The Stolen Queen by Fiona Davis

*** Review ***

A new book by one of my favorite authors, The Stolen Queen by Fiona Davis, promises to captivate readers with its intricate blend of historical fiction, mystery, and strong female protagonists. Known for her ability to weave fascinating tales around iconic buildings, Davis takes us on a dual-timeline journey from the glamorous halls of New York City’s Metropolitan Museum of Art in the 1970s to the mysterious sands of Egypt in the 1930s.

The Stolen Queen centers on Charlotte Cross, an anthropology student who leaps at the opportunity to join an archaeological dig in Egypt’s Valley of the Kings in 1936. Her life changes irrevocably after a tragic event during the expedition. Fast forward to 1978, and we find Charlotte living a quieter life as the associate curator of the Met’s Department of Egyptian Art, deeply engrossed in her research on Hathorkare, a rare female pharaoh dismissed by many Egyptologists.

Simultaneously, we follow eighteen-year-old Annie Jenkins, who lands a job working for the legendary former Vogue editor Diana Vreeland as she organizes the Met Gala, known as the “party of the year.” The narrative gains momentum when a valuable artifact goes missing during the gala, and rumors of Hathorkare’s curse resurface. This crisis propels Annie and Charlotte to team up, leading them back to Egypt in a quest filled with danger and self-discovery.

As a fan of Fiona Davis, I have come to expect richly developed characters and meticulously researched historical settings, and The Stolen Queen does not disappoint. Charlotte’s character is compelling, shaped by her early experiences in Egypt and her current dedication to her work at the Met. Her journey from a young and ambitious student to a seasoned curator with a painful past is both heart-wrenching and inspiring. Annie, on the other hand, brings a youthful exuberance to the story. Her transformation from a naive assistant to a determined and resourceful young woman is beautifully portrayed, though some of her experiences seem a bit too coincidental.

Davis’s impeccable research shines through in this novel. The depictions of Egyptology, the Met Gala, and the operations behind museum curation are both fascinating and authentic. The historical note at the end of the book provides additional insights, revealing the real-life inspirations behind the characters and the creative liberties taken. This thoughtful touch enriches the reader’s experience, adding depth and context to the story.

One of the novel’s strengths lies in its exploration of repatriation laws and the ethical dilemmas surrounding stolen artifacts. Davis presents a balanced view, allowing readers to ponder the complexities of the issue without offering a definitive answer. This nuanced approach adds layers to the narrative, making the villains’ motivations more understandable, even if their actions are clearly illegal.

The dual timeline structure of The Stolen Queen is expertly handled, with the transitions between 1930s Cairo and 1970s New York City feeling seamless. The historical and cultural details in both settings are vividly portrayed, immersing readers in the distinct atmospheres of each era. The plot’s twists and turns keep the reader engaged, with a mystery that unfolds gradually and a conclusion that ties up loose ends in a satisfying manner.

One particularly enjoyable aspect of the book is its focus on the Met Gala. The behind-the-scenes look at this extravagant event, through the eyes of Annie as she navigates Diana Vreeland’s exacting demands, adds a layer of glamour and excitement to the story. This contrasts sharply with the more somber and reflective moments centered on Charlotte’s past in Egypt and her research at the Met.

While the narrative is generally compelling, there are moments when Annie’s storyline feels slightly forced, particularly her relationship with her mother, which could have been more fleshed out. However, these minor quibbles do not detract significantly from the overall enjoyment of the book.

The Stolen Queen is a delightful and engaging read that combines historical intrigue with personal growth and adventure. Fiona Davis once again delivers a novel that is both educational and entertaining, with characters that readers can root for and a plot that keeps them guessing. The themes of loss, resilience, and the pursuit of knowledge resonate throughout the story, making it a memorable addition to Davis’s impressive body of work.

In conclusion, The Stolen Queen is a must-read for fans of historical fiction and anyone who enjoys a good mystery. Davis’s ability to bring history to life, coupled with her knack for creating strong, relatable female characters, makes this novel a standout. As someone who has always been fascinated by Egyptology and the Met Gala, I found this book to be particularly captivating. It is a testament to Davis’s talent that she can seamlessly blend fact and fiction, creating a story that is both enlightening and emotionally powerful. This is a novel that will stay with you long after you turn the last page, and I eagerly await Fiona Davis’s next literary offering.