January '25 Book Pick: The Stolen Queen by Fiona Davis
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If you’re looking for a novel that blends historical intrigue, dual timelines, and an emotional journey of redemption, make The Stolen Queen by Fiona Davis your next read. This gripping story will captivate you with its rich characters, evocative settings, and decades-spanning mystery.
A Tale of Art, Curses, and Redemption
The Stolen Queen opens in Egypt in 1936, where young anthropology student Charlotte Cross is thrilled to join an archaeological dig in the Valley of the Kings. But when tragedy strikes, Charlotte’s life takes a turn that haunts her for decades.
Fast forward to New York City in 1978, where 18-year-old Annie Jenkins lands a job working for the iconic Diana Vreeland, former Vogue editor and mastermind behind the glamorous Met Gala. Annie’s world collides with Charlotte’s when a priceless artifact from the Met’s Egyptian art collection vanishes during the gala, hinting at a reawakening of Hathorkare’s legendary curse.
As Charlotte and Annie team up to recover the artifact, they must unravel the secrets of Hathorkare, one of Egypt’s few female pharaohs, and confront the shadows of their pasts. Their journey takes them from the glittering halls of the Met to the sun-soaked sands of Egypt, weaving a story of courage, resilience, and the power of confronting buried truths.
Why Black Cake Is Worth the Read
Richly Layered Narrative: Fiona Davis masterfully crafts a dual-timeline narrative that seamlessly interweaves Charlotte and Annie’s stories. The alternating perspectives keep you engaged as the mystery unfolds, gradually revealing the connections between past and present.
Dynamic Characters: Charlotte and Annie are compelling protagonists, each grappling with their own struggles. Charlotte’s journey from heartbreak to redemption and Annie’s determination to carve her place in a demanding world create a perfect balance of vulnerability and strength.
Historical and Cultural Depth: The novel’s meticulous research into ancient Egypt and the art world of the 1970s adds a rich backdrop to the story. From the archaeological digs in Egypt to the glamour of the Met Gala, Davis paints vivid scenes that transport readers across time and space.
Themes of Healing and Identity: The Stolen Queen is about confronting the past and embracing the courage to heal. Its exploration of loss, identity, and redemption will resonate deeply with readers.
A Gripping Mystery: The missing artifact and the curse of Hathorkare drive a suspenseful plot that keeps you guessing until the end. The twists and revelations are as unexpected as they are satisfying.
About the author
Fiona Davis is the New York Times bestselling author of several novels, including The Spectacular, The Magnolia Palace, and The Lions of Fifth Avenue, which was a Good Morning America book club pick.
Read more about Fiona ON HER WEBSITE
Book Club Discussion Questions
- How do Charlotte’s experiences in Egypt shape her identity and choices later in life?
- What parallels can you draw between Charlotte’s and Annie’s journeys?
- How does the novel explore the role of women in ancient and modern history?
- Do you believe in curses as presented in the story, and how does this add to the narrative’s tension?
- How does the artifact symbolize redemption and healing for the characters?
Find More Details about The Stolen Queen on the Book Page
Fiona Davis once again delivers a thought-provoking and entertaining novel. The Stolen Queen is a must-read for fans of historical fiction, art history, and novels celebrating human resilience. With its compelling mystery, vivid settings, and emotionally rich characters, The Stolen Queen is a book pick you can’t miss. Add it to your reading list today, and get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey! Let me know your thoughts in the comments below.