A River in the Sky

The Amelia Peabody Series, Book 19

By: Elizabeth Peters

Narrated by: Barbara Rosenblat

Elizabeth Peters brings back beloved Egyptologist and amateur sleuth Amelia Peabody in an exciting tale set amid the ancient temples and simmering religious tensions of Palestine on the eve of World War I.

August 1910. Amelia Peabody and her husband, Emerson, are relaxing at home in Kent, enjoying the tranquil beauty of summer. But adventure soon beckons when they are persuaded to follow would-be archaeologist Major George Morley on an expedition to Palestine. Searching for the vanished treasures of the Temple in Jerusalem, Morley is determined to unearth the legendary Ark of the Covenant.

The skeptical Emerson wants no part of the scheme, until a request from the War Office and Buckingham Palace persuades him to reconsider. The Germans are increasing their influence in Palestine and British intelligence insists that Morley is an agent of the Kaiser, sent to stir up trouble in this politically volatile land. Emerson can't believe that the seemingly inept Morley is a German spy, but could he be mistaken?

Determined to prevent a catastrophically unprofessional excavation that could destroy priceless historical finds as well as cause an armed protest by infuriated Christians, Jews, and Muslims who view the Temple Mount, also known as the Dome of the Rock, as sacred, Amelia, Emerson, and company head to Palestine. Though it is not to her beloved Egypt, the trip to Jerusalem will also reunite her with her handsome and headstrong son, Ramses, working on a dig at Samaria, north of the holy city.

Before Ramses can meet his parents, however, he is distracted by an unusual party of travelers who have arrived in Samaria, including a German woman archaeologist and a mysterious man of unknown nationality and past. Unfortunately, Ramses's insatiable curiosity and his knack for trouble lead him to a startling discovery: information he must pass on to his parents in Jerusalem, if he can get there alive.

Don't miss the rest of the Amelia Peabody series. You can also check out more of our Most Addictive Series.©2010 MPM Manor, Inc (P)2010 HarperCollins Publishers

Critic reviews

"Once again, MWA Grandmaster Peters uses vivid settings, sharp characterizations, and deft dialogue to transport the reader to another time and place." ( Publishers Weekly)

As Comfy As Slippers

This book is like putting on a favorite pair of old slippers. The characters are familiar, this time in a new setting, the plot unfolds in a satisfying manner, and the narration is excellent.

I have to disagree that Barbara Rosenblat didn't do a good job. She did her usual excellent job, even with various accents. She did put a bit more emphasis on the "H" in Manuscript H than in previous books, but it wasn't annoying to me.

Great literature it's not, but it is a satisfying read.

Love Amelia and Barbara Rosenblat

This is as entertaining as all of the Amelia Peabody books. I have enjoyed listening to every book. Barbara Rosenblat is the best.

Excellent book

So so sad to see this series end.
I know there is a book 20 but I’m going to stop here to remember them now as they were.
This is a great read and listen as always,Barbara Rosenblatt is the best as a narrator and off to Vicky I run!!!

I like the characters

I guess I like the mystery aspect but this book didn't seem the same, it could the old archaeologist, but whatever the problem it seemed tired

SHE JUST KEEPS GETTING BETTER!!

My "she" refers to both author, Elizabeth Peters and reader Rosenblat. She is an amazing reader that puts you right in the story and you have a running motion picture in your mind. You don't need Hollywood when you listen to Barbara Rosenblat!!!

Good

Another great installment although it went back in time. Still enjoyed it immensely! Narration perfect

Barbara Rosenblatt is unsurpassed

The Amelia Peabody series encompasses, mystery, and Egyptology, but it is the voicing of Barbara Rosenblatt that brings these books to life.

Fabulous Narration - Excellent Writing

Elizabeth Peters (Barbara Mertz) was an excellent writer who brought her love of ancient Egypt to life in her books.

Barbara Rosenblat's narration is one of the best I've ever heard. All of the characters in the book have very distinct voices which are easily discernible.

Ms. Peters (one of the pen names she used -- this one derived from the names of her daughter and son) was able to immerse the reader in not only the lives of her characters but in ancient Egypt.

She was able to add amusing insights into the personality of her characters without going overboard. A subtle example would be: (paraphrased for brevity):

Amelia: Would you like to have tea in the
salon or have it brought up here to our room?

Emerson: I don't want any tea.

Amelia said, We had tea on the terrace of our room.

Listening to these books is like being on an archaeological dig.

I listen to a lot of audio books. I listen every day. The books in this series are so good I am listening to them again in order. It brings joy to listen to this series of books. Getting a free lesson in archaeology is a definite bonus.

Like a visit with old friends!

I’ve listened to the whole series several times with the exception of this out-of-sequence book. So glad I did! It was like a visit with old friends. That it took place earlier in the series didn’t matter; it was great fun to spend some time with Amelia and her family.

Always the best!

The stories are so comfortable after 19 books but EP still manages to keep you on the edge 9f your seat. incredible writer!