, working together to uncover the mystery and get what they both want, but also tactfully assessing situations and having to get involved in some unexpected situations. Each and every challenge they faced helped them learn more about one another, and further develop their connection, even if they still had a bit of an edge and attitude towards one another’s approaches.
Easy was so strong and confident, so she really brought out the best in Candice and helped her, even if sometimes it was somewhat reluctantly. Candice really cared about the history and the other people affected by their actions, or those chasing them down. There were so many wonderful moments, but also lots where I held my breath. I really loved how although Easy was attracted to Candice, she developed feelings even she didn’t expect as Candice wormed her way into her heart and made her care about her.
A really fast paced, exciting adventure that had an element of comedy to lift some of the darker elements. A great story that I really enjoyed.
Easy is a fortune hunter and meets Candice who is working at a pyramid that holds a mystery she really wants to uncover. Thrown together when being chased by a man out to destroy the pyramid, they find themselves embroiled in an action adventure neither of them expected.
Loved how much fun this was! Despite the danger they were headed into, Easy and Candice had a great connection, bouncing off one another with an infatuation of one another but also an admiration. They make a fantastic team, working together to uncover the mystery and get what they both want, but also tactfully assessing situations and having to get involved in some unexpected situations. Each and every challenge they faced helped them learn more about one another, and further develop their connection, even if they still had a bit of an edge and attitude towards one another’s approaches.
Easy was so strong and confident, so she really brought out the best in Candice and helped her, even if sometimes it was somewhat reluctantly. Candice really cared about the history and the other people affected by their actions, or those chasing them down. There were so many wonderful moments, but also lots where I held my breath. I really loved how although Easy was attracted to Candice, she developed feelings even she didn’t expect as Candice wormed her way into her heart and made her care about her.
A really fast paced, exciting adventure that had an element of comedy to lift some of the darker elements. A great story that I really enjoyed.
October 20, 2021
I was surprised how much I enjoyed this book. Navada is quirky with history and layers, and even with the self-referential mentions of being like Jane Jones or Lara Croft, it was that sort of fun adrenaline spiked adventure. Mix in some The Mummy feels, with Brendan Fraser being a hot chick and you've pretty much nailed how this read felt.
Looking forward to the next book in the series.
Looking forward to the next book in the series.
September 3, 2018
I love the idea of a female Indiana jones/Laura croft character alongside another strong female. This is the concept of Easy Neva and Candice the archaeologist.
Personally for me, I just could not take to the main characters. Particularly Easy Nevada, the arrogant player type with the constant come on just distracted from the storyline.
The story was actioned packed, but I wanted more back story and craved more puzzles in the pyramid. Instead it felt it went from one fight scene to another, without much background detail. I also felt for an archaeologist Canice did seem to be lacking in knowledge.
Overall its a fun, fast paced adventure.
Arc received from Ylva for honest review.
Personally for me, I just could not take to the main characters. Particularly Easy Nevada, the arrogant player type with the constant come on just distracted from the storyline.
The story was actioned packed, but I wanted more back story and craved more puzzles in the pyramid. Instead it felt it went from one fight scene to another, without much background detail. I also felt for an archaeologist Canice did seem to be lacking in knowledge.
Overall its a fun, fast paced adventure.
Arc received from Ylva for honest review.
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