Guardian of the Horizon

The Amelia Peabody Series, Book 16

By: Elizabeth Peters

Narrated by: Barbara Rosenblat

A lost journal of Amelia Peabody has been miraculously recovered: a chronicle from one of the "missing years", 1907-1908, shedding light on an already exceptional career...and an unexpected terror.

Ousted from their most recent archaeological dig and banned forever from the Valley of the Kings, the Emersons are spending a quiet summer at home in Kent, England, when a mysterious messenger arrives. Claiming to be the teenage brother of their dear friend, Tarek, he brings troubling news of a strange malady that has struck down Tarek's heir and conveys his brother's urgent need for help only the Emersons can provide.

The family sets off in secret for the mountain fortress from which they narrowly escaped 10 years before. The Emersons are unaware that deception and treachery are leading them onward into a nest of vipers, where a dreadful fate may await. For young Ramses, forced to keep his growing love for the beautiful Nefret secret, temptation along the way may prove his ultimate undoing. And a dark past and grim obligation have ensnared Nefret once again, as she is helpless to save those she loves most from the prison of the Lost Oasis.

Rich with suspense, surprises, unforgettable characters, and the intoxicating atmosphere that has earned her the coveted title of Grand Master two times over, the remarkable Elizabeth Peters proves once again that in the world of historical adventure fiction, she is truly without peer.

Don't miss the rest of the Amelia Peabody series. You can also check out more of our Most Addictive Series.©2004 Elizabeth Peters (P)2004 HarperCollins Publishers, Inc.

Critic reviews

"Peters, as her many accolades would suggest, knows precisely what she is doing as she spins a tale of romance, derring-do, bravery, and, of course, deceptions, betrayals, and disguises in the classic tradition of H. Rider Haggard, if with tongue often in cheek." ( Publishers Weekly)

"A highly entertaining entry in a series that continues to delight." ( Booklist)

I am addicted to Peabody

Another wonderful experience with the Emersons. I have to admit I have a bit of a crush on Ramses. Back when he was just a lad, he was always a delight: smart, funny, handy to have on an adventure...But now as a young person, he is pretty much everything you might want in a man. But all in the clan are lovable. Barbara Rosenblat is the only Peabody as far as I am concerned. I only wish that audible had the complete series unabridged narrated by her. They have most but not all. I am not sure why some people have criticized her, she simply IS Peabody. I have not enjoyed her reading the Vicky Bliss series. She seems to do better with an English accent. All in all, listening to these novels lifts my spirits.

I love them all

But this is my least favorite. It shows my age as well as Elizabeth’s.
I did not like Ramses being seduced by Daria because he is meant for someone else. Old-fashioned and foolish I know. But it also bugs me that Nephrete has to be pure. She even had a subliminal message placed in her brain to make her remain a virgin. And then later, in another episode, she’ll remain “unused” by another man. I won’t say more.
But these double standards bug me.
That doesn’t stop me listening to these stories over and over!

Satisfying

Was wondering what happened to the holy mountain, well written and characters are as rich as ever

Very entertaining

I am enjoying the series. I have to admit I was glad they were going back to the lost city. Very good story mixed in with new adventures.

Riveting Adventure

A richly detailed ancient culture is introduced in this book. Many interesting characters beyond the standard cast are embroiled in complex intrigues.

The best series ever

Listen to them all, but only if Barbara Rosenblat is narrating. Every one of them is great.

Dependably Enjoyable

This series is a favorite. The history is reliable, the style is authentic, and the plots are engaging. The the characters are likable and amusing; their development and their changing relationships piques interest in the ongoing saga.
A great plus in the audio versions is the amazing Barbara Rosenblat, who gives each character a distinctive and convincing voice.

i couldn't stop listening once i started the book.

loved every minute of it. the Emerson's sure know how to have a great adventure.

I was so concerned for everyone, I almost stopped listening...

I was so concerned for everyone, I almost stopped listening about ⅓ of the way through. It seemed like there was no way a happy ending could result. But, I persevered. What ensued were surprises and plots within plots...and, eventually, a happy ending. Though, of course, one is left wondering, what happens next? So, into the next book! And I might dream about the 20 year old Ramses tonight...

Return to the Holy Mountain

I'd say this entry is better than average. Not as epic as the Emersons' first visit, but definitely better written, with better pacing and more memorable characters. I don't particularly care for Ramses' activities during this one, but I suppose you have to let a character make some mistakes.