N E. David

I was originally interested in this novel because of the inclusion of ornithology and the fact that it was set in Egypt. I enjoyed reading this book not only because it included beautiful descriptions of birds and the immersion into Egyptian culture and history, but because it ended up being so much more than that.

Micheal Blake has aged out of the British Embassy in Cairo, he loved his job, but is being forced into retirement. Blake decides to focus on his one other love in life, birding; he goes on a cruise down the Nile. While on the cruise, Blake is in for much more than a pleasant birding holiday. His cruise mates make up an interesting cast of characters (who can forget the Biltmore's from Baltimore?) and one of them, a young woman named Lee Young will change Blake's whole mindset.

Set during Egypt's political uprising during Mubarek's presidency in 2011, it was interesting for me to learn more about this time from an Egyptian's point of view. Reda's character, a tour guide on the cruise ship, gave me insight into the issues from an insider's point of view. It was also intriguing to watch Blake's changing attitudes toward his country, fellow country men and his change in personality from an observer to an active participant. Blake's relationship with Lee Young was a breath of fresh air, though he does have inklings of romantic feelings for her, their relationship is deeper than that and turns into something much better.

This book was received for free in return for an honest review.… (mer)