I've been in love with Grace since The Mistletoe Countess, so I was ecstatic to travel with her and Freddie to Egypt, of all places! I've actually visited Cairo years ago, so it was fun having a little idea of what she was seeing, smelling, and hearing. I don't know if the author planned for these to be a mystery series from the beginning, but if not, I'm so glad it worked out that way!
Grace was as lovely and as brave as I expected. She's such a hoot! She gets into the funniest scrapes and yet, always comes out on top. She's a little immature, but her ADD comes out well in the text. She has a child-like innocence that is refreshing and laughter-inducing, (with maybe a little head-shaking too.) I love how Frederick loves her and looks out for her.
The author has done an incredible job with the historical research. Everything was so well described that I was certain the author had visited the locations and settings in the story. The mystery isn't too complicated or mind-bending--it's just a fun read with a little danger and intrigue intertwined with the romance. Speaking of romance, I loved the secondary love story for Elliot! I won't give away who he falls in love with, but it was perfect.
One thing I enjoyed is that while Grace and Frederick are married, the author handled the physical side of their marriage with a great deal of tact and innocency. It wasn't cringey or too explicit, but masterfully done considering married characters.
I highly recommend the Grace and Frederick mysteries to lovers of sweet romance and cozy mysteries; readers looking for something light-hearted and fun. Be sure to start with The Mistletoe Countess to get the full affect. I can't wait for The Juliet Code!

So excited to read part 2! The first was so great and adventurous, the second book followed with just as much excitement and adventure. Grace and Frederick are much loved and love reading their story. A great book 1 & 2!

Delightful. Just delightful.

The Cairo Curse is a fun, frivolous romp escalating into an action-packed, suspenseful final scene that will have you turning pages quickly. The heroine is youthful, dashing, and charmingly naïve, in love with her slightly stodgy but completely besotted husband. They are a wonderful couple. So real and human!

Ms. Basham did a great job with the setting and plot. The mystery wasn’t complex, but the denouement scenes were excellent! The subplot involving the minor characters were fun, too.

I recommend this book to romance readers who like laughter and interesting historical detail. It’s the most enjoyable book I’ve read this year!

Nothing says 'honeymoon' like murder and mayhem...

I'm always up for a good adventure story set in the sands and tombs of Egypt. Very rarely do I run into one that I dislike and The Cairo Curse proved that rule to still be very true – don't worry, I liked it. Anyway, it has all of the mystery – and surprisingly the comedy – that a person might wish for in a historical romance.

I will admit that I have not read the first Freddie And Grace Mystery but as I had hoped I was still able to enjoy this second book in the series anyway. Pepper Basham did a great job writing a story that is definitely connected to its predecessor but can still be enjoyed as a complete story of its own.

While The Cairo Curse probably isn't my favorite book with an Egyptology theme, that would be Linda Chaikin's Egypt Trilogy, I can easily tell you that it is my favorite Pepper Basham book that I have read. The mix of humor and murder mystery was quite entertaining. The Egypt on the eve of WWI (1914) setting of this Freddie And Grace Mystery was an excellent one. It was an exciting time in Egyptology and in the world making it the perfect backdrop for a tale of murder, intrigue, and discovery.

I did enjoy reading The Cairo Curse and I think after this I will likely not be a stranger to Pepper Basham's Freddie And Grace Mysteries...

(I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are entirely my own.)

Honestly, I struggled with this one. I enjoyed much of the middle of this book, but as with its predecessor, there is much more sexual references than I would want to see in a Christian book. I almost felt like I couldn't look the characters in the eye because I had seen too much. I loved the friendships between Freddie and Blake and Elliot, though.

I thoroughly enjoyed the first book of this series and knew that I would love this book as well. The author is amazing and really brings the characters to life!

The Cairo Curse is a wonderful read that will keep you guessing until the very end! Make sure you read the first book first!

I love Grace! Her character is amazing. She’s got so much she’s been through(read book one) and yet she is still a breath of fresh air and sunshine to all she meets. Of course, that’s from God but watching it play out is interesting and keeps me reading for sure.

Add a new adventure to this book! Oh and pistols and jewels and a thief plus murder. Oh yes, it’s a great book! I loved meeting new characters and catching up with some old ones, though I really will need to get back with some of these characters in another book or two or ten!

I loved the interactions between the characters and how our two main characters look at things differently. Grace is from a different world than Lord Astley and sometimes it’s very apparent.

Oh and don’t forget the street urchins!

I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received through Celebrate Lit. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.

The Cairo Curse by Pepper Basham is based around a honeymoon trip between newlyweds Grace and Freddie Astley, where they go to visit Freddie's family in Egypt. It's far from the ideal honeymoon, however, when an archeological dig funded by Freddie's cousins becomes the hotbed of mystery, theft, and murder.

The story is a romance/adventure novel with a unique narrator, strong character, and solid plot development, but it has a few snags in the fabric. The spiritual aspects are mostly on the nose, with some nuances to unpack regarding salvation.

Overall, I would rate it a 3.5 out of 5 stars.

For writing style, plot, and characters, I would rate it at 4 out of 5. Even if the plot was a bit predictable, the characters come off the page with their personalities--especially Grace Astley herself. She's both endearing and aggravating at times, but I know I am too!

I think there is confusion in comparing Egyptian religion and God. The book does share a message of salvation, even going as to explain Jesus's death on the cross for our sins, but we didn't quite see a full transformation. This was kind of left as a loose end with one particular character. I do hope it'll be touched upon in a later book.

This is. a solid read, and I would be tempted to pick up a third installment in this series. Thanks to Netgalley and Barbour Publishing for the book in exchange for an honest review.

Frederick and Grace are starting out on their honeymoon by visiting family members in Egypt. One would expect a trip of sightseeing and cultural experiences. As usual, with Grace, her trip turns into so much more than other tourists visits. Frederick and Grace find themselves in the middle of jewelry thefts and murder.

This book contains so many things that I loved. It contained witty humor, romance, unpredictable scenes, and adventure. It was a page turner and a very quick read because I didn’t want to put the book down. It is full of information and history which is presented in such a seamless way that the reader is not intimidated or turned off.

Pepper Basham is quickly becoming one of my favorite authors that I rush to get her new book as soon as I can.
As a matter of fact, The Cairo Curse is my favorite book I have read so far this year. I can’t wait to read more books in the series. The book is book number two in the series. I would recommend reading the books in order since many events from the previous book are referenced. I have already purchased the book to share with a friend.

I would definitely recommend this book. I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own and I was not required to leave a positive review.

Egyptian mysteries, murders, and romance…
During Christmas, I read and shared my thoughts on The Mistletoe Countess, also by Pepper Basham. There, we met Grace, Frederick, and Elliott, the butler who has “special gifts”. Well, if you enjoyed that story, you will enjoy The Cairo Curse as it is the continuation of their story.
Grace and Frederick are finally going on their honeymoon and their first stop is Cairo, Egypt where they are met with adventure, wonder, and murder. Grace is beside herself with excitement as they roll into the ancient city and I must admit, I would have been just as giddy, and just as chatty as she was. I share her enjoyment of Egyptology. Of course, ever curious and knowledgable Grace is always thinking and putting together the puzzles of people’s behaviors. I love this character–she is one that hungers for knowledge, not to use it against others but to understand them. She is a people watcher and that is something I identify with a great deal.
This also means that poor Frederick and Elliott have their hands full. I laughed as I imagined some possible looks between the two as Grace offered her theories on events in Cairo. And once the body count begins to rise, there is no stopping the precocious and ever-moving woman. Frederick and Elliott offer several words of warning to not go wandering off…do you think she listened? I love it.
In The Cairo Curse, we also see a more in-depth view of Elliott’s background. It was hinted in The Mistletoe Countess that he was more than just a butler and Fredericks’s eyes and ears when he wasn’t around. In this book, we are shown more of his skills and maybe even a hint of his heart as he interacts with the various guests in Cairo. I think I might have seen him have a small soft spot for one female guest in particular.
Anyway, you all know I love Pepper Basham so it is no surprise that I love this book. Egyptian mysteries, murders, and romance–what more could a reader ask for? (Maybe a continuation to the Freddie and Grace story–Scroll to the end to see a special treat. 😉 )
*** I was given a copy of this book through NetGalley and CelebrateLit Publicities by the publisher. A positive review was not required.

This is the second in the series A Freddie and Grace Mystery that focuses on Lord and Lady Astley and their honeymoon trip. Much to my chagrin I still need to read the first, which I own, so I will need to make that happen soon. I did like the characters of Frederick and Grace, Grace being an American heiress who helps save Frederick's estate. Their relationship is one still new and of learning about one another. Frederick is still getting used to his wife and her more wild tendencies. She does seem to find danger even though she is not really looking for it.

In this story Frederick has surprised Grace with a trip to ancient Egypt to visit his cousins along with all the sights and sounds. To Grace, this sounds like a lot of fun as she has not been much of a traveler, mostly a fiction reader. Which is also how she thinks, which I found most refreshing.

We meet a cast of characters who give off a certain air, that something is not quite right or what not all is what it seems. This was such a fun read for me as it took me to Egypt in the early 1900's and the world and its culture during that time. I enjoyed seeing a married couple working together as a team, relying on each other and certain strengths one may have while protecting one another. I hope Frederick and Grace have many adventures together. I know I want to be there for the ride.

I was provided a copy of this novel from the publisher. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions are my own.

I did not read the first book of Grace and Frederick’s adventures, The Mistletoe Countess, but now I wish I had, because I absolutely loved The Cairo Curse. But what’s not to love? There’s fun characters that you fall in love with, adventures that keep you turning the pages, and suspense that will keep you at the edge of your seat.

I genuinely did not want this story to end. Basham transports you to Egypt where Grace and Frederick are immediately thrown into sticky but exciting, and sometimes even hilarious, situations. And the excitement carries on throughout the rest of the novel as dangers arise and deaths stack up.

Basham is a master at weaving suspense and humor in a way that keeps readers engaged. I would highly recommend this novel, especially to anyone who loves mysteries.

I had received a copy of the book as part of the Celebrate Lit Blogging Team and was required to give an honest review.

Loved this book by Pepper Basham. I love that we get to see Grace and Freddie again and get to go on another adventure with them. I loved that this story is a mystery but it has a lot of humor in it as Freddie and Grace solve the mystery. I love Grace’s innocence and how she see the world and I love how much Freddie loves her and supports her. I loved that the mystery took time to solve which to me is a sign of a good writer. I loved getting to meet new characters and seeing new places through Grace’s eyes. I thought this book was really good and look forward to reading more books like this.

I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, and or authors.  A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.

The Cairo Curse is written by Pepper Basham. This is book two in the Freddie and Grace series. I did not read the first book, and it appears that most of the romance was covered there. I am a huge fan of this author. She will always draw you in within the first few pages of her work.
Grace and Freddie are married now - and very much in love. They travel on an exotic honeymoon to Egypt - and they are on an adventure that includes: Camels, tombs, mystery and murder. The author had me smiling and laughing throughout this entire book.
Thank you to the author, publisher and Celebrate Lit for allowing me to read a copy of this book. All thoughts are my own.

Take a stroll through the pyramids and ride a camel with Grace as she skips her way through Egypt and deeper into her husband's heart. A heartwarming tale full of mischief and thievery. A mystery that must be solved, and who knows what will happen with Grace on the case. I love her interest in the whole world, her insatiable curiosity and desire to help others. Charming characters with vivid detail. Freddie and Grace are such a wonderful pair, and The Cairo Curse is perfect for people who love Indiana Jones, The Mummy, or National Treasure. Grace's antics will have you laughing in no time, and the story itself holds deeper meaning as the group unravels the mystery. I received a copy of this book from the author through Celebrate Lit. I was not required to leave a positive review. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.

The Cairo Curse is the second installment of the Grace and Frederick mystery series. Since their romance was covered by the first book I was hoping for more mystery in the second one but that part was unfortunately a little disappointing.

Grace and Frederick are traveling to Egypt for a honeymoon but despite best laid plans the trip is anything but relaxing.

There was barely any plot in the first half of the book and I even briefly considered dnf. Luckily the story picked up speed in the second half and then everything happened at once; accidents, murders, betrayal and even a romance.

Even though I enjoyed parts of this story, the overall feeling was boredom laced with consternation.

The things that I didn’t like about Grace in the first book (childish, too much talking, emotional responses not adequate to the situation, not-like-other-girls) were still there and made it difficult for me to connect with her. This was however not the thing that bothered me the most.

This book has been written from the perspective of the British aristocracy visiting Egypt in 1914. It is extremely difficult to find the balance between historical accuracy and political correctness in such a setting and unfortunately that balance was not achieved. The idea of British archaeologists digging Egyptian graves to prevent “thieves” from finding the treasure was extremely jarring. If you then add Grace comparing a local girl to an “exotic flower” it all gets really cringy.

Another thing; Frederick and Grace kept talking about being equals and partners and yet he was painfully patronizing towards her. Yes he loved her but their dynamic resembled a parent with a child rather than a husband with a wife, which was very disturbing. (On the other hand you couldn’t really blame him because she did act like an unpredictable and reckless kid all the time 🙄 ) The cherry on top was how outraged he was by the way the locals treated women. Let’s be real, Freddie, it’s 1914, being a woman sucks in every part of the world, including your precious England.

Thank you Barbour Publishing and NetGalley for the chance to read this book in exchange for an honest review.

The Cairo Curse has so much to offer! An Egyptian setting, a sweet romance, and healthy doses of adventure, humor, and mystery. And that’s just the tip of the iceberg. And one of my favorite parts is the significant thread of faith binds it all together.

I adore Freddie and Grace. They are so lively and funny. And I love the romance they share during the eventful honeymoon. I haven’t read the first book in the series but meeting them in this one (book 2) certainly makes me want to go back and start at the beginning! There are some wonderful secondary characters as well. (Elliot!)

The author does a wonderful job of hooking the reader in the mysteries. I was kept guessing, just like I like. If you enjoy a suspenseful read with romance, adventure, humor, and faith, this is the book for you!

#CoverLoverBookReview received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions are 100% mine.

A thrilling adventure filled with romance, humor, mystery, and faith.

I was delighted to find that this book would follow Grace and Frederick from The Mistletoe Countess, and it did not disappoint. Filled with adventure and mystery, evoking ensemble mysteries from the likes of Agatha Christie. I loved Grace's passion for adventure, as well as her enthusiasm for life and the value she places on reading fiction. This book has some familiar faces, as well as a full cast of intriguing new suspects.

A rollicking adventure, with a healthy dose of humor, as well as faith. This was an utterly enjoyable read from beginning to end and a wonderful next chapter in Grace and Frederick's story. It was also great to see a different side of Elliott. I admired his noble heart.

Overall, an excellent follow up to Frederick and Grace's first adventure, I look forward to reading more in the future!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Mystery, romance, intrigue, Egyptian artifacts, and lots of witty dialogue! I loved this book! Pepper Basham has quickly become a must read author for me. The Mistletoe Countess has been on my TBR list since just discovering her books last year, so when I heard that the second book in the series was available on NetGalley, I snatched it up. I was not disappointed. Even though I hadn’t read the first book, I was immediately drawn into the story and quickly fell in love with Frederick and Grace, now Lord and Lady Astley.

I absolutely loved the setting of 1914 Egypt. From Agatha Christie to Elizabeth Peters, I’ve long been a fan of mysteries set among the pyramids and archaeological digs. This mystery was a lot of fun with mummies, ancient curses, hieroglyphics, and stolen antiquities. Frederick & Grace are on their honeymoon but take a detour trip to Egypt. What they find there are plenty of secrets, suspects, and shenanigans to please Grace’s ever active mind and imagination. When the intrigues surrounding an undiscovered tomb lead to murder, Grace and Freddie are right in the middle of it.

I loved the romance between Grace & Frederick. Even though they’re married, there was still plenty of passion and tender romance, which the author keeps closed door. Grace is such a fantastic character! From her references to literature to her love of sleuthing, she kept me laughing with her witty commentary and exuberance. Frederick is the quintessential hero and indulges Grace’s more rash ideas with patience and support. These two work so well together and I loved their relationship. Their valet Elliott plays a big role in this story and I enjoyed the mystery surrounding his past. Is there anything he can’t do?

The mystery kept me quickly turning the pages. There’s a whole slew of suspects with plausible motivations. Throw in some red herrings and a few murders, and this makes for a compelling story. While I had my suspicions, I was still guessing up until the end. The humor added a light touch and kept me thoroughly entertained. There’re also elements of faith and messages of second chances woven deftly throughout the story.

This is a must read for all cozy mystery lovers, especially if you’re a fan of Agatha Christie, Carola Dunn, and Elizabeth Peters. Thought it’s the second book in the series, it can definitely be read as a standalone. I can’t wait to go back and read the first book and am eagerly anticipating future stories involving Freddie & Grace. I received an advanced complimentary copy from the publisher. All opinions are my own and I was not required to provide a positive review.

This compelling historical suspense reminded me of reading Agatha Christie and Mrs. Polifax novels. The engaging tale adds the intrigue of an Egyptian archeological dig in ancient tombs along with danger and illegal activity. Lord and Lady Astley make a fun couple. I enjoyed their relationship and interaction plus their wild adventures. I had not read the first book so I felt like I missed out on an interesting backstory from this pair, but enough of their former lives was included in this novel that I didn’t feel lost because this powerful drama stands strong on its own. The mysterious events keep readers racing through to the end of the intriguing plot. And, yes, the author throws in some twists and surprises for her quirky cast of characters. I hope we will witness from Frederick and Grace—they offer a refreshing duo in fiction. I received a copy from the publisher through NetGalley. All opinions are my own. #TheCairoCurse #NetGalley

What a fun romp The Cairo Curse is! I fell in love with Grace and Frederick in The Mistletoe Countess and was eager to see what kinds of adventures awaited the pair. The second novel in the series did not disappoint. Grace and Frederick head to Egypt on the first leg of their honeymoon. Mayhem and murder accompany them. Frederick is still dashing, and Grace is, well, still Grace! The novel-loving heroine is armed with all the egyptology she could glean from books and a nose for danger and intrigue. Runaway camels, undiscovered tombs, and all the exotic sights and smells of the place and time come to life in this novel. There is a very twisty mystery in which everyone becomes a suspect as the bodies pile up. Grace and Frederick are still newlyweds, so their romance continues. Their relationship is so much fun. But a secondary romance in the novel was very satisfying too. If you are a fan of history and mystery with a good dose of romance, then The Cairo Curse is perfect for you!

Recommended.

Audience: Adults.