I love the concept of this book. Cleopatra and finding her tomb are very near and dear to my heart. So, a book that talks about looking for the lost tomb is right up my alley. This book was a hit or miss for me. There were times that I was really drawn into the story and other times I felt either the story dragged, or I wasn’t quite sure where it was going to go next. I enjoyed that Inez was such a strong character, and that she was portrayed as doing things that woman didn’t normally get to do during that time period. I think adding in the magic was a fun twist. It added to the plot, though I sometimes didn’t realize that Inez was having a flash back. The end felt a bit rushed, like they had to pull some ties together quickly to set up the next book. I am interested to see what happens next as that was a huge cliff hanger. So overall this book was one I am still pondering how I feel about it.
Thank you to St Martin’s Press, Wednesday Books, and Netgalley for allowing me to read an advance copy of this book.

THIS BOOK THIS BOOK THIS BOOK!!!

I love Egypt and so this book already had high expectations sat upon its shoulders.

I loved the writing and the obvious attention to detail that went into every day.

The character development top notch.

what did I hate? THE ENDING!! Cliffhangers GUHHHHHHHH

I hope book 2 is on the way because I just can't wait!

4.5 stars

• 𝐁𝐨𝐨𝐤 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰 •

✿ What the River Knows | By Isabel Ibanez

✿ Historical Fantasy
✿ Romance
✿ Young Adult Fantasy

This story follows 19 year old Inez throughout Egypt while she seeks answers to her parents mysterious deaths.

Apparently I am in my young adult era? I keep picking them out without meaning to and it’s not usually my favorite genre. Initially, the cover drew me in instantly and then the fact that it was set in ancient Egypt.

So.. it was very young adult. But I did surprisingly really enjoy it! It was so atmospheric and kept me invested. The romance had lots of banter which I love. It ends on SUCH a cliffhanger that I have absolutely no choice but to read the follow up when it’s released.

Big thank you to NetGalley and Wednesday Books for gifting me a copy of this eArc!!

Tl;dr -- 4/5 stars I loved this and cannot wait for the sequel. If you love high stakes, YA historical fiction with a dash of magic, and enemies to lovers then this is for you!!

Characters: 5/5
Characters were the strong point of this book for me. I love Whit, despite his flaws and vices. He was a great character with a mysterious air about him and I loved the banter he had with Inez. Inez could seem very naive at time, as one would expect of a sheltered girl in this time period, however she did grow as a character and wasn’t as rash in her decisions later on in the book. I like the romance between the two as well, it was a great slow burn.

The side characters had less to them as they had less page time, but because they were still doing things in the background, off the page, so they still seemed fully realized.


Story/Plot: 3/5
The overall plot was great and kept me guessing, and like I said before, characters were taking action off page and pushing the plot along. I loved the sense of family and loyalty throughout the book as well, it really challenged the “blood is thicker than water” ideology.

The one thing that kinda seemed out of place was Whits point of view sections. They seemed to take place sporadically and not very often. They were mainly used as a way to try to solidify his feelings for Inez without actually interacting with her. Occasionally they were also used for the reader to gain information that he was not willing to share with Inez. I almost would have preferred staying in the dark just like Inez, but that might boil down to personal preference.

Additionally, the Magic system was not as well utilized as I would have liked. It was mentioned in the beginning with the ring to set up the plot, and then not really used again until about the 50% mark. I thought maybe this was due to magical items being rare, however when they are introduced again it was with a multitude (>3) of new items being introduced at the same time. I would have loved these to be more spread out. I actually kept forgetting this was even a magical world!

Writing:4/5
The writing in this was really strong, easy to follow and had great descriptions. It could be a little lengthy in describing foods, clothes, architecture or anything else that aided in trying set the Egyptian atmosphere however. Often using words I did not know, and would have had to research to understand, for example:

“We pass through the second pylon and straight into a portico.”

Uncertain what either Pylon or Portico meant, I struggle to visualize what this looked like. I'm not sure if there could have been a better words to describe this type of architecture though, so this was more of a personal issue.

However, despite these things I still felt immersed in the world and the dialogue was really great!

Other:
The ending was CRUEL. I need book 2 immediately.

Final Verdict: 4/5
This was a fun read! I have never read from Isabel Ibañez before, but I will absolutely be picking up the sequel to this. I highly recommend it to anyone who wants more of a high stakes historical YA fantasy with enemies to lovers relationships.

Inez Olivera lives in Argentina with her aunt and two cousins. For six months of the year, her mother and father are abroad in Egypt, and Inez misses them terribly. They’re Egyptologists on the hunt for the ultimate find, Cleopatra’s tomb. One day word arrives that both her parents have died in the harsh desert and that Inez is now the ward of her Uncle Tiõ.
This is the first volume of a planned duology and it is stunning. It’s a historical fantasy filled with adventure, romance and lots of twists. Inez is an intelligent, headstrong young woman who becomes obsessed with finding out what happened to her parents. She often acts rashly irregardless of the danger to herself and others. Loved the slow simmer of a romance between her and Whit, her Uncle Tiõ’s handsome assistant. Well developed characters and a compelling narrative kept me interested throughout the story. 4.25 stars

I absolutely loved this book. This book brought back the feelings of when I was a kid and obsessed with reading about ancient Egypt. I cannot recommend this book highly enough. So, so, so good.

I have found this book so difficult to get through. It’s not keeping my attention at all and I dread picking it up. The world building and setting are somewhat solid but the character development is lacking, the constant “will they, won’t they” between the main characters is tiresome, and they’re all so shrouded in mystery that it’s impossible to know anyone well enough to care about what happens to them. Unfortunately I don’t think I will be picking up the next one.

I finished this book a few days ago and I still don't know how I feel about it. I'm equal parts mad and fascinated. I'm wishing I hadn't read the epilogue but also completely intrigued at the possibility for the story to continue. This book kept me on my toes and did what few books manage to do--surprised me with twists and turns I didn't see coming. I loved the magic and the mystery, the historical setting, and the unavoidable romance, but at the same time, nothing about this story went how I wanted it to, and I can't decide if that is a good or a bad thing.

Thank you to the author, NetGalley, and the publisher for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.

*Note for my followers: This book had more language than I am comfortable with and much of it felt unnecessary. So, proceed with caution and know that this isn't a typical recommendation from me.

This book was a thrilling and engaging adventurous story of a lonely daughter coming to reality with who her parents really were. Inez's parents spend all their time in Egypt, only seeing her once a year, until she receives word of their deaths. She goes to Egypt to find out what happened. Little does she know, a world of great discoveries and even greater deceit is waiting for her. She finds a companion in her uncles secretary, Whit. Together they discover ancient tombs and their desire for each other. However, there is a huge revelation at the end that has me begging for the sequel to read.

I highly recommend this book.

What a cliffhanger ending! I am definitely intrigued by this new book from Isabel Ibanez. I was sucked right into this historical fiction with a dusting of magic. It's gotten its bumps along the way, but overall I'd call it a success. I saw a lot of blurbs comparing this book to The Mummy movie and admittedly that was the reason I requested a copy. Here's where I see that being true - the relationship between the two young protagonists does bear a resemblance to Rick and Evie, though lacking some of the humor and the setting of course being in Egypt during archaeological digs. The magical elements are different and there are more high stakes involved with ordinary people than the mystical/curse being the main concern as it is in the Mummy. But, the whole time I was reading this novel, I wanted to watch The Mummy, which I guess could be a vote for or against it.
I enjoyed it though and plan to pick up the sequel as soon as I am able to if only to figure out that cliffhanger Ibanez left us on!

Loved this one! Not to sound too milennial but the vibes of this were truly so good! I really liked all the characters and thought they were very well fleshed out - nothing felt like it was out of character or came out of left field.

What the River Knows by Isabel Ibanez is a historical fantasy full of secrets, lies, mystery, and magic. This story follows Inez Olivero as she embarks on an adventure to find out the truth about her parent's deaths.

Inez has always been left behind when her parents go to Egypt for most of the year. When she finds out through a letter from her uncle that her parents have mysteriously died, she sets her sights on Egypt. Her uncle is a famous archeologist and is now her guardian, however, he has an indifferent attitude towards her. He is determined to send her home until he discovers Inez has a secret that could help him make one of the biggest discoveries in Egyptian history.

Along with her uncle, Inez also has Whit trying to get her back home. Whit is her uncle's hired man, who tries to block her from finding the answers she seeks. Their contentious relationship is filled with romantic tension that they both don’t want to address.

I loved the writing in this book, it was so immersive and took you right to Egypt with Inez. I thought the magic and historical aspects were well-balanced. Inez is a phenomenal character, I loved her tenacity and determination to find the answers she wanted. The banter between Inez and Whit was top-notch and kept me turning the pages for more.

I liked how atmospheric the setting and time period were, however, there were times when the history explanation was dragged out a bit and threw off the pacing for me.

If you are in the mood for unique fantasy, historical fiction, and slow-burn romance, with some mystery, this book is for you!

Thank you to St. Martins Press, Wednesday Books, Isabel Ibañez and Netgalley for the gifted arc

What a fun and enjoyable read! Lately I've been feeling a bit worn out on the YA fantasy genre, to the point where I've wondered if I've moved on from the genre. Whether it be immature dialogue or minimal development, they just haven't been stimulating. So reading this was such a breath of fresh air! It was unique and fun and intense. The characters had great banter and the romantic tension between them was delectable. It made me realize that I still love YA fantasy, I just need to be more particular on the books I read.

What I loved:

- The characters.
- Getting Whit's perspective. I love multi-POV, so I would have even taken a bit more from Whit's perspective.
- The romance. I loved Inez and Whit together! One of my current favorite couples and their tension was so delightful!
- That ending!!! Since it leads back into the prior point, I need to know what Whit was talking about!!
- The vibe/setting. Loved the Egypt setting! It gave me Mummy vibes and was delightful! It spoke to my 1990's heart!

What I didn't/don't love:

- How long I have to wait for book 2!
- I didn't love bring Elvira in towards the end just for what happened a couple chapters later. It would have felt more impactful if she had a stronger presence throughout the book.

Overall, I loved this book and I can't wait for book 2! It can't come soon enough! This was a 5 star read for me and I would recommend it to all, but especially fans of the following: YA fantasy, overall fantasy, enemies to lovers, slow burn, historical fantasy, and adventure!

2.5 rounded up. I got waaaay too frustrated about the FMC here. 😭 It's unfair, but I couldn't help but think that she was responsible for basically all but one conflict. I get she was definitely way in over her head and that was emphasized here, but did this really have to play out that way?? 😬 It just felt too coincidental that basically ALL Inez's actions would lead straight to the next problem over and over again throughout the whole book.

Whit was a fun MMC and definitely gave Flynn Rider and Rick O'Connell vibes, but I didn't fully believe in the chemistry of the romance for a long while.

I'd still pick up book 2 though because THE CLIFFHANGER??? GOD DAMN.

This book was filled with so many things that I love! Magic, romance, and history! I think it is a very solid start to this series.


While it did have a slow beginning, I could always interested in where the story was headed. I felt very immersed in the world, and I loved the writing and characters. Inez and Whit are such a great duo. I can’t wait to see where the story goes!

For most of her life, Inez has lived vicariously through the letters her parents sent to her in Buenos Aires while they spent half of each year in Egypt. Despite her repeated requests to join them, however, the answer was always no. But when her parents go missing just before her nineteenth birthday and they are presumed dead, Inez comes into the means to traverse the vast ocean and search for the answers to her beloved parents’ disappearance. Egypt is not at all what Inez expected, however, and as she ventures further into desert life, she discovers many of the secrets that were kept from her while building a new existence of her own.

This period fantasy adventure is a good fit for fans of Indiana Jones and Agatha Christie, especially as Inez spends much of the book exploring the mysteries of ancient Egypt. Beautifully written descriptions bring the reality of the 1880s to life for contemporary readers, including the expectations of gender stereotypes of the day and the limited means of travel and communication available at the time. Additionally, Spanish language is found within the narrative, which serves as an anchor to Inez’s heritage and culture even while she is using English among many of the characters she finds in Egypt.

Dynamic dialogue and action sequences give the narrative an enjoyable quality, and the inclusion of Ancient Egyptian relics and anthropology speak to readers interested in this aspect of global history. A predictable enemies-to-lovers romantic arc is included in the story, but Inez is also her own strong personality who can rely on her intelligence and wit to survive independently. Inez is the primary speaker in the novel, but a secondary character’s thoughts are occasionally included, as well. While some of the character development is lackluster and the plot takes a little time to settle in, the overall feel of the book is enjoyable and keeps readers interested once the pacing picks up. This is an intriguing addition to library collections for mature young adult readers.

The latest novel by Isabel Ibanez sees a young adult Argentinian, Inez, travel to Egypt following the news of her parents presumed death. Inez hasn’t had the closest relationship with her parents or uncle and quickly learns that there was more to her parent’s trips to Egypt than she first imagined.

The book is filled with fantasy elements, slow burn romance, the enemies to lovers trope. As advertised by the book’s blurb, it reminded me of a mashup of the The Mummy meets Death on the Nile. The history of 1800s Egypt is expertly embedded throughout the plot and narration of the book.

The last 10% were shocking and punch to the heart. I’m all in for the next one. My only complaint was the middle half felt like it could have been sped up a bit. While there were consistent warnings of ongoing threats, there largely weren’t any during this period of time. Additionally, would love if she explored more of the magic system and fantasy element in the next book.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC.

I didn't really like or care about the main character. And I didn't like the romance and it took up a lot of the book. I don't understand why she was interested in him almost immediately.

Book Review: What the River Knows - Isabel Ibañez⁣
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What the River Knows is a YA historical fantasy set in Egypt that is pure escapism! Inez Olivera is a member of the 19th century gentile class in Argentina, she has everything a girl could want, except her parents. Inez has never grown accustomed to her parents’ frequent and extended absences. Left in the care of her proper Tía Lorena, Inez finds herself bored with ladylike pursuits and would prefer to hide out in the old potter’s shed with her books and a sketch pad. One day everything changes when Inez receives a letter telling of her parents’ mysterious disappearance. Determined to discover what happened to her parents, she leaves a note for her aunt, and dressed like a widow, sets sail for Cairo. She hopes her Tío Ricardo, a partner in her parents’ business, will have answers. ⁣
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If you’re looking for a reading adventure brimming with magical artifacts, archeologists, treasure hunters, profiteers, crooked officials and those who will stop at nothing to get what they want, then pick up What the River Knows. Did I mention that there is a brewing enemies-to-lovers romance? But never mind that, the cliffhanger ending will leave you eager for the next installment in the riveting and twisty Secrets of the Nile duology. ⁣
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My special thanks to @IsabelWriter09, @StMartinsPress and @NetGalley for the gift of this advance digital copy in exchange for an honest review.

✨Book Review✨
What the River Knows by Isabel Ibañez
@isabelwriter09 [Pub Date: Oct 31, 2023]

This. Book.

So many twists and turns-some predictable, some expected, others devastating and surprising.

With the recklessness of youth and inexperience, Inez travels across the world from all she’s known in Argentina to the wonders of Egypt. Her parents spent more time there than anywhere else and now that they are gone, she wants answers…and to be connected to what they loved most. What she didn’t expect was Tio Ricardo’s reaction nor his lackey Mr. Hayes.

So much sassy banter, sadness, and laugh out loud moments you’ll be pulled down the Nile in the adventure of a lifetime.

I cannot tell you how many times I fell asleep reading this because I could not put it down and make myself go to bed. Just one more page, moment, chapter. 😅

Thanks @Netgalley for the eARC! Definitely a fav of the year.