Another fun adventure with Freddy and Grace! Indiana Jones meets Agatha Christie in this Egyptian themed story. I thoroughly enjoyed getting to journey along with the adorable couple as they travel to Egypt for a late honeymoon. Of course, trouble follows Grace across the world and Grace simply MUST investigate. Mystery and intrigue ( along with hilarious antics) ensue. Camel rides, pyramid tours, archeological excavations and…suspicious deaths!?—they ALL combine to create a truly fun story. I just adore Freddy and Grace. I really hope this is an extended series because it’s SO fun! Thanks for allowing me to read and review an advanced copy!

First book I've read by this author and it won't be the last 🙂. I enjoyed the story, the characters, all of it.

I adored Freddie and Grace in The Mistletoe Countess and it was such a treat to dive back into their world and relationship in this book. The Cairo Curse reminded me of Death on the Nile! Abounding mysteries and great twists keep you guessing. Grace brings joy wherever she goes, and Egypt is no exception. The secondary characters were all gems, fleshed out and intriguing in their own right. I am SO glad Pepper Basham is writing more books in this series, because I could read Freddie and Grace stories forever. Do yourself a favor and read this series.

I received a complementary copy of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley. I also purchased my own copy. I was not asked to leave a positive review and all of my opinions are my own.

In a delightful return to the lives of Lord and Lady Astley, Pepper Basham takes the reader on an exciting tour of Egypt with excitement and mystery stirring in the air. From the opening page the depth of character and wonderful details pulls the reader into the lives of those visiting Egypt, looking for ancient artifacts and adventure. A delayed honeymoon has the couple on the trip of Grace's dreams, riding camels through the Egyptian desert. But danger and mystery seems to follow Grace and soon the couple has more than they bargained for. Now they will be working together to find the culprits before Egypt claims more than the dreams of those hunting for treasures. This book has a great mixture of mystery, suspense, and light hearted reality of a person fully comfortable in their own skin; mistakes and all. As a lover of fiction, Grace perfectly captures all great stories (including this one) "...but the very best stories left a smattering of hope braided into every hardship to ensure the readers the ending would be worth the difficulty."
I couldn't flip the pages fast enough to get more of the story. The characters are so relatable they feel like old friends sharing another adventure. With enough mystery and suspense to keep the reader completely hooked, I only wished for more story to read and enjoy. I truly hope there are more books to come in this series, I am already looking forward to the next adventure Lord and Lady Astley will take me along on. Pepper Basham has quickly become one of my favorite authors with her marvelous characters and in depth research to build the story around the reader. You do not want to miss this enchanting story, it is well worth the late nights that are sure to come. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

"My darling, I have high hopes that not every scene in our future will be experienced with such life-threatening adventures."

If you enjoy high adventure, not quite knowing what the next page holds and breathtaking descriptions of Egypt that will have you believing you're there with the characters, you're going to love this book. Fraught with danger around every corner, suspense, romance and humor.
Before you read this one though do yourself a huge favor and grab "The Mistletoe Countess " to read which starts this series out. You're going to love it and it'll give you Freddie and Grace's backstory.
This may just be more of a honeymoon than Poor Freddie imagined. I hope you're ready for an adventure filled with camels, tombs, a jewel thief, and exciting digs. I don't read many books taking place in Egypt, this is only the second one I can think of, and it was an intriguing read.

Pub Date 01 Feb 2023
I was given a complimentary copy of this book.
All opinions expressed are my own.

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.