In Tomb of the Sun King by Jacquelyn Benson, we are once again following Ellie Mallory an archivist and suffragette as she seeks out an arcanum - a powerful ancient artifact with powerful magic properties. Ellie and Adam Bates once again team up to find this ancient object. This time we are in Egypt and we run across Ellie's best friend, Constance and then, Ellie's stepbrother, Dr. Neil Fairfax. Neil and Adam were at Oxford together. This is a a historical fantasy blending together historical fiction and fantasy and I loved it. It is narrated by Alex Picard and her narration is perfection. She handles mens and womens voices and multiple accents immaculately. If you are looking for a story that gives you vibes of The Mummy (with Brendan Fraser) or Indiana Jones - this book is it. I love the writing, the characters, the pacing, the plot and the narration. This is a five star listen - and read because I read the arc for the e-book as well. I absolutely love this story and cannot wait for book 3! Thank you to NetGalley for my advance listener copy.

Alex Picard delivers an absolutely stellar performance in Tomb of the Sun King! Her narration brought this story to life in a way that felt like experiencing it for the first time. The tension, humor, and adventure were all perfectly conveyed, keeping me completely engrossed from start to finish.

One standout highlight was Neil’s internal exclamation of “danger gnome” every time he found himself thinking something positive about Constance. Every instance had me laughing out loud, and Picard’s portrayal of Neil’s growing distress was pitch-perfect. Her ability to switch between accents and characters was seamless, adding so much depth and charm to the audiobook.

Alex Picard is quickly becoming a favorite narrator of mine. Her talent for capturing the essence of every character and infusing the narration with energy and emotion is unmatched. If she’s narrating, I’m listening!

For audiobook lovers, Tomb of the Sun King is an absolute treat. Highly recommended for fans of historical fantasy, romance, and action-packed adventures!

This book is just plain fun! There is so much adventure and suspense alongside a surprisingly well-explained history. Benson succeeds in taking what could be a boring history lecture and making it exciting within the context of the plot of the story. And, of course, there is the swoon-worthy romance that takes on a deeper, more emotional level in this second book of the series.

What made this book even better was the expansion of characters from the first installment in the series. This book might have felt redundant had it just been the two main characters back at it, but Benson introduces the reader to Ellie's very proper, rule-following brother Neil, and Ellie's best friend Constance becomes a main cast member. The addition of these two characters adds another dimension to the book and to Ellie and Adam as people. Seeing the two main characters interacting with other people they count as important adds facets to their story both as individuals and as a couple. It carries the series arc along nicely.

I also cannot forget the spectacular Egyptians who played a vital role in protecting their own history. Benson did a fantastic job drawing in these characters to tell the story of Egypt (both the ancient history and the "current" state of Egypt in 1898) from the perspective of those who belong there. Benson educates the reader on the prejudiced processes of Egyptian excavation at the time, calling out the unjust practices that prevented Egyptians from excavating their own land in a way that empowers the characters and creates empathy in the reader.

Benson also does a great job at introducing depth to the main villain of the story. I love a good bad guy that I can just hate, but having a villain whose motivations run deeper than just money or a thirst for violence is even more thrilling. Benson does a fantastic job breadcrumbing this larger story arc to get the reader intrigued for the next book in the series.

The narrator did a phenomenal job, giving distinct voices to each of the four points of view in the narrative. They also does a wonderful job giving proper accents to different characters. Their voice was pleasant and animated, and their cadence was wonderfully smooth. They maintained consistency of pronunciation with Ancient Egyptian words and names.

All in all, I will be waiting on the edge of my seat for the next installment of Raiders of the Arcana (she definitely set it up for more)!

We are back in action! I loved this book from the moment I started listening to it. It's such a refreshing and mysterious adventure you get into. If you're a fan of The Mummy or Indiana Jones, this series has not failed to keep me trapped for hours. I'm so excited for the next book already. Alex Picard did such an amazing job narrating I was entranced. I'm so going to be looking into Jacquelyn Benson's other works. Ah, I need more!

Rating
☆☆☆☆.5/5 rounded up to 5

-Quick Description-
Ellie and Adam now in Egypt are attempting to rescue another artifact from falling into the hands of the antagonist from the previous book. And this time they have a few new characters along for the ride. We get to see multiple POVs including Ellie's brother Neil. Travel around historical Egypt on a magical treasure hunt you're sure to enjoy if you are fans of The Mummy and Indiana Jones.

-My thoughts-
Although this is the second book, l'll admit I had not read the first before this one, I was still able to dive straight into the story and will definitely be picking up the first book. This book screams romance and adventure think Indiana Jones and The Mummy vibes. I have really enjoyed spending time with the characters who are definitely loveable and who l will remember for a long time. This book is choc full of history, banter, romance, and adventure as well as being a lighthearted and entertaining read. I'm looking forward to catching up with Ellie and Adam in the next book and can't wait to read book one to see how it all began.
I was able to listen to this on audio and thoroughly enjoyed the narrator who brought the characters and story to life.

Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for my ARL and a huge thank you to Jacquelyn Benson.
Also reviewed on Goodreads, StoryGraph,Fable and Instagram (post coming soon) @read.with.rue

Ellie always felt the best place to put her scholarly skills to the test would be in the land of Sand: Egypt! The unexpected escapade, however, led her to save peculiar artefacts from notorious villains. Accompanying her is her brother's hot best friend, adding a layer of romantic angle to the story. This is the 2nd book in the Arcana series and even when I read this directly without the 1st one, I still enjoyed it. So it's safe to say that you can read it as a standalone too though now I want to read book 1 as well.

I was listening to the audiobook version of this story & may say the narrators did a fab job of the British accent. The writing style was another factor that I loved, giving me so much Jane Austen vibe & the witty exchange of dialogues between the 2 main protagonists was delightful. The pacing is fast, so you won't get bored despite the book's length, there is a constant sense of adventure, risks and standing on the edge of a disaster - perfect for the fans of The Mummy Series.

For years I've been looking for adventure romances like Indiana Jones and The Mummy, and could barely find any until recently. I was so so excited to stumble upon the Tomb of the Sun King and it didn't disappoint! It's lighthearted and fun with a great smattering of history, fantasty, adventure and romance - the perfect combination. This is the second in a series, but I haven't read the first and that's OK - the stories are separate and can stand alone. Anyway if you loved The Mummy/Indiana Jones you'll love this!

I absolutely adore Ellie’s character, so I couldn’t wait to dive back into this series. While the first book felt very Indiana Jones, this book brought back all The Mummy nostalgia. Benson truly shines with her world building and really immersing readers in the setting as well as attention to historical details. I enjoyed the opportunity to meet Ellie’s half brother Jacob and friend Connie. I find family and friend dynamics to be so interesting in stories. Although, I do believe this story stumbled a bit with trying to balance fitting in new characters and keeping a strong storyline. Aside from that, I really enjoyed the story pacing and the adventure the characters found themselves going on. I also love the relationship between Ellie and Adam. Their banter, tension, and chemistry is purely delightful. I also really enjoyed how Benson set up the next book in the series. I read this via audiobook and loved the narration. Alex Picard is a great choice and adds so much energy and emotion to the role. Picard does a great job at keeping my interest while reading, and I highly recommend checking out the audiobooks for this series.

This is an adventurous read. If I thought book one had the mummy vibes I was wrong. This one had it hands-down, and I loved every minute of it. I love we had the Brother and her best friend join this adventure and the trouble they get into and the facts about Egypt. It was just fun. And the narrators are amazing

Story Rating: 5/5*
Narration Rating: 4.5/5*

The Tomb of The Sun King audiobook engagingly brings the lively narrative to life, especially regarding angst and tension. The narrator was excellent and compellingly portrayed the range of characters' personalities and distinct voices.

The plot picks up shortly after the end of Book 1, wherein Ellie and Adam attempt to rescue yet another precious artefact from the clutches of their ruthless adversaries. The story carries the same comedic and dramatic fun as the Mummy movies while providing quality, thoughtful writing and a unique voice. The tension and pining come through clearly, and the angst is palpable.

Further, both the story and the narrator dedicate due diligence to representing side characters impactfully and making their contributions to the story more mainstream. I especially enjoyed the saucy chaos of Constance Tyrell.

On the whole, the book is great fun. If you enjoyed the Mummy, you will enjoy this one. If you want to feel like you are watching The Mummy without watching the same story over again or having to look at a screen, listen to the audiobook. In terms of entertainment, this series delivers beautifully in written and audio format.

This book was an absolutely fantastic read! A wonderful follow-up to book one of the Raiders of the Arcana series, book two took us to Egypt where we see our favorite cast of characters find themselves embroiled in looking for the staff of Moses. The author does such a fantastic job with her character development. Her characters are deep and well defined and I have gotten such a kick getting to know them. The plot was excellent and I am so excited to read their next adventure.. set in India!

This was just okay. The narrator was great. The wide range of voices for characters was amazing! However the story itself was not my favorite. It was very slow. With a lot of world and character building. But I wasn’t a fan of Constance and Ellie drives me crazy with her too modern feminism. I also don’t like the blasphemy, that the Bible is not true and is myth in the eyes of the characters.

Ellie is a true rebel and is using her skills to work in Egypt where she will face many dangers and foes. Her brother Neil is much more conservative but is pulled along as they search for a powerful ancient artefact.

Really well written and well narrated novel (I listened to the audiobook). Loved these intrepid characters who will face many dangers whilst on an adventure across the desert. Ellie and her gang will defy convention and fight for what they believe right. Well paced and action packed with some magic thrown in.

Full Review: Tomb of the Sun King by Jacquelyn Benson

Tomb of the Sun King is a spellbinding mix of historical fantasy and daring adventure, with themes of liberation and the relentless pursuit of knowledge taking center stage. Jacquelyn Benson weaves a tale rich in magic, mystery, and personal conviction, all set against the backdrop of an evocative Victorian-era world.

Ellie, the fiercely intelligent and resolute heroine, leads the charge with her unyielding determination and sharp wit. Her character embodies the relentless fight for women’s autonomy, and while her journey through societal expectations and ancient secrets is deeply compelling, it can also feel emotionally taxing at times. This unflinching exploration of her struggles adds authenticity and depth to the story, making her victories all the more impactful.

Constance, a new addition to the cast, brings her own brilliance to the story, stealing scenes with her charm and resourcefulness. Levity is sprinkled in delightfully, often thanks to Ellie’s brother and the characters’ witty exchanges.

The story delivers a breathtaking treasure hunt, with a magical artifact steeped in Biblical lore, a series of perilous clues, and plenty of surprises along the way. (Think Raiders of the Lost Arc, not Biblical truth but an instesting what if.) The adventure unfolds slowly, with a deliberate build that may test your patience early on, but it all pays off in the final act. The last 25% bursts into life, packed with action, revelations, and a twist that makes the wait worthwhile, leaving you eager to see what happens next.

Jacquelyn Benson’s narrative craftsmanship is on full display here. The multiple points of view are distinct and immersive, with each character’s voice adding depth to the story. Her writing captures the era’s intellectual and spiritual conflicts without being preachy or terribly blasphemous. The characters’ views on faith, science, and belief are nuanced, staying true to their convictions while respecting the audience’s own religions.

While the journey is ultimately rewarding, the pacing may challenge some readers. The first three-quarters focus heavily on world-building and character development, which can feel slow, but the payoff in the final stretch more than compensates.

Fans of historical fantasy, magical quests, and strong heroines will find Tomb of the Sun King an unforgettable read. It’s a testament to Jacquelyn Benson’s ability to craft a daring and thought-provoking tale while keeping her audience utterly enthralled.

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐ 3.5/5
Spice Level: 🔥 1/5 (lust, yearning, kissing)
Tropes: Multiple POV, miscommunication, nicknames, quest, magical items, adventure.

Thank you to Crimson Fox Publishing and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC of Tomb of the Sun King in exchange for my honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

I adored the first book with it's 1999 Mummy vibes, delicious duo and action packed plot. My only criticism of that one, was it got a bit clumpy at times due to the historical dumps that would occur.
Book Two is a brilliant continuation of this series, our lovable duo are back and this time they've got friends which was a great addition, everyone loves a group dynamic. The slow burn tension that I loved is still at its best and the story was action packed in a swashbuckling adventure full of romance, comedy and magic.
Once again the only thing I personally struggle with is history info dumps as this pulls me out of the story but I still loved it and can't wait for more from this series.
The narrator really brought these characters to live and make the listening experience enjoyable.

“The oppressors take enough from us already, do not dare let them take your heart as well”

I loved Empire of Shadows and somehow the sequel was even better!
Book 1 had Ellie & Adam in British Honduras & this book is set in Egypt, which I was so excited about!
From the beginning I was hooked & devoured the audiobook in a couple days. The narrator is incredible & I love how she narrated each PoV character & brought the story to life.

Along with Ellie & Adam, we also get the PoV of Constance (Ellie’s bet friend) & Neil (Ellie’s brother & Adam’s best friend).
I loved the addition of these characters & I completely fell in love with the side characters, who are Egyptian Muslims, Syed & Zainab have my heart.

In this they are searching for the staff of Moses, a powerful magical object that could bring about destruction. We also find out more about the mysterious benefactors who are funding the people Ellie & Adam are working against.

I loved the adventure they go on in search of the staff but my absolute favourite thing about these books is the characters & their dynamics with each other.
I was already in love with Ellie & Adam & the slow burn romance that develops between them & how they’re dealing with the fact that Ellie is against the institution of marriage because women are property & wanting to be with Adam & Adam feeling as though he isn’t worthy of her & ruining her reputation.
These two had me giggling, kicking my feet because the yearning & angst is top tier!

I also loved seeing Constance who is half Indian & wants to go on an adventure but her parents want her to get married. She fast became a fave because this girl is even more chaotic than Ellie, carrying daggers hidden in her dress & knowing jujitsu.
Neil was a pleasant surprise, bookish nerd who just wants to study the Egyptian history in his digs but is dragged into this adventure by his sister. I loved his arc of acknowledging his privilege & learning to use that to advocate for those who are treated as less even though they are just as qualified as him because they aren’t a white man.

The Muslim rep was so great, we see Egyptian culture & Muslims were celebrated & Zainab was one of my favourites because she is a badass.
Ellie learning that while in England, women are property of their husbands but islamically, a marriage is a partnership & women are given many rights & Zainab helping her to figure out how she can be with Adam. I could truly write a whole post on how nuanced & great the Muslim rep was.

I cannot explain how much I adore this book & series & I cannot wait for the next book!
I highly recommend reading if you love historical fantasy, badass women, men who are obsessed with the woman he loves, quests & adventure!

Tomb of the Sun King
Raiders of the Arcana #2
Jacquelyn Benson
Adam and Ellie travel to Egypt to assist her brother Neil that his dig is in danger. Someone wants the artifact located at Neil’s dig. The four follow the three-thousand-year-old clues that lead them from the necropolis of Saqqara to the temples of Luxor searching for the secret of a pharaoh. The secret could result in serious world changes. Ellie and her team will resort to physical fighting and disregarding appropriate archaeological methods.
I love this tale. I have not read book 1 and MUST go back and read it. The characters work well together. I was a great fan of The Amelia Peabody series written by Elizabeth Peters. This book reminds me a bit of that series. What do they have in common? Humor, wit, action, mystery, suspense, Egypt, history, pyramids, and romance.
The setting is realistic. This tale has magical elements. (Magical elements would not occur in our world. The magical elements ae left unexplained to make them part of everyday life.) The magicl elements in this tale are low key.
Ellie Mallory, our female main character, is intelligent, extremely strong, and independent. She is a scholar that bucks the norms of society. Our male main character is Adam Bates is a surveyor. Ellie is attracted to him. Dr. Neil Fairfax is Ellie’s stepbrother; he is intelligent and protective of Ellie. Constance Tyrrell, aka Connie, is fearless. This book highlights Colonialism and the institution of marriage. The narrator is Alex Picard. He has a talent of balancing the characters and developing their accents.
Great reading.
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC

Thank you to the publisher for providing me with an eARC audiobook of this book via NetGalley!
Tomb of the Sun King is the second book in the Raiders of the Arcana series, picking up right were the first book ended. Ellie and Adam travel to Egypt to join her brother Neil and hopefully keep a powerful artefact our of the hands of the villains.

I absolutely love these characters and also really enjoyed seeing the dynamic of a (possibly) new couple? It was interesting seeing how their relationship developed, whilst also seeing them interact with other characters

The narrator did a fantastic job!

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ / 5 stars
Thank you to the publisher for providing me with an eARC audiobook of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review!
Tomb of the Sun King is the second book in the Raiders of the Arcana series. Ellie and Adam travel to Egypt to join her brother Neil and hopefully keep a powerful artefact our of the hands of the villains.

I absolutely devoured the audiobook of the first book and I was BEYOND excited to get early access to the sequel! I can’t stress enough how AMAZING these audiobooks are!! If you are planning to read these books (do it!), make sure you do so while listening to the audiobook!

The narrator, Alex Picard, is just absolutely brilliant at bringing these characters and the story alive! Hands down, the best audiobooks I’ve ever listened to!


Beware of possible spoilers for the previous book in the series!
Empire of Shadows | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

The story itself is also just the best thing ever! Everything I loved about the first book comes back ten fold in this one! The history in the book is amazing and I just love these characters!

Constance and Neil, both briefly seen in the first book are big characters in this one and I love it! Neil has his own POV, which brings so much more to the story that I expected! Constance is such a force to be reckoned with and has such a fun dynamic with Neil!

I loved that expansion and I loved how we learned a bit more about the lore and the group who Ellie and Adam are fighting against! The history is so well woven into the fantasy element and that is another thing that makes this book just sooooo good and addicting!

Ellie and Adam are everything and I loved the progression of romance between them! Both of them are adorable an feisty and I love it! Their bickering remains a big joy to listen to and the chemistry is top notch! Adam’s one true love will always remain his machete, but Ellie is coming in as a close second!

The ending was sooooo satisfying and I loved how this story wrapped up! I think what I also loved is learning where book 3 will go and knowing more adventures are in the future for this amazing cast!

Overall, Tomb of the Sun King is just as amazing as the first book and I absolutely devoured it! I just love this series with my whole heart and will always be an Adam Bates girl!

A wonderful second story after Empire of shadows. I am not usually a historical fantasy person but I really love this