Grace and Frederick are due for a honeymoon, and Frederick, well knowing his unconventional bride's tastes, decides to arrange for a visit to Egypt before their planned trip to Italy. Grace is thrilled and investigates all she can beforehand, but nothing she could have read could truly have prepared her for what they will face. Indeed, as the suspicious happenings begin to pile up, both Grace and Frederick start to wonder whether they'll ever make it out alive... Can they uncover the mysteries, work out what is going on and who is responsible for it all, and keep themselves and those they love safe?

I really enjoyed the first book in the series, but have to admit that this didn't grab me in quite the same way. Whether it was the setting, accumulated annoyance at Grace's attitude to fiction, disappointment at the author's continued intermittent misuse of words or just not being in the right mood for it, I found it hard to fully get drawn into the story. The one exception was Elliott's part in it all - I really appreciated getting to know him better and watching him do his best to care for those around him, particularly Grace (and Frederick), but also Amelia. The mysteries were handled relatively well, but felt at times like perhaps they were deliberately overcomplicated. Overall, not a bad story but I didn't enjoy it to the extent that I've come to expect from this author. Hoping for better things next time! 3.5 stars.

Note that I received a complimentary copy of the book from NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review and this is my considered opinion of the book.

Please do yourself the favor of reading The Mistletoe Countess before plunging into The Cairo Curse. Getting to know Lord and Lady Astley from the beginning of their relationship will be a treat that will make the second book all the more delicious. Lady Astley dreams big and loves big. Being an avid reader of fiction, especially of detective stories, along with her impulsive nature, leads her into many an adventure. Her husband is one to embrace her enthusiastic approach to life rather than to squelch it with expectations of lady-like behavior. As I read this book, it seemed as if I were meeting someone akin to Mrs. Marple in her twenties. I do believe Agatha Christie would have been a delighted fan of this series.

I am grateful to have received a complimentary copy of The Cairo Curse from Barbour Publishing via NetGalley without obligation. All opinions expressed here are my own.

I've read other books by Pepper Basham but I did not read the first book in this series, The Mistletoe Countess. I was still able to read and enjoy this book so it is definitely a stand alone. I do plan to read the first book now because I did enjoy Grace and Frederick. Newlyweds, Frederick and Grace end up on a detour prior to their honeymoon. Of course this being a mystery we have all kinds of intrigue and suspense, dangerous situations abound and it's a Pepper Basham book so there's also going to be laughter involved. But you can also bet there will be forgiveness, and mercy and grace woven into the story because that's what Pepper Basham does best. Very good book.

In this historical mystery set in Egypt, Grace and Frederick are at it again. They fall more in love and solve another mystery, and this time the stakes seem even higher. Grace is her sweet, spunky self, and Frederick does his best to apply what he learned in their first novel. It’s really put to the test as they encounter dangerous tombs and possible murderers. I enjoyed how they learned to trust each other and God even more. I also liked learning a bit about ancient Egyptian tombs, though most of what I read wasn’t new to me. The addition of Grace’s little friend was endearing, and so like Grace to look out for her. I enjoyed the many twists and turns in the plot, and in the end my guess was off by a little! It definitely has the feel of an Indiana Jones movie, and I liked it better. It was hard to put down, and I’m hoping there will be another installment in the chronicles of Grace and Frederick!
Thank you to Netgalley and Barbour Books for my review copy; all opinions are my own, and a positive review was not required.

The Cairo Curse by Pepper Basham picks up where The Mistletoe Countess ended. Freddie and Grace are off to Egypt for their honeymoon only to become entangled in a web of intrigue. Grace continues to offer soul-soothing balm not only to Freddie but to all the broken people she comes in contact with. Zahra, the street orphan, says this about Grace, “She paints sunshine with her words.” I love that. The mystery is well plotted and kept me guessing until the end, which I particularly like. And, as with all Basham books, a faith element is expertly woven throughout without being in anyway preachy. If you’re a fan of ancient Egypt, you’ll enjoy the scenes in the tombs and a bit of the history of the Pharaohs. I learned a lot about Akhenaten that I found fascinating. The Cairo Curse has all of the elements we’ve grown to love about Basham’s books – endearing characters, delightful banter, and perfectly placed truths. Thank you for allowing me to read an advance copy. I have purchased the paperback to add to my Pepper Basham collection.

Frederick and Grace are a fun couple. I loved the differences in their personalities and their love for each other. This book is full of fun, romance, mystery and peril what more could you ask for I was gripped from the start but due feel it would be better to read book one before this one. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

This is the second book in this series. If you haven't read the first, you should before you begin to read this one. You can read this one as a standalone, but it will make more sense if you have read the first one.
Freddie and Grace, the main characters, are so much fun. They are a believable couple, and you will enjoy following along in this adventure. There are a lot of different secondary characters in the story, and it was easy to forget their storylines. I did like how they each were uniquely written but thought some might not need to be a part of the story. I really love this author and enjoyed this story immensely! I'm looking forward to the next one in this fun series with this loveable couple!

It was so fun to read another story about this couple. I just love Grace. Her way of seeing the world is so interesting. She's such a great character. I love how Frederick has just learned to roll with the punches with his new bride. This was quite an adventure into Egypt with plenty of mystery, intrigue and peril. I hope isn't the last time we see Frederick and Grace.

I received a complimentary copy from the publisher through Netgalley and this is my honest review.

This is book two in the Frederick & Grace Mystery series, even though it is mostly a stand alone book, I feel I missed not only a good read but a lot of history that would have helped make this book an even better one. You can read this one and understand what is going on without reading the first one (as I did) but I will now go back and read book one. This is a new author to me but she does a great job at developing her characters with lots of personality. I will be reading more from her in the future.
Frederick and Grace were fun to get to know. I loved the differences in their personalities and their love for each other. This book is full of fun, romance, mystery and more in this novel. I would recommend it to anyone who loves historical romance with splashes of humor. I was given a copy of this book for my honest review.

3.5 stars ✨

The Cairo Curse is the sequel to The Mistletoe Countess, although it is very different in setting and plot. Whereas the first book is set during Christmas, this one follows the couple on their honeymoon in Egypt. I love the setting, and especially enjoyed the banter between the characters. Elliot is one of my favourite characters, even though he's only secondary.

I did find the second half get a bit busy, and it was hard to follow along some of the time. For those who felt the first book had a touch too much romance, this one is more toned down in terms of content.

Overall a very enjoyable read and I'm happy to have spent time with Frederick and Grace again. ;)

If you enjoy historical romance with strong threads of mystery and intrigue, Pepper Basham’s stories about Frederick and Grace are for you! The Cairo Curse continues their adventures from The Mistletoe Countess, plus readers get to know Elliott much better. His story doesn’t feel quite complete, so I hope there are more books coming in this series. There were times I felt Frederick and Grace got a bit lost in this story, with them being more observers of the events instead of directly involved, but I loved the ending. Definitely add these books to your TBR! 4/5 stars

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

Having been to Egypt a few years ago, I always enjoy reliving the sights in fiction, especially an enjoyable mystery, so of course I had to check this book out! Although I have not read the first book in this series, that did not dampen my enjoyment of this one. Newlyweds Lord (Frederick ) and Lady (Grace) Astley are finally taking their honeymoon, with a first stop in Egypt where Timothy's cousin and her husband are funding a dig. Although it is 1914 and women have few rights, Grace and Frederick are equal partners in their marriage, and Grace is not your typical English aristocrat; she is, in fact, American, and a voracious reader of fiction, especially mysteries, which largely frame her perspective on life. Disappearing jewellery, antiquities theft, an assault, and a murder provide Grace the opportunity to put her novel-gained sleuthing skills to the test as she and Frederick are drawn into a mystery of many layers. I didn't think "whodunit" was the hardest to figure out, but this is largely a character-driven story and I did like the characters, as well as Grace's many literary allusions. In addition to being historical fiction/mystery, this book is Christian fiction and I appreciated that aspect not being "overdone".

Grace and Frederick return with all the fun and mayhem that you would expect from this delightful couple! I loved getting to travel to Egypt and seeing the sights through Grace’s eyes. She is so full of life, light, and joy. Her curiosity is refreshing and seeing her through Frederick’s appreciation was so sweet. There were so many laugh out loud and nail biting moments peppered throughout the tale. The description says it is Clue meets Indiana Jones, and that is exactly what it is! The way the tombs and the markets were written felt authentic and added to the experience. It was truly creatively done as there are tales inside the tales. Pay close attention and enjoy the mystery. I sure did! An added bonus, I did not expect was how much I would enjoy Elliot and the role he plays. I would love to see him get his own story…
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher via NetGalley and all opinions expressed are solely my own, freely given.

The Cairo Curse
Pepper Basham
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Following a whirlwind wedding and several attempts on their lives, newlyweds Lord and Lady Astley are looking forward to an extended honeymoon trip. At the invitation of a relative, their trip takes a detour to an archeological dig site in Egypt. Not even fiction-loving Grace is prepared for the mystery and dangers in store for them there. Frederick and Grace join the mismatched group of adventure-seekers to explore a newly discovered desert tomb filled with secrets. They must work together to navigate the dangers that surround them. Everyone is suspect in an antiquities’ heist involving a pharaoh's treasure.


This story was the much-anticipated sequel to The Mistletoe Countess. In first meeting Grace and Frederick, we were enthralled with their story and the delightful innocence of Grace. It was one of our most-loved books in recent years and couldn’t wait for the continuation of their romance as the newly married Lord and Lady Astley.

A striking difference in The Cairo Curse was not only a new setting outside of England as the couple honeymoon in Egypt, but also the overwhelming abundance of new characters. This led to a busyness in the story that made it difficult to separate competing storylines.

However, one steadfast spirit encompasses the story that is reassuring for faithful readers. Grace never doubts Frederick’s devotion to her even when he is obviously appreciated by other females. Likewise, Frederick’s whole-hearted love for Grace leaves no room to even consider another woman. Their united love continued in The Cairo Curse and was a balm to hearts everywhere.

We received an advance copy from the publisher. This is our honest review.

Grace is one of my favorite heroines. She loves mysteries and reading detective fiction and is always looking to see how she can apply it to her life. This could give her new husband, Frederick, pause but he accepts her as she is. They have a wonderful, tender, fun relationship. Even when they're in dire straits, Grace finds a way to be positive. She sees who people can be and doesn't judge them on their past behavior.

I enjoyed their travels and adventures in Egypt. Ancient Egyptian history is always fascinating and full of mystery and is a great setting. I learned a few things I hadn't known before. There are a lot of different people to get straight with lots of connections that can be a bit confusing, especially in the beginning. Still it was a great mystery with a lot of action. I enjoyed it thoroughly.

Thank you to Barbour fiction for providing me with a free e-copy of this book. All opinions are my own.

As an Egyptian, I loved the setting of this book! Grace and Fredrick travel to Egypt for part of their honeymoon, and there they discover exciting pharaonic antiquities and multiple robberies and murder mysteries that they try to solve. If you like Indiana Jones and Agatha Christie mysteries, you will absolutely love this one!

* I received an e-ARC copy of this book from Netgalley and the publisher. All opinions expressed are my own.

Pepper Basham stays true to her trademark style of infusing romance, laughs, and danger into her stories for an unputdownable combination. Grace and Frederick leave for a honeymoon trip and take a brief stop in Cairo to visit with one of his cousins. When jewelry goes missing, an archeological dig site is worthless, and tempers flare–someone is bound to end up murdered. But with a large cast of characters, who will Grace’s active detective imagination cling to as the culprit?

Per all of Basham’s books, the romance is on the sweet-spicy side and the thread of second chances, God’s plan, and faith to meet people who think they’re too fallen for redemption is palpable. A few instances of mild violence at the climax but the incidences throughout the story mostly happen ‘off screen’.
This is the second in a series and there are several allusions to the instances in the first book but it could function as a standalone. Except, the first book was so much fun to read that I highly recommend reading that one too!

The publisher offered a complimentary copy of this book. This is an honest review.

It is such fun to visit this series again with wonderful characters that jump off the page and seem so real. Lord and Lady Astley, Frederick and Grace, are on their honeymoon to Italy via Egypt to visit Frederick's cousin and her husband who are on an archeological dig. Grace is such a fun character with her sunny, positive personality, her insatiable love of learning and reading, especially the study of sleuthing, which comes in handy when bodies fall in the household they are visiting. Frederick loves her dearly and is constantly telling her to stay safe. And this is one big adventure with danger, secrets, suspense, sleuthing, and wild camel rides with the setting of Egypt. One takeaway is that no matter one's station in life, our worth in God's eyes is more important. Loved it! Highly recommended. I do recommend reading The Mistletoe Countess first to get a good feel for how Grace and Freddie got together. I received a copy for the purpose of an honest review. These thoughts are mine only.

I absolutely loved this book! Freddie and Grace are up to their necks in mayhem again. It all happens on the first stop of their travels in Egypt. They end up in the middle of an ancient artifact scheme. Another page turner from Pepper Basham.

Honeymoons, mummies, and murder . . . oh my! After meeting Frederick and Grace (Lord and Lady Astley) in The Mistletoe Countess, I could never expect this pair to have any sort of ordinary honeymoon. When they detour to Egypt to visit a cousin’s archaeological dig, the newlyweds quickly find themselves wrapped up in a life-and-death mystery like the mummies of old.

With its runaway camels, stolen jewels, and missing people, The Cairo Curse makes me want to use words like high jinks and capers and dastardly. Just a few pages in, and you’ll understand why. The characters of Frederick and Grace are delightful—their witty dialog reminds me of Hepburn and Tracy. And I loved the glimpses into their trusted butler’s mysterious past. Add to all this more than a dash of hope and faith, and you have a wonderful story of old mysteries, new beginnings, and second chances.

While The Cairo Curse can be enjoyed as a standalone novel, its story will be all the richer with the background story of The Mistletoe Countess. I can’t wait to dive into the next Frederick and Grace mystery.

*Thank you to @netgalley and @barbourbooks for the complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.