Synopsis:
Can a Graverobber’s Defiance Shatter an Empire?
The Great Tomb of the Pharaoh Khufu, a monstrous thing in pyramid shape, dominates all Egypt.
The labor of thirty years by an entire kingdom, the Tomb is the confirmation of the superiority of the 4th Dynasty over all the rulers who came before. And the monument in whose shadow the generations of Khufu’s heirs will forever shelter against any who would seek to overthrow them.
No graverobber would dream of attacking the Great Tomb. It is ringed by temples of dedicated priests, guarded by the regiment that had protected Khufu in life, and defended by the ingenuity of legions of architects and the curses of a dozen gods.
Yet its very prestige may be its undoing. For if the Tomb could be violated within weeks of Khufu’s internment, its entire meaning would be negated, proving to the world that even with the expenditure of such labor, treasure, and cunning, the new Dynasty is unable to protect their dead.
So for those who have chafed under Khufu’s iron fist, the first blow of their rebellion must not be against flesh. But against stone.
The rebels soon find the man they need: Dahshur, an experienced graverobber who has broken a hundred tombs. A man who despises priests, mocks kings, and has nothing but contempt for the magics woven to protect the dead. An atheist in the Land of the Gods.
As the new Pharaoh’s army strikes the rebels in Upper Egypt, Dahshur’s team moves against the Tomb. And they succeed in breaking through. Only to find themselves enmeshed in dark plots, diabolic traps, and the growing, terrifying certainty they have unleashed the wrath of the gods.
PHARAOH’S MOUNTAIN is a stirring, fast-paced action novel following the raiders through the actual passages and chambers of the Great Pyramid, offering staggering new perspectives on some of the pyramid’s darkest mysteries.
Favorite Lines:
“You have always told me to ask when I did not understand.”
“And Isis would not forgive.”
“A word like sacrilege was not to be banished so easily.”
My Opinion:
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest opinion.
Pharaoh’s Mountain by James A. Hillebrecht is an enthralling blend of historical fiction, crime drama, and political intrigue that transports readers to the heart of ancient Egypt. This gripping tale unearths the motivations and audacity behind one of the greatest crimes of the Fourth Dynasty—robbing the Great Pyramid itself.
The story follows Dahshur, a cunning and rebellious grave robber recruited by insurgents to infiltrate Pharaoh Khufu’s sacred tomb. What begins as a bold act of defiance against tyranny quickly spirals into a perilous journey as the team navigates cursed corridors and awakens forces best left undisturbed. Hillebrecht masterfully balances historical detail with elements of suspense and fantasy, weaving a narrative that is as immersive as it is action-packed.
The world-building is a highlight of the novel, painting a vivid picture of life in the Old Kingdom. From the intricacies of religious rituals to the politics of the priesthood, the rich cultural backdrop breathes authenticity into every page. As a reader, you feel the weight of the Great Pyramid’s towering presence and the tension that accompanies every step within its darkened halls. The descriptions are so vivid that it’s easy to imagine yourself walking alongside Dahshur and his band of misfits.
Dahshur’s character is particularly compelling. His irreverence for the gods and disdain for the ruling class set him apart as a flawed yet relatable protagonist. His journey is as much about survival as it is about challenging the divine and human forces that dictate his world. This duality makes him a fascinating figure to follow.
The pacing of the story is excellent, with enough twists, turns, and surprises to keep readers hooked. Each character feels fully realized, and the dynamics between them are as engaging as the overarching plot. The themes of rebellion, ambition, and hubris resonate throughout, making this more than just a heist story—it’s an exploration of human nature and the lengths people will go to defy their fates.
Readers who love historical fiction, particularly those with an interest in ancient Egypt, will find Pharaoh’s Mountain a standout read. Its meticulous research and fast-paced storytelling appeal to fans of political thrillers and adventurous tales alike.
Summary:
Overall, if you’re looking for a novel that captures the allure of ancient Egypt while delivering a suspenseful, character-driven narrative, Pharaoh’s Mountain is a must-read. Hillebrecht has crafted a tale that lingers in your mind long after the final page. Happy reading!
Check out Pharaoh’s Mountain here!